Choosing Between Modern AV Receivers: A Complete Guide

When it comes to powering a home theater system, choosing between the $599 Denon AVR-S970H and the $1,199 Onkyo TX-RZ30 requires understanding how these receivers fit different needs and budgets. Let's break down everything you need to know to make the right choice.

Understanding AV Receivers in 2024

AV receivers act as the command center for your home theater, handling everything from processing surround sound to switching between video sources. They've evolved significantly in recent years, with both of these models supporting the latest HDMI 2.1 features needed for gaming consoles and 8K video.

The Denon AVR-S970H was released in 2022 and has proven itself as a reliable mid-range option, while the TX-RZ30 is Onkyo's latest flagship model, announced in late 2023 and hitting shelves in early 2024. This timing difference matters because the Onkyo incorporates newer room correction technology and processing capabilities.

Detailed Feature Comparison

Channel Configuration and Power

Both receivers provide plenty of power for most home theaters, but their channel configurations differ significantly:

• The AVR-S970H offers 7.2 channels (7 speakers plus 2 subwoofers) with 90 watts per channel
• The TX-RZ30 provides 9.2 channels with 100 watts per channel

For most living room setups, 7.2 channels work perfectly fine. However, if you're building a dedicated home theater room, those extra two channels on the TX-RZ30 allow for additional height speakers in a Dolby Atmos setup, creating an even more immersive sound field.

Room Correction Technology

This is where we see one of the biggest differences between these units:

• The Denon uses Audyssey MultEQ, a proven room correction system that measures your room's acoustics and adjusts the sound accordingly
• The Onkyo features Dirac Live, a more advanced system that offers more precise measurements and better results, especially in challenging rooms

Having tested both systems, Dirac Live generally produces more natural sound and better handles problem frequencies that can make movies sound boomy or harsh. However, Audyssey is still quite capable and easier to set up for newcomers.

Video Processing and Gaming Features

Both receivers are well-equipped for modern video sources:

• 8K/60Hz passthrough
• 4K/120Hz support
• HDR format compatibility (including Dolby Vision and HDR10+)
• Gaming features like Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) and Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM)

The Onkyo TX-RZ30 does have slightly better video processing capabilities, but in real-world use, most users won't notice a difference since both units primarily pass through video signals without modification.

Connectivity and Streaming

Modern receivers need to handle both traditional and streaming sources well. Both units offer:

• Multiple HDMI inputs (6 on the Denon, 8 on the Onkyo)
• Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity
• Major streaming service support
• Multi-room audio capabilities

The Onkyo edges ahead with better integration options for smart homes and more robust streaming platform support, including being Roon Ready (a high-end music streaming platform).

Real-World Performance

Home Theater Use

In a dedicated home theater setting, both receivers perform admirably, but they target different audiences:

The AVR-S970H excels in medium-sized rooms and typical living room setups. It handles movie soundtracks with authority and provides clean, detailed sound that will satisfy most users. The setup process is straightforward, and the included Audyssey room correction does a good job of optimizing sound for your space.

The TX-RZ30 shows its premium nature in larger rooms and more complex speaker setups. The additional channels and power, combined with Dirac Live room correction, create a more precise and immersive sound field. It's particularly noticeable during complex action scenes where multiple sound effects are moving through the room.

Music Performance

For music lovers, both receivers deliver excellent stereo performance. The Denon has a slightly warmer sound signature that works well with a variety of music genres. The Onkyo, with its more advanced DACs (Digital-to-Analog Converters) and power supply, provides more detail and better separation between instruments.

Value Consideration

At nearly double the price, the TX-RZ30 needs to justify its premium positioning. Here's how the value proposition breaks down:

The Denon AVR-S970H offers:

• Excellent performance for the price
• All essential modern features
• Easy setup and operation
• Great choice for most users

The TX-RZ30 justifies its higher price with:

• Superior room correction
• More channels and power
• Better build quality
• Advanced integration options
• Future-proof features

How to Decide

Your choice should depend on several factors:

Choose the Denon AVR-S970H if:

• You're setting up a living room home theater
• Your room is small to medium-sized
• You want great performance without breaking the bank
• You prefer simpler setup and operation

Choose the Onkyo TX-RZ30 if:

• You're building a dedicated home theater room
• You want the best possible sound quality
• You need 9.2 channels for advanced Atmos setups
• You're interested in high-end audio streaming
• Budget isn't your primary concern

Final Thoughts

Both receivers represent different sweet spots in the market. The AVR-S970H hits the perfect balance of features and value for most users, while the TX-RZ30 offers premium features for enthusiasts who want the absolute best.

For most people, the Denon provides everything needed for an excellent home theater experience at a reasonable price. However, if you're building a serious home theater and can appreciate (and afford) the premium features, the Onkyo won't disappoint.

Denon AVR-S970H 7.2 Channel 8K AV Home Theater Receiver Deals and Prices

Onkyo TX-RZ30 9.2 Channel AV Receiver Deals and Prices