Choosing Between Modern AV Receivers: A Complete Guide

When building a home theater system in 2024, choosing the right AV receiver is crucial - it's the command center that processes your audio, switches video sources, and powers your speakers. Today we're comparing two popular options: the Denon AVR-S970H ($599) and the Onkyo TX-RZ50 ($1,199), breaking down exactly who should buy each one and why.

The Current State of AV Receivers

Before diving in, let's understand where these receivers fit in the current market. Both were released in the last few years (Denon in 2022, Onkyo in 2021) during a significant transition period in home theater technology. We're seeing the adoption of HDMI 2.1 features, 8K video support, and more sophisticated room correction systems.

The biggest recent changes in AV receivers have been:

• Support for 8K video passthrough
• HDMI 2.1 gaming features
• More powerful room correction software
• Better streaming integration
• Improved multi-room audio capabilities

Core Features Comparison

Processing Power and Channels

The Denon AVR-S970H is a 7.2 channel receiver, meaning it can power seven main speakers and two subwoofers. This supports common setups like 5.1.2 (five speakers at ear level, one subwoofer, two height speakers) or traditional 7.1 (seven speakers at ear level, one subwoofer).

The Onkyo TX-RZ50 steps up to 9.2 channels, allowing more complex arrangements like 5.2.4 (five main speakers, two subs, four height speakers) or 7.2.2. This extra flexibility comes at a price premium but can create a more immersive sound field, especially in larger rooms.

Power Output and Real-World Performance

While specs show the Onkyo offering more power (120W vs 90W per channel), in real-world usage, both receivers have plenty of power for most rooms. I've tested both in medium-sized home theaters (300-400 square feet), and neither struggled to fill the space with clean, dynamic sound.

The difference becomes more noticeable in larger rooms or with less efficient speakers. If you're running something like large floor-standing speakers in a big space, the Onkyo's extra headroom could be valuable.

Audio Processing and Room Correction

This is where we see one of the biggest differences between these units. The Denon uses Audyssey MultEQ, a good room correction system that measures your room's acoustics and adjusts the sound accordingly. It works well for basic correction and is user-friendly.

The Onkyo, however, includes Dirac Live, widely considered one of the best room correction systems available. It provides more detailed measurements and more precise corrections. In my experience, Dirac Live produces noticeably better results, especially in problematic rooms with acoustic challenges.

Video Capabilities

Both receivers support the latest video standards:

• 8K/60Hz passthrough
• 4K/120Hz for gaming
• HDR formats (HDR10, HDR10+, Dolby Vision)

However, the Denon has a slight edge for gamers, with better implementation of HDMI 2.1 gaming features like:

• Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) - prevents screen tearing
• Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM) - automatically switches to game mode
• Quick Frame Transport (QFT) - reduces latency

Connectivity and Streaming

Both receivers offer extensive connectivity options:

• Multiple HDMI inputs (6 on Denon, 7 on Onkyo)
• Wireless streaming (WiFi and Bluetooth)
• Digital and analog audio inputs

The Denon uses HEOS for multi-room audio, while Onkyo offers FlareConnect. Both work well, though HEOS has a slightly larger ecosystem of compatible devices.

Real-World Use Cases

Home Theater Performance

In a dedicated home theater setting, both receivers excel, but for different reasons:

The Denon AVR-S970H is perfect for:

• Medium-sized rooms (up to 350 sq ft)
• Gaming-focused setups
• Basic Dolby Atmos configurations
• Budget-conscious buyers who still want quality

The Onkyo TX-RZ50 shines in:

• Larger rooms (350+ sq ft)
• Complex speaker arrangements
• Situations requiring precise room correction
• Premium home theater setups

Music Listening

For music, the Onkyo has a slight edge thanks to its superior DAC (Digital-to-Analog Converter) and Dirac Live room correction. However, the Denon still performs admirably, especially after proper calibration.

Value Proposition

When considering value, we need to look beyond just the price difference:

Denon AVR-S970H Value Points:

• Excellent gaming features
• Solid room correction
• Good power for most users
• Strong price-to-performance ratio

Onkyo TX-RZ50 Value Points:

• Superior room correction
• More channels
• Higher power output
• Better DAC implementation

How to Decide

Here's a straightforward decision framework:

Choose the Denon if:

• You're building a home theater on a budget
• Gaming features are important
• You have a medium-sized room
• You're new to home theater

Choose the Onkyo if:

• Audio quality is your top priority
• You need more than 7 channels
• You have a larger room
• Budget isn't your primary concern
• You want the best room correction available

Future-Proofing Considerations

Both receivers are relatively future-proof with their 8K support and HDMI 2.1 features. However, the Onkyo's extra channels and superior room correction might provide more longevity if you plan to expand your system over time.

Conclusion

The Denon AVR-S970H and Onkyo TX-RZ50 represent different approaches to modern AV receivers. The Denon offers excellent value and features for most users, while the Onkyo provides premium features for those willing to pay for them.

For most people building a home theater, the Denon will be more than sufficient. Its combination of features, performance, and price make it an excellent choice. However, if you're an enthusiast with a larger budget and space, the Onkyo's additional capabilities might be worth the premium.

Remember, the best receiver is the one that fits your specific needs, room, and budget. Both of these units are capable performers that will serve well at the center of a home theater system for years to come.

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

Onkyo TX-RZ50 9.2 Channel Home Theater Receiver Deals and Prices