The number of channels is the first item to consider for a home theater system and the best compatible receiver for a desired system ( such as 5.1 or 7.2 or 9.2 etc) is a prerequisite. The most typical configuration is a 5.1 system, which includes five speakers (two pairs of floorstanding or standmount speakers, and one center speaker) plus a subwoofer. Other configurations are also available, ranging from 7.2, which includes surround back speakers and an extra subwoofer behind your seat, to pretty much whatever your room can handle.
How I Rated the Top Receiver from Onkyo, Denon and Yamaha Brand:
I have rated these amazing receivers on the basis of their capacity and user’s personal experiences. let’s dig more into it!
System Requirement:
When I analyzed several receivers from Yamaha and Denon as well as Onkyo, My first priority was system requirements. I try to find out which model is perfect for which set-up.I will explain my findings categorically.
Expandability of Number of Channel in Future:
Everything is upgrading day by day and maybe you need to upgrade the number of channels for the current receiver in future. So I put emphasis on the desired home theater receiver which can be upgradeable as a future requirement.
Dolby Atmos Equipped System:
Dolby Atmos®-enabled speakers generate overhead sounds in a Dolby Atmos soundtrack – without the need to put speakers in or on the ceiling. Nowadays it is a must to select receivers which support dolby atmos.
Connection:
The AV receiver links to TV devices most easily through HDMI. Between the TV and the receiver, an additional audio wire is not required thanks to ARC. The receiver may connect to playback devices such as Blue Ray through HDMI. Component-Video, S-Video, and Composite-Video are analog alternatives to HDMI. I tried to select receivers with wide array of connection ports
HDR format:
Many Ultra HD Blu-rays, as well as some Netflix and Amazon Video content, employ the HDR10 open standard HDR format. The stream comprises static information that communicates the master display’s color calibration data to the TV set. I have found out all HDR capable Denon models support HDR10 pass through. Other brands are not far behind either.
4K Video Switching Ability:
Video conversion from analog video input to HDMI level is not available on all Denon AV receivers. While some models offer video conversion at a higher price point. That is the case with Yamaha and onkyo as well. The more premium models you choose, the better 4K video performance you will get.
Multi-Tasking Ability/Multi-room Connectivity:
Seven, nine, or eleven power channels are available in multi-zone home theater receivers. They might have more speaker connections than channels at times. For example, a receiver having nine sets of speaker outputs may only be able to power seven speakers at once. So it’s almost impossible to create a multi room facility with a 5.1/ 5.2 setup. Generally the higher channel line up consists of multi room connectivity.
Budget:
I also emphasized on the budget, why do I waste extra money? If I can find a better alternative in a lower budget,Money spending needs to be justified for a worthwhile receiver. I have rated the budget friendly receivers as well as premium ones in this article.
Onkyo vs Denon vs Yamaha
5.1 Receiver Comparison from Onkyo vs Denon vs Yamaha:
I will now compare the 3 models I choose from the brands. They are specialized in each category. More details are given below the table
Yamaha RX-V385- best value receiver
Home entertainment systems don’t have to be prohibitively expensive. Many entry-level home entertainment system lines exist that are easy to fit into your budget and perform admirably. If you’re looking for a nice home entertainment system at a reasonable price, When it comes to purchasing a home cinema system, the Yamaha RX-V385 is a fantastic affordable alternative. Yamaha’s well-received home theater systems continue to include it. While it may not have the most up-to-date features, it is an excellent system for an entry-level model.
Yamaha introduced the RX-V385 to the market for the first time in 2019. This is the beginning model in Yamaha’s vast series of AV receivers. The RX-V385 is a 5.1-channel receiver that produces 70 watts of power. Dolby True HD, DTS-HD Master Audio, and the YPAO audio calibration system are all included.
Bluetooth, 4K support signal, Virtual Cinema DSP, HDMI upscaling, HDR passthrough, and Biamp capabilities are just a few more outstanding features. It’s also highly cost-effective. For roughly $250, you get all of these features and more.
I think this is one of the best budget friendly receivers out there. There are a lot of speakers in the market but this yamaha model is good in every sense.
Onkyo TX-NR696- Best for home theatre
The TX-NR696 is the company’s latest mid-level model, and it’s a hit. The ‘696 offers a high degree of performance and a set of features that is fully loaded at a reasonable price. The Denon AVR-750H is a good second choice since it sounds better with music and costs less, but the Onkyo has more features and a more well-rounded, powerful sound overall. The TX-NR696 has the features, audio stability, and versatility of the top models at its price.
The TX-NR696 is a 7*100-watt-per-channel receiver with a long list of capabilities, including compatibility for Dolby Atmos and DTS:X. In comparison to competitor Yamaha, which only includes four HDMI connections on the back of devices like the RX-V485, Onkyo has a whopping six. The ports support the most recent 4K standards, such as HDR10 and Dolby Vision.
Built-in Chromecast, DTS Play-Fi, Spotify Connect, AirPlay, and Bluetooth are among the streaming protocols supported by this video and audio receiver. The remote control was the one thing we didn’t like (it was just a bit too much, even with all those connectivity options)
Denon AVR-S960H- Best for music fans
Denon is usually the first brand that springs to mind when considering AV receivers, and for good reason. For years, the company has been producing superb models with exceptional sound quality.
While its competitors are limiting their receiver releases (Sony hasn’t released a new model since 2017 and Onkyo won’t have a follow-up to its 2019 goods until mid-2021), Denon isn’t. The Denon AVR-S960H is a new model that has updated capabilities like HDMI 2.1 connections with eARC and 8K video support while keeping Denon’s legendary performance.
The Denon AVR-upgraded S960’s are more modest than Yamaha’s futuristic RX-V6A, which appears to have gone back to the drawing plan. When comparing the two radios side by side, the Denon sounded smoother but lacked some dramatic weight. I found myself searching for the Yamaha remote far more than Denon, and it wasn’t only because of the sleek new style, but also because of the sound quality.
I am a huge music fan so if this receiver impressed me then it must have done something right. At this price point audiophiles will have no complaints regarding the sound quality.
Product differentiator
When I analysed these 3 models I found some interesting facts about them. I distinguished all the differences and made a list of all the key points. This will help you to find the main differences which might come in handy while choosing your desired receiver.
Design and build
Yamaha RX-V385 – The RX-V385 is identical to its predecessor, the RX-V383, in terms of design. This isn’t much of a disadvantage because most AV receiver lines are relatively similar in terms of appearance, style, and construction.
The primary display, which communicates all of the receiver’s operations, is located on the upper half. Direct is controlled by a tiny circular button on the right, while the main power button is on the left. The mic port for the YPAO function is on the left side.
A remote control is included with the receiver. With the remote, there’s nothing too out of the ordinary. It can, however, perform all functions. It’s a standard plastic remote with a grid of buttons across the top. The only disadvantage could be that the button grouping might be a bit better.
Denon AVR-S540BT- A serviceable remote is included with the Denon 540BT. It’s basic and straightforward to use. When you turn the amp around, you’ll see all of your potential connections. One item to note is that, unlike the Yamaha RX-V395, the 540BT only includes binding clips for the speaker connections, rather than 5-way binding posts.
It even includes a radio antenna hookup (is that even a thing?). Anyway, there’s a row of 5 HDMI inputs and one output at the top. HDCP 2.2 and 4K video are supported by the output. HDCP 2.2, HLG, HDR, BT.2020, and 4:4:4 color sampling are all supported via three HDMI inputs.
Denon AVR-S960H- The Denon AVR-S960H has a similar appearance to other receivers, with a black color scheme, LED display, selection/volume knobs, and a few shortcut buttons for the most commonly used inputs. It’s adequate, but it pales in contrast to the Yamaha RX-slick V6A’s futurism.
The receiver features six HDMI inputs (one of which is capable of 8K) and two HDMI outputs (one with eARC). The Denon can decode Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, as well as upscaling technologies including DTS Virtual:X and Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization Technology.
Quality of Audio
Yamaha RX-V385- You’ll have to make do with the simplest configurations because it’s a 5.2 channel receiver. DTS:X and Dolby Atmos aren’t included. These characteristics are included in the majority of today’s 5.1 receivers.
The receiver of the RX-V385 isn’t particularly powerful. However, with a power output of 70 Watts per channel, you can rest confident that it is powerful. If you’re dealing with a tiny to medium-sized home theater room, the RX-V385 will suffice.
Denon AVR-S960H- When it comes to receivers, Denon and its compatriot Marantz have a “house sound” that is more comfortable than the Yamahas and Pioneers of the world. While this normally indicates that they function better with music, I found that the Yamaha RX-V6A was better at getting the pulse pumping without being unpleasant.
The Denon provided a well-balanced sound, but I was able to catch on more subtle elements in the song with the Yamaha, such as the drumming, clicking tongue noises during the climax.
Onkyo TX-NR696- Dolby Surround and DTX Neural: X technologies are included in the TX-NR696. These two technologies can detect spatial processes in typical multi-channel audio recordings and combine them into 3D sound effects which can be played back using current sound object-based speaker systems.
When consumers don’t have or don’t want to construct ceiling speakers, the TX-NR696 may replicate the sound effects of the sky sound field using Dolby Atmos Height Virtualizer or DTS Virtual: X technology, giving the illusion of three-dimensional immersive sound.
Features and connectivity
Yamaha RX-V385- Although the RX-V385 is lacking in features, there are a handful that are good at their job. The calibrated audio system included with the receiver is Yamaha’s YPAO system.
It’s actually rather simple to set up the receiver. People with only a rudimentary understanding of how to set up audio systems may do it with ease. If you’re having trouble understanding the instructions, you may use the Yamaha AV Receiver setup guide application to assist you.
Onkyo TX-NR696-This TX-NR696 should be considered an improved variant of the TX-NR686. Although the TX-NR696 has a similar look and channel architecture to the Onkyo TX-NR686, the internals are considerably different. Use a new HDMI circuit board with a greater surface area, increased robustness, and improved technology. Additionally, cut the cable path to reduce interference on the A/V signal
Denon AVR-S960H- This AV receiver offers 90W per channel and has independent and highly functioning power amplifiers on all channels. This gadget will provide good performance. It features a lower impedance driver and is compatible with a wide range of speakers. The Auto Eco Mode function adjusts the power output to speakers based on the on-screen eco meter and volume level, resulting in significant energy savings.
The obvious question might come to your mind such as “ is onkyo better than yamaha?” or “is denon better than yamaha?” To make this easier I will choose my winner in this channel category.
Here, I found the yamaha model gives clearer and better performance. There’s no question about durability of yamaha models. They are a clear winner if you value the company name and reliability. But if you look for more features in a budget then onkyo should be your choice.
7.1/7.2 receiver from three best Brand: Denon vs yamaha vs onkyo
One speaker equals one channel. Make sure your new receiver has more than enough channels to accommodate all of your current speakers, as well as any more speakers you may wish to purchase in the future. You’ll need at least five channels if you want surround sound.
A 7 channel setup is enough for medium to higher use. It will give you a good enough experience. The least you can do in an average budget is buy a receiver with 7 channels. Read the whole article to know more about 7 channel receivers.
Denon AVR-x2700H: Best mid ranger
Denon’s X series AV receiver is used here. This is a Denon premium series. In the year 2020, this model will be released. It has a power output of 95 W per channel and is driven by two channels. Immersive 3D sound is included with this Denon AV receiver. It supports Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, and DTS Virtual:X, as well as Dolby Atmos height virtualization technology. Advanced video technologies such as 8K at 60 Hz and 4K at 120 Hz are also supported by the Denon AVR-X2700H. It supports HDR 10,Dolby Vision, HDR 10+,HLG, and 8K upscaling, dynamic HDR among other video formats.
The much applauded Denon establishes an assistant, leading you to the appropriate configuration for the first time, through every stage of the setting procedure. That’s why denon employs industry-leading room calibration technology such as Audyssey, which detects and calibrates sound from the video receiver automatically to fit your listening environment because Every room or hearing area is different.
Onkyo TX-SR444 7.1 : Best of Modern Features
The TX-SR444 is a powerful and versatile 7.1 channel receiver. Thanks to HDCP 2.2 compliance, it can send 4K video to your monitor through HDMI. The graphical hook-up instructions on the back panel make connection and configuration simple. AccuEQ room calibration tailors the sound to your specific listening environment and speaker system. There’s also a handy Quick Setup button on the remote that allows you to change settings without halting the show.
The receiver uses Onkyo’s WRAT amplifier technology, which can provide up to 65W per channel at 8 ohms for powerful audio. Additional height speakers can be connected for improved overhead sound effects thanks to integrated Dolby Atmos compatibility. Wirelessly listen to music from supported devices such as laptops, MP3 players, cellphones, and tablets with the built-in Bluetooth 2.1 connectivity.
Yamaha RX-V6A : All in one
The new receiver has 7.2 channels and 100 watts of built-in amplification, as well as all of the newest features you’d expect from a receiver at this price point. As a result, we receive Dolby Atmos and DTS:X up-mixing technologies, as well as Yamaha’s own virtual technology.
There’s also the YPAO R.S.C. from Yamaha, which includes a Multipoint auto calibration system, USB, High Resolution Audio and Bluetooth streaming,Airplay 2 and Musiccast for online and multi-room audio, wireless rear speaker support,voice control,Music Enhancer and, of course, the new HDMI 2.1 port with all of its game-specific features like ALLM, VRR, QMS, and QFT. This is a very good receiver for gaming.
The RX-V6A stands out from the competitors, as well as all of this year’s new Yamaha receivers, because it’s the only one featuring multiple HDMI 2.1 connectors. While the competition only has one, the RX-V6A has three, plus four more of the older HDMI 2.0 kind.
7.1/7.2 Receiver Comparison from Yamaha vs Denon vs onkyo :
I will now show you the key differences of these top models from the 3 brands. Each one is special in their own right. 7.1 receivers are usually in the mid category. They are neither top of line premium or budget options.
Product differentiator
The key differences are explained below with important points.
Video features
The Onkyo TX-SR444 and Yamaha RX-V6A both enable 4K passthrough up to 60p and 8K passthrough up to 60p, respectively. Upscaling from 4K to 60p is possible with the Yamaha RX-V6A. HDR10, HDR10+, and Dolby Vision are all supported by the Yamaha RX-V6A.Denon AVR-X2700H can do 8K upscaling up to 60p and supports HDR,dolby vision and HDR10+
Dolby atmos and dolby vision
With its Dolby Surround upmixer, the Denon AVR-X2700H and Onkyo TX-SR444 support Dolby Atmos. Internal amplifiers can be used to construct up to 5.1.2 channels. They are also supported by the Yamaha RX-V6A.
Connectivity
The built-in bluetooth adapter of the Onkyo TX-SR444 allows it to connect to Bluetooth devices. It includes four HDMI inputs, each of which is protected by HDCP 2.2 copy protection. Composite video and RCA audio inputs are located on the front panel.
The Denon AVR-X2700H can connect to the internet through an ethernet connection or a built-in wireless adaptor. It also has a built-in bluetooth adaptor that allows it to connect to Bluetooth devices. The receiver is compatible with Amazon Alexa and AirPlay 2.
Yamaha RX-V6A can be connected to the internet as well.It includes seven HDMI inputs, each of which is protected by HDCP 2.3 copy protection. A phono input with integrated phono stage allows you to connect the turntable’s cartridge output directly to the receiver. For external amplification, there are 2.2 channel analog pre-outs.
Amplifier
The Onkyo TX-SR444 produces 65 W (8, 20 Hz – 20 kHz, 2 channel driven) and the Yamaha RX-V6A produces 100 W (8, 20 Hz – 20 kHz, 2 channel driven), however only the Yamaha RX-V6A is stable at 4 load. The Denon AVR-X2700H has a power output of 95 W (8 ohms, 20 Hz – 20 kHz, 2 channel driven).
I think the yamaha model is the more complete receiver in this price point. After checking all the variables and differences i can say that yamaha RX-V6A is more appealing and reliable between the 3 models.
9.1/9.2 receiver from three best Brand: yamaha vs denon vs onkyo
The front left and right speakers, a center, two wide front speakers, two surrounds, two rear surrounds, and one subwoofer make up a 9.1 surround sound system. The 9.2 channel set-up is almost similar as well. This is for a premium listening experience. We will be able to get true dolby atmos sound if we set up all the speakers correctly.
We will discuss the best 9.1 and 9.2 receivers which will complement your speaker setup and give a rich home theatre experience.
Yamaha RX-A2080 Review
The RX-A2080 is comparable to its bigger brother in many respects, but Yamaha took care to drop some characteristics to keep the price down while staying true to their top product. As a result, the RX-A2080 still includes 9.2 channels of built-in amplification with 140 watts per channel, the YPAO audio calibration system, Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, as well as various virtual and up-mixing technologies, plenty of connectivity options, and a plethora of streaming and online services that such a high-profile model requires.
It provides outstanding performance as well as a variety of services and features, making it a perfect choice for any home cinema setup. Featuring 9.2 built-in channels of
amplification,support for all known audio files,140 watts of power per channel, as well as different up-mixing and virtual technology, this model can undoubtedly be at the heart of your entertainment system.
Denon AVR-X3600H
This Denon AV receiver is one of our favorites because of its outstanding performance. It not only receives good marks across the board, but it also outperforms its predecessor Denon models acoustically in almost every way.The improvements to this unit go beyond a new model number within the same chassis: you now have four more channels to choose from, up from seven to eleven.
Denon is anxious to highlight that this receiver is closer to the more premium last-generation AVR-X4500H in terms of capability than the Award-winning AVR-X3500H it replaces; and that is the case in more ways than simply its supplemental channels.
Onkyo TX-NR787
The TX-NR787 is a 9-channel DTS:X and Dolby Atmos network AV receiver with DTS:X and Dolby Atmos for a 5.2.4 or 7.2.2-channel speaker arrangement at THX Certified Select theater-reference level at 8 Ohms, 20 Hz–20 kHz, 0.08 percent THD, 2 Channels Driven, FTC. Alternatively, the additional channels can be used to power speakers in Zones 2 and 3.
The NR787 also boasts the most up-to-date video capabilities, such as rear HDMI ports, Main Out, and Sub Out, which pass 4K HDR content in HDR10, HLG, and Dolby Vision files to compatible displays. They are compatible with the BT.2020 4K video standard, as well as 4K/60 Hz playback and HDCP 2.2. All of the speaker connectors are high-quality 5-way binding posts, as you can see. There are no spring clips. Take note of the removable power receptacle as well. Fantastic.
9.1/9.2 Receiver Comparison from Denon vs Onkyo vs yamaha:
Now let’s look at the key differences from the 3 models we choose. Yamaha, denon and onkyo are very good brands so it was hard to choose a single receiver from each of them. The models which we choose are all rounders and are very well reviewed.
Product differentiator
I will now discuss the important differences and key points below. You will be able to make your decision easier after going through them.
Dolby atmos
With its Dolby Surround upmixer, the Onkyo TX-NR787 and Yamaha Aventage RX-A2080 support Dolby Atmos. Internal amplifiers can be used to configure up to 7.1.2 or 5.1.4 channels.
The Denon AVR-X3600H may be set up with internal amplifiers for up to 7.1.2 or 5.1.4 channels, or with external amplifiers for up to 7.1.4 channels.Dolby Atmos transforms your room into a fantastic entertainment space. You’ll feel like you’re right in the middle of the action in ways you’ve never felt before.All sound in the original theater mix is represented as an audio object in Dolby Atmos for the home.
DTS:X and Neural:X upmixer
With its Neural:X upmixer, the Onkyo TX-NR787 and Yamaha Aventage RX-A2080 support DTS:X. Internal amplifiers can be used to set both of them up to 7.1.2 or 5.1.4 channels. Internal amplifiers may be used to set the Denon AVR-X3600H up to 7.1.2 or 5.1.4 channels, or a 2 channel external amplifier may be used to set the Denon AVR-X3600H up to 7.1.4 channels.
Dynamic Audio Amplification
The Onkyo TX-NR787 incorporates Onkyo’s Dynamic Audio Amplification, which focuses on capturing the energy and dynamism contained in the audio source and reproducing it without loss. Audio signals aren’t static like a test tone, but rather a never-ending stream of ever-moving waves. This is an exclusive feature for onkyo
Adaptive DRC
Adaptive DRC (Dynamic Range Control) is a function of the Yamaha Aventage RX-A2080 that automatically changes the dynamic range of the sound based on the volume level. This guarantees that you hear clear conversation and voices, as well as all sound effects at a level that is suitable for you. There’s no need to alter the volume while listening; anything from whispers to large explosions will be clearly heard and comfortably at about the same volume.
After analysing all the products extensively I can say that the Denon AVR-X3600H is a complete package. If you want buy a premium receiver with good support and reliability then Denon is still the top name in the market
Summing up
In this article I talked about a variety of receivers. From 5.1 channel budget receivers to 9.2 premium level ones. Receives are not only limited to audio capabilities nowadays. We can use them to watch 4k and 8k contents. With the help of the internet and other famous streaming platforms we can listen to music or watch movies easily.
It will change the way you experience entertainment. We hope you will make your decision and enjoy the world of true unparalleled audio and visual content.
Freelance tech journalist & author of soundboxlab.com …Read More