Between Sony and Denon receiver, Sony manufactures some of the best budget AV receivers. Denon excels in manufacturing AV receivers and it seems to be a much more reliable brand to users than Sony. Sony has a different line of products including smart TVs and PlayStation gaming consoles.
With Denon, you will get a wide range of products, both budget-friendly and costly. Denon receivers use Audyssey Dynamic EQ for room calibration. Based on power, both these receivers can be used to push different types of speakers. Most models of these receiver brands support phono input needed for turntables.
Between Sony and Denon receivers, Sony delivers quality products at reasonable cost. Denon includes several advanced features like IMAX Enhanced, gaming features, etc. which eventually increases the cost of the product. Both these receivers show outstanding performance in terms of sound.
Product review:
With hours of research, we have selected the top-rated receivers of Denon and Sony.
Sony STR-DN1080 7.2-ch vs Denon AVR-X2600H 7.2 AV Receiver
Aesthetics
Most AV receivers follow a standard style of a rectangular box. Sony STR-DN1080 has a solid and glossy cabinet. The front panel has two large knobs: volume and selector knob.
Denon also has a solid chassis that has two knobs on the front side: Volume and source selector. Overall, these receivers are designed to last long.
Features
The difference between Sony STR-DN1080 vs Denon AVR-X2600H is in terms of power, connections, impedance and price. The Denon AVR-X2600H price is higher than Sony. It uses a discrete high-current amplifier and the Sony uses a glass-epoxy circuit board.
The Denon amp is more powerful than the Sony. You can use the Denon 7.2 ch amplifier for a 5.2.2 system. It uses DTS Virtual:X to up-mix the DTS soundtrack. Between Denon vs Sony receiver, the Denon AVR-X2600H has 2 additional HDMI inputs with HDCP 2.3.
Both of these receivers support HDMI with eARC. There are also differences between the Sony STR-D1080 vs Denon AVR-X2600H in terms of gaming. The Denon supports ALLM which ensures gaming through Xbox One S or One X becomes smoother.
Between Sony vs Denon receivers, both have USB but the Denon AVR-X2600H has a phono input. They also support Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and Ethernet. The Sony has a built-in Chromecast whereas the Denon has built-in HEOS.
Denon supports WAV, ALAC and FLAC file up to 24-bit/192kHz and DSD 2.8MHz and 5.6MHz. Sony supports 24-bit/192kHz files. These receivers also support multiroom.
Create an account for Denon HEOS to use all features. The Denon Assistant will help you through the setup process of the receiver along with using Audyssey Dynamic EQ. Sony STR-D1080 receivers do not support Audyssey.
Both Sony and Denon receivers can be used for wired and wireless connections. You can connect Sony to Bluetooth, USB, smartphone, Walkman, iPhone, PC, NAS, etc. Denon can be connected to the TV, set-top box, DVD/Blu-ray, video camcorder/gaming console, turntable, Bluetooth, etc.
Sound:
Here we will make a comparison between Sony STR-DN1080 vs Denon AVR-X2600H sound quality. The Denon AVR-X2600H has a consistent and detailed sound which improves further with Audyssey.
You can easily connect in your home theater. Sounds like footsteps or paper burning becomes realistic. Sony STR-DN1080 has excellent dynamics, it produces a deep and punchy sound.
Between Sony vs Denon AV receiver, the Denon AVR-X2600H has punchier bass compared to Sony. but Sony’s low-end is also impressive
Sony STR-DN1080 Pros
- Rhythmic sound
- Built-in Chromecast
- Natural and detailed audio
- Uses DSEE HX as sound enhancer
Cons
- No phono input
Denon AVR-X2600H Pros
- user-friendly user interface
- Easy setup for newbies
- Precise measurements with Audyssey room correction
Cons
- No Chromecast
Sony STRDH190 2-ch vs Denon AVR-X3700H 9.2 Channel
Aesthetics
The Sony STR-DH190 has a decent build quality. It is made of plastic and the buttons don’t have that solid feel but it still works smoothly. The rear side doesn’t have any gold-plated connections, rather has push-pin style.
The phono amp and transformer are designed to be far away from each other to reduce interference, Denon AVR-X3700H has a strong build. The buttons and knobs have a premium touch. The front panel has input selection and master volume knob along with other controls.
Feature
The major difference between Sony STR-DH190 vs Denon AVR-X3700H is the price and surround sound functions. Sony STR-DH190 is the best receiver under $200. Sony simply covers the basics of a receiver.
Denon has advanced video processing that supports 8K / 60Hz, and 4K / 120Hz. It can be considered as one of the best receivers for gaming as it supports Variable Refresh Rate (VRR), Quick Frame Transport (QFT), and Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM).
These are known to smoothen the gaming scenes reducing judder and stutter. Sony stays simple and doesn’t have these features. With all the HDR formats, you are likely to get impressive video quality from Denon.
Sony STR-DH190 is a stereo receiver which means you will not get the surround sound functions like Dolby or DTS. It is one of the cheapest receivers where you will get what you pay for. You can connect it with Sony SSCS8
Denon AVR-X3700H is one of the best 4k home theater receivers that supports all the popular 3D audio formats that can create a room filling, powerful audio. If you don’t want to compromise sound quality or want a massive improvement of your speaker sound, then you should go with Denon. You can create a 5.1.4 or 7.1.2 Dolby Atmos sound with Denon.
Using Sony receivers for various setups, you can connect it with PS-HX500 and PS-LX310BT turntables.
Comparing Sony STR-DH190 vs Denon AVR-X3700H is like comparing night and day. But most of the Denon receivers cost more than Sony. Sony has an A+B option that allows you to connect up to 4 speakers.
Sound
Between Sony STR-DH190 vs Denon AVR-X3700H, the Sony sounds very solid at this price point. It has an expansive soundstage, and the dynamics is decent but not outstanding. Overall, the receiver has enough power to drive a wide range of speakers.
The performance will be satisfactory for any newbie just starting to create their hi-fi system. Denon has excellent dynamics and detailed sound. Compared to the Sony STR-DH190, Denon sounds lively, has more precision and energy along with low-end detail.
Sony STR-DH190 Pros
- Cheap
- Supports Bluetooth. Phono input
- Decent sound with broad soundstage
- Chassis design minimizes vibration
- Has Bass/treble control
Cons
- No sub out
- No advanced features
Denon AVR-X3700H Pros
- HDMI 2.1 and 8K-ready
- Supports hi-res audio file
- Supports Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, HEOS, and Apple AirPlay 2
- Sturdy build
Cons
- Costly
Sony STRDH590 5.2-ch vs AVRS540BT 5.2-ch receiver
Aesthetics
Sony STR-DH590 is made of high-quality plastic. It has a sleek design and the front side has input selector and master volume knob. The controls are distributed neatly. The remote control comes with adequate buttons for control. You can also use The Sony Music App.
Denon follows the ‘standard black box’ design of receivers. The rear side has binding clips. Along with others, it also has a bass and treble adjustment knob.
Features
Comparing Sony STR-DH590 vs Denon AVR-S540BT, we see that they are almost similar but Denon receiver performs slightly better. The price is almost the same for both. Sony has slightly higher power per channel.
They have certain similar features like 5.2 channel, 4k upscaling, HDR formats, etc. both these receivers will work with 4k TVs and deliver excellent image quality with the HDR features.
Denon supports HEOS link which means you can enjoy multi-room audio. While both have easy setups, Denon comes with Denon Setup Assistant to make it easier. It doesn’t have the Audyssey room calibration though. It has Deep Color & x.v.Color Support which ensures high image quality with vibrant colour.
Between Sony STR-DH590 vs Denon AVR-S540BT, Sony doesn’t have USB input or the DTS Neo feature. Denon has more connections (HDMI, composite In, optical) so depending on your setup, you need to choose.
Comparing Sony vs Denon Bluetooth connection, both have built-in Bluetooth but Sony has the updated version. Sony supports major connections like RCA, HDMI, etc. but the Denon has 1 extra HDMI input. You can connect TV, DVD, and smartphones with it.
Sound
The cost vs performance makes Sony one of the best entry-level receivers. It uses S Force Pro that helps to create a natural and room-filling sound. Connecting these to various setups like CD players brings out the dynamics and what you hear is the raw, crystal-clear sound. It also has good control in the low-end region.
Denon sound quality is impressive as it produces clean and clear audio without distortion. It has ‘beefy mid-range’ and the soundtracks have excellent dynamics. The receiver can play music in a decent manner just as we expect from an entry-level receiver.
Sony STR-DH190 Pros
- Affordable
- Vibrant colour & details in image
- Auto calibration to improve audio
- HDR and Dolby vision
- Bluetooth 4.2
Cons
- No Chromecast or AirPlay
Denon AVR-X3700H Pros
- Works with Siri, Alexa, Google Assistant
- Control with Denon 500 Series Remote app.
- Ideal for small to mid-sized rooms
- Impressive audio quality
Cons
- Customer support should be responsive
Sony STRZA5000ES 9.2-Channel vs
Denon AVRA110GS 13.2Ch
Aesthetics
Sony STR-ZA5000ES has a sleek and slim design. What makes it different from other receivers is that you can hide the buttons with a removable panel to have a minimalist look. The navigation pad in the front panel will help you setup to configure the receiver without the remote.
It uses a frame and beam chassis that reduces external sound pressure. It also has gold plated speaker terminals for optimum performance. The remote control has several buttons which are easy to use.
Denon is made of ‘limited-edition’ silver graphite colour. The front and rear panels are made of aluminium. It has a sturdy built body that sits on die-cast iron feet. Inside, you will find a copper transformer plate that is designed for ‘superior isolation’. Similar to Sony, it has a removable panel that covers the front controls.
Features
With Sony STR-ZA5000ES you can create a 5.1.4 or 7.1.2 system. The circuitry is designed to lower the signal path which minimizes impedance or interference from digital noise. You can connect the Denon receiver with Ethernet port or Wi-Fi adapter and for Sony you only have the Ethernet option.
Between Sony STR-ZA5000ES vs Denon AVR-A100GS, the Denon supports 8k whereas, Sony can do up to 4k. Sony also lacks HDR10+ in its features. Denon also has Bluetooth, phono input, supports different voice assistants and AirPlay.
Both these receivers have auto room correction software, the Sony uses DCAC and the Denon uses Audyssey Dynamic EQ. Comparing Sony vs Denon receivers, the Denon AVR-A110GS supports ALLM, QFT, VRR which is effective to minimize lag, reduce screen tearing and make games more responsive.
Denon can be used for a 9.1.4 or 7.1.6 system. Sony supports Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, Denon has Dolby Atmos and DTS: Pro. Denon also uses Auro-3D which works with surround, height and ceiling sounds.
It supports ALAD, FLAC, and WAV at up to 192 kHz/24-bit, 2.8/5.6 MHz DSD files, MP3, WMA files. With its versatile features and functions, Denon is one of the best audiophile-grade receivers.
Streaming music from Pandora, Spotify, Tidal, and Deezer is much easier with Denon. Denon has superior audio and video quality as well.
Sound
Between Sony vs Denon receivers, Denon is slightly more powerful than Sony. In terms of sound quality, Sony delivers clear dialogues and enhances the movie sound with excellent dynamic range.
It has a solid low-end and the treble region is crystal clear. Whether you watch movies or listen to music, you will get the sense of presence in the room. The mid-range is also accurate.
With Denon, the Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, DTS:X Pro and Auro-3D will deliver powerful immersive audio. You will have a broader soundstage with height effects. It has excellent audio imaging and IMAX Enhanced ensures the sound passes quality tests.
Sony STR-DH190 Pros
- Eight-port Ethernet hub
- Digital Legato Linear ensures high-quality sound
- In-ceiling speaker mode causes dialogs to come from screen
- ihiji can remotely view the receiver information
Cons
- No Bluetooth or AirPlay
Denon AVR-X3700H Pros
- Advanced AL32 Processing delivers clean and accurate sound
- Built-in Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, HEOS, AirPlay2
- Works with HEOS app
- Dolby Center Spread broadens sound image
- Domotz Pro and OvrC is used for remote monitoring
Cons
- Very expensive
Sony vs Denon receiver: Buying guide
Sources
Between Sony vs Denon receivers, not all devices have similar connections. So make sure the receiver will be able to support your existing devices. For instance, if you want to connect a turntable, you need a receiver with phono input.
Or, if you want to connect a subwoofer, then the receiver should have sub out. Number of HDMI inputs and output also varies from model to model. If you have several HDMI sources, you need to choose accordingly.
Sound system
What type of home theater do you want to build? You can create 5.1.4, 7.1.2, etc. While choosing between Denon vs Sony receiver, make sure you look into the number of channels. With Sony, you can get as low as 2.0 channels, but both these brands manufacture different channels of receiver. You can choose among 5.2, 9.2, 13.2, etc.
Surround sound features
The receiver is supposed to enhance the sound system of movies or music dramatically. If powerful surround sound is important for you, then choose a receiver that supports major features like Dolby Atmos, Dolby Height Virtualization, DTS:X, DTS:X Pro.
High-end receivers will also support advanced features like IMAX Enhanced and Auro-3D.
Sound quality
This is one of the crucial features while choosing the best receiver for your sound system or home theater. Sound quality should be clean and powerful. Between Sony vs Denon, sound quality varies with each model. Overall, the audio should be detailed with control in the low-end region.
Auto-calibration software:
Denon uses the famous Audyssey Dynamic EQ software and microphone for room correction, Sony uses DCAC. Audyssey might feel difficult for you if you are just starting your hi-fi system, but is known to deliver consistent results.
One thing to remember is that, the room-correction software will not have any ‘magical’ impact on sound unless you take care of other features:
- Room acoustics
- Speaker placement
- Good quality speakers
- High-quality cables
- Multiple calibration tests
Other features:
This includes several other features which might be important to you. Such as, gaming features, AirPlay2, Chromecast, Bluetooth, etc. Although Bluetooth is a very common feature, you still need to make sure the receiver has this option with the updated version.
Users often use their system to connect with gaming consoles so if you are a gamer, then make sure the receiver supports advanced features like ALLM, VRR, etc. Between Sony vs Denon receivers, we have reviewed multiple Denon receivers that support 8k.
If you have an 8k TV then it will be useful for you. It also makes the receiver future-proof.
Parting words:
Now that you have an in-depth idea for choosing a receiver, you can make your choice. If you are a newbie or have budget constraints, we recommend you to go with Sony receiver. Sony receiver has ample connections and impressive sound quality at a reasonable price point.
With Sony you can get the least expensive receiver for 2 channels with decent audio. Comparing Sony vs Denon receivers, we recommend Denon if you know your system and what you actually want. You can choose between 4k vs 8k Denon receivers as per your setup.
If you want to connect a gaming console between Denon vs Sony, we suggest you go with Denon. Denon has more HDMI ports, supports AirPlay 2, some models have built-in Chromecast as well. With sufficient knowledge about hi-fi and no price issue, you can achieve audiophile-grade sound from Denon.
FAQ
This part came with the solution for your basic question that may arise while you are roaming around this perticular subject matter.
How to connect the speaker system with Sony STR-DN1080?
follow the procedure described below:
- Make sure the impedance of the speakers is within 6-16 ohms
- Twist the speaker wires and ‘plug them’ into the speaker terminal
- Make sure to connect speaker wires with correct polarity
- You can easily connect 5.1,7.1 or 5.1.2 systems
- Connect front speakers, canter channel speakers, rear speakers, surround speakers on the labelled ports
- You need a monaural cable to connect the subwoofer with the receiver.
How to connect a TV with Denon AVR-A110?
To connect TV with the Denon receiver:
- If the TV has HDMI connector and ARC/eARC, enable HDMI control and ARC to turn it on
- Connect to the HDMI Monitor 1 connector
- Use HDMI with Ethernet
- Use Ultra High Speed 48Gbps HDMI cable for 8k video
- If the TV has an HDMI connector but isn’t compatible with ARC/eARC, then use HDMI cable to connect the TV with the receiver.
- For sound, use the optical cable.
- For TVs without HDMI connect, use component video or video cable to connect the TV and use optical cable for sound.
How can I connect a turntable without phono input in a receiver?
if your receiver doesn’t have any phono input, like the Sony STR-DN1080 receiver, follow these steps:
- Buy a preamp
- Use the audio cable of the turntable to connect to the preamp input
- Use cables to connect between preamp output and receiver’s line-level inputs
- Change the receiver input selection to ‘Line’, ‘Aux’ or ‘Tape’
- Insert the ground wire of the turntable into the preamplifier.
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