A stereo receiver serves as a control and connection hub for an audio-only listening experience. Whilst on the other hand, an AV receiver (full form being audio video receiver), serves as a control and connection for both audio and video experience.
An audio video receiver becomes a necessity if you want to upgrade your home theater for more fulfilling and amplified audio response. Both the Yamaha TSR 700 and Denon AVR S750 are great options for AV receiver. This article will discuss which one is better and will guide you how to find the perfect AV receiver for yourself for a fulfilling and enjoyable at home video and audio experience.
Differences between Yamaha TSR 700 vs Denon AVR S750H
Both the audio video receivers seem quite similar, so what is the difference? First let’s go through the table to understand the differences at a glance.
The first major difference that we can see is the number of channels between the two audio video receivers. Whilst the Yamaha TSR 700 has 7.1 channel configuration, the Denon AVR S750H has a 7.2 channel configuration. This means that the number of subwoofer varies between the two AV receivers. Whilst, the Yamaha TSR has one subwoofer, the Denon AVR S750H has two subwoofers. This suggests that perhaps the Denon AVR S750H would offer a more bass heavy audio response. Moreover, the Yamaha TSR 700 is a little heavier than the Denon AVR S750H, but the latter remains a little larger. When it comes to power, we can see that the Yamaha AV receiver operates at 100 watts whereas Denon receiver pumps about 75 watts of power. And that is not only it, Yamaha TSR 700 stands unbeaten when it comes to video quality and connectivity as well because of its versatility.
Without further ado, let’s analyze and critically review each of the products individually for a better understanding.
YAMAHA TSR 700
If you want to enter into a world of rich theatrical sound, you should definitely look into the Yamaha TSR 700. With this audio video receiver, you will find yourself immersed into the realism of movies. And that is not all, the Yamaha TSR 700 is also a great buy for gamers wanting a more enjoyable and worthwhile gaming experience. The table below provides a quick summary of the specifications of the AV receiver.
Reasons to buy
- Sleek design with a variety of connectivity options
- Scene buttons can be used to preset songs and stations
- Immersive Dolby Atmos surround sound with DTS compatibility
- Lots of music streaming options including built-in Bluetooth and Wi-Fi
- Supports Voice assistants such as Google Assistant, Alexa, Siri
- Multiroom audio capability
- MusicCast Application for sharing audio
- Versatile features for enjoyable audio experience
Reasons to avoid
- OSD not as good
- Need to wait for updates to enjoy some features
- Subscription is required for services like Pandora and Spotify
Let’s discuss some of the key features of Yamaha TSR 700.
GENERAL FEATURES
Streamlined Design
The Audio Video receiver has a bold look with its black streamlined design. Weighing at about 21.6 pounds, the Yamaha TSR 700 is not as heavy as you would think it to be. It has a glossy black surface and a classy design which catches the eye. At the front of the audio video receiver is the display and controls. The AV receiver boasts the logo of Yamaha at the top left corner, leaving room for the control knob at the center, indicators and front display. The display includes a status icon which indicates Bluetooth, sleep timer, wireless LAN and firmware updates. There is also a play and volume status icon on the display screen. At the back of the Yamaha TSR 700 are various input ports that we will be discussing soon.
Versatile Controls
The front of Yamaha TSR 700 includes a variety of versatile controls. At the center there is the big volume knob which can be spun in order to lower or increase volume. A power button rests at the bottom left corner of the AV receiver beside which there is the USB jack, YPAO jack and PHONES jack. There is a touch panel located at the right bottom of the front surface which includes touch sensitive buttons. The SCENE button can be touched to switch between multiple settings set. The menu and return button can be pressed to operate the front display menu. On top of the touch panel is a SELECT/ENTER button which selects the input source and operates the front display.
Remote Control for Easy Accessibility
For added convenience, the Yamaha TSR 700 can also be operated using a wireless remote control. The remote control includes basic control buttons which are found on the front panel of the AV receiver as well. Apart from these, there is a sleep key which sets the timer of the sleep timer. The zone switch button can be pressed to change the zones that are controlled by the remote control. Sound mode keys can be used in order to change between different modes and customize the audio. A party key is also available in the remote control to turn on the party mode. Other than this, there is also a preset button in order to switch to radio.
Variety of Connectivity Options
Apart from the three input jacks at the front control panel of Yamaha TSR 700, there are numerous connectivity options hiding behind its back surface. A trigger out jack is used for connecting to a device that supports the trigger function. There is an HDMI OUT jack which can for connecting to HDMI-compatible TV and outputting video/audio signals. When using eARC/ARC, TV audio signals are also input. The HDMI 1–7 jacks are used for connecting to HDMI-compatible playback devices and inputting video/audio signals. There are also phono jacks, network jack and antenna jacks. The zone out jack can be used to connect to the external amplifier used in another room and to output audio. In order to a subwoofer, there is also a PRE out jack. AUDIO 1-5 jacks can be used for connecting to audio playback devices and inputting audio signals. The rear panel also includes speaker terminals for connecting speakers.
AUDIO FEATURES
Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization Technology
Dolby Atmos is a surround sound technology which expands on existing surround sound systems by adding height channels, thus offering three dimensional audio response. Yamaha TSR 700 is a 5.1 surround sound speaker channel system which includes two extra overhead speakers that help produce spectacular audio response through Dolby Atmos height virtualization technology. This technology stimulates a Dolby Atmos audio experience even if your home theater does not include in-ceiling or upward firing speakers. The speakers allow the audio to have a spatial effect which seems like the sound is engulfing the listener from around him or her.
DTS:X Formatting
DTS:X is a surround sound technology formatting which directs sound where it naturally should be in order to result in multidimensional audio and true-to-life surround sound experience. Yamaha TSR 700 also supports DTS Neural:X which is a spatial remapping technology that results in improved immersion and heightened realism by providing the user the option to add non- DTS:X encrypted content.
CINEMA DSP
Yamaha has a special proprietary DSP technology that uses sound field data and 3D digital signal processing for a three dimensional audio. What Yamaha did was it collected sound field data from various concerts, halls, movie theaters across the world and incorporated it into LSI devices. This allows the audio to have a greater resemblance to that of concerts, movie theaters and halls. Hence the listened would feel an at home concert experience with the audio video receiver plugged in to his or her home theater.
Compressed Music Enhancer
The Yamaha Compressed Music Enhancer uses digital signal processing using exclusive algorithms to ensure that music digitally encoded in compressed format like MP3 does not lose its frequency response. The enhancer does this by adding more depth and detail into the audio.
VIDEO FEATURES
HDR and HDR10+
HDR is short form for High Dynamic Range. This provides a definition video quality with rich details, bright tones and contrasting colors. HDR10+ on the other hand helps to improve the dynamic range of video by frame to frame or scene to scene basis. It adds dds dynamic metadata to HDR10 source files and optimizes each frame of the HDR video. HDR10+is available on updating the device.
8K and 4K Resolution Support
Yamaha TSR 700 supports 8K and 4K resolutions within the HDMI ecosystem. 8k provides two times the horizontal and vertical resolution of 4K and 4 times as many pixels, thus delivering immersive video experience. With 4k120 video quality, the fast motion UHD images are sharp, letting you enjoy sports, action movies to the fullest.
Enhanced Media and Gaming
The AV receiver offers enhanced media and gaming features such as:
- Auto Latency Mode (ALLM): this feature enables the latency setting automatically to be set for smooth video viewing
- Variable Refresh Rate (VRR): this helps to reduce lag in games
- Quick Media Switching (QMS): this feature eliminates the delay from blank frames before the content is viewed in moves of video games
- Quick Frame Transport (QFT): helps to reduce latency in gaming and allows real-time interactive virtual reality.
ADDITIONAL FEATURES
MusicCast App
The MusicCast App allows simple and easy setup. The smartphone or any other device such as tablet can be used along with the application to change settings of the audio video receiver. This app allows the AV receiver to be controlled in the same way you would control it with the remote control. This also allows multi-room audio so music can be shared easily through the application.
Voice Assistant
Yamaha TSR 700 works with voice assistants such has Google Assistant and Siri quite easily. This means that you can command the Audio Video receiver to carry out tasks from anywhere in the room. The AV receiver supports Airplay 2 so this allows users to easily stream through Apple Music or through other streaming platforms.
Zone 2
This feature allows the system to send the same or different AV source playing in the main room for playback in another room. If the main system is in the audio room, the speakers can be set into the living room for instance and the same audio can be enjoyed.
DENON AVR S750H
This Denon AV receiver includes seven channels of speaker amplification with Dolby Atmos and DTS:X decoding, plus full-featured streaming support including Bluetooth, AirPlay 2, and Heos. Its six HDMI inputs support many different features of the HDMI 2.1 standard, including eARC and automatic low-latency mode which allows devices to automatically detect and switch into the best mode for gaming. But the audio receiver does not offer support for other gaming-friendly HDMI 2.1 features like variable refresh rate and the ability to pass 4K video at 120 Hz. Here are the summary specifications:
Reasons to buy
- Provides wireless support
- Offers easy control through remote
- Provides various different sound modes
- High resolution audio and video capability
Reasons to avoid
- The design is a but outdated
- Does not support Chromecast models
- Limited connectivity options
GENERAL FEATURES
Simple and effective design
The AV receiver has a standard design which is quite simple. It is a chunky black box with smooth textured surface. The design is effective since the display looks big enough and is easily visible from a long distance. The front of the Denon AVR S750H includes some control features. At the top left corner of the AV receiver is the Brand name in bold letters. The big display can be found at the center. The display itself includes a lot of different indicators. The input mode indicator and surround back indicator shows the status of the connections that the AV receiver is using. There are also decoder indicators which light when Dolby or DTS signals are input or when the Dolby or DTS decoder is running. There are also Audyssey indicators, Tuner reception mode indicators, volume indicators, mute indicators, information display, input signal indicators, zone 2 indicator and sleep timer indicators.
Useful Controls
All the useful controls can be found at two sources- one is on the front panel of the main unit and the other on the remote control that comes with the AV receiver. At the front of Denon AVR are two large knobs placed at both ends. One knob is the SOURCE selection knob which can be used to select the input source whilst the other is the MASTER VOLUME knob used for adjusting the volume levels. There is a power button just like any other device would have it. ZONE 2 on/off button and SOURCE button can be used to make adjustments regarding Zone 2. You can also select broadcast stations using the preset buttons available under the display. The quick select button allows the users to call up various settings they have registered to each button such as the input source, volume level and sound mode settings with a single press. Lastly, sound mode buttons can help the user to move between different audio modes. The remote control pretty much includes all the control options found on the body of the AV receiver itself. However, additional buttons such as cursor buttons, system buttons, ECO mode buttons are also available.
Connections
Whilst the front of AVR S750H includes connectivity ports such as headphone jacks, SETUP MIC jack, AUX HDMI connector and USB ports, majority of the connectivity options are found at the back of the device. There are analogue audio connectors which are used to connect devices equipped with analog audio connectors. The PRE out connectors can be used to connect a subwoofer with a built-in amplifier. There are also video connectors which can be used to connect devices equipped with video connectors. The digital audio connectors are used to connect devices equipped with digital audio connectors. The HDMI connectors on the other hand are used for connecting devices equipped with HDMI connectors. Lastly, there are also speaker terminals used to connect speakers. Apart from the connectors, there are Rod antennas for Bluetooth/wireless LAN which can be positioned upright when connecting to a network via wireless LAN, or when connecting to a handheld device via Bluetooth. FM/AM antenna terminals are used to connect FM antennas and AM loop antennas.
AUDIO FEATURES
Impressive Surround Sound
Denon AVR S750H offers Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, and Virtual:X audio capabilities. Dolby Atmos surround sound technology helps to create compelling soundscapes and the virtualization technology adds extra depth and height to the audio response. The object based audio codec DTS:x creates multi-dimensional audio that offers a truly captivating surround sound experience. The Virtual: X is a proprietary audio processing technology that creates seamless spacious three dimensional sound and adds a sensation of height to the audio output.
Different Sound Modes
The Denon AV receiver offers high resolution audio with different sound modes for customized musical experience. It has different sound modes options including multi-channel surround mode and matrix mode for stereo listening. The rock arena sound mode can be enabled to experience the expansive sound of live concert at home whilst the jazz club mode introduces the listener to a jazzy musical experience. The mono movie mode works with monaural audio sources and delivers a surround sound effect. Gamers would perhaps enjoy the game mode the most since it provides exciting, dynamic surround sound effect with action video games. Lastly the virtual mode offers a surround sound when playing back through just the front (L/R) speakers only, and when listening with stereo headphones.
VIDEO FEATURES
4K Ultra HD clarity
The Denon AVR S750H offers native 4k, 60 Hz video resolution on all HDMI ports. The AV receiver provides crystal clear video quality in movies and gaming. With its HDCP compatibility, it provides 4k UHD pass through to compatible televisions. The video technology incorporated in the audio video receiver transmits high detailed and clear picture quality. The device further contains exciting HDR capability which results in bright colors and life-like image quality. You can enjoy clear motion pictures without any disturbance at your home with the Denon AVR S750H, having your movie experiences come to life.
ADDITIONAL FEATURES
Built-in HEOS
AVER S750H includes an in-built HEOS connectivity technology which can be used to access to music through unlimited sources. With this feature, you will be able to gain access to different sources from your personal music library to online audio streaming services such as Spotify, Pandora and so on without any hassle. There is also a HEOS app which allows the user to integrate a receiver to the wireless audio setup and thus expand the audio system. This multi-room audio capability gives the user the freedom to set up speakers in any room and control the individual speakers using the app.
On screen set up assistant
It is very easy to set up the device no matter how intimidating the black box might look. The Denon AVR S750H has an on-screen setup assistant which guides the user with simple-to-follow instructions so that he or she can easily connect the components and bring the audio into life.
Voice Assistant benefits
The audio video receiver is compatible with Amazon Alexa and can be controlled entirely by voice commands. The user can ask Alexa to change volume levels, change tracks and switch between remotes from any place in the audio room. Siri Voice assistant can also be used to play music through Apple Music.
AV receiver buying guide
An AV receiver, elaborately known as an audio video receiver, is an electric device which receives audio and video signals from different sources and processes them to provide power amplifiers to drive loudspeakers and video displays. AV receivers are quite popularly used in home theaters. Most users upgrade to AV receivers from soundbars for an even better home theater experience. But what should you know about these audio devices before making the right purchase? Here are some of our tips.
Number of channels
AV receivers have a number of varying channels. Channels can be substituted with speakers and subwoofers in this case. Therefore, the greater the number of channels in the AV receiver, the greater the number of speakers and more immersive the sound. It is advised the minimum number of channels to be five for a good audio response and surround sound experience. But if you really want to blow your mind, we would obviously recommend having atleast 7 channels.
For instance, a2.0 channel AV receiver includes two speakers, and 2.1 channel AV receiver includes two speakers and one subwoofer. When a center channel speaker is added to a 2.1 system, it becomes a 3.1 channel AV receiver. A 5.2 channel AV receiver therefore will have 2 rear speakers, 2 front speakers, a center channel and two subwoofers. This would help you achieve the true surround sound experience. The latest upgrade is a 9.1 channel AV receiver. This includes settings two or more speakers onto the ceiling to create a three dimensional sound space. This is great if you want to feel Dolby Atmos sound, making your small home theater have an atmosphere similar to that in the movie theaters.
Before choosing the AV receiver, you should ask yourself what kind of sound do you want to listen to. If you want to be absorbed into the movies you will be watching, it’s always wiser to go for a higher channel configuration.
Connections or input output features
There are different connectivity features that one should be aware of before getting the AV receiver. Some of them are explained as follows:
- Analog audio inputs: These inputs are those that come in stereo coaxial pairs where each of them are assigned to its own source.
- Digital audio inputs: These inputs are those that come in stereo coaxial pairs or optical pairs where each of them are assigned to its own source.
- Setup mic input: Sometimes, an audio video receiver might include sound calibration feature. For this feature there is a setup mic input.
- Phono input: These inputs accept low-level phono signals from turntables and bring them up to line level for use within the receiver
- Headphone output: This is to plug in the headphone to the audio video receiver.
- Pre outputs: This is mainly for external power amplifiers.
- USB: to connect USB
- HDMI: fully known as High-Definition Multimedia Interface, this is used to transmit high definition data between HDMI-compliant devices.
Supported Audio and Video Formats
Apart from Dolby Atmos there are other refined audio technology and formats that you can look out for in an audio video receiver. DTS:X and HDR are some examples. Always look for audio formats that are compatible with the AVR.
HDR stands for high dynamic range and this technology ensures that your television will have brighter colors, more contrast and more detailed pixels without any interruption in picture quality. HDR10 is the most recent or upgraded version of the technology but you might also want to consider Dolby Vision for better video quality. There are many different types of resolution such as 8k, 4k, 1080p. Select an audio video receiver with the resolution that you need.
Wireless or Wired Connectivity
Some audio video receivers offer wireless connectivity which can be very helpful. Some of these that you should definitely look out for whilst making your purchase include Built-in Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and AM/FM radio. An AV receiver with a built-in Wi-Fi will let you seamlessly stream audio from any online streaming services without much work. This means that you have wider accessibility to music. Bluetooth compatibility will also broaden your audio listening horizons as you can connect to any Bluetooth enable device with your AVR. Lastly, if you enjoy listening to the radio, you might want to look for an antenna on your device.
How much power should your AV receiver have?
AV receiver have the ability to serve as power amplifiers as well so the power rating should be an important specification to look into. It is important to understand how much power is available per channel when all channels connect to speakers. An important thing to note is that speakers that have similar power rating to the audio video receivers power rating means that they will be more compatible.
The Final Verdict
From our review, you can tell that both the Yamaha TSR 700 and Denon AVR S750H are well performing AV receiver with versatile audio video capabilities. However, there will always be some pros and cons to each of the receiver.
The Denon AVR S750H would be a great purchase if you are a beginner audiophile looking for a good quality audio and video experience at a budget. It has two subwoofers and also has a unique HEOS feature which allows versatile connectivity.
Nevertheless, the Yamaha TSR 700 beats the Denon AVR S750H quite easily in my opinion. Although it lacks a subwoofer compared to its competitor, it offers a wide range of features, allows greater connectivity options and also supports a wide rande of audio and video formats. Overall, the AV receiver will provide you with an immersive experience that you would enjoy.
Freelance tech journalist & author soundboxlab.com Read More