Best Denon Receiver

For quite a long time, AV receivers have occupied the position of the leading home media center. They allow you to combine all your equipment into a single multimedia system and get the most out of sound and video. There are many companies in the receiver market, but one of the leaders is Denon. In this review, I will cover the products of this company so you can find and choose your best Denon AV receiver.

The history of this company is over 100 years. Throughout the entire duration of its activity, the company keeps its principles the same, mainly targeting better sound and reliability. And that’s why I did a detailed top Denon receivers review in order to choose the most appropriate option.

Our pick

Denon AVR-X3800H

Best Denon Receiver

Denon AVR-X3800H 9.4 channel 8K AV receiver with 105W per channel that fully supports 3D audio formats like Dolby Atmos, Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization Technology, DTS:X, DTS Virtual:X and IMAX Enhanced. Read the full review

Buy now

Denon receivers comparison table

Difference between budget and premium Denon AV receivers

Every manufacturer of home theater receivers, and Denon is no exception, offers a wide variety of models that could find their buyer in each range of market prices, offering the best Denon receiver in its scope.

So which receiver should I choose? Budget, medium, or premium model? What is the difference between these devices? Do I need a surround sound receiver? These are the questions unsophisticated buyers have. So please read on to answer them and make an informed choice. Of course, you will not become a professional in this area, but the basic aspects will become clear to you.

I should start with corps and frame. Maybe, the first feature that people look at when buying a new device. The more costly the AVR is, the more exquisite it appears to be. And this can be seen from the plastic of the front panel and other external details of the case. More expensive receivers are also distinguished by a reinforced frame, which serves as a mount for a heavy transformer. It also dampens component vibrations.

The second item to examine, in my opinion, is connection specifications. Premium models always feature a more significant number of digital and analog interfaces. For example, a few budget models are equipped with HDMI 2.1 for 8K video streaming with HDCP 2.3 protection. The same is true for wireless protocols, the more expensive the model, the newer technologies will be used there. Also, more expensive models are equipped with more different ports, making them more versatile than budget options.

Receiver components also have a significant impact on their price. The more powerful the transformer is, the more expensive the device itself, but at the same time, we have better audio specs at the output. However, do not forget about capacitors, resistors, and DACs – all these components also increase in quality as the receiver class increases.

The most recent technology, as well as fantastic sound, are not inexpensive. Keep that in mind, and don’t search for a “great receiver for $100.”

How I picked and tested Denon receivers

The receiver`s tests require adequate preparation to appreciate the devices’ audio and visual properties. So I set up an excellent test environment.

• CD player SACD 30n
• Blu-ray player Sony UBP-X700
• Speaker wire – AudioQuest Type-9
• Speakers for movie – Klipsch RP-8060FA
• Stereo speakers:
  • Klipsch RP-8060FA
  • KEF Q350
  • DALI OBERON 5

I decided to test devices with the “1917” movie, where there are enough talks and colorful battle scenes.

And my music list is:

• Led Zeppelin – Ramble On – Spotify
• Jacky Terrasson – Reach – Tidal
• The Weeknd – The Hills – Deezer
• Bob Marley & The Wailers – Turn Your Lights Down Low – (CD player)
• Radiohead – The National Anthem – (CD player)
• Arctic Monkeys – Do I Wanna Know – (CD player)
• Mark Nauseef – With Space in Mind (CD player)
• Mahler – Symphony No.2 (CD player)

Best Denon Receiver Reviews

Best mid-price Denon AVR reviews

Denon AVR-X3800H – best overall

Let’s start the review by describing the AVR-X3800H, a mid-range Denon representative capable of delivering decent sound quality. This unit can handle 9.2 configurations directly (and handle up to 11.2 through external amplifiers) at 105W at an 8 Ohm load or 135W at a 6 Ohm load. That means the AVR-X3800H can be set up to operate in a Dolby Atmos 5.2.4 or 7.2.2 configuration – or add a stereo amplifier to distribute the signal to a 7.2.4-channel system. But even if you don’t have a full set of speakers with upper channels, you can still use the 3D audio supported by this receiver, namely Dolby Atmos, Dolby Atmos Virtualization Technology, DTS:X, DTS Virtual:X, IMAX Enhanced, as well as 360 Reality Audio and Auro 3D.

In terms of connectors, all 6 inputs and 2 outputs of the X3800H are full HDMI 2.1 connectors with support for 8K/60Hz and 4K/120Hz. In addition, all HDMI connectors support HDR10+, Dolby Vision, Dynamic HDR, and Quick Media Switching to switch resolution or frame rate to eliminate screen dimming instantly, as well as 8K upscaling and end-to-end 3D.

If you decide to listen to music with this 8K receiver, a useful feature of decoding Hi-Res audio files with sample rates up to 24 bits/192 kHz and DSD up to DSD128 will come in handy. Just download them over the network or via USB input. Want to listen to the analog sound? This model has a built-in MM phono stage for your turntable.

HEOS and Apple AirPlay 2 support means the opportunity for no physical interaction with the receiver. Also, in addition to connecting multi-room functions, these technologies allow the use of Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple Siri. Streaming audio from Amazon Music and Tidal, on the other hand, did not please me as it is of low quality and stutters.

The energy and detail accuracy of this receiver is amazing. The combination of great expressive dynamics that emphasize every character phrase and make it easy to distinguish one frame from another provides an even more immersive experience on screen. I spent most of my testing in Pure Direct mode, which provides the cleanest, clearest, and most accurate signal reproduction. The sound quality was top-notch, and the Denon exceeded my expectations.

Denon AVR-X4700H – top Denon AVR under 2000 dollars

The Denon AVR-X4700H is a mid-budget receiver that can satisfy even the most demanding music lovers with its sound. However, the X4700H is the transitional link between Denon`s top-end and mid-range receivers and already has a killer sound and feature set.

The AVR-X4700H`s video path is based on the latest HDMI video features such as 8K/60Hz and 4K/120Hz with both pass-throughs but only works on one input and 8K up-scaling. And like most similar models, it has Dolby Vision, HDR10+, and HDCP 2.3 support on all HDMI inputs.

With nine power amplifiers (125 W at 8 Ohm or 165 W at 6 Ohm), the AVR-X4700H delivers advanced productivity due to the 11 channel processing and surround decoders Dolby and DTS: X, and Auro-3D.

And I’d like to add to what has already been said. There are IMAX Enhanced-based decoders. Of course, all audio decoders such as Dolby Surround, DTS Neural: X, and Auro-Matic are here too.

When I started testing the unit’s capabilities with a movie, a high-definition sound stage combined with spatial effects immediately surrounded me. Each action on the screen was accompanied by sound with appropriate positioning. Unfortunately, I didn’t leave the feeling that I was watching a video, not at 60Hz, but much lower, at a frequency, somewhere around 30Hz.

Denon handles musical scores confidently: impulse fidelity, excellent coarse dynamics, and high spatial density provide a high perceptual ratio. The 4700H is powerful enough to properly deliver detailed sound in the range from high to low frequencies. This works well in a nearly 30 square meter listening room with no compromise or even can deal with additional rooms in case of a wired multiroom. Otherwise, in order not to burden the device, you can use the HEOS protocol and make a wireless multi-room.

Denon AVR-X2800H – top model under $1000

The Denon AVR-X2800H is a powerful 7.2-channel home theater media center with HEOS wireless multi-room technology. The model was released in 2022 to replace the popular X2700H and is the simplest representative of Denon’s middle class but with all the shortcomings of its predecessor taken into account. On its purchase, you will save good money without making critical compromises. And this fact especially makes it stand out against other receivers from my rating.

The sound quality is really exciting thanks to the considerable power – 95 W with 8 Ohm load or 125 W with 6 Ohm load per channel. And we are talking about both Hi-Fi and home theater with 3D sound. The receiver is compatible with 8K, the most advanced surround sound formats, and their virtualized versions. Regarding connectivity (including wireless), the model has basic options, except for some additional more advanced options.

The impression made on me during testing is quite positive. It works with rich sound without unnecessary details. In the movie test, I was pleased with the high quality of the dialogue. They are reproduced with amazing clarity. All voices sound authentic, and when the dialog moves to the soundtrack’s background, the purity of sound is even more enhanced. The Denon AVR-X2800H smoothly separates the sound into different channels, not allowing other effects to drown out the dialog. It reproduces the entire frequency range – from rich bass to squeaky treble – well. However, detail is better conveyed in the middle register.

The X2800H also performed well when listening to tracks because of its advanced music features. Despite the difference between CD tracks and streaming, the Denon AVR-X2800H does a very interesting job. It creates a dense sound “scene” in the room. This applies to the multiroom capabilities as well. True, the only disadvantage of this is the control of additional zones only with the help of the receiver’s user interface.

A unique feature is the possibility of simultaneous listening through speakers and headphones. It may be necessary if you have a friend or relative who is hearing impaired. But you may find other uses for it.

Best premium Denon AV receiver reviews

Denon AVR-X6700H – best premium Denon AVR

The AVR-X6700H is Denon’s top premium 8K unit. The top-of-the-line AVR-X6700H comes with an 11.2-channel amplifier module. The power is 140 W/8 Ohm or 175 W/6 Ohm per channel, and I think such an impressive power will be enough to sound even a large room fully. And if you still use two different sets of speakers, then you can create a set of settings for each of them and switch between them.

And when compared to the previous Denon AVR-X6500H, the X6700H has 8 HDMI input terminals and three output terminals, all certified as HDMI 2.1 standard. Thanks to this, the AVR-X6700H supports 8K/60Hz and 4K/120Hz, which are complemented by the latest video technologies – Dolby Atmos, DTS: X, and even DTS: X Pro. I’d also like to draw attention to the fact that this device can work with IMAX Enhanced (up to 13 channels in 9.1.2 and 9.1.4 configurations).

And as usual, I started the review by watching a movie. I should note that switching from Blu-ray player to TV caused unpleasant picture jerks. The testing unit produced a delightful, clean, and understandable sound, and the dynamics and detail were impeccable. However, as I can tell, the bass could have been a little more intense.

With tracks, I got similar results. The output is accurate and detailed sound, and I had a realistic perception of the sound stage. The bass ranges were also slightly underestimated here, but the subwoofer made up for this trifle.

Denon AVR-X8500HA

The Denon AVR-X8500HA is a particularly fantastic model thanks to its 13 power levels. This unit develops 150 watts/8 ohms or 190 watts/6 ohms per channel. In addition, it must be said that in single-channel functionality mode, the unit delivers an impressive 260 watts at 6 ohms impedance. That said, squeeze it to the max – you won’t hear any perceptible interference. It can be used with major immersive audio standards such as Dolby Atmos, DTS: X, Auro-3D, etc. With the latter, you can configure a 7.1.6 or 9.1.4 surround sound speaker set by adding a maximum of six additional speakers in height. It sounds like a movie theater set up just for you alone (well, or your family or company).

I heard detailed, bright, and spacious sounds during the movie test. The sound of the battle scenes was so realistic that I practically became a participant in what was happening. I experienced a real immersive effect. While listening to the music, I also got results. I clearly separated instruments and vocals worthy of the highest praise. The frequencies from high to low sounded good and clear. I was surrounded by soft and mesmerizing music. I can summarize that Denon also did an excellent job with the music.

I don’t have enough space to describe the benefits of AVR-X8500HA. I will just say that you will get almost everything in the AVR field today. There are so many HDMI inputs that you’ll never run out of them. But it is worth explaining that if you look at the features of all Denon receivers, you will not notice a huge difference in specifications (except for power, number of channels, number of connectors, and some additional “bells”); you need to understand that you pay an increased price for the quality of components, and as a result – the quality of the transmission of video and audio signals. Accordingly, as a result, you can see a noticeable difference in the result of the sound and video picture. For example, thanks to HDMI connectivity and HDCP 2.2 protection, which every model described in this review has, I got the most out of the available 4K source. In addition, I’ll mention support for HDR10+, Dolby Vision, and HLG, which provides the highest image quality not only from modern digital video sources but also from older analog sources. You might not notice the difference unless you are an advanced user. That’s why this second most expensive receiver from the whole Denon lineup is suitable only for those who appreciate the highest quality and are ready to pay decent money.

Best Budget Denon Receiver Reviews

Denon AVR-X1700H – best budget Denon receiver

Well, if you have an extremely limited budget or just want to get acquainted with the world of surround sound, there is an option for you in my inexpensive models. And the first place in this category goes to Denon AVR-X1700H – an affordable classic 7.2 receiver with surround sound capability. It has all the basic functions and connections and has enough power (80W at 8 ohms or 120W at 6 ohms) to meet modern standards. In addition, the powerful amplifier unit provides another function not available to some budget receivers – bi-amping. And the receiver can also work with a vinyl player. In general, it’s quite a versatile AVR.

Let’s start with video capabilities. On the back panel of Denon AVR-X1700H, there are 6 HDMI ports, 3 of which have version 2.1 and support 8K video resolution, and only 1 output, but with eARC support. All HDMI inputs accept 4K/120Hz, HDCP 2.2, HDR10, Dolby Vision, and HLG. And thanks to this kit, I had no problems with compatibility with UHD TVs and Blu-ray players, which already support higher resolutions than classic Full HD. This is a big step up from the Denon AVR-X1600H that this model replaced.

As for music, the functionality is excellent – listening to Hi-Fi on the Denon AVR-X1700H and listening to streaming music works very well. However, as soon as I increased the volume above average, distortions appeared, and detail was lost, a characteristic feature of budget models. The sound is quite clear but less loaded with low frequencies. The vocal parts sound clear, and the treble of strings sounds very natural. All of this gave the impression of a rich soundstage around me. But all this is within the capabilities of similar cheap receivers.

Denon DRA-800H – good stereo receiver

Denon DRA-800H is specially designed for stereo music lovers. And with FM and DAB + radio tuners, dedicated headphone terminals, Wi-Fi, and multiple digital inputs, including HDMI, I got excellent stereo sound with preamp support and home cinema functionality.

The DRA-800H offers five HDMI inputs and one HDMI output supporting 60Hz Full 4K Ultra HD video resolution with support for all the latest video technologies. There is also HDMI ARC, which ensures smooth sound transmission directly from the Smart TV to the receiver via a single HDMI cable.

I can note that this model develops the power declared by the Denon company – 100 W/8 Ohm or 120 W/6 Ohm per channel using proprietary audiophile-grade resistors and capacitors. It also uses AKM AK4458 DACs. And I checked it out and can say that DRA-800H decodes HD signals from a wide range of lossless file formats, including ALAC, FLAC, and WAV, up to 24-bit / 192 kHz.

I started my Denon DRA-800H test by playing a movie on a 4K TV. Only the receiver had to be set up manually. Despite the stereo configuration, the sound was smooth, low frequencies pushed, and the sound stage was excellent and comprehensive. Dialogues were quite naturally separated from the background.

When listening to Hi-Fi music, I was quite impressed with the naturalness of the sound. The soundstage was quite wide, and instruments sounded “authentic”. When listening to wireless audio from streaming services, I wasn’t disappointed either, despite the compression of the audio stream.

The sound sometimes lacked clarity and nuance, but it was still relatively smooth and pleasant. The Japanese receiver doesn’t seem to emphasize compression defects.