Best Denon AV Receiver 2022 [Reviews + Buying Guide]

Do you have a home theater system that lacks those immersive and premium feels? Well, then your system probably needs a quality AV receiver!

An AV receiver is an integral component of an audio setup that acts like a brain. It commands and alters the performance to provide you with that cinematic experience. Some functions of an AV receiver includes:

• Transmission of video to the screen (TV or projector)
• Powers Surround Sound Speaker System
• Easy connection to multiple playback devices

Well, over the years, Denon has risen to be the best AV receiver brand to date. The Japanese company has integrated unique technologies in its receivers, making them much more capable than the basic functionality.

Read more to unravel the best, as well as a detailed guide!

Comparing The Best Denon AV Receiver

Denon AV Receiver	Channel	HDMI Ports	Power
AVR-S540BT	5	5	70 Watts	Check Price
AVR-X6700H	5	11	140 Watts	Check Price
AVR-X4500H	9	11	125 Watts	Check Price
AVR-X3700H	9	10	105 Watts	Check Price
AVR-S750H	7	7	75 Watts	Check Price
RCD-N10	2	0	130 Watts	Check Price
AVR-X2700H	2	8	95 Watts	Check Price
AVR-S650H	2	6	75 Watts	Check Price
AVR-X1600H	7	7	80 Watts	Check Price

The Denon AVR-S540BT is a 5.1-channel receiver that offers an outstanding value for the wallet-friendly price tag. Once set up, you would feel stunned by this little beast!

As a 5.1-channel receiver, the Denon AVR-S540BT is capable of powering up to six speakers. These include two at the front, one front center, two rear, and a subwoofer. So, using it, you will be able to enhance a basic home theater system easily.

Well, the real value comes in form of audio performance. The AVR-S540BT receiver features both Dolby and DTS surround sound decoding. Hence, you will be able to enjoy best of the both worlds!

These audio formats are the top ones used in the industry. You can relish an immersive movie-watching experience with the Dolby, whereas the DTS will assist you along with Netflix sessions.

An automatic surround sound setup can optimize the speakers according to the room and placement. Hence, doing room correction to make the audio sound the best regardless of the position.

The receiver is compatible with multiple devices and formats. These include MP3s and several other digital music files. However, it can also improve its quality using Denon’s Compressed Audio Restorer.

At such a minimal cost, you also get a 4K HDR compatibility that will extend the picture contrast as well as brightness. The augmentation of both audio and video will make your leisure time even more entertaining.

The AVR-S540BT receiver is also compatible with HDR10, Dolby Vision, and HLG. Hence, offering you more feasibility and high-quality visuals.

You can even avail of digital streaming using the built-in Bluetooth feature. It enables listening to your much-loved music easily. On a single click, the Denon 500 Series Remote app establishes a connection with smart devices.

Surprisingly, the versatility of this receiver does not end here. The back panel has several great connection ports too!

Apart from the standard HDMI ports, you get USB ports for audio playback and a full-sized headphone jack. You can also connect USB memory devices to play high-resolution FLAC files. However, there is no phono input. So, you will require a phono preamp for turntable connection.

Furthermore, the AVR-S540BT receiver offers 70-Watts per channel into 8-ohms (20-20kHz) with 2-channels driven at 0.08% THD. It means that the receiver will power your speakers easily.

Perhaps, the only negative about this otherwise outstanding receiver is its hard-to-comprehend design. The setup can be a tricky task for beginners.

The Denon AVR-X6700H receiver is one of the most premium and high-end models offered by the company. However, for the price, the AV receiver does provide great value!

This particular 11.2-channel receiver holds the potential to power 11 to 12-speakers, along with two subwoofers. Breaking down, you can set up the following speakers using an 11.2-channel receiver:

• Front Right
• Front Left
• Front Right Height
• Front Right Width
• Front Left Height
• Front Left Width
• Center
• Surround right
• Surround left
• Surround rear right
• Surround rear left

Altogether, these speakers, subwoofers, and the receiver form the ultimate home theater system. It is the best set up to make your entertainment session a quality time!

The receiver features Auro-3D, IMAX Enhanced, and DTS Virtual: X, and Dolby Atmos. Hence, making the audio quality dynamic and immersive. These audio formats create 3D realism for those cinematic vibes.

It is also 4K and 8K compatible. So, there is no requirement to purchase a separate receiver when you decide to upgrade from 4K to 8K.

The AVR-X6700H comes with Dynamic HDR and HDR10+ video technologies for a better visual quality too. These features function to enhance clarity and infuse vibrancy. You would feel amazed by the richness of colors!

There are multiple connection options available for the receiver. The presence of 11-HDMI ports (8-inputs and 3-outputs) allows you to use different devices with the receiver easily.

You can switch to wireless connectivity and stream music online via Wi-Fi or Bluetooth. Streaming services, like Pandora and Spotify, are easily available.

It also features full-voice control options. These include Amazon Alexa, Siri, and Google Assistant. So, you can turn the volume up and down with a single command. Indeed, the AVR-X6700H is outstanding for home theater.

The Denon AV -X4500H is a premium, high-end receiver offered by the company. It offers an array of outstanding specifications that are worth every single penny you spend on the headphones.

It is a 9.2-channel amplifier that can support three front speakers, two sides, two rear, two ceiling speakers, and two subwoofers. Hence, making your home theater system the most powerful one.

Apart from this, the AV-X4500H offers you advanced video technology using Dynamic HDR and HDR10+. Thus, the visual quality provided is crystal-clear. It holds great contrast and color.

Plus, the Quick Media Switching function of the receiver removes any delay in the video. As a result, the plays very smoothly without any lag. In case you wish to upgrade the TV to the latest technology as soon as it enters the market, then worry not. The unit is compatible with both 4K and 8K.

However, while it serves as a complete 8k pass-through receiver, it does not support pass-through from all 4K sources. (Well, this might be the only lacking of this otherwise perfect Denon AV receiver!)

The Denon AVR-X4500H takes things to a new level with its brilliant audio configuration. It offers five different audio formats; Dolby Atmos, Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization Technology, DTS: X, DTS Virtual:X, and IMAX Enhanced.

All of these offer an audio quality that outshines all other 5or 7-channels receivers. The Dolby Atmos Height and DTS Virtual:X make your listening much more immersive without adding height speakers.

It creates a multi-dimensional sound, offering dynamic 3D audio realism. The receiver also provides 125Watts per channel (8-ohms, 20-20kHz, 0.08%THD 2-channels driven).

The resultant performance is much powerful and loud. Together, the audio and video transform your home movie-watching experience into a cinematic one!

You can also use the AV receiver for gaming. Its amazing video quality, sound, powerful performance, Variable Refresh Rate, Auto low latency mode, and Quick frame transport makes it ideal for gaming.

The AVR-X4500H also features wireless connectivity. You can use Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or Airplay 2 to stream music easily. It is compatible with voice control services too. With a single click, you can benefit from Alexa, Siri, and Google Assistant.

The receiver also has an extensive compatibility range. It features 8-HDMI inputs and 3-outputs. So, you can connect it with:

• Any HD/Ultra HD TV
• Subwoofer
• Blu-Ray player
• Turntable

There is even an eARC (enhanced Audio Return Channel) to offer direct 3D audio format support. Undeniably, this is one of the best 9-channel receivers that are easy to set up too!

Denon AVR-X3700H is your perfect home cinema theater. It supports up to 9 channels of amplification with about 105 Watts per channel.

Plus, the latter has about seven inputs and three outputs, with excellent HDMI connectivity. Along with that, its HEOS built-in technology promises a 9.2 channel surround room. You can be enjoying a certain track in the room and get another one playing in another room with a compatible music streaming source.

You can even stream the music playing the Bluetooth audio transmission function. Whatever’s is playing on your AV receiver, it could be connected to a pair of Bluetooth headphones for easy media sharing. This handy feature comes in great use for the hearing impaired.

Moreover, for an ultimate listening experience, it supports 3D audio with IMAX enhanced, DTS: X, DTS Virtual: X, and Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization.

You will find setting it up easy. It comes with a Quick Start Guide that provides step-by-step instructions about what to do. If you wish to connect the AV receiver to the TV via HDMI then you can rely on Denon Setup Assistant.

We also appreciate the fact that this receiver is optimally compatible with several voice assistants, including Siri, Google Voice Assistant, or Amazon Alexa. You need not get up and trouble yourself if you need to change a track or adjust a setting or two.

What’s more, it makes wireless connectivity even better with its capability to connect with WiFi, Bluetooth, and Apple Air Play2.

Perhaps, the only thing that we believe is a bit off about the receiver is it’s the pace at which it heats up. However, when maintained correctly, it may not cause you much trouble.

If you are browsing for an affordable and mid-range receiver, then the Denon AVR-S750H is an idealistic option. It is a 7.2-channel value-for-money amplifier!

The Denon AVR-S750H AV receiver can handle three front speakers, two rear, two sides, and one to two subwoofers. Altogether, the receiver and the speaker system offer some serious audio quality. You would feel stunned by the way this powerful receiver makes your system blast off!

Its high-grade construction unlocks the system’s full potential. Thus, offering you an immersive and rich audio experience.

The Denon AVR-S750H receiver features five different audio formats. These include:

• Dolby Atmos
• Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization Technology
• DTS:X
• DTS Virtual: X

Each of these formats adds to the value of these speakers, making them sound phenomenal. The Dolby Atmos and DTS: X make the audio vivid and accurate. It produces the notes in their original form, without any alteration.

Meanwhile, the Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization Technology and DTS Virtual: X creates a multi-dimensional sound without the usage of height speakers. It makes the sound appear moving, known as 3D audio realism.

There is also a unique feature, Audyssey Suite, offered to ensure its dynamic quality. It is an EQ calibration system that measures the room automatically and optimizes the audio quality accordingly. Hence, offering amazing room correction without having to get into the technicalities of calibration.

Moreover, the Denon AVR-S750H supports 4K Ultra HD TVs. It has different video technologies. It includes Dolby Vision, HDR10, BT. 2020, and much more. So, you can experience the best visual quality yet.

Also, it has a Wide Color Gamut and 4:4:4 Pure Color sub-sampling that delivers exceptional brightness, contrast, and colors. The video appears vibrant, vivid, and detailed.

The AVR-S750H is quite versatile in its functionality too. It has 6-HDMI inputs and 1-outputs. Using them, you can play files of various devices via the receiver. These include MP3, WAV, FLAC, ALAC, and DSD.

You can also do wireless multi-room music streaming. The receiver has Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and Airplay options to make usage much more convenient.

There is even a voice control feature so that you can use Alexa or Google Assistant for a smart experience. However, some users have complained about the need of having to sign up for a third-party streaming service to Alexa work.

Here comes the much modern receiver introduced by Denon. Be it in terms of looks or performance. This smooth and receiver got you covered.

Belonging to the CEOL series, N10 comes with smart engineering on the inside as well as on the outside. It features a two-way speaker configuration that yields maximum clarity and provides phenomenal musical accuracy.

The Hi-Fi surround sound brings about a phenomenally spacious soundstage. Plus, its sophisticated internal engineering promises such intricacy that you can truly detect where does a particular instrument come from. Hence, bring the movie or gaming screen to life.

If you are picky about looks, then congratulations! You will love the futuristic looks that this receiver offers and the minimalistic accommodation that it requires. Dimensionally, it measures 12.01 x 11.02 x 4.25 inches, which is quite very compact. And it weighs around 7.5 pounds.

Hence, you can move it around almost anywhere and everywhere with ease. The presence of both digital and analog inputs makes it easy to set up and connect.

Its built-in CD player provides direct sound access and allows program playback of about 25 tracks. It offers the following functions, including:

• Play
• Pause
• Stop
• Rewind
• Forward
• Random
• Repeat

Naturally, they upgrade the ease of use. Forward 10 seconds or rewind, enjoy to your heart’s extent. What’s more, the controls happen to be thoroughly organized and labeled, making handling easier.

The Denon AVR-X2700H belongs to the same range of products as the phenomenal AVR-X4500H. Both the models are quite similar to each other, with the difference in only channels and cost. Well, this mid-range, affordable Denon AV receiver is truly a value-for-money product!

It is a 7.2-channel receiver that performs at 95Watts per channel (8-ohms, 20-20kHz, 0.08% THD, 2channel driven). Hence, each speaker gets sufficient power for a dynamic performance.

The Denon AVR-X2700H features five different audio formats. These include; Dolby Amos, Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization Technology, DTS: X, DTS Virtual:X, and IMAX Enhanced.

With these audio technologies, the AVR-X2700H delivers an unmatchable sound quality. All the highs, mid, and low notes of the sound will hold immense accuracy. The richness and vividness of the audio will immerse you during movie nights!

Amazingly, the visual quality of the receiver is no less than the audio. It is compatible with both 4K and 8K, which means you can use it on any 4K/8K device. However, as per the manufacturer, it will not support the pass-through of all 4K sources.

Nonetheless, the receiver has more to offer for video enhancement. Its HDMI section features 4:4:4 Pure Color sub-sampling, HDR10, HDR10+, Hybrid Log-Gamma, Dolby Vision, Dynamic HDR, 3D, and BT. 2020.

All these features upscale the video quality by providing accurate colors, immense clarity, and deep contrast. There is HDCP 2.3 processing to watch copy-righted content uninhibited.

It features Variable Refresh Rate (VRR), Quick Frame Transport (QFT), and Auto Low Latency Mode that reduces lagging. The smooth and fluid performance offered by the receiver makes it idealistic for gaming.

The Denon AVR-X2700H comes with wireless connectivity too. You can use Wi-Fi or Bluetooth to stream music online. Also, you can use the voice-control for ease. These include Google Assistant, Siri, or Alexa.

There are 8-HDMI ports in the receiver, with 6-inputs and 2-outputs. Using them, you can connect subwoofers, Blu-ray players, turntables, and whatnot to the receiver.

Denon AVR-S650H Receiver is your affordable assistant when it comes to home theater equipment. This handy receiver aims to ease the use for complete beginners and provide competent performance.

// -> Its thoughtful engineering extracts the most out of your 4K Ultra HD TV. You won’t believe but at this price point it allegedly comes with the following:

These ensure the delivery of a phenomenal visual experience. By enhancing the contrast, color, and brightness, these bring about a truly extraordinary and rich viewing experience, particularly when it comes to gaming.

Moreover, the connectivity options of this versatile receiver are quite amazing. The front panel comes with a USB input while other inputs and connectivity options include:

• 5 HDMI inputs
• Phono input
• Built-in Wifi Adapter
• Built-in Bluetooth Adapter
• Internet connection via Ethernet cable

Denon has made understanding controls much easier by arranging everything according to the color code on the back of the panel. This, of course, reduces unnecessary hassle for new users of learning and getting used to controls. You can deal with the device like a professional in one go.

Plus, you can wirelessly control the receiver using Amazon Alexa or AirPlay 2. With voice control, you can change settings, switch tracks, and whatnot.

For your convenience, Denon also equipped this model with an award-winning on-screen setup system. You can easily connect the receiver with your TV and follow the walk-through instructions for a complete setup.

Denon AVR-X1600H is the best AV receiver for audiophiles. It’s the one that’ll help you enjoy both movies and music equally.

This 7-channel amplifier is all set to level up your music-listening game. Apart from its traditional functionality, it also allows users to stream tunes and music directly from their phones. You can connect your mobile device via:

• Bluetooth
• WiFi
• Apple Airplay 2

Even more, you can play the music you’ve compiled on your USB or computer by connecting it to the receiver. And we got particularly convinced of the brand’s dedication to crafting an audiophile-oriented receiver when we discovered a phono input.

You can search up and stream music from your preferred popular music services like Tidal, Pandora, and Spotify. Or perhaps, you can ask Google Assistant, Amazon Alexa, or Apple Siri to do the job for you.

Just voice your command, and there you go! Plus, the receiver is capable of providing a tremendous 80 watts per channel, which of course, accounts for the powerful performance of the receiver.

What’s more, it supports all of the following sound formats. These include:

• Dolby Atmos
• Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization Technology
• DTS:X
• DTS Virtual: X

Quite evidently, there’s no way that this iconic receiver will let you skip the surround-sound goodness. Just connect dedicated overhead speakers or any of your likes, and immerse yourself in a truly 3-dimensional listening experience.

Plus, the HDCP 2.3 support, coupled with advanced video processing, further adds to its uniform functionality. Perhaps, while manufacturing this, Denon was firm on regulating the output for all sorts of input. It should be nothing less than the very best.

You can go with a speaker arrangement of 7.2, 5.2, or 2.2, whichever suits you best. In any case, the receiver will provide powerful yet balanced sound, thanks to its low impedance drivers. You will not find any aspect of the sound spectrum dominating the other.

As for the installation, Denon claims to have provided a visually comprehensive step-by-step guide. We see that it’s not as easy. Some customers have reported having encountered great trouble during installation. Nevertheless, we believe a brief review given by the company or the users will suffice.

Buyer’s Guide

Denon has been manufacturing AV receivers for quite a long time (since 1971). So, there are a lot of models available in the market. Any first-time purchaser can become confused easily.

Below, we have articulated all the essential factors to help you select the best Denon AV receiver. Read more to find out!

Denon Receiver Series

Knowing about the AV receiver series offered by a particular company is quite helpful in product navigation. The Japanese company, Denon, has three fundamental receiver ranges. These include:

• AVR-A Series- These are flagship receivers that the company launched in honor of their 110th anniversary.
• AVR-X Series– The X-series are all the high-end and premium products that come at a range of prices.
• AVR-S Series– These AV receivers are affordable, budget-friendly models that offer quality specifications too.

Channels

Different AV receivers support different surround sound speaker layouts. They have an integrated specification, also called channels. One channel in an AV receiver denotes the capability to power up to one speaker. However, usually, you will find channels provided by an AV receiver stated as 5.1 or 7.1.

So, what does the value of decimal indicates? The (.1) value refers to the subwoofer that comes with its amplifier.

When selecting an AV receiver, you should focus more on the value before decimal as it is for high-quality or main speakers. Sub-woofers or low-quality speakers only support the main ones in a home theater system.

Generally, AV receivers offer 5.1-channel (basic home theater configuration). It is capable of powering three front speakers (left, right, and center) and two rear speakers.

Opting for a 7.1-channel would add two more rear speakers, making the experience more immersive. The real high-end show is by 9.1 or 11.1-channel receivers that add on lots of speakers.

The more the channels, the better the audio effect, and the higher the cost!

Surround Sound System

AV receivers with two channels provide only stereo sound quality. However, the majority of AV receivers that have 2+ channels offer a complete surround sound experience.

The Surround Sound technology produces multi-dimensional audio to create movement. You will hear objects on the television move around in the same way as in real life.

Usually, the speakers have placement on certain heights to alter our aural perception and make it more realistic. However, apart from this, the technology uses codecs (software code converting digital ones and zeros into an audible sound).

These codecs receive the audio and guide it where to go. AV receivers use various types of surround sound codecs. Below, we have discussed a few of them.

4K HDR Compatibility

Ensuring that your new AV receiver is compatible with the TV version is a very crucial aspect.

Over time, the visual quality of the TVs has changed a lot. Currently, the standard is 4K HDR technology. It will probably stick around for quite a long time, considering 8K has not yet received complete embracement by the market.

So, a majority of AV receivers do support 4K HDR. You should find out your TV’s technology and ensure compatibility before making an AV receiver purchase.

Room Correction

Perhaps, the biggest mistake made by people is to place the speakers where it is convenient. There are rarely any home theater system owners who base the placement on how the resultant sound quality will sound to them.

Unfortunately, this practice is irremovable regardless of the awareness and education one provides. On the positive side, the majority of AV receivers offer basic room correction.

These receivers come with microphones and built-in software to correct placement and rook acoustic issues. However, some models offer advanced and excellent room correction.

AV Receiver Zones

The multi-colored ports at the back of an AV receiver can be pretty confusing. However, with the right knowledge, you can select a model that is extremely versatile and useful.

Amongst many of these ports, you must have seen the ZONE connections. These enable you to send video/audio to different areas, also called zones.

Using these zone connections, you can watch the same thing in two different places. Perhaps, two different rooms of the same house.

Or you can watch/listen to one thing in the living room and something else in another room. It is quite useful when lots of people with varying preferences are living in the same place.

Generally, AV receivers offer 2-zone connections. High-end AV receivers offer up to 3 to 4 -zone connections.

Wireless Streaming

Nowadays, almost everything relies on the Internet. Wireless connectivity is a must-have in all gadgets and equipment.

Even in the case of AV receivers, we are usually streaming music online. So, wireless connectivity is an essential feature.

Usually, budget-friendly models provide basic Bluetooth support. The high-end range also offers a home network and smart compatibilities.

HDMI Inputs & Outputs

Besides zones, the HDMI inputs and outputs hold the most value in connections. These enable you to connect more and more gadgets to the AV receiver. Hence, extending its usability.

AV receivers offer HDMI inputs and outputs anywhere from 2 to 6. The ones with more ports are pricier.

Wattage

Each AV receiver pushes a different amount of power through your speakers, also called wattage. It can vary anywhere between 30 to 500+Watts.

Here’s how an AV receiver states the wattage specs: Rated Output Power (20-20kHz, 2ch driven):75W (8-ohms, 0.08%THD)

It says: When two channels of the receiver get 8-ohms of electrical resistance between 20-20kHz, you’ll get 75-Watts of power with 0.08-percent distortion.

Usually, the more wattage you get, the more powerful the resultant audio will become. Plus, in a particular model, you need to ensure that the AV receiver and speaker wattage matches. Your speaker should be able to handle the wattage load of the receiver.

Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion

Summing up, Denon AV receivers have an originality of their own. They aim to level up your home theater game like none other. So, choose your specifics and settle for your Denon AV receiver right away!

But if you find yourself amidst clouds of doubt. If you cannot figure which of those mentioned above will best suit your needs, then we’ll recommend you go with our all-rounder AV receiver .i.e., Denon AVR-X4500H Receiver. The latter ranks as our favorite amongst all these best Denon AV receivers because it offers the best combo of specs!

Along with supporting 4K and 8K, this 9-channel powerful amplifier offers wireless connectivity and an output of 125 watts per channel. It offers not only competent but unrivaled audio and video quality. Try it for yourself!