Denon AVR-S970H Review: Powerful Home Theater Receiver

Experience exceptional home entertainment with the latest home theater receiver technology. The AVR-S970H is designed to deliver outstanding audio performance, making it a top choice for those seeking a high-quality home theater system.

This receiver boasts impressive features and capabilities, setting a new standard for home theater audio. With its advanced technology, it provides an immersive listening experience, perfect for movie enthusiasts and music lovers alike. Its powerful performance ensures that every detail is heard clearly, making it a valuable addition to any home entertainment setup.

Overview of the Denon AVR-S970H

With its advanced features and robust specifications, the Denon AVR-S970H is poised to be a top contender in the home theater receiver market. This receiver is designed to deliver exceptional audio and video performance, making it an ideal choice for home entertainment systems.

Key Specifications at a Glance

The Denon AVR-S970H boasts impressive technical specifications, including 4K passthrough at 60Hz, support for HDR, and compatibility with the latest audio formats. It features 7.2 channels with a power output of 80 watts per channel, ensuring robust and clear audio. The receiver is also equipped with multiple HDMI ports, including HDMI 2.1 support for the latest devices.

What’s in the Box

The Denon AVR-S970H comes with a comprehensive set of accessories to facilitate a straightforward setup. The package includes the receiver unit, a remote control, batteries, an AM/FM antennas, and a setup guide. Additionally, users will find a calibration microphone for the Audyssey Room Calibration system, which is designed to optimize the audio performance based on the room’s acoustics.

The inclusion of these accessories ensures that users have everything they need to start enjoying their home theater system right out of the box.

Design and Build Quality

The Denon AVR-S970H’s design and build quality are indicative of its premium nature. With a robust construction and a modern aesthetic, this home theater receiver is designed to both perform well and look great in any home entertainment setup.

Aesthetic Appeal and Front Panel Layout

The front panel of the Denon AVR-S970H is sleek and uncluttered, featuring a large display screen that provides essential information about the current input, volume level, and other relevant settings. The layout is intuitive, making it easy to navigate through various options using the buttons and dials provided.

Construction and Durability

The Denon AVR-S970H is built with durable materials that ensure it can withstand regular use. The receiver’s construction quality is evident in its solid feel and the absence of any noticeable flimsiness or play in its controls.

FeatureDescriptionBenefit
Robust Metal ChassisProvides structural integrity and durabilityLong-lasting performance
High-Quality ComponentsEnsures reliable operation and minimal signal lossEnhanced audio and video quality
Intuitive Front PanelEasy access to main functions and settingsSimplified user experience

In conclusion, the Denon AVR-S970H’s design and build quality make it a solid choice for those seeking a reliable and visually appealing home theater receiver. Its durable construction and thoughtful design elements contribute to a positive user experience.

Comprehensive Denon AVR-S970H Review: Performance Analysis

Delving into the heart of the Denon AVR-S970H’s capabilities, we find that its performance is a blend of innovative technology and high-quality components. The receiver’s performance is crucial in determining its overall value to home entertainment systems.

Audio Performance

The Denon AVR-S970H boasts impressive audio capabilities, making it suitable for a wide range of listening preferences. Its advanced audio processing technologies ensure a rich and immersive sound experience.

Music Playback Quality

The receiver’s music playback quality is exceptional, with clear and detailed sound reproduction. It supports various audio formats, ensuring compatibility with different music sources.

Movie Sound Experience

For movie enthusiasts, the Denon AVR-S970H delivers an immersive sound experience, with its support for advanced audio technologies like Dolby Atmos and DTS:X. These features create a three-dimensional sound field, enhancing the overall viewing experience.

Video Processing Capabilities

The Denon AVR-S970H is equipped with cutting-edge video processing technologies, making it an ideal choice for the latest video formats. Its capabilities include support for 4K and 8K resolutions, as well as HDR (High Dynamic Range) content.

4K and 8K Passthrough

The receiver supports 4K and 8K passthrough, ensuring that it can handle the latest video formats without compromising on quality. This feature is particularly important for future-proofing your home entertainment system.

HDR Support

HDR support on the Denon AVR-S970H enhances the viewing experience by offering better contrast and color accuracy. It supports various HDR formats, including HDR10, HDR10+, and Dolby Vision.

The following table summarizes the key video processing features of the Denon AVR-S970H:

FeatureDenon AVR-S970H Support
4K PassthroughYes
8K PassthroughYes
HDR10Yes
HDR10+Yes
Dolby VisionYes

Advanced Features and Technologies

With its array of innovative features, the Denon AVR-S970H offers users a sophisticated home entertainment solution. This receiver is designed to provide an immersive experience through its advanced technologies.

HEOS Multi-room Audio

The Denon AVR-S970H features HEOS multi-room audio, allowing users to stream music wirelessly to multiple rooms in their home. This technology enables seamless integration with various music streaming services, providing access to a vast library of content.

HEOS technology supports multi-room audio playback, allowing different songs to be played in different rooms or the same song to be enjoyed throughout the house. This flexibility enhances the overall listening experience.

Audyssey Room Calibration

Audyssey Room Calibration is another significant feature of the Denon AVR-S970H. This technology automatically adjusts the audio settings based on the acoustics of the room, ensuring optimal sound quality.

FeatureDescriptionBenefit
Audyssey MultEQAutomatically calibrates audio settingsOptimized sound quality
Audyssey Dynamic EQAdjusts audio for different volume levelsConsistent sound experience
Audyssey Dynamic VolumeMaintains consistent volume levelsReduces loudness variations

Voice Assistant Compatibility

The Denon AVR-S970H is compatible with various voice assistants, including Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant. This compatibility allows users to control the receiver with voice commands, adding convenience to their entertainment experience.

Users can control playback, adjust volume, and switch inputs using voice commands, making it easier to manage their home theater system.

Connectivity Options

With its array of connectivity options, the Denon AVR-S970H is designed to integrate seamlessly into any home entertainment setup. This receiver is equipped with a variety of ports and technologies to ensure compatibility with a wide range of devices.

HDMI Ports and Specifications

The Denon AVR-S970H features 7 HDMI inputs and 3 HDMI outputs, providing ample connectivity for various devices such as Blu-ray players, gaming consoles, and streaming devices. These HDMI ports support 4K Ultra HD video at 60Hz, ensuring that users can enjoy the latest high-definition content without any compromise on quality.

The HDMI ports on the Denon AVR-S970H also support HDCP 2.2, making them compatible with the latest copyright protection standards. Additionally, the receiver is equipped with eARC (Enhanced Audio Return Channel), allowing for the transmission of high-quality audio signals from a compatible TV back to the receiver.

Wireless Connectivity

The Denon AVR-S970H offers robust wireless connectivity options, including Bluetooth and Wi-Fi. Bluetooth connectivity allows users to stream audio directly from their smartphones or tablets to the receiver, while Wi-Fi connectivity enables access to online streaming services and integration with other smart devices in the home.

  • Stream audio wirelessly using Bluetooth
  • Access online streaming services via Wi-Fi
  • Integrate with other smart devices in the home

Additional Input/Output Options

In addition to its HDMI ports and wireless connectivity, the Denon AVR-S970H offers a range of additional input/output options. These include digital optical and coaxial inputs for connecting older devices, as well as USB ports for playing back media from external storage devices.

The receiver also features pre-out jacks for connecting external amplifiers, allowing users to expand their home theater setup as needed. With its comprehensive range of connectivity options, the Denon AVR-S970H is well-equipped to handle the demands of a modern home entertainment system.

Setup and User Experience

The initial setup of the Denon AVR-S970H is intuitive, making it easy for users to get started. The receiver comes with a comprehensive manual that guides users through the setup process, ensuring that even those who are not tech-savvy can configure their home theater system without hassle.

Initial Setup Process

The setup process begins with connecting the receiver to your TV and other devices via HDMI. The Denon AVR-S970H supports HDMI 2.1 (check price on Amazon), allowing for high-bandwidth digital content such as 8K video and eARC (enhanced Audio Return Channel). The on-screen menu is clear and easy to navigate, helping users configure settings like speaker layout, room calibration, and network connectivity.

Denon AVR-S970H setup process

Remote Control and App Interface

The Denon AVR-S970H comes with a traditional remote control that is ergonomically designed and easy to use. The remote has a clean layout with dedicated buttons for common functions, making it simple to adjust volume, switch inputs, and access menus. Additionally, Denon offers the HEOS app, which allows users to control their receiver and other HEOS-enabled devices from their smartphone or tablet. The app provides a user-friendly interface for adjusting settings, streaming music, and more.

The app also offers features like multi-room audio control and voice control integration with popular voice assistants, enhancing the overall user experience. With both the remote control and app interface, Denon has ensured that users have flexible and intuitive ways to manage their home theater system.

Pros and Cons of the Denon AVR-S970H

When evaluating the Denon AVR-S970H, it’s essential to consider both its impressive features and potential limitations. This balanced view will help you understand whether this receiver is the right choice for your home theater needs.

Standout Advantages

The Denon AVR-S970H boasts several standout advantages that make it an excellent choice for home theater enthusiasts. Its advanced audio processing capabilities, including support for Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, provide an immersive audio experience. Additionally, the receiver’s HEOS multi-room audio technology allows for seamless music streaming throughout your home.

Another significant benefit is the receiver’s robust connectivity options, including multiple HDMI inputs and support for 4K video pass-through. The intuitive setup process and user-friendly interface make it easy to configure and operate the receiver.

Potential Drawbacks

While the Denon AVR-S970H offers many benefits, there are some potential drawbacks to consider. One limitation is the receiver’s price point, which may be out of budget for some consumers. Additionally, some users may find the receiver’s on-screen menu system to be somewhat cluttered and difficult to navigate.

Another potential drawback is the receiver’s limited compatibility with certain audio formats, which may be a concern for users with specific audio requirements. However, for most users, the Denon AVR-S970H’s advantages will outweigh its limitations.

Who Should Buy the Denon AVR-S970H

With its advanced features and high-quality performance, the Denon AVR-S970H is suited for specific types of users. This home theater receiver is designed to deliver an immersive audio-visual experience, making it ideal for certain enthusiasts.

Ideal User Profiles

The Denon AVR-S970H is perfect for home theater enthusiasts who want a high-quality audio experience. Its advanced features, such as HEOS multi-room audio and Audyssey room calibration, make it suitable for users seeking a customized audio setup.

Audiophiles who appreciate high-fidelity sound will also benefit from the Denon AVR-S970H’s capabilities, including its support for the latest audio formats and high-resolution audio playback.

Alternative Recommendations

For those who may not find the Denon AVR-S970H suitable, alternative receivers like the Yamaha A3080 or Onkyo TX-NR696 offer similar features and performance. These alternatives may better fit specific user needs or budgets.

When choosing an alternative, consider factors such as power output, connectivity options, and compatibility with your existing audio-visual equipment.

Conclusion

The Denon AVR-S970H is a robust home theater receiver that offers a blend of advanced features, impressive audio and video performance, and sleek design. Throughout this Denon AVR-S970H review, we’ve explored its capabilities, from its powerful amplification to its intuitive interface and comprehensive connectivity options.

In summary, this home theater receiver summary highlights that the Denon AVR-S970H is well-suited for those seeking a high-quality audio-visual experience. Its strengths include excellent audio performance, robust build quality, and versatile connectivity. While it may have some limitations, such as the complexity of its setup process for some users, the overall package makes it a compelling choice.

For those in the market for a reliable and feature-rich home theater receiver, the Denon AVR-S970H is certainly worth considering. Its combination of performance, features, and design makes it a solid investment for enhancing your home entertainment experience.

FAQ

What is the power output of the Denon AVR-S970H?

The Denon AVR-S970H has a power output of 80 watts per channel, making it suitable for most home theater setups.

Does the Denon AVR-S970H support 8K resolution?

Yes, the Denon AVR-S970H supports 8K resolution passthrough, ensuring compatibility with the latest video standards.

What is HEOS multi-room audio, and is it available on the Denon AVR-S970H?

HEOS is a multi-room audio technology that allows users to stream music to multiple rooms. Yes, the Denon AVR-S970H features HEOS, enabling whole-home audio streaming.

Can the Denon AVR-S970H be controlled using voice assistants?

Yes, the Denon AVR-S970H is compatible with various voice assistants, including Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant, for voice control.

How many HDMI ports does the Denon AVR-S970H have?

The Denon AVR-S970H is equipped with 6 HDMI ports, providing ample connectivity for various devices.

Does the Denon AVR-S970H support HDR (High Dynamic Range)?

Yes, the Denon AVR-S970H supports HDR, enhancing the viewing experience with improved color and contrast.

What is Audyssey room calibration, and is it available on the Denon AVR-S970H?

Audyssey is a room calibration technology that optimizes audio performance based on the room’s acoustics. Yes, the Denon AVR-S970H features Audyssey room calibration.

Is the Denon AVR-S970H compatible with Bluetooth and Wi-Fi?

Yes, the Denon AVR-S970H supports both Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity, allowing for wireless streaming of music and other content.

What is the initial setup process like for the Denon AVR-S970H?

The initial setup process for the Denon AVR-S970H is relatively straightforward, with an on-screen menu guiding users through the necessary steps.