Having had an opportunity to test Denon AVR-S740H vs Denon AVR-X2500H, I’d like to share my impression here to facilitate your choice of a new AV receiver.
AV receivers under review have the same number of channels. In terms of power, there are differences, the AVR-S740H has such a ratio W/Ohm - 75/8, 110/6, while the AVR-X2500H has a power of 95/8, 125/6. A common feature for devices is the same total harmonic distortion - 0.08%.
The manufacturer installed different DACs, the AVR-S740H received the model 192 KHz/32-bit, but the AVR-X2500H is equipped with AK4490 384 KHz/32-bit. The Bi-amping function is implemented only in the Denon AVR-X2500H. Both Denon AVR-S740H and Denon AVR-X2500H can transmit an audio signal directly to the amplifier and bypasses any DSP processing.
Wireless Internet access via WIFI is possible on both units. Each of the receivers has a Bluetooth connector. Both devices can work with such Apple Music services: AirPlay, AirPlay 2. Access to the Spotify service is on each of the competitors. Most popular streaming services are available for our models under consideration - Deezer, TIDAL, Pandora, Napster, SiriusXM, TuneIn Radio, iHeart Radio, Sound Cloud. The quality of 4K/60Hz signal remains unchanged when transmitting from a source to a TV or projector via HDMI for both receivers. Signaling over HDMI in standby mode can provide the AVR-S740H and the AVR-X2500H. None of the devices can increase the resolution of the incoming video signal. Each of the participants of the comparison has a Dolby Vision.
The number of HDMI inputs/outputs varies depending on the receiver, the AVR-S740H has 6/1, and the AVR-X2500H has 8/2. HDMI Audio Return Channel is implemented in both devices. HDMI eARC is not supported by the AVR-S740H and the AVR-X2500H. When comparing receivers, it becomes clear that each of the rivals can work with HDMI CEC. AVR-S740H and AVR-X2500H support the standard HDCP 2.2. Like most receivers, our models have a built-in phono stage for connecting a vinyl player.
Ability to create 2 Multi zones inherent in both AV receivers. Voice control is performed using Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, Siri, Josh.AI in both models. There is an ECO mode in either AV receiver. The Denon AVR-S740H and the Denon AVR-X2500H can be properly configured using the setup assistant.
A Dolby Atmos multichannel audio format is available both models. A DTS:X surround technology is supported by devices from our comparison.