What is better - Denon AVR-S940H vs Denon DRA-800H?
The number of channels for receivers is different - 7.2 versus 2.0, respectively, for devices. In terms of power, there are differences, the AVR-S940H has such a ratio W/Ohm - 90/8, 125/6, while the DRA-800H has a power of 100/8, 120/6. A common feature for devices is the same total harmonic distortion - 0.08%.
The manufacturer installed different DACs, the AVR-S940H received the model 192 KHz/32-bit, but the DRA-800H is equipped with 192 KHz/24-bit. None of the compared opponents supports Bi-amping. Both Denon AVR-S940H and Denon DRA-800H 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 HDR10 function is present in each of the rivals. 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-S940H and the DRA-800H. Video scaling is only possible with the AVR-S940H. Each of the participants of the comparison has a Dolby Vision.
The number of HDMI inputs/outputs varies depending on the receiver, the AVR-S940H has 8/2, and the DRA-800H has 5/1. HDMI Audio Return Channel is implemented in both devices. HDMI eARC is not supported by the AVR-S940H and the DRA-800H. When comparing receivers, it becomes clear that each of the rivals can work with HDMI CEC. The AVR-S940H has support for the standard HDCP 2.2, compared to the DRA-800H, which supports the standard HDCP 2.3. 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-S940H and the Denon DRA-800H can be properly configured using the setup assistant.
A Dolby Atmos multichannel audio format is available only in the AVR-S940H. Only in the AVR-S940H realized a DTS:X surround technology.