Denon AVR-S940H vs Onkyo TX-NR616 review

vs

Having had an opportunity to test Denon AVR-S940H vs Onkyo TX-NR616, I’d like to share my impression here to facilitate your choice of a new AV receiver.

Amplifier

AV receivers under review have the same number of channels. In terms of power, there are differences, the AVR-S940H has such a ratio W/Ohm - 90/8, 125/6, while the TX-NR616 has a power of 160/6. A common feature for devices is the same total harmonic distortion - 0.08%.

Audio features

The manufacturer installed different DACs, the AVR-S940H received the model 192 KHz/32-bit, but the TX-NR616 is equipped with Burr-Brown 192 KHz/24-bit. The Bi-amping function is implemented only in the Onkyo TX-NR616. Both Denon AVR-S940H and Onkyo TX-NR616 can transmit an audio signal directly to the amplifier and bypasses any DSP processing.

Connectivity

Wireless Internet access via WIFI is possible on both units. Each of the receivers has a Bluetooth connector. Access to the Spotify service is on each of the competitors. The number of available streaming services varies for receivers, the Denon AVR-S940H works with Deezer, TIDAL, Pandora, Napster, SiriusXM, TuneIn Radio, iHeart Radio, Sound Cloud, but the Onkyo TX-NR616 works with Last.fm, AUPEO, Simfy, vTuner. 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 TX-NR616. Each of the devices can increase the resolution of the incoming video signal. Operation with the Dolby Vision is only possible with the AVR-S940H.

Extensive connections

The number of HDMI inputs/outputs is the same - 8/2. HDMI Audio Return Channel is implemented in both devices. HDMI eARC is not supported by the AVR-S940H and the TX-NR616. When comparing receivers, it becomes clear that each of the rivals can work with HDMI CEC. AVR-S940H and TX-NR616 support the standard HDCP 2.2. In the presence of a built-in phono stage for connecting a vinyl player only at Denon AVR-S940H.

Additional features

Ability to create 2 Multi zones inherent in both AV receivers. There is an ECO mode in AVR-S940H. The Denon AVR-S940H can be properly configured using the setup assistant.

Multichannel surround

A Dolby Atmos multichannel audio format is available only in the AVR-S940H. Only in the AVR-S940H realized a DTS:X surround technology.