Denon AVR-S960H vs Yamaha RX-A2A review

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The Denon AVR-S960H vs Yamaha RX-A2A comparison will be extremely helpful for people who want to get a great, powerful receiver with many functions.

Amplifier

AV receivers under review have the same number of channels. In terms of power, there are differences, the AVR-S960H has such a ratio W/Ohm - 90/8, 125/6, while the RX-A2A has a power of 100/8. The value of total harmonic distortion is also different, and for the AVR-S960H it is 0.08%, but for the RX-A2A it is 0.06%. The Bi-amping function is implemented only in the Yamaha RX-A2A. Both Denon AVR-S960H and Yamaha RX-A2A can transmit an audio signal directly to the amplifier and bypasses any DSP processing.

Connectivity

These units have the same Wi-Fi modules. 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. The number of available streaming services varies for receivers, the Denon AVR-S960H works with Deezer, TIDAL, Pandora, SiriusXM, Qobuz, TuneIn Radio, but the Yamaha RX-A2A works with Deezer, TIDAL, Pandora, SiriusXM, Napster, SoundCloud.

Video features

The quality of 4K/120Hz 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-S960H and the RX-A2A. Each of the devices can increase the resolution of the incoming video signal. Each of the participants of the comparison has a Dolby Vision.

Extensive connections

The number of HDMI inputs/outputs varies depending on the receiver, the AVR-S960H has 6/2, and the RX-A2A has 7/1. HDMI Audio Return Channel is implemented in both devices. HDMI eARC is supported by the AVR-S960H and the RX-A2A. When comparing receivers, it becomes clear that each of the rivals can work with HDMI CEC. AVR-S960H and RX-A2A support the standard HDCP 2.3. Like most receivers, our models have a built-in phono stage for connecting a vinyl player.

Additional features

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-S960H and the Yamaha RX-A2A can be properly configured using the setup assistant.

Multichannel surround

A Dolby Atmos multichannel audio format is available both models. A DTS:X surround technology is supported by devices from our comparison.