It’s strongly recommended to compare different receivers if you want to choose the best one: Onkyo TX-SR494 vs Denon AVR-X1500H.
AV receivers under review have the same number of channels. In terms of power, there are differences, the TX-SR494 has such a ratio W/Ohm - 135/6, while the AVR-X1500H has a power of 80/8, 120/6. A common feature for devices is the same total harmonic distortion - 0.08%.
The manufacturer installed different DACs, the TX-SR494 received the model AKM 384 KHz/32-bit, but the AVR-X1500H is equipped with 192 KHz/32-bit. Each of the compared opponents supports Bi-amping. Both Onkyo TX-SR494 and Denon AVR-X1500H can transmit an audio signal directly to the amplifier and bypasses any DSP processing.
Wireless Internet connection via WIFI is only possible with AVR-X1500H. Each of the receivers has a Bluetooth connector. The AVR-X1500H has access to the Spotify service.
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 TX-SR494 and the AVR-X1500H. None of the devices can increase the resolution of the incoming video signal. Operation with the Dolby Vision is only possible with the AVR-X1500H.
The number of HDMI inputs/outputs varies depending on the receiver, the TX-SR494 has 4/1, and the AVR-X1500H has 6/1. HDMI Audio Return Channel is implemented in both devices. HDMI eARC is not supported by the TX-SR494 and the AVR-X1500H. When comparing receivers, it becomes clear that each of the rivals can work with HDMI CEC. TX-SR494 and AVR-X1500H support the standard HDCP 2.2. In the presence of a built-in phono stage for connecting a vinyl player only at Denon AVR-X1500H.
Ability to create 2 Multi zones inherent in both AV receivers. There is an ECO mode in AVR-X1500H. The Onkyo TX-SR494 and the Denon AVR-X1500H 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.