Having had an opportunity to test Denon AVR-X1600H vs Yamaha RX-S602, I’d like to share my impression here to facilitate your choice of a new AV receiver.
The number of channels for receivers is different - 7.2 versus 5.1, respectively, for devices. In terms of power, there are differences, the AVR-X1600H has such a ratio W/Ohm - 80/8, 120/6, while the RX-S602 has a power of 80/8, 125/6. A common feature for devices is the same total harmonic distortion - 0.08%.
The manufacturer installed different DACs, the AVR-X1600H received the model 384 KHz/32-bit, but the RX-S602 is equipped with Burr-Brown 384 KHz/32-bit. Each of the compared opponents supports Bi-amping. Both Denon AVR-X1600H and Yamaha RX-S602 can transmit an audio signal directly to the amplifier and bypasses any DSP processing. 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-X1600H works with Deezer, TIDAL, Pandora, Napster, TuneIn Radio, iHeart Radio, Mood Mix, but the Yamaha RX-S602 works with Deezer, TIDAL, Pandora, Napster, SiriusXM, Qobuz.
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-X1600H and the RX-S602. None of the devices can increase the resolution of the incoming video signal. Review participants do not have the Dolby Vision feature.
The number of HDMI inputs/outputs varies depending on the receiver, the AVR-X1600H has 6/1, and the RX-S602 has 4/1. HDMI Audio Return Channel is implemented in both devices. HDMI eARC is only supported by the AVR-X1600H. When comparing receivers, it becomes clear that each of the rivals can work with HDMI CEC. AVR-X1600H and RX-S602 support the standard HDCP 2.3. In the presence of a built-in phono stage for connecting a vinyl player only at Denon AVR-X1600H.
Ability to create 2 Multi zones inherent in both AV receivers. For voice control in the AVR-X1600H is used Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, Siri, Josh.AI, but in the RX-S602 is used Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant. There is an ECO mode in either AV receiver. The Denon AVR-X1600H and the Yamaha RX-S602 can be properly configured using the setup assistant.
A Dolby Atmos multichannel audio format is available only in the AVR-X1600H. Only in the AVR-X1600H realized a DTS:X surround technology.