Having had an opportunity to test Denon HEOS AVR vs Denon AVR-X2500H, 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 - 5.1 versus 7.2, respectively, for devices. In terms of power, there are differences, the HEOS AVR has such a ratio W/Ohm - 50/8, 65/6, while the AVR-X2500H has a power of 95/8, 125/6. The value of total harmonic distortion is also different, and for the HEOS AVR it is 0.05%, but for the AVR-X2500H it is 0.08%. The Bi-amping function is implemented only in the Denon AVR-X2500H. Both Denon HEOS AVR and Denon AVR-X2500H 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. 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 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 HEOS AVR and the AVR-X2500H. None of the devices can increase the resolution of the incoming video signal. Operation with the Dolby Vision is only possible with the AVR-X2500H.
The number of HDMI inputs/outputs varies depending on the receiver, the HEOS AVR has 4/1, and the AVR-X2500H has 8/2. HDMI Audio Return Channel is implemented in both devices. HDMI eARC is not supported by the HEOS AVR and the AVR-X2500H. When comparing receivers, it becomes clear that each of the rivals can work with HDMI CEC. HEOS AVR and AVR-X2500H support the standard HDCP 2.2. In the presence of a built-in phono stage for connecting a vinyl player only at Denon AVR-X2500H. For voice control in the HEOS AVR is used Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, but in the AVR-X2500H is used Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, Siri, Josh.AI. There is an ECO mode in AVR-X2500H. The Denon AVR-X2500H can be properly configured using the setup assistant.
A Dolby Atmos multichannel audio format is available only in the AVR-X2500H. Only in the AVR-X2500H realized a DTS:X surround technology.