What is better - Denon AVR-X3500H vs Onkyo TX-NR696?
AV receivers under review have the same number of channels. In terms of power, there are differences, the AVR-X3500H has such a ratio W/Ohm - 105/8, 135/6, while the TX-NR696 has a power of 165/6. The value of total harmonic distortion is also different, and for the AVR-X3500H it is 0.05%, but for the TX-NR696 it is 0.08%.
The manufacturer installed different DACs, the AVR-X3500H received the model AKM 192 KHz/32-bit, but the TX-NR696 is equipped with AK4458 384 KHz/32-bit. Each of the compared opponents supports Bi-amping. Both Denon AVR-X3500H and Onkyo TX-NR696 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. Most popular streaming services are available for our models under consideration - Deezer, TIDAL, Pandora, TuneIn Radio.
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-X3500H and the TX-NR696. Each of the devices can increase the resolution of the incoming video signal. Each of the participants of the comparison has a Dolby Vision.
The number of HDMI inputs/outputs varies depending on the receiver, the AVR-X3500H has 8/3, and the TX-NR696 has 7/2. HDMI Audio Return Channel is implemented in both devices. HDMI eARC is not supported by the AVR-X3500H and the TX-NR696. When comparing receivers, it becomes clear that each of the rivals can work with HDMI CEC. AVR-X3500H and TX-NR696 support the standard HDCP 2.2. Like most receivers, our models have a built-in phono stage for connecting a vinyl player.
Ability to create 2 Multi zones inherent in both AV receivers. For voice control in the AVR-X3500H is used Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, Siri, Josh.AI, but in the TX-NR696 is used Google Assistant. There is an ECO mode in AVR-X3500H. The Denon AVR-X3500H and the Onkyo TX-NR696 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.