Denon AVR-X4100W vs Onkyo TX-NR616 review

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Having had an opportunity to test Denon AVR-X4100W vs Onkyo TX-NR616, I’d like to share my impression here to facilitate your choice of a new AV receiver.

Amplifier

AV receivers under review have the same number of channels. In terms of power, there are differences, the AVR-X4100W has such a ratio W/Ohm - 125/8, 165/6, while the TX-NR616 has a power of 160/6. The value of total harmonic distortion is also different, and for the AVR-X4100W it is 0.05%, but for the TX-NR616 it is 0.08%.

Audio features

The manufacturer installed different DACs, the AVR-X4100W received the model 192 KHz/24-bit, but the TX-NR616 is equipped with Burr-Brown 192 KHz/24-bit. Each of the compared opponents supports Bi-amping. Both Denon AVR-X4100W and Onkyo TX-NR616 can transmit an audio signal directly to the amplifier and bypasses any DSP processing.

Connectivity

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. The number of available streaming services varies for receivers, the Denon AVR-X4100W works with Pandora, SiriusXM, but the Onkyo TX-NR616 works with Last.fm, AUPEO, Simfy, vTuner.

Video features

Oddly enough, the support for the HDR function is not implemented in these units. 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-X4100W and the TX-NR616. Each of the devices can increase the resolution of the incoming video signal. Operation with the Dolby Vision is only possible with the AVR-X4100W.

Extensive connections

The number of HDMI inputs/outputs varies depending on the receiver, the AVR-X4100W has 8/3, and the TX-NR616 has 8/2. HDMI Audio Return Channel is implemented in both devices. HDMI eARC is not supported by the AVR-X4100W and the TX-NR616. When comparing receivers, it becomes clear that each of the rivals can work with HDMI CEC. In the presence of a built-in phono stage for connecting a vinyl player only at Denon AVR-X4100W.

Additional features

Unlike the AVR-X4100W where 3 Multi zones is provided, the TX-NR616 works with 2 Multi zones. Voice control of the basic functions of the receiver is not realized in both models. There is an ECO mode in AVR-X4100W. The Denon AVR-X4100W can be properly configured using the setup assistant.

Multichannel surround

A Dolby Atmos multichannel audio format is available only in the AVR-X4100W. A DTS:X surround technology is not supported by devices from our comparison.