Denon AVR-X540BT vs Denon AVR-S540BT – that is a question.
AV receivers under review have the same number of channels. In terms of power, the receivers have the same performance - 70/8, 90/6. A common feature for devices is the same total harmonic distortion - 0.08%.
The manufacturer installed different DACs, the AVR-X540BT received the model 192 KHz/24-bit, but the AVR-S540BT is equipped with 192 KHz/32-bit. None of the compared opponents supports Bi-amping. The model AVR-X540BT can transmit an audio signal directly to the amplifier and bypasses any DSP processing.
Wireless connection to the Internet via WIFI can not be performed on these receivers. Each of the receivers has a Bluetooth connector. Support for Apple Music Services not implemented. Access to the Spotify service is on each of the competitors. Most popular streaming services are available for our models under consideration - TIDAL, Pandora.
Support for the HDR function can only boast of each of the AV receivers. 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-X540BT and the AVR-S540BT. None 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 is the same - 5/1. HDMI Audio Return Channel is implemented in both devices. HDMI eARC is not supported by the AVR-X540BT and the AVR-S540BT. When comparing receivers, it becomes clear that each of the rivals can work with HDMI CEC. AVR-X540BT and AVR-S540BT support the standard HDCP 2.2. Unlike most receivers, our models do not have a built-in phono stage for connecting a vinyl player. Voice control of the basic functions of the receiver is not realized in both models. There is an ECO mode in either AV receiver. The Denon AVR-X540BT and the Denon AVR-S540BT can be properly configured using the setup assistant.
Generally no support for a Dolby Atmos multichannel audio format. A DTS:X surround technology is not supported by devices from our comparison.