Having had an opportunity to test Denon AVR-X540BT 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 - 5.2 versus 5.1, respectively, for devices. In terms of power, there are differences, the AVR-X540BT has such a ratio W/Ohm - 70/8, 90/6, 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-X540BT received the model 192 KHz/24-bit, but the RX-S602 is equipped with Burr-Brown 384 KHz/32-bit. The Bi-amping function is implemented only in the Yamaha RX-S602. Both Denon AVR-X540BT 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. Access to the Spotify service is on each of the competitors. The number of available streaming services varies for receivers, the Denon AVR-X540BT works with TIDAL, Pandora, but the Yamaha RX-S602 works with Deezer, TIDAL, Pandora, Napster, SiriusXM, Qobuz. 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 RX-S602. None of the devices can increase the resolution of the incoming video signal. Operation with the Dolby Vision is only possible with the AVR-X540BT.
The number of HDMI inputs/outputs varies depending on the receiver, the AVR-X540BT has 5/1, and the RX-S602 has 4/1. HDMI Audio Return Channel is implemented in both devices. HDMI eARC is not supported by the AVR-X540BT and the RX-S602. When comparing receivers, it becomes clear that each of the rivals can work with HDMI CEC. The AVR-X540BT has support for the standard HDCP 2.2, compared to the RX-S602, which supports the standard HDCP 2.3. Unlike most receivers, our models do not have a built-in phono stage for connecting a vinyl player. There is an ECO mode in either AV receiver. The Denon AVR-X540BT and the Yamaha RX-S602 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.