What is better - Denon AVR-X8500HSP vs Denon DRA-800H?
The number of channels for receivers is different - 13.2 versus 2.0, respectively, for devices. In terms of power, there are differences, the AVR-X8500HSP has such a ratio W/Ohm - 150/8, 190/6, while the DRA-800H has a power of 100/8, 120/6. The value of total harmonic distortion is also different, and for the AVR-X8500HSP it is 0.05%, but for the DRA-800H it is 0.08%.
The manufacturer installed different DACs, the AVR-X8500HSP received the model AK4490 384 KHz/32-bit, but the DRA-800H is equipped with 192 KHz/24-bit. The Bi-amping function is implemented only in the Denon AVR-X8500HSP. Both Denon AVR-X8500HSP and Denon DRA-800H 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, 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 AVR-X8500HSP and the DRA-800H. Video scaling is only possible with the AVR-X8500HSP. Each of the participants of the comparison has a Dolby Vision.
The number of HDMI inputs/outputs varies depending on the receiver, the AVR-X8500HSP has 8/3, and the DRA-800H has 5/1. HDMI Audio Return Channel is implemented in both devices. HDMI eARC is only supported by the AVR-X8500HSP. When comparing receivers, it becomes clear that each of the rivals can work with HDMI CEC. The AVR-X8500HSP has support for the standard HDCP 2.2, compared to the DRA-800H, which supports the standard HDCP 2.3. Like most receivers, our models have a built-in phono stage for connecting a vinyl player.
Unlike the AVR-X8500HSP where 3 Multi zones is provided, the DRA-800H works with 2 Multi zones. Voice control is performed using Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, Siri, Josh.AI in both models. There is an ECO mode in either AV receiver. The Denon AVR-X8500HSP and the Denon DRA-800H can be properly configured using the setup assistant.
A Dolby Atmos multichannel audio format is available only in the AVR-X8500HSP. Only in the AVR-X8500HSP realized a DTS:X surround technology.