What is better - Denon AVR-X8500HSP vs Denon HEOS AVR?
The number of channels for receivers is different - 13.2 versus 5.1, 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 HEOS AVR has a power of 50/8, 65/6. A common feature for devices is the same total harmonic distortion - 0.05%. The Bi-amping function is implemented only in the Denon AVR-X8500HSP. Both Denon AVR-X8500HSP and Denon HEOS AVR 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. Most popular streaming services are available for our models under consideration - Deezer, TIDAL, Pandora, Napster, SiriusXM, TuneIn Radio, iHeart Radio, Sound Cloud.
Support for the HDR function can only boast of the AVR-X8500HSP. 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 HEOS AVR. Video scaling is only possible with the AVR-X8500HSP. Operation with the Dolby Vision is only possible with the AVR-X8500HSP.
The number of HDMI inputs/outputs varies depending on the receiver, the AVR-X8500HSP has 8/3, and the HEOS AVR has 4/1. 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. AVR-X8500HSP and HEOS AVR support the standard HDCP 2.2. In the presence of a built-in phono stage for connecting a vinyl player only at Denon AVR-X8500HSP. For voice control in the AVR-X8500HSP is used Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, Siri, Josh.AI, but in the HEOS AVR is used Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant. There is an ECO mode in AVR-X8500HSP. The Denon AVR-X8500HSP 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.