Denon AVR-X8500HSP vs Onkyo TX-RZ50 review

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What is better - Denon AVR-X8500HSP vs Onkyo TX-RZ50?

Amplifier

The number of channels for receivers is different - 13.2 versus 9.2, 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 TX-RZ50 has a power of 120/8, 250/6. The value of total harmonic distortion is also different, and for the AVR-X8500HSP it is 0.05%, but for the TX-RZ50 it is 0.08%.

Audio features

The manufacturer installed different DACs, the AVR-X8500HSP received the model AK4490 384 KHz/32-bit, but the TX-RZ50 is equipped with 384 KHz/32-bit. Each of the compared opponents supports Bi-amping. Both Denon AVR-X8500HSP and Onkyo TX-RZ50 can transmit an audio signal directly to the amplifier and bypasses any DSP processing.

Connectivity

These units have the same Wi-Fi modules. 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. The number of available streaming services varies for receivers, the Denon AVR-X8500HSP works with Deezer, TIDAL, Pandora, Napster, SiriusXM, TuneIn Radio, iHeart Radio, Sound Cloud, but the Onkyo TX-RZ50 works with Deezer, TIDAL, Pandora, SiriusXM, Napster, SoundCloud. Signaling over HDMI in standby mode can provide the AVR-X8500HSP and the TX-RZ50. Each of the devices can increase the resolution of the incoming video signal. Each of the participants of the comparison has a Dolby Vision.

Extensive connections

The number of HDMI inputs/outputs varies depending on the receiver, the AVR-X8500HSP has 8/3, and the TX-RZ50 has 7/2. HDMI Audio Return Channel is implemented in both devices. HDMI eARC is supported by the AVR-X8500HSP and the TX-RZ50. 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 TX-RZ50, which supports the standard HDCP 2.3. Like most receivers, our models have a built-in phono stage for connecting a vinyl player.

Additional features

Unlike the AVR-X8500HSP where 3 Multi zones is provided, the TX-RZ50 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 Onkyo TX-RZ50 can be properly configured using the setup assistant.

Multichannel surround

A Dolby Atmos multichannel audio format is available both models. A DTS:X surround technology is supported by devices from our comparison.