What is better - Denon AVRX4400H vs Denon HEOS AVR?
The number of channels for receivers is different - 9.2 versus 5.1, respectively, for devices. In terms of power, there are differences, the AVRX4400H has such a ratio W/Ohm - 125/8, 165/6, 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 AVRX4400H. Both Denon AVRX4400H and Denon HEOS AVR can transmit an audio signal directly to the amplifier and bypasses any DSP processing.
Wireless Internet access via WIFI is possible on both units. 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 AVRX4400H works with Deezer, TIDAL, Pandora,iHeart Radio, Sirius XM, Sound Cloud, Napster, but the Denon HEOS AVR works with Deezer, TIDAL, Pandora, Napster, SiriusXM, TuneIn Radio, iHeart Radio, Sound Cloud.
Support for the HDR function can only boast of the AVRX4400H. 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 AVRX4400H and the HEOS AVR. Video scaling is only possible with the AVRX4400H. Operation with the Dolby Vision is only possible with the AVRX4400H.
The number of HDMI inputs/outputs varies depending on the receiver, the AVRX4400H 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 AVRX4400H. When comparing receivers, it becomes clear that each of the rivals can work with HDMI CEC. AVRX4400H 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 AVRX4400H. For voice control in the AVRX4400H 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 AVRX4400H. The Denon AVRX4400H can be properly configured using the setup assistant.
A Dolby Atmos multichannel audio format is available only in the AVRX4400H. Only in the AVRX4400H realized a DTS:X surround technology.