Denon DRA-900H vs Sony STR-AZ1000ES review

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The Denon DRA-900H vs Sony STR-AZ1000ES comparison will be extremely helpful for people who want to get a great, powerful receiver with many functions.

Amplifier

The number of channels for receivers is different - 2.2 versus 7.2, respectively, for devices. In terms of power, there are differences, the DRA-900H has such a ratio W/Ohm - 100/8, 120/6, while the STR-AZ1000ES has a power of 100/8. The value of total harmonic distortion is also different, and for the DRA-900H it is 0.08%, but for the STR-AZ1000ES it is 0.09%.

Audio features

Competitive models use the same DAC. The Bi-amping function is implemented only in the Sony STR-AZ1000ES. Both Denon DRA-900H and Sony STR-AZ1000ES 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, SiriusXM, Napster, SoundCloud, Amazon Music, Amazon Music HD, MOOD:Mix.

Video features

The quality of 4K/120Hz 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 DRA-900H and the STR-AZ1000ES. Each of the devices can increase the resolution of the incoming video signal. Operation with the Dolby Vision is only possible with the STR-AZ1000ES.

Extensive connections

The number of HDMI inputs/outputs varies depending on the receiver, the DRA-900H has 6/1, and the STR-AZ1000ES has 6/2. HDMI Audio Return Channel is implemented in both devices. HDMI eARC is supported by the DRA-900H and the STR-AZ1000ES. When comparing receivers, it becomes clear that each of the rivals can work with HDMI CEC. DRA-900H and STR-AZ1000ES support the standard HDCP 2.3. In the presence of a built-in phono stage for connecting a vinyl player only at Denon DRA-900H.

Additional features

Unlike the DRA-900H where 2 Multi zones is provided, the STR-AZ1000ES works with 3 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 DRA-900H and the Sony STR-AZ1000ES can be properly configured using the setup assistant.

Multichannel surround

A Dolby Atmos multichannel audio format is available only in the STR-AZ1000ES. Only in the STR-AZ1000ES realized a DTS:X surround technology.