What is better - Denon AVR-X1600H vs Denon HEOS AVR?
The number of channels for receivers is different - 7.2 versus 5.1, respectively, for devices. In terms of power, there are differences, the AVR-X1600H has such a ratio W/Ohm - 80/8, 120/6, while the HEOS AVR has a power of 50/8, 65/6. The value of total harmonic distortion is also different, and for the AVR-X1600H it is 0.08%, but for the HEOS AVR it is 0.05%. The Bi-amping function is implemented only in the Denon AVR-X1600H. Both Denon AVR-X1600H 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 AVR-X1600H works with Deezer, TIDAL, Pandora, Napster, TuneIn Radio, iHeart Radio, Mood Mix, but the Denon HEOS AVR works with 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-X1600H and the HEOS AVR. None of the devices can increase the resolution of the incoming video signal. Review participants do not have the Dolby Vision feature.
The number of HDMI inputs/outputs varies depending on the receiver, the AVR-X1600H has 6/1, and the HEOS AVR has 4/1. HDMI Audio Return Channel is implemented in both devices. HDMI eARC is only supported by the AVR-X1600H. When comparing receivers, it becomes clear that each of the rivals can work with HDMI CEC. The AVR-X1600H has support for the standard HDCP 2.3, compared to the HEOS AVR, which supports the standard HDCP 2.2. In the presence of a built-in phono stage for connecting a vinyl player only at Denon AVR-X1600H. For voice control in the AVR-X1600H 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-X1600H. The Denon AVR-X1600H can be properly configured using the setup assistant.
A Dolby Atmos multichannel audio format is available only in the AVR-X1600H. Only in the AVR-X1600H realized a DTS:X surround technology.