Denon HEOS AVR vs Yamaha R-N602BL review

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Having had an opportunity to test Denon HEOS AVR vs Yamaha R-N602BL, I’d like to share my impression here to facilitate your choice of a new AV receiver.

Amplifier

The number of channels for receivers is different - 5.1 versus 2.0, respectively, for devices. In terms of power, there are differences, the HEOS AVR has such a ratio W/Ohm - 50/8, 65/6, while the R-N602BL has a power of 115/8, 105/4. The value of total harmonic distortion is also different, and for the HEOS AVR it is 0.05%, but for the R-N602BL it is 0.01%. None of the compared opponents supports Bi-amping. Both Denon HEOS AVR and Yamaha R-N602BL can transmit an audio signal directly to the amplifier and bypasses any DSP processing. None of the AV receivers have an auto speaker calibration support.

Connectivity

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 HEOS AVR works with Deezer, TIDAL, Pandora, Napster, SiriusXM, TuneIn Radio, iHeart Radio, Sound Cloud, but the Yamaha R-N602BL works with Deezer, TIDAL, Pandora, Napster, SiriusXM, Qobuz.

Video features

Oddly enough, the support for the HDR function is not implemented in these units. HDMI signal transmission in standby mode can provide only 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. HDMI Audio Return Channel is only available on Denon HEOS AVR. HDMI eARC is not supported by the HEOS AVR and the R-N602BL. When comparing receivers, it becomes clear that only the Denon HEOS AVR has HDMI CEC. In the presence of a built-in phono stage for connecting a vinyl player only at Yamaha R-N602BL. There is an ECO mode in R-N602BL. None of these units can be properly configured using the setup assistant.

Multichannel surround

Generally no support for a Dolby Atmos multichannel audio format. A DTS:X surround technology is not supported by devices from our comparison.