What is better - Yamaha RX-S602 vs Denon HEOS AVR?
AV receivers under review have the same number of channels. In terms of power, there are differences, the RX-S602 has such a ratio W/Ohm - 80/8, 125/6, while the HEOS AVR has a power of 50/8, 65/6. The value of total harmonic distortion is also different, and for the RX-S602 it is 0.08%, but for the HEOS AVR it is 0.05%. The Bi-amping function is implemented only in the Yamaha RX-S602. Both Yamaha RX-S602 and Denon HEOS AVR can transmit an audio signal directly to the amplifier and bypasses any DSP processing. 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 Yamaha RX-S602 works with Deezer, TIDAL, Pandora, Napster, SiriusXM, Qobuz, 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 RX-S602 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 is the same - 4/1. HDMI Audio Return Channel is implemented in both devices. HDMI eARC is not supported by the RX-S602 and the HEOS AVR. When comparing receivers, it becomes clear that each of the rivals can work with HDMI CEC. The RX-S602 has support for the standard HDCP 2.3, compared to the HEOS AVR, which supports the standard HDCP 2.2. Unlike most receivers, our models do not have a built-in phono stage for connecting a vinyl player. Voice control is performed using Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant in both models. There is an ECO mode in RX-S602. The Yamaha RX-S602 can be properly configured using the setup assistant.
Generally no support for a Dolby Atmos multichannel audio format. A DTS:X surround technology is not supported by devices from our comparison.