Having had an opportunity to test Denon HEOS AVR vs Onkyo TX-NR616, I’d like to share my impression here to facilitate your choice of a new AV receiver.
The number of channels for receivers is different - 5.1 versus 7.2, 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 TX-NR616 has a power of 160/6. The value of total harmonic distortion is also different, and for the HEOS AVR it is 0.05%, but for the TX-NR616 it is 0.08%. The Bi-amping function is implemented only in the Onkyo TX-NR616. Both Denon HEOS AVR and Onkyo TX-NR616 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. Support for Apple Music Services not implemented. 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 Onkyo TX-NR616 works with Last.fm, AUPEO, Simfy, vTuner.
Oddly enough, the support for the HDR function is not implemented in these units. 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 HEOS AVR and the TX-NR616. Video scaling is only possible with the TX-NR616. Review participants do not have the Dolby Vision feature.
The number of HDMI inputs/outputs varies depending on the receiver, the HEOS AVR has 4/1, and the TX-NR616 has 8/2. HDMI Audio Return Channel is implemented in both devices. HDMI eARC is not supported by the HEOS AVR and the TX-NR616. When comparing receivers, it becomes clear that each of the rivals can work with HDMI CEC. HEOS AVR and TX-NR616 support the standard HDCP 2.2. Unlike most receivers, our models do not have a built-in phono stage for connecting a vinyl player. There is an ECO mode in neither AV receiver. None of these units 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.