What is better - Onkyo TX-NR696 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 TX-NR696 has such a ratio W/Ohm - 165/6, while the HEOS AVR has a power of 50/8, 65/6. The value of total harmonic distortion is also different, and for the TX-NR696 it is 0.08%, but for the HEOS AVR it is 0.05%. The Bi-amping function is implemented only in the Onkyo TX-NR696. Both Onkyo TX-NR696 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 Onkyo TX-NR696 works with Deezer, TIDAL, Pandora, TuneIn Radio, 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 TX-NR696 and the HEOS AVR. Video scaling is only possible with the TX-NR696. Operation with the Dolby Vision is only possible with the TX-NR696.
The number of HDMI inputs/outputs varies depending on the receiver, the TX-NR696 has 7/2, and the HEOS AVR has 4/1. HDMI Audio Return Channel is implemented in both devices. HDMI eARC is not supported by the TX-NR696 and the HEOS AVR. When comparing receivers, it becomes clear that each of the rivals can work with HDMI CEC. TX-NR696 and HEOS AVR support the standard HDCP 2.2. In the presence of a built-in phono stage for connecting a vinyl player only at Onkyo TX-NR696. For voice control in the TX-NR696 is used Google Assistant, but in the HEOS AVR is used Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant. There is an ECO mode in neither AV receiver. The Onkyo TX-NR696 can be properly configured using the setup assistant.
A Dolby Atmos multichannel audio format is available only in the TX-NR696. Only in the TX-NR696 realized a DTS:X surround technology.