What is better - Sony STR DH550 vs Denon AVR-S720W?
The number of channels for receivers is different - 5.2 versus 7.2, respectively, for devices. In terms of power, there are differences, the STR DH550 has such a ratio W/Ohm - 90/6, while the AVR-S720W has a power of 75/8, 110/6. The value of total harmonic distortion is also different, and for the STR DH550 it is 0.09%, but for the AVR-S720W it is 0.08%.
The manufacturer installed different DACs, the STR DH550 received the model 192 KHz/24-bit, but the AVR-S720W is equipped with 192 KHz/32-bit. None of the compared opponents supports Bi-amping. The model AVR-S720W can transmit an audio signal directly to the amplifier and bypasses any DSP processing.
Wireless Internet connection via WIFI is only possible with AVR-S720W. There is a Bluetooth protocol at the AVR-S720W. The AVR-S720W has access to the Spotify service.
Support for the HDR function can only boast of the AVR-S720W. HDMI signal transmission in standby mode can provide only the AVR-S720W. 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 STR DH550 has 4/1, and the AVR-S720W has 6/1. HDMI Audio Return Channel is implemented in both devices. HDMI eARC is not supported by the STR DH550 and the AVR-S720W. When comparing receivers, it becomes clear that each of the rivals can work with HDMI CEC. STR DH550 and AVR-S720W support 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 of the basic functions of the receiver is not realized in both models. There is an ECO mode in AVR-S720W. The Denon AVR-S720W can be properly configured using the setup assistant.
A Dolby Atmos multichannel audio format is available only in the AVR-S720W. Only in the AVR-S720W realized a DTS:X surround technology.