It’s strongly recommended to compare different receivers if you want to choose the best one: Sony STR DH550 vs Onkyo TX-NR676.
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 TX-NR676 has a power of 165/6. The value of total harmonic distortion is also different, and for the STR DH550 it is 0.09%, but for the TX-NR676 it is 0.08%.
The manufacturer installed different DACs, the STR DH550 received the model 192 KHz/24-bit, but the TX-NR676 is equipped with AK4458 384 KHz/32-bit. The Bi-amping function is implemented only in the Onkyo TX-NR676. The model TX-NR676 can transmit an audio signal directly to the amplifier and bypasses any DSP processing. There is a Bluetooth protocol at the TX-NR676. The TX-NR676 has access to the Spotify service. HDMI signal transmission in standby mode can provide only the TX-NR676. None of the devices can increase the resolution of the incoming video signal. Operation with the Dolby Vision is only possible with the TX-NR676.
The number of HDMI inputs/outputs varies depending on the receiver, the STR DH550 has 4/1, and the TX-NR676 has 7/2. HDMI Audio Return Channel is implemented in both devices. HDMI eARC is not supported by the STR DH550 and the TX-NR676. When comparing receivers, it becomes clear that each of the rivals can work with HDMI CEC. STR DH550 and TX-NR676 support the standard HDCP 2.2. In the presence of a built-in phono stage for connecting a vinyl player only at Onkyo TX-NR676. Voice control of the basic functions of the receiver is not realized in both models. There is an ECO mode in TX-NR676. The Onkyo TX-NR676 can be properly configured using the setup assistant.
A Dolby Atmos multichannel audio format is available only in the TX-NR676. Only in the TX-NR676 realized a DTS:X surround technology.