Onkyo TX-NR696 vs Sony STR-DN1050 – that is a question.
AV receivers under review have the same number of channels. In terms of power, there are differences, the TX-NR696 has such a ratio W/Ohm - 165/6, while the STR-DN1050 has a power of 120/6. The value of total harmonic distortion is also different, and for the TX-NR696 it is 0.08%, but for the STR-DN1050 it is 0.09%.
The manufacturer installed different DACs, the TX-NR696 received the model AK4458 384 KHz/32-bit, but the STR-DN1050 is equipped with 96 KHz/24-bit. Each of the compared opponents supports Bi-amping. Both Onkyo TX-NR696 and Sony STR-DN1050 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. The contenders have differences in the supported services from Apple - AirPlay, AirPlay 2 versus AirPlay respectively. Access to the Spotify service is on each of the competitors.
The HDR10 function is present in each of the rivals. 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 STR-DN1050. Each of the devices can increase the resolution of the incoming video signal. 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 STR-DN1050 has 6/3. HDMI Audio Return Channel is implemented in both devices. HDMI eARC is only supported by the STR-DN1050. When comparing receivers, it becomes clear that only the Onkyo TX-NR696 has HDMI CEC. TX-NR696 and STR-DN1050 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.
Ability to create 2 Multi zones inherent in both AV receivers. For voice control in the TX-NR696 is used Google Assistant, but in the STR-DN1050 is used Google assistant. There is an ECO mode in neither AV receiver. The Onkyo TX-NR696 and the Sony STR-DN1050 can be properly configured using the setup assistant.
A Dolby Atmos multichannel audio format is available both models. A DTS:X surround technology is supported by devices from our comparison.