Having had an opportunity to test Denon AVR-X3500H vs Sony STR-DN1080, I’d like to share my impression here to facilitate your choice of a new AV receiver.
AV receivers under review have the same number of channels. In terms of power, there are differences, the AVR-X3500H has such a ratio W/Ohm - 105/8, 135/6, while the STR-DN1080 has a power of 120/6. The value of total harmonic distortion is also different, and for the AVR-X3500H it is 0.05%, but for the STR-DN1080 it is 0.09%.
The manufacturer installed different DACs, the AVR-X3500H received the model AKM 192 KHz/32-bit, but the STR-DN1080 is equipped with 96 KHz/24-bit. Each of the compared opponents supports Bi-amping. Both Denon AVR-X3500H and Sony STR-DN1080 can transmit an audio signal directly to the amplifier and bypasses any DSP processing. 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 number of available streaming services varies for receivers, the Denon AVR-X3500H works with Deezer, TIDAL, Pandora, TuneIn Radio, but the Sony STR-DN1080 works with TIDAL, Pandora. 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 AVR-X3500H and the STR-DN1080. Video scaling is only possible with the AVR-X3500H. Operation with the Dolby Vision is only possible with the AVR-X3500H.
The number of HDMI inputs/outputs varies depending on the receiver, the AVR-X3500H has 8/3, and the STR-DN1080 has 6/2. HDMI Audio Return Channel is implemented in both devices. HDMI eARC is only supported by the STR-DN1080. When comparing receivers, it becomes clear that each of the rivals can work with HDMI CEC. AVR-X3500H and STR-DN1080 support the standard HDCP 2.2. In the presence of a built-in phono stage for connecting a vinyl player only at Denon AVR-X3500H.
Ability to create 2 Multi zones inherent in both AV receivers. For voice control in the AVR-X3500H is used Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, Siri, Josh.AI, but in the STR-DN1080 is used Google assistant. There is an ECO mode in AVR-X3500H. The Denon AVR-X3500H and the Sony STR-DN1080 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.