What is better - Sony STR-DN1080 vs Onkyo TX-NR696?
AV receivers under review have the same number of channels. In terms of power, there are differences, the STR-DN1080 has such a ratio W/Ohm - 120/6, while the TX-NR696 has a power of 165/6. The value of total harmonic distortion is also different, and for the STR-DN1080 it is 0.09%, but for the TX-NR696 it is 0.08%.
The manufacturer installed different DACs, the STR-DN1080 received the model 96 KHz/24-bit, but the TX-NR696 is equipped with AK4458 384 KHz/32-bit. Each of the compared opponents supports Bi-amping. Both Sony STR-DN1080 and Onkyo TX-NR696 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 versus AirPlay, AirPlay 2 respectively. Access to the Spotify service is on each of the competitors. The number of available streaming services varies for receivers, the Sony STR-DN1080 works with TIDAL, Pandora, but the Onkyo TX-NR696 works with Deezer, TIDAL, Pandora, TuneIn Radio. 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 STR-DN1080 and the TX-NR696. 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 STR-DN1080 has 6/2, and the TX-NR696 has 7/2. 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. STR-DN1080 and TX-NR696 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 STR-DN1080 is used Google assistant, but in the TX-NR696 is used Google Assistant. There is an ECO mode in neither AV receiver. The Sony STR-DN1080 and the Onkyo TX-NR696 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.