Denon AVRX4400H vs Onkyo TX-NR545 review

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Having had an opportunity to test Denon AVRX4400H vs Onkyo TX-NR545, I’d like to share my impression here to facilitate your choice of a new AV receiver.

Amplifier

The number of channels for receivers is different - 9.2 versus 7.2, respectively, for devices. In terms of power, there are differences, the AVRX4400H has such a ratio W/Ohm - 125/8, 165/6, while the TX-NR545 has a power of 100/6. The value of total harmonic distortion is also different, and for the AVRX4400H it is 0.05%, but for the TX-NR545 it is 0.08%.

Audio features

The manufacturer installed different DACs, the AVRX4400H received the model 192 KHz/24-bit, but the TX-NR545 is equipped with Hi-Grade 384 KHz/32-bit. Each of the compared opponents supports Bi-amping. Both Denon AVRX4400H and Onkyo TX-NR545 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 AVRX4400H works with Deezer, TIDAL, Pandora,iHeart Radio, Sirius XM, Sound Cloud, Napster, but the Onkyo TX-NR545 works with Tunein Radio.

Video features

Support for the HDR function can only boast of each of the AV receivers. 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 AVRX4400H and the TX-NR545. Video scaling is only possible with the AVRX4400H. Operation with the Dolby Vision is only possible with the AVRX4400H.

Extensive connections

The number of HDMI inputs/outputs varies depending on the receiver, the AVRX4400H has 8/3, and the TX-NR545 has 6/1. HDMI Audio Return Channel is implemented in both devices. HDMI eARC is only supported by the AVRX4400H. When comparing receivers, it becomes clear that each of the rivals can work with HDMI CEC. AVRX4400H and TX-NR545 support the standard HDCP 2.2. In the presence of a built-in phono stage for connecting a vinyl player only at Denon AVRX4400H.

Additional features

Unlike the AVRX4400H where 3 Multi zones is provided, the TX-NR545 works with 2 Multi zones. There is an ECO mode in AVRX4400H. The Denon AVRX4400H and the Onkyo TX-NR545 can be properly configured using the setup assistant.

Multichannel surround

A Dolby Atmos multichannel audio format is available both models. Only in the AVRX4400H realized a DTS:X surround technology.