In the world of AV receivers, Denon and Onkyo are two well-respected brands known for producing high-quality audio equipment. The Denon AVR-X3700H and Onkyo TX-RZ50 are both flagship AV receivers, and choosing between them can be a challenging decision. In this comprehensive comparison, we’ll explore the features, performance, connectivity, and overall value of these two receivers to help you make an informed choice for your home entertainment setup.
Design and Build Quality
The design and build quality of an AV receiver play a significant role in its longevity and aesthetic appeal. Here’s how the Denon AVR-X3700H and Onkyo TX-RZ50 compare:
- Denon AVR-X3700H: The Denon AVR-X3700H sports a sleek and sophisticated design with a brushed metal front panel and well-organized front controls. It exudes an aura of quality with its attention to detail, and the overall build quality is solid, providing long-term durability.
- Onkyo TX-RZ50: The Onkyo TX-RZ50 is characterized by a minimalist design with a brushed metal front panel and a clear and intuitive display. The build quality is robust, reflecting Onkyo’s commitment to producing long-lasting AV equipment.
Both receivers are designed to seamlessly integrate into modern home theater setups, so your choice may ultimately come down to personal aesthetics.
Audio Performance
Audio quality is a crucial factor in an AV receiver, and both the Denon AVR-X3700H and Onkyo TX-RZ50 excel in this regard. Here’s how they compare in terms of audio performance:
- Denon AVR-X3700H: The Denon AVR-X3700H is designed to provide high-quality audio with its 9 channels of amplification and 105 watts per channel (8 ohms, 20 Hz-20 kHz, 0.08% THD, 2 channels driven). It supports the latest audio formats, including Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, creating a truly immersive audio experience. Denon’s reputation for audio quality is upheld with this receiver, making it an excellent choice for both movies and music.
- Onkyo TX-RZ50: The Onkyo TX-RZ50 offers exceptional audio performance with its 9 channels of amplification and 120 watts per channel (8 ohms, 20 Hz-20 kHz, 0.08% THD, 2 channels driven). It’s THX Certified Select, which ensures top-tier audio quality and performance. The TX-RZ50 supports the latest audio formats, providing a captivating soundstage for an immersive home theater experience.
Both receivers offer powerful and clean sound, but the Onkyo TX-RZ50 has a slight edge in terms of power output.
Video Performance and Connectivity
Modern AV receivers must excel in video performance and offer extensive connectivity options. Here’s how the Denon AVR-X3700H and Onkyo TX-RZ50 stack up in this aspect:
- Denon AVR-X3700H: The Denon AVR-X3700H is equipped with eight HDMI inputs and three HDMI outputs, making it highly versatile in terms of video connectivity. It supports 4K Ultra HD content with HDR10, Dolby Vision, and HLG, ensuring top-tier video quality. The receiver also features video upscaling, enhancing the quality of lower-resolution content to near-4K levels.
- Onkyo TX-RZ50: The Onkyo TX-RZ50 offers eight HDMI inputs and three HDMI outputs, providing comprehensive connectivity options for your AV components. It supports 4K Ultra HD content with HDR10, Dolby Vision, and HLG. The video performance is outstanding, delivering crisp and vibrant visuals.
Both receivers offer extensive HDMI connectivity and support for the latest video formats, so you can expect excellent video performance with either choice.
Advanced Features and Immersive Audio
Advanced features and immersive audio capabilities are essential for creating a top-tier home theater experience. Here’s how the Denon AVR-X3700H and Onkyo TX-RZ50 compare in this aspect:
- Denon AVR-X3700H: The Denon AVR-X3700H supports Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, providing a three-dimensional audio experience that envelops the listener. It features Denon’s renowned Audyssey MultEQ XT32 room calibration, which optimizes audio performance based on your room’s acoustics. The receiver also supports IMAX Enhanced technology, further enhancing your movie-watching experience.
- Onkyo TX-RZ50: The Onkyo TX-RZ50 also supports Dolby Atmos and DTS:X for immersive audio. It offers DTS:X Pro support, providing an even more extensive soundstage for a cinematic experience. The TX-RZ50 is THX Certified Select, ensuring that it meets the highest audio quality standards.
Both receivers excel in creating immersive audio experiences, so your choice may depend on your preference for specific audio technologies and room calibration systems.
Ease of Use and Setup
Both the Denon AVR-X3700H and Onkyo TX-RZ50 are designed to be user-friendly in terms of setup and operation. They come equipped with room calibration systems that make it easy to tailor the audio to your specific room’s acoustics.
- Denon AVR-X3700H: The Denon AVR-X3700H includes Audyssey MultEQ XT32, a highly regarded room calibration system that optimizes audio performance by taking room acoustics into account. It’s known for its ease of use and effectiveness.
- Onkyo TX-RZ50: The Onkyo TX-RZ50 includes AccuEQ Advance calibration, which is designed to ensure that the audio is finely tuned to your room’s specific acoustics. It simplifies the setup process and optimizes audio quality.
Both calibration systems are user-friendly and effective, providing a hassle-free setup experience.
Price and Value
Price and value are crucial factors when choosing an AV receiver. Here’s how the Denon AVR-X3700H and Onkyo TX-RZ50 compare in terms of price:
- Denon AVR-X3700H: The Denon AVR-X3700H typically falls within the high-end price range, reflecting its premium quality and features. While it is an investment, it offers outstanding value for those seeking top-tier audio and video performance.
- Onkyo TX-RZ50: The Onkyo TX-RZ50 is also a premium AV receiver but is often available at a slightly lower price point compared to the Denon AVR-X3700H. It provides excellent value for those seeking a powerful and feature-rich receiver without breaking the bank.
Conclusion
Choosing between the Denon AVR-X3700H and Onkyo TX-RZ50 depends on your specific preferences, budget, and room setup. Both receivers offer exceptional audio and video performance, extensive connectivity options, and advanced features for immersive home theater experiences. The Denon AVR-X3700H is known for its impeccable build quality, high-quality audio processing, and video upscaling capabilities, making it a top choice for those who prioritize a premium build and outstanding audio quality. The Onkyo TX-RZ50 offers robust audio performance, a slightly higher power output, and support for DTS:X Pro, making it a solid choice for those who want powerful sound and advanced audio technologies without sacrificing quality. In the end, your decision should align with your specific needs and priorities for your home entertainment system. Both the Denon AVR-X3700H and Onkyo TX-RZ50 are excellent AV receivers, ensuring a premium audio and video experience for years to come.
