Tiny homes need home theaters too. Even if they do triple duty as a home office and a dining room. And those with smaller living spaces will be happy to hear about Denon’s new pair of AVRs (Audio/Video Receivers). On July 25, 2023, Denon unveiled two affordable 8K audio/video receivers (AVRs) ideal for small to mid-sized home cinema applications. The 7.2-channel AVR-S770H ($649) and the 5.2-channel AVR-S670H ($549) provide 8K video support, multi-room HEOS streaming support and enough power for smaller home theater rooms, living rooms or dens.
Denon AVR-S770H
The Denon AVR-S770H 7.2-channel 8K AV receiver replaces the previous AVR-S760H model from 2021. That one is our current top recommendation for a budget Dolby Atmos receiver. Like its predecessor, the new S770H includes support for Dolby Atmos and DTS:X immersive surround sound in a 5.1.2 channel configuration. If you prefer, you can do a traditional 7.1-channel home theater system or do a 5.1-channel surround sound system and use the extra two channels to power a pair of speakers in another room. Rated power is 75 Watts/Channel with two channels driven.
Denon AVR-S670H
Its little brother the Denon AVR-S670H 5.2-channel receiver also supports 8K video and is rated at 75 Watts/Channel, but it lacks support for immersive surround. It can do high resolution lossless surround in a 5.1-channel or 5.2-channel configuration, including Dolby TrueHD, and DTS HD Master Audio.
HEOS
Built into both receivers is support for HEOS multi-room music and streaming solution. HEOS uses an app on your Android or iOS phone to stream music from any of the top streaming services to speakers or receivers throughout your home. You can synchronize the music throughout your home for a house party or play different music in each room.
Connectivity
Both receivers also offer six HDMI inputs, three of which support 8K resolution, three of which support 4K resolution. Both receivers include robust HDR support including HDR, HDR10+, HLG and Dolby Vision. Both receivers include Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity as well as Audyssey room correction for the best sound possible in your specific room. Vinyl lovers will be happy to hear that both receivers include a built-in phono preamp for turntables with moving magnet cartridges.
“If It Ain’t Broke…”
In terms of differences between the new receivers and their predecessors, these are pretty minor. The main improvement in the new models is a new high definition graphical user interface for the receiver menus. Also, in the settings menu, you can remove all analog inputs if you’re a digital kinda guy or gal. The new receivers also allow you to control the volume of a pair of connected Bluetooth headphones via the Denon remote control.
Both receivers are expected to begin shipping next month (August, 2023).
Pricing Update
2025 Update: The Denon S-series A/V receivers have increased $50 in price since their original release in August 2023. Current pricing is reflected below.
- Denon 7.2-channel AVR-S770H –
$649$699 at Amazon - Denon 5.2-channel AVR-S670H –
$549$599 at Amazon
Related Reading: Best A/V Receivers
ORT
July 28, 2023 at 2:36 am
Sweet! This is why Denon is my choice for AVRs! I own two of them myself and have given two more to family members. Denon makes a good, high quality product and I can give them to people I care about because I know Denon does not make junque.
The bonus of HEOS is an important one. It is very easy to use and very reliable. I have set the app up on iOS and Android phones. Also on an iPad and a Chromebook.
Thank you for this update, Chris!
ORT