Rankings
The Denon DRA-900H is a high-current 2-channel stereo receiver offering 100 W per channel and extensive HDMI 2.1 features. Its main trade-off is the lack of multi-channel expansion and a relatively heavy chassis. Ideal for audiophiles and gamers who prioritize power and video capabilities.
The Denon AVR-X1700H is a 7.2-channel AV receiver offering 80 W per channel, 8K/60 Hz HDMI 2.1 support and HEOS multi-room streaming. While feature-rich, its power may fall short in larger spaces and occasional HDMI glitches have been reported, suiting medium-size rooms and gamers.
The Bowers & Wilkins Panorama 3 is a premium 3.1.2-channel soundbar with integrated subwoofer, delivering audiophile-grade sound and extensive Wi-Fi/Bluetooth connectivity. Its large size, high price, and less intuitive remote are notable compromises. Perfect for audiophiles and medium-size rooms desiring an all-in-one Atmos solution.
The Sonos Era 100 is a compact wireless smart speaker offering rich stereo sound, Trueplay tuning and support for Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 5.0 and AirPlay 2. Its lack of a battery and limited waterproofing restrict placement options. Best suited for indoor rooms where high-quality sound and smart-home integration are priorities.
The Denon AVR-S970H provides 90 W per channel Class AB amplification, 8K/60 Hz and 4K/120 Hz video handling, and HEOS streaming with gaming features. Its 7-channel pre-amp limits larger speaker configurations and its size can be bulky with antennas raised. Best for medium-sized home theaters and gamers.
Polk Audio's 5.1 Channel Home Theater System combines powered subwoofer, tower, bookshelf, center, and satellite speakers for immersive surround sound. Its substantial weight and absence of wireless features can be limiting for users seeking easy setup and modern connectivity. Best for budget-conscious home-theater enthusiasts with space for larger components.
| Attribute | | | | | | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
— | 0.09 kHz | 100 kHzbest | 26 kHz | 60 kHz | — | |
— | 84 dB | — | 90 dBbest | — | — | |
90 W | — | 100 W | 500 Wbest | 80 W | — | |
— | — | — | 8 Ωbest | — | — | |
| ↓ lower better | 9.48 kg | 2.02 kgbest | 8.6 kg | 22.63 kg | 8.618 kg | 6.5 kg |
7 | 2 | 2 | 6 | 7.2best | 6 | |
— | — | 98 dBbest | — | — | — | |
| ↓ lower better | — | — | 0.08 %best | — | 0.08 %best | — |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | | | | | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
General(1) | ||||||
Warranty (years) | 2 years | 1 years | 2 years | — | 3 years | 2 years |
Audio(7) | ||||||
Frequency Response (kHz) | — | 0.09 kHz | 100 kHz | 26 kHz | 60 kHz | — |
Sensitivity (dB) | — | 84 dB | — | 90 dB | — | — |
Channels | 7 | 2 | 2 | 6 | 7.2 | 6 |
RMS Power (W) | 90 W | — | 100 W | 500 W | 80 W | — |
Driver Size (cm) | — | 1.3 cm | — | 16.51 cm | — | 5.08 cm |
Woofer Size (cm) | — | 10.2 cm | — | 16.51 cm | — | 10.16 cm |
Amplifier Type | Class AB | Class‑D digital (3 amplifiers) | AB | — | — | — |
Connectivity(1) | ||||||
Bluetooth Version | Bluetooth | 5.0 | — | — | — | aptX Adaptive |
Build & Design(2) | ||||||
Weight (kg) | 9.48 kg | 2.02 kg | 8.6 kg | 22.63 kg | 8.618 kg | 6.5 kg |
Dimensions (H×W×D) (cm³) | 54490 cm³ | 4235 cm³ | 21993 cm³ | 93978 cm³ | 22380 cm³ | 12688 cm³ |
Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).
Professional reviewers commend the AVR-S970H for its robust Class AB amplification, comprehensive 8K video handling, and effective Audyssey room correction, positioning it as a refined choice for medium-sized rooms.
Everyday users generally praise the receiver's sound quality, especially the "nice sound" comment, and value the easy HEOS streaming and intuitive app setup.
“nice sound”
“Strong 100W output drives rooms effortlessly”
“Easy HEOS setup for multi-room/Spotify/TIDAL”
Professional reviewers praise the Era 100 for its refined stereo imaging, powerful bass, and fast, future-proof processing, noting that the addition of Bluetooth 5.0 and Trueplay on both iOS and Android broaden its appeal.
User feedback is sparse in the provided data, but the consensus among everyday consumers appears to be positive regarding sound quality and multi-room integration, with no major recurring complaints noted.
Professional reviewers commend the DRA-900H for its high-current Class AB amplification, premium ESS SABRE DAC, and comprehensive HDMI 2.1 feature set that includes 8K video, VRR, ALLM and QFT, positioning it as a strong choice for audiophiles and gamers alike.
Everyday users consistently praise the receiver's robust 100 W output, easy HEOS streaming setup, and the inclusion of a phono stage for vinyl playback. Common complaints revolve around occasional HDMI handshake issues with 8K TVs, occasional app glitches during Wi-Fi pairing, and the heavy weight making shelf placement awkward.
Professional reviewers commend Polk's RTiA 5.1 for its dynamic range, precise imaging, and high-resolution drivers, while noting the substantial weight of the subwoofer as a practical drawback. Overall, the line is praised for delivering cinema-grade sound performance at a relatively accessible price point, provided the user can accommodate the bulk.
Everyday users appreciate the straightforward setup, powerful bass, and clear high-frequency detail, especially for movie and gaming use. Recurring criticisms focus on the heavy, bulky nature of the subwoofer and towers and the absence of wireless connectivity, which some find limiting for modern streaming setups.
Professional reviewers describe the AVR-X1700H as an entry-level powerhouse that delivers room-filling 80 W/8 Ω sound and robust 8K video support. They commend its comprehensive HDMI 2.1 gaming features and effective Audyssey calibration, while noting the power is best suited for modest-sized rooms.
Everyday users praise the receiver's easy setup, clear 8K video pass-through, and immersive Atmos/DTS:X virtualization, especially appreciating HEOS multi-room streaming and the built-in phono input. Recurring complaints focus on insufficient power for larger spaces, occasional HDMI handshake glitches with 8K sources, and the limited USB port functionality.
Professional reviewers commend the Panorama 2 for its audiophile-grade sound, wide imaging, and effective Atmos height effects, noting its superb build quality and dynamic performance even at high volumes. However, they point out the lack of a dedicated music surround mode, limited on-board EQ, and fewer features compared to competitors, making it a strong but feature-light all-in-one solution.
Everyday users overwhelmingly praise the Panorama 2 for its exceptional sound, deep integrated bass, sleek design and straightforward setup, often calling it the best sound bar they've owned. Recurring criticisms focus on the unwieldy remote, high price and the bar's large size, which can be problematic in smaller spaces.
