Denon AVR-S970H Black
Score: 77/100
Klipsch Reference 5.2 Black
Score: 84/100Rankings
The Klipsch Reference 5.2 Dolby Atmos Home Theater System delivers immersive Atmos sound with high sensitivity and dual powered subwoofers, making it ideal for medium-sized rooms. Its large floorstanding speakers and need for a powerful AVR can be challenging in smaller spaces. Best suited for home-theater enthusiasts seeking a plug-and-play Atmos solution.
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.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
— | 96 dBbest | |
90 W | 100 Wbest | |
— | 8 Ωbest | |
| ↓ lower better | 9.48 kgbest | 22.23 kg |
7best | 5.2 | |
2 years | 5 yearsbest | |
— | 2.54 cmbest | |
— | 16.51 cmbest |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
General(1) | ||
Warranty (years) | 2 years | 5 years |
Audio(2) | ||
Channels | 7 | 5.2 |
RMS Power (W) | 90 W | 100 W |
Build & Design(2) | ||
Weight (kg) | 9.48 kg | 22.23 kg |
Dimensions (H×W×D) (cm³) | 54490 cm³ | 57900 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”
Professional reviewers and editors consistently commend the system for its dynamic, horn-loaded sound signature, high sensitivity, and integrated Atmos height channels that deliver clear, realistic overhead effects. The Tractrix horn design is praised for precise directivity, and the inclusion of dual powered subwoofers is seen as a strong value proposition for a budget-friendly Atmos package.
Consumers appreciate the plug-and-play nature of the kit, noting the immersive Atmos experience, powerful bass from the dual subs, and ease of installation thanks to included wiring. The most common feedback revolves around the system's size and the variability of height channel performance in different room configurations.
