Denon AVR-S970H Black
Score: 78/100
Sony STR-AN1000
Score: 77/100Rankings
The Denon AVR-S970H is a 7.2-channel receiver offering 90 W per channel, 8K video and robust gaming features. Its size and limited pre-amp channels are trade-offs for the higher performance. Ideal for medium-sized rooms and gamers who want HEOS streaming and Audyssey calibration.
The Sony STR-AN1000 is a 7.2-channel receiver featuring future-proof HDMI 2.1 with 8K/60Hz and 4K/120Hz support plus Dolby Atmos/DTS:X decoding. However, its shared-power architecture leads to modest multi-channel wattage, limiting loudness in larger rooms. Best suited for gamers and movie enthusiasts seeking advanced video capabilities in mid-size setups.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
6best | 6best | |
2best | 2best | |
90 Wbest | — | |
| ↓ lower better | — | 240 Wbest |
| ↓ lower better | 0.5 Wbest | — |
2 yearsbest | 1 years | |
| ↓ lower better | 429.26 mm | 156 mmbest |
| ↓ lower better | 243.84 mmbest | 430 mm |
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| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Audio(1) | ||
Supported Audio Formats | Dolby TrueHD; Dolby Atmos; Dolby Atmos Music; DTS:X; DTS HD Master; DTS Neural:X; DTS Virtual:X; Multichannel Stereo | Dolby Atmos, Dolby TrueHD/Digital Plus, DTS:X, DTS-HD MA/HR, DSD, LPCM |
Connectivity(2) | ||
HDMI Version | 2.1 | HDMI 2.1 |
Bluetooth Version | unspecified | yes |
Features(1) | ||
Video Support (e.g., 4K/8K) | 8K/60Hz; 4K/120Hz; HDR | 8K/60Hz, 4K/120Hz |
General(1) | ||
Warranty (years) | 2 years | 1 years |
Build & Design(4) | ||
Width (mm) | 429.26 mm | 156 mm |
Height (mm) | 243.84 mm | 430 mm |
Depth (mm) | 520.7 mm | 331 mm |
Weight (kg) | 9.48 kg | 9.4 kg |
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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. However, they note the absence of DTS:X Pro and the 7-channel processing limit as drawbacks compared to higher-end competitors.
Everyday users generally praise the receiver's sound quality, especially the "nice sound" comment, and value the easy HEOS streaming and intuitive app setup. Recurring concerns focus on the heavy packaging and the unit's bulkier footprint when antennas are raised.
Professional reviewers commend the STR-AN1000 for its future-proof 8K HDMI 2.1 implementation, solid HDR support, and effective Dolby Atmos/DTS:X virtualization, positioning it as a strong mid-range option for gamers and movie lovers. However, they caution that the power specifications are misleading and that the shared-power architecture limits true multi-channel output, making it less suitable for large-room installations.
Consumers appreciate the straightforward setup, crisp 8K/4K video, and immersive sound in typical living-room sizes, often upgrading from older Sony models. Recurring complaints focus on perceived power shortfalls for larger spaces, confusion over power ratings, and the lack of a noticeable performance jump over previous generations.
“nice sound”
“Users commonly praise easy setup, crisp 8K/4K video, and strong movie sound in normal living rooms.”
