Denon AVR-X3800H
Score: 83/100
Marantz STEREO 70s
Score: 81/100Rankings
The Denon AVR-X3800H is a high-end 9.4-channel receiver delivering strong 105 W per-channel power and comprehensive 8K/HDMI 2.1 features. Its main trade-offs are high power draw, considerable weight, and DAC-related noise issues. Ideal for enthusiasts building immersive Atmos setups who value extensive connectivity and HEOS streaming.
Marantz's STEREO70S is a compact 2-channel AV receiver offering 75 W per channel, Class A/B amplification, HEOS streaming and extensive HDMI 8K support. While it excels in audio fidelity and feature set, it does not provide surround-sound channels or Dolby Atmos, limiting home-theater use. Ideal for audiophiles and streaming enthusiasts needing high-quality stereo performance in a small footprint.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
9.4best | 2 | |
— | 75 Wbest | |
— | 4 Ωbest | |
| ↓ lower better | 660 W | 210 Wbest |
| ↓ lower better | 27.6 lb | 24 lbbest |
3 years | 5 yearsbest |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Power & Performance(1) | ||
Power Consumption (Operating) (W) | 660 W | 210 W |
Audio(1) | ||
Audio Channels | 9.4 | 2 |
Connectivity(1) | ||
Bluetooth Version | 4.0 | Bluetooth |
General(1) | ||
Warranty (years) | 3 years | 5 years |
Build & Design(2) | ||
System Weight (lb) | 27.6 lb | 24.0 lb |
System Dimensions (H×W×D) (cm) | 45.72×25.4×40.64 cm cm | 44.2×10.9×38.6 cm cm |
Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).
Professional reviewers commend the AVR-X3800H for its robust analog amplification, flexible channel configuration, and strong 8K video handling, while consistently pointing out the DAC's elevated noise and jitter as the primary drawback.
Everyday users generally praise the ease of HEOS multi-room streaming, the inclusion of a phono input for vinyl enthusiasts, and the quick Audyssey room-calibration. Recurring complaints focus on DAC-related noise in digital playback and the unit's substantial weight making installation harder.
The Absolute Sound commends the STEREO 70s for its solid stereo power, compact footprint, and a connectivity package that rivals larger AV receivers. Reviewers appreciate the discrete Class A/B amplification, HEOS integration, and the ability to handle high-resolution audio, positioning it as a high-quality music-first component that still accommodates modern video sources.
