Denon Home 550
Score: 78/100
Marantz STEREO 70s
Score: 81/100Rankings
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.
The Denon Home 550 is a compact 4-channel soundbar offering virtual Dolby Atmos/DTS:X and full HEOS multi-room support. Its main compromises are the absence of a dedicated subwoofer and limited HDMI inputs. Best suited for small-to-medium rooms where space is at a premium and users value streaming versatility.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
4best | 2 | |
— | 75 Wbest | |
— | 4 Ωbest | |
2.188 inbest | — | |
| ↓ lower better | — | 210 Wbest |
0.75 inbest | — | |
| ↓ lower better | 7.3 lbbest | 24 lb |
1 years | 5 yearsbest |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Audio(1) | ||
Audio Channels | 4 | 2 |
Connectivity(1) | ||
Bluetooth Version | Supported | Bluetooth |
General(1) | ||
Warranty (years) | 1 years | 5 years |
Build & Design(2) | ||
System Weight (lb) | 7.3 lb | 24.0 lb |
System Dimensions (H×W×D) (cm) | 65.97×7.49×11.99 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 Denon Home SB550 for its virtual 4‑channel Atmos/DTS:X implementation, wide soundstage, and the convenience of a single HDMI eARC cable that also carries 4K HDR video. They also highlight the HEOS multi‑room ecosystem and the bass boost from three passive radiators, while noting the absence of a dedicated subwoofer and calibration tools as potential drawbacks for audiophiles.
Consumers generally view the SB550 as an easy-to-set-up, space-saving soundbar that offers solid streaming options and immersive virtual surround. Praise centers on the straightforward HDMI eARC hookup and the ability to stream high-resolution music, while the lack of deep bass and unspecified power output are occasional concerns.
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.
