Sony STRDH590 Black
Score: 78/100
Denon AVR-S970H Black
Score: 78/100Rankings
The Sony STR-DH590 is an entry-level 5.2-channel AV receiver delivering strong 145 W per-channel power and full-stack 4K 60p HDR including Dolby Vision. Its main drawbacks are the lack of Wi-Fi/Ethernet and limited HDMI inputs, which can restrict network streaming and device connectivity. Ideal for budget-conscious beginners setting up a small-to-medium home theater.
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.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
4 | 6best | |
1 | 2best | |
— | 90 Wbest | |
| ↓ lower better | — | 0.5 Wbest |
1 years | 2 yearsbest | |
| ↓ lower better | 432 mm | 429.26 mmbest |
| ↓ lower better | 133 mmbest | 243.84 mm |
| ↓ lower better | 298 mmbest | 520.7 mm |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Ports(2) | ||
HDMI Inputs | 4 | 6 |
HDMI Outputs | 1 | 2 |
Audio(2) | ||
Supported Audio Formats | Dolby Digital, Dolby Digital Plus, Dolby TrueHD, DTS, DTS 96/24, DTS-HD Master Audio, DTS-HD High Resolution, DSD | Dolby TrueHD; Dolby Atmos; Dolby Atmos Music; DTS:X; DTS HD Master; DTS Neural:X; DTS Virtual:X; Multichannel Stereo |
Channel Configuration | 5.2 | 7.2 |
Connectivity(1) | ||
Bluetooth Version | yes | unspecified |
Features(1) | ||
Video Support (e.g., 4K/8K) | 4K 60p HDR | 8K/60Hz; 4K/120Hz; HDR |
General(1) | ||
Warranty (years) | 1 years | 2 years |
Build & Design(4) | ||
Width (mm) | 432 mm | 429.26 mm |
Height (mm) | 133 mm | 243.84 mm |
Depth (mm) | 298 mm | 520.7 mm |
Weight (kg) | 8.283 kg | 9.48 kg |
Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).
Professional reviewers praise the STR-DH590 for delivering strong power and full-stack 4K HDR (including Dolby Vision) at a beginner-friendly price, noting its discrete 5-channel amp, easy DCAC calibration, and robust Bluetooth and Hi-Res audio support. However, they also flag the lack of Wi-Fi/Ethernet and limited HDMI inputs as drawbacks for users seeking more networked or multi-device flexibility.
Everyday owners generally like the straightforward Bluetooth streaming, easy 4K setup, and useful FM tuner, but many express disappointment over the limited HDMI ports, absence of a companion app, and missing Wi-Fi/airplay capabilities, describing the interface as dated.
“solid 4K HDR passthrough (full 4K/60p 4:4:4, Dolby Vision)”
“nice sound”
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.
