Audio Video News

Denon has updated its entry-level S Series of AV receivers with models that support all three of the leading voice platforms — Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple Siri — in addition to wireless multiroom streaming via AirPlay 2 and Denon’s app-based Heos platform, Dolby Vision high dynamic range (HDR), and many other features.

The new lineup comprises three affordable models: the 7.2-channel AVR-S950H ($599) and AVR-S750H ($499) and 5.2-channel AVR-S650H ($399), rated to deliver 185, 165, and 150 watts per channel, respectively. The 7.2-channel receivers feature Dolby Atmos and DTS:X surround sound processing and will add Dolby Atmos height virtualization technology — which brings a height dimension to 2.1 and 5.1-channel setups — via a future firmware update.

All models are equipped with Audyssey MultEQ automated room calibration/audio optimization, enhanced audio return channel (eARC) for simplified soundbar hookups, and support DSD/high-resolution audio playback up to 24 bits/192 kHz as well as both Dolby True HD and DTS HA Master Audio lossless surround sound. The receivers also cover the video bases with 4K/60 Hz video passthrough, 4:4:4 color, HDCP 2.3 copy protection on all HDMI ports, and an Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM) to reduce input lag for enhanced gaming.

A front-panel USB input is standard as well as a generous number of HDMI and analog inputs — eight/four on the AVR-S950H, six/two on the AVR-S750H, and five/two on the AVR-S650H. The AVR-S950H expands connectivity options with the inclusion of a moving-magnet phono stage/input.

With Denon Heos built-in, S Series AVRs can stream music wirelessly across Heos-compatible components from a variety of free and paid streaming services, including Spotify, Pandora, Amazon Music, TuneIn, iHeart Radio, Sound Cloud, SiriusXM, and Tidal. The receivers also support Bluetooth streaming and are the first to provide a Party Mode that enables audio from a TV to play in all zones. Each receiver has Quick Select buttons on its front panel for storing preferred audio settings for four sources and can be controlled via an iOS/Android app.

Voice control via Amazon’s Alexa can be used to execute a variety of commands, including switching inputs for different media players, while Google Assistant and Siri can be used to adjust the volume, skip tracks, and more.

Features offered only on the AVR-S950H include 4K upscaling to increase the apparent resolution of non-4K content, Dolby Surround and DTS Neural:X up-mixing, and va powered Zone 2 (also available on the AVR-S750H).

For more information visit usa.denon.com.