Denon AVR-S960H vs Yamaha RX-V6a


 

The Denon AVR-S960H and Yamaha RX-V6A are both great choices for an AV player if you're building a home theater. These mid-range radios work well in medium-sized to large living rooms and are great for a wide range of users, from movie fans to music fans to games. There are some great features and great performance in both types, but each has its own strengths and flaws.

 


Our Verdict:

 

In the market for mid-range AV receivers, both the Denon AVR-S960H and the Yamaha RX-V6A are good choices. The Denon AVR-S960H is a good choice for a wide range of entertainment needs thanks to its classic style, wide range of connections, and well-balanced sound quality. The Yamaha RX-V6A stands out because it looks current, has an extra HDMI input, and works great with MusicCast to stream music to multiple rooms. In the end, the Denon is better for people who like classic looks and all-around performance, while the Yamaha is better for people who like design and modern audio features. Because each speaker has its pros and cons, the one you choose will depend on your tastes and the way your home theater is set up.

 

Pros

Clear and immersive sound quality.

Extensive connectivity options.

User-friendly setup and calibration.

Support for Dolby Atmos and DTS:X.

HEOS wireless multi-room audio.

Voice control compatibility (Alexa).

High-resolution audio support.

Solid build and sleek design.

 

Cons

Limited HDMI input options.

Zone 2 audio requires amplified speakers.

Remote control layout can be confusing.

 

 

Pros
  • Dolby Atmos and DTS:X.
  • Extensive HDMI connectivity.
  • MusicCast for wireless streaming.
  • High-resolution audio support.
  • Easy on-screen setup.
  • Zone control for flexibility.
  • Affordably priced.
Cons
  • Occasional wireless hiccups.
  • Learning curve for calibration.
  • Remote control complexity.

Where to Buy
Ali-Expess
Wallmart

Advance Comparison

Model

Denon AVR-S960H 7.2 channel 8K A/V Receiver (2022 model)

YAMAHA RX-V6A

Brand Name

Denon

YAMAHA

Rating
Mixed Usage
7.4
8.8
VIDEO FEATURES:
8.03
9.9
CONNECTIVITY OPTIONS:
6.78
8.53
AUDIO FEATURES:
7.44
8.86
MULTIZONE:
7.15
8
AMPLIFICATION:
7.78
8.84
General
Receiver Type
A/V Receiver
A/V Receiver
Number Of Channel
7.2 Channel
7.2 Channel
Number Channel Processing
7
7
Audio Feature
Dolby Atmos , DTS:X , Auro 3D
Dolby Atmos , DTS:X
Video Feature
HDR10 , HDR10+ , Dolby Vision , 8K Passthrough , 8K Upscaling
HDR10 , HDR10+ , Dolby Vision , 8K Passthrough , 4K Upscaling
Watts Per Channel
90 W
Zones
2
2
Radio
Internet Radio , Pandora , Spotify , Tidal , Deezer , Napster , SiriusXM
Internet Radio , Pandora , Spotify , Tidal , Deezer , Napster , SiriusXM
Amplifier
Class G
Connectivity
Ethernet
Yes
Yes
Wi-Fi
Yes
Yes
Bluetooth
Yes
Yes
USB
Yes
Yes
RCA LIne Input:
4
3
RCA LIne Output:
0
N/A
RCA Pre-Outs:
0.2
2.2
XLR Line Inputs:
0
N/A
XLR Pre-Outs:
0
N/A
Phono Input:
Yes
Yes
Optical Inputs:
2
1
Optical Output:
0
N/A
Coaxial Inputs:
1
1
Multi-Channel Input:
0
N/A
Headphone Out:
6.3 mm (1/4
6.3 mm (1/4
HDMI Inputs:
6
7
HDMI Outputs:
2
1
8K Inputs:
3
7
Composite Video Input
2
N/A
Composite Video Output:
0
N/A
Component Video Input:
0
N/A
Component Video Output:
0
N/A
Front A/V Inputs:
1
USB
Speaker A/B:
0
N/A
VIDEO FEATURES:
HDMI Version
2.1
2.1
Enhanced ARC
Yes
Yes
HDCP Version
2.3
2.3
HDR10+
Yes
Yes
Dynamic HDR
Yes
N/A
Dolby Vision
Yes
Yes
HLG (Hybrid Log Gamma)
Yes
Yes
QMS (Quick Media Switching)
Yes
Yes
3-D Ready
Yes
Yes
Video Signal Passthrough
Yes
Yes
Video Signal Upscaling
Yes
Yes
Analog To HDMI Upconversion
Yes
N/A
Component Video Upscaling
Yes
N/A
isf Certified Calibration Control
N/A
N/A
AUDIO FEATURES:
Maximum Channel Processing
7.2
7.1
Dolby Atmos
up to 5.1.2
YES
Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization
Yes
Yes
Dolby Atmos Music
Yes
N/A
Dolby TrueHD
Yes
Yes
Dolby Digital Plus
Yes
Yes
Dolby Surround Upmixer
Yes
Yes
Dolby Pro Logic
N/A
N/A
Dolby Digital EX
Yes
N/A
Surround EX
N/A
Yes
DTS:X
up to 5.1.2
YES
DTS Neural:X
Yes
Yes
DTS Virtual:X
Yes
N/A
DTS Neo
Yes
Yes
DTS-HD Master Audio
Yes
Yes
DTS-HD High Resolution Audio
Yes
Yes
DTS 96/24
Yes
Yes
DTS Express
Yes
N/A
DTS-ES
Discrete 6.1, Matrix 6.1
Discrete 6.1, Matrix 6.1
IMAX Enhanced
Yes
N/A
PCM
2-ch/Multi-ch Input
2-ch/Multi-ch Input
Music Playback via USB
MP3, WMA, MPEG-4 AAC, Apple Lossless, WAV, FLAC, DSD
MP3, WMA, MPEG-4 AAC, Apple Lossless, WAV, FLAC, AIFF, DSD
High Resolution Music Playback via USB and/or Network
up to 192 kHz
up to 192 kHz/32 Bit
High Resolution Audio Formats via USB
Apple Lossless, WAV, FLAC, DSD
Apple Lossless, WAV, FLAC, AIFF, DSD
Gapless Playback
Yes
Yes
DSD via HDMI
No
2-ch/Multi-ch Input
DSD via USB
2-ch Input
2-ch Input
DSD to PCM Converter
N/A
N/A
USB DAC
N/A
N/A
Jitter Reduction
N/A
DTS Dialog Control
Yes
Yes
Dialog Enhancement
N/A
Yes
Dialog Level Adjustment
Yes
Yes
Dialog Normalization
Yes
Yes
Dialogue Lift
N/A
Yes
Compressed Music Enhancer
Yes
YES
High-resolution Music Enhancer
N/A
N/A
Audyssey Dynamic EQ
Yes
N/A
Audyssey Dynamic Volume
Yes
N/A
Audyssey LFC
N/A
N/A
Audyssey Sub EQ HT
N/A
N/A
Audyssey DSX
N/A
N/A
Direct Mode
Yes
Pure Direct Mode
Yes
Yes
Independent Subwoofer Outputs
N/A
N/A
Auto Speaker Calibration System with Mic.
Audyssey MultEQ
Audyssey App Support
Yes
Bass Sync
N/A
Optimized Bass Redirection
Yes
Gaming Features
Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM)
Yes
Yes
Variable Refresh Rate (VRR)
Yes
Yes
Quick Frame Transport (QFT)
Yes
Yes
Amplifiers
Channels
7.2
7.2
Front Wide Channel Support
N/A
N/A
Current Feedback Topology
N/A
Discrete Amplification
Yes
HDAM
N/A
THX™ Certification
N/A
N/A
Continuous 6 Ω Rated
Yes
Yes
Certified 4 Ω Performance
Yes
Yes
Bi-amp Capability
No
YES
Additional Features
On-Screen Display
Advanced Graphic User Interface
Graphical User Interface
GUI Languages
3
YES
Web Browser Control
Yes
Yes
IP Control for CI
Yes
N/A
Control4 SDDP
N/A
PreAmp Mode
Yes
N/A
Display
1 line
LCD
Remote Controller
RC-1253
YES
Remote Control In/Out
0 / 0
0 / 0
LCD Display
N/A
Yes
Detachable Power Cord
N/A
N/A
Setup Assistant
Yes
Zones
Zones
2
2
Powered Zones
2
Zone 2
Zone 2 Outs
Yes
RCA Preout
Zone 3 Outs
No
N/A
RS-232C Interface
Yes
N/A
+12V Trigger Output
Yes
1
Radio
Analog Tuner
Yes
FM/AM
Digital Radio
N/A
N/A
Internet Radio
Yes
YES
Pandora
Yes
Yes
Spotify
Yes
Yes
Tidal
Yes
Yes
Deezer
Yes
Yes
SiriusXM Internet Radio
Yes
Yes
Napster
Yes
Yes
Power
Power Output (6 Ω, 1 kHz, 2
90 W + 90 W
Rated Power Output (6 Ω, 1 kHz, 1 channel driven, IEC)
95 W
Dynamic Power per Channel (3 Ω, Front)
135 W
Dynamic Power per Channel (4 Ω, Front)
120 W
Dynamic Power per Channel (8 Ω, Front)
80 W
Power Output (8 Ω, 20 Hz - 20 kHz, 2
80 W + 80 W
100 W (0.06% THD)
Maximum Effective Power Output (6 Ω, 1 kHz, 1 channel driven, JEITA)
145 W
160 W (10% THD)
Power Supply
AC 120 V, 60 Hz
AC 120 V, 60 Hz
Toroidal Transformer
N/A
Power Consumption
430 W
360 W
No Sound Power
35 W
Standby Power
0.1 W
0.1 W
Build
Dimensions (W x H x D)
17.1 x 6.6 x 13.3 inches
17-1/8" x 6-3/4" x 14-7/8"
Weight
20.7 lbs
9.8 kg (21.6 lbs)
Chassis
Solid metal construction with anti-vibration feet
Front Panel
Brushed aluminum front panel with four quick select buttons and a dimmable display
Speaker Terminals
7
9
Large Speaker Terminals
7
9
Color-Coded Speaker Terminals
Yes
N/A
Transparent High-Grade Speaker Terminals
N/A
High Grade Audio Components
Yes
ECO Mode / Hybrid Standby Function
Yes
Yes
Auto Power off
Yes
Yes
Warranty
3 years
2 Years
Specifications
THD digital
0.08% (20-20,000 Hz)
Analog Distortion
0.05% (20-20,000 Hz)
Phono Distortion
0.02% (20-20,000 Hz)
Input Sensitivity and Impedance (Line)
200 mV / 47 kohms
200 mV/47 kΩ
Input Sensitivity and Impedance (Phono MM)
2.5 mV / 47 kohms
3.5 mV/47 kΩ
Rated Lineout Level and Impedance
1.2 V / 2.3 kohms
Rated Output digital
2 V / 75 ohms
S/N Ratio (Line, IHF-A)
100 dB
110 dB
S/N Ratio (Phono MM, IHF-A)
74 dB
95 dB
S/N Ratio (digital)
100 dB
Phono RIAA Deviation
±1 dB
±0.5 dB
Frequency Response (Analog In)
10 Hz - 100 kHz, +1/-3 dB
+0/-3 dB (AUDIO 3 etc. to Front, Pure Direct, 10 Hz to 100 kHz)
DSD Sampling Rates via HDMI
2.8 MHz, 5.6 MHz
2.8 MHz
DSD Sampling Rates via USB
2.8 MHz, 5.6 MHz
11.2 MHz, 5.6 MHz, 2.8 MHz
Video Input Sensitivity/Output Level and Impedance
1 Vp-p, 75 ohms
Video Frequency Response
5 Hz - 10 MHz, 0/-3 dB
Ethernet Standard
IEEE 802.3 10BASE-T/IEEE 802.3u 100BASE-TX
10BASE-T/100BASE-TX
Wi-Fi Standard
IEEE 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac
IEEE 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac
Wi-Fi Terminal Frequency
2.4 GHz / 5 GHz
2.4 GHz, 5 GHz
Bluetooth Version
4.1
4.2
Bluetooth Frequency
2.4 GHz
2.4 GHz
USB Terminal
Type A (for connecting USB devices)
USB2.0 5 V, 1 A
FM Frequency
87.5 MHz - 107.9 MHz
87.5 MHz - 107.9 MHz
FM 50 dB Quiet Sensitivity (IHF, 1 kHz, 100% MOD.)
Mono: 1.2 μV, Stereo: 2.8 μV
Mono: 3 µV (20.8 dBf)
FM S/N Ratio
Mono: 70 dB, Stereo: 67 dB
Mono/Stereo: 69 dB/68 dB
FM Harmonic Distortion (IHF, 1 kHz)
Mono: 0.7%, Stereo: 1.0%
Mono/Stereo: 0.5%/0.6%
AM Effective Sensitivity
18 μV
N/A
AM Frequency
520 kHz - 1,710 kHz
530 kHz - 1710 kHz
Where to Buy
Ali-Expess
Wallmart

Comparatives Review


 

Design

There is a classic, modest look to the Denon AVR-S960H that makes it easy to integrate into most home theater systems. Users like how well it's put together and how simple the front panel is, with just a clear screen and a few basic control buttons. On the front, some important ports are easy to get to, like HDMI and USB inputs.

On the other hand, the Yamaha RX-V6A stands out because it looks more current and sleek. It has a sleek, modern front panel and a shiny black finish. The screen is bigger and easier to use, so it's easy to read from far away. People who have used the RX-V6A say that it looks more high-end and can be the center of attention in a home theater.

If you like designs that are more classic and useful, the Denon AVR-S960H is a good pick. But if you care about how things look and how current they are, the Yamaha RX-V6A is probably the better choice.

Connectivity

The AVR-S960H has a lot of great ways to join. It has two HDMI outputs and six HDMI inputs, and all of them can pass through 8K/60Hz and 4K/120Hz. People love that it works with different video standards, such as HDR10+, Dolby Vision, and HLG. For raw audio files and realistic sound, the decoder also works with eARC. Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and Apple AirPlay 2 are all wireless choices that make it easy to play music from multiple devices.

The Yamaha RX-V6A also has a strong connection. With eightK/60Hz and 4K/120Hz pass-through, as well as HDR10+, Dolby Vision, and HLG, it has seven HDMI inputs and one output. The RX-V6A also works with eARC, which makes sure that high-quality sound is sent. It comes with Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and Yamaha's multi-room audio technology, MusicCast, for wireless connection. Users like how easily it works with smart home products because it works with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant for voice control.

Both radios have great connections, but the Yamaha RX-V6A has an extra HDMI port and the MusicCast feature, which make it slightly better for people who have a lot of devices and like multi-room audio options.

Performance

The Denon AVR-S960H has great sound quality and great performance. Its users often say that the sound is clear and lively, which makes both movies and songs better. The speaker works with Dolby Atmos, DTS, and IMAX Enhanced, which makes the 3D sound experience more real. People who have used the AVR-S960H say that the lows are full and rich, the mids are clear and precise, and the highs are crisp. Because of its balance, it's great for many things.

The Denon AVR-S960H is great for music types where the mids and highs need to be clear, like rock, jazz, and classical. People who have used the decoder say that it does a great job of picking up the details of classical music. They especially like how the strings and woodwinds sound. When it comes to movies, the dynamic range and surround sound really shine, making action scenes feel exciting and speech clear. The receiver's ability to boost sounds makes sure that speech is always understandable, which is helpful for TV shows and apps.

The speed of the Yamaha RX-V6A is just as amazing. It works with both Dolby Atmos and DTS, so the 3D sound quality is just as good as the Denon's. Yamaha's own Cinema DSP 3D is also built into the receiver, which makes the surround sound experience better. Users enjoy the YPAO (Yamaha Parametric Room Acoustic Optimizer) tuning device because it alters the sound settings depending on how the room sounds. People like this method because it works well and is simple to use.

The Yamaha RX-V6A has great sound quality, with deep, strong lows, bright mids, and clear highs. People say that this receiver works best with bass-heavy music types like hip-hop and electronic dance music (EDM), where the lows can be felt. The RX-V6A also works well with movies, and its realistic scenery makes the experience feel like you're in a movie theater. It makes TV shows and podcasts better by reproducing clear and accurate.

Both radios do a great job, but the one you choose may depend on your taste in terms of the mix of lows, mids, and highs, as well as the tuning systems and other features that improve sound quality.

Where and When to Use

The AVR-S960H is flexible and can be used in several places. It works well in medium-sized to large living rooms or rooms that are just for watching movies at home. Users say it's great for watching movies, playing games, and listening to music, giving them a complete audio experience.

In the same way, the RX-V6A works well in middle- to large-sized rooms. It looks great in modern living rooms because of how sleek it is. Customers often talk about how well it works to make movies, games, and songs more engaging. It's easy to use every day because it works with smart home gadgets.

Both units are flexible and can make any middle to big home theater system better. Which one you choose depends on how your room is set up and how you like things to look.

Compatible Devices

A lot of different gadgets work well with the AVR-S960H. People can hook up Blu-ray players, game systems, streaming devices, and more. Because it has Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and AirPlay 2, it works perfectly with computers, smartphones, and tablets.

The RX-V6A also works with a lot of different devices. It works with a number of game systems, Blu-ray players, and streaming devices. MusicCast technology makes it easier for Yamaha audio devices to work together, so you can enjoy a consistent sound experience across multiple rooms. Users also like how easy it is to play music over Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and AirPlay 2.

Both radios work well with a wide range of devices, but the Yamaha RX-V6A's MusicCast feature is especially useful for people who are already involved in the Yamaha environment.

Ease of Use

The Denon AVR-S960H is pretty simple for users to set up and use. The guided setup helper and Audyssey MultEQ tuning make setting up the device for the first time easy. The Denon remote app is also easy to use, making it simple to manage the radio.

People say that the Yamaha RX-V6A is very easy to use. The YPAO tuning method makes it easier to set up, and many people find it easy to use. As an added bonus, the MusicCast app makes it easy to handle the speaker and any other devices that are linked.

Though both transmitters are easy to use, the Yamaha RX-V6A is a bit easier to get the hang of because of its MusicCast app and simple design.

Cost

In general, the Denon AVR-S960H is set fairly in the mid-level range. Users think it's a great deal for all the features and speed it gives them. Similarly, the Yamaha RX-V6A is priced in the middle of the range. A lot of users say it's a great deal, especially given how modern it looks and how many extra features it has, like MusicCast.

Both devices are worth the money they cost. The one you choose will depend on your income and the elements that are most important to you.

 

Where to Buy
Ali-Expess
Wallmart

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