Denon AVR-X8500HA 13.2 channel 8K A/V Receiver (2021 model) review
The 13.2 channel 8K A/V player Denon AVR-X8500HA from 2021 is a music lover's dream. It's for people who want an awesome audiovisual experience. No matter if your place is a small flat or a huge mansion, this receiver can handle it. Elegant features are great for people who are really into it, but they can be a bit much for beginners. Let's find out more about it.
Our Verdict
The Denon AVR-S570BT is a super affordable option that gives you awesome sound quality. With 8K support, it's totally ready for the future. It's easy to use and works with a bunch of different stuff, so pretty much anyone can use it. But it might not totally impress audiophiles who are all about that super-powerful sound. In bigger rooms, it might not have enough audio coverage. Setting up can be a bit of a hassle if you've got limited space or older devices. The crowded back panel and the need for adapters can make things a little complicated.
PROS
- Budget-friendly entry into Denon's quality.
- Good power output for small to mid-sized rooms.
- Bluetooth connectivity for wireless audio streaming.
- User-friendly setup and interface.
- Four HDMI inputs with 4K and HDR support.
- Enhanced Audio Return Channel (eARC) for better sound.
- Quick Select buttons for easy source switching.
- Solid compatibility with popular streaming services.
CONS
- Limited HDMI inputs (not ideal for many devices).
- Basic room calibration lacks precision.
- There is no support for advanced audio formats like Dolby Atmos.
GENERAL
| Receiver Type | A/V Receiver |
|---|---|
| Number Of Channel | 13.2 Channel |
| Number Channel Processing | 13 |
| Audio Feature | Dolby Atmos , DTS:X , Auro 3D |
| Video Feature | HDR10 , HDR10+ , Dolby Vision , 8K Passthrough , 8K Upscaling |
| Watts Per Channel | 150 W (8 Ω, 20 Hz - 20 kHz, 2 channel driven) |
| Zones | 3 |
| Radio | Internet Radio , Pandora , Spotify , Tidal , Deezer , Napster , SiriusXM |
| Amplifier | Class G |
CONNECTIVITY
| Ethernet | Yes |
|---|---|
| Wi-Fi | Yes |
| Bluetooth | Yes |
| USB | Yes |
| RCA LIne Input: | 8 |
| RCA LIne Output: | 3 |
| RCA Pre-Outs: | 15.2 |
| XLR Line Inputs: | 2 |
| XLR Pre-Outs: | 15.2 |
| Phono Input: | Yes |
| Optical Inputs: | 2 |
| Optical Output: | 0 |
| Coaxial Inputs: | 2 |
| Multi-Channel Input: | 0 |
| Headphone Out: | 1 |
| HDMI Inputs: | 8 (rear), 1 (front) |
| HDMI Outputs: | 3 |
| 8K Inputs: | 3 |
| Composite Video Input | 4 |
| Composite Video Output: | 2 |
| Component Video Input: | 3 |
| Component Video Output: | 1 |
| Front A/V Inputs: | HDMI, USB |
| Speaker A/B: | No |
AUDIO FEATURES:
| Maximum Channel Processing | 13.2 |
|---|---|
| Dolby Atmos | up to 7.1.6 or 9.1.4 |
| Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization | Yes |
| Dolby Atmos Music | N/A |
| Dolby TrueHD | Yes |
| Dolby Digital Plus | Yes |
| Dolby Surround Upmixer | Yes |
| Dolby Pro Logic | N/A |
| Dolby Digital EX | Yes |
| Surround EX | Yes |
| DTS:X | Pro up to 7.1.6 or 9.1.4 |
| DTS Neural:X | Yes |
| DTS Virtual:X | Yes |
| DTS Neo | N/A |
| DTS-HD Master Audio | Yes |
| DTS-HD High Resolution Audio | Yes |
| DTS 96/24 | Yes |
| DTS Express | |
| DTS-ES | Discrete 6.1, Matrix 6.1 |
| IMAX Enhanced | Yes |
| PCM | 2-ch/Multi-ch Input |
| Music Playback via USB | MP3, WMA, MPEG-4 AAC, Apple Lossless, WAV, FLAC, DSD |
| High Resolution Music Playback via USB and/or Network | up to 192 kHz |
| High Resolution Audio Formats via USB | Apple Lossless, WAV, FLAC, DSD |
| Gapless Playback | Yes |
| DSD via HDMI | 2-ch/Multi-ch Input |
| DSD via USB | 2-ch Input |
| DSD to PCM Converter | N/A |
| USB DAC | N/A |
| Jitter Reduction | Yes |
| DTS Dialog Control | Yes |
| Dialog Enhancement | Yes |
| Dialog Level Adjustment | Yes |
| Dialog Normalization | Yes |
| Dialogue Lift | N/A |
| Compressed Music Enhancer | Yes |
| High-resolution Music Enhancer | Yes |
| Audyssey Dynamic EQ | Yes |
| Audyssey Dynamic Volume | Yes |
| Audyssey LFC | Yes |
| Audyssey Sub EQ HT | Yes |
| Audyssey DSX | N/A |
| Direct Mode | Yes |
| Pure Direct Mode | Yes |
| Independent Subwoofer Outputs | Yes |
| Auto Speaker Calibration System with Mic. | Audyssey MultEQ XT32 |
| Audyssey App Support | Yes |
| Bass Sync | Yes |
| Optimized Bass Redirection | Yes |
VIDEO FEATURES:
| HDMI Version | 2.1 |
|---|---|
| Enhanced ARC | Yes |
| HDCP Version | 2.3 |
| HDR10+ | Yes |
| Dynamic HDR | Yes |
| Dolby Vision | Yes |
| HLG (Hybrid Log Gamma) | Yes |
| QMS (Quick Media Switching) | Yes |
| 3-D Ready | Yes |
| Video Signal Passthrough | Yes |
| Video Signal Upscaling | Yes |
| Analog To HDMI Upconversion | Yes |
| Component Video Upscaling | Yes |
| isf Certified Calibration Control | Yes |
AMPLIFIERS
| Channels | 13.2 |
|---|---|
| Front Wide Channel Support | Yes |
| Current Feedback Topology | Yes |
| Discrete Amplification | Yes |
| HDAM | Yes |
| THX™ Certification | Yes |
| Continuous 6 Ω Rated | Yes |
| Certified 4 Ω Performance | Yes |
| Bi-amp Capability | Yes |
GAMING FEATURES
| Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM) | Yes |
|---|---|
| Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) | Yes |
| Quick Frame Transport (QFT) | Yes |
ZONES
| Zones | 3 |
|---|---|
| Powered Zones | 2 |
| Zone 2 Outs | HDMI, RCA, XLR |
| Zone 3 Outs | RCA, XLR |
| RS-232C Interface | Yes |
| +12V Trigger Output | 2 |
RADIO
| Analog Tuner | FM/AM |
|---|---|
| Digital Radio | N/A |
| Internet Radio | TuneIn |
| Pandora | Yes |
| Spotify | Yes |
| Tidal | Yes |
| Deezer | Yes |
| SiriusXM Internet Radio | Yes |
| Napster | Yes |
ADDITIONAL FEATURES
| On-Screen Display | Advanced Graphic User Interface |
|---|---|
| GUI Languages | 3 |
| Web Browser Control | Yes |
| IP Control for CI | Yes |
| Control4 SDDP | Yes |
| PreAmp Mode | Yes |
| Display | 2 lines |
| Remote Controller | RC-1221 |
| Remote Control In/Out | 1 / 1 |
| LCD Display | Yes |
| Detachable Power Cord | Yes |
| Setup Assistant | Yes |
POWER
| Power Output (6 Ω, 1 kHz, 2 | 210 W |
|---|---|
| Rated Power Output (6 Ω, 1 kHz, 1 channel driven, IEC) | 260 W |
| Dynamic Power per Channel (3 Ω, Front) | 300 W |
| Dynamic Power per Channel (4 Ω, Front) | 250 W |
| Dynamic Power per Channel (8 Ω, Front) | 150 W |
| Power Output (8 Ω, 20 Hz - 20 kHz, 2 | 150 W |
| Maximum Effective Power Output (6 Ω, 1 kHz, 1 channel driven, JEITA) | 275 W |
| Power Supply | AC 230 V, 50 Hz |
| Toroidal Transformer | Yes |
| Power Consumption | 900 W |
| No Sound Power | 70 W |
| Standby Power | 0.1 W |
BUILD
| Dimensions (W x H x D) | 434 x 195 x 482 mm |
|---|---|
| Weight | 23.6 kg |
| Chassis | Copper plated |
| Front Panel | Aluminum |
| Speaker Terminals | 15 |
| Large Speaker Terminals | 2 |
| Color-Coded Speaker Terminals | Yes |
| Transparent High-Grade Speaker Terminals | Yes |
| High Grade Audio Components | Yes |
| ECO Mode / Hybrid Standby Function | Yes |
| Auto Power off | Yes |
| Warranty | 3 Years |
SPECIFICATIONS
| THD digital | 0.005% (20 Hz - 20 kHz) |
|---|---|
| Analog Distortion | 0.005% (20 Hz - 20 kHz) |
| Phono Distortion | 0.02% (20 Hz - 20 kHz) |
| Input Sensitivity and Impedance (Line) | 200 mV / 47 kΩ |
| Input Sensitivity and Impedance (Phono MM) | 2.5 mV / 47 kΩ |
| Rated Lineout Level and Impedance | 1.2 V / 470 Ω |
| Rated Output digital | 2 V / 470 Ω |
| S/N Ratio (Line, IHF-A) | 105 dB |
| S/N Ratio (Phono MM, IHF-A) | 74 dB |
| S/N Ratio (digital) | 102 dB |
| Phono RIAA Deviation | ±1 dB |
| Frequency Response (Analog In) | 10 Hz - 100 kHz (+1, -3 dB) |
| DSD Sampling Rates via HDMI | 2.8 MHz, 5.6 MHz, 11.2 MHz |
| DSD Sampling Rates via USB | 2.8 MHz, 5.6 MHz, 11.2 MHz |
| Video Input Sensitivity/Output Level and Impedance | 1 Vp-p, 75 Ω |
| Video Frequency Response | 5 Hz - 10 MHz |
| Ethernet Standard | IEEE 802.3 |
| Wi-Fi Standard | IEEE 802.11a/b/g/n/ac |
| Wi-Fi Terminal Frequency | 2.4 GHz / 5 GHz |
| Bluetooth Version | 4.1 |
| Bluetooth Frequency | 2.4 GHz |
| USB Terminal | Type A |
| FM Frequency | 87.5 - 108 MHz |
| FM 50 dB Quiet Sensitivity (IHF, 1 kHz, 100% MOD.) | 1.2 µV |
| FM S/N Ratio | 70 dB |
| FM Harmonic Distortion (IHF, 1 kHz) | 0.7% |
| AM Effective Sensitivity | 18 µV |
| AM Frequency | 522 - 1611 kHz |
Design
Design-wise, the AVR-X8500HA is rocking a seriously impressive and sleek look that screams "premium." The front panel looks cool with a clear and easy-to-use display, making it super easy to find your way around. The build quality is solid, so it should last a long time and be reliable.
But, you know, like a lot of expensive receivers, it can be a bit of a hassle because it's big and heavy, especially if you've got a small setup. The remote control is okay, but it might not be everyone's style.
Connectivity
Connectivity-wise, the AVR-X8500HA is impressive. It's got a bunch of HDMI inputs and outputs, so you can easily connect your gaming consoles, Blu-ray players, and other cool stuff. One cool thing about it is that it supports 8K, so your home theatre will be ready for whatever comes next. It's perfect for tech geeks!
But having so many ways to connect can be a bummer. It can make the back look messy, which makes dealing with cables and ports a pain, especially in small areas. So, like, it works with a bunch of different devices, but some people might need to get adapters or converters to make everything work smoothly, especially if they have older stuff.
Performance
The performance of the AVR-X8500HA is seriously impressive. It's got some serious grandeur going on. This setup has 13.2 channels, which means the audio is going to blow you away. It's actually super clear and precise, and you'll feel totally immersed, whether you're watching a movie or jamming out to music. Plus, the 8K upscaling and pass-through features make sure your video quality is always top-notch.
But, here's the thing about this top-notch performance:. The AVR-X8500HA can make a lot of heat when it's working. This really stresses the importance of having good ventilation to keep things running smoothly. Moreover, the receiver has all these fancy features and tonnes of ways to customize it, which might be a bit much for newbies. It might take some time and trial and error to really make the most of them, especially if you're new to A/V receivers. So, be prepared for a bit of a learning curve!
Where and When to Use
The AVR-X8500HA is an all-around beast that can handle all sorts of situations. It looks awesome in both comfy living rooms and big home theatre setups, making movie nights, gaming sessions, and music listening super cool experiences.
But it might not be the best choice for casual users or people with small living spaces because it's expensive, big, and complicated. The learning curve for upgraded A/V receivers can be pretty steep, which might make it not worth it if you're not going to really dig into all its wonderful capabilities.
Compatible Devices
The AVR-X8500HA works great with all sorts of devices, like gaming consoles and turntables. The software is remarkably impressive and makes sure the audio sounds awesome in your room by adjusting to its acoustics. So you get the best sound quality ever!
But, like, this compatibility can make things more complicated, especially if you're not familiar with A/V receivers. The bunch of customizable settings and options might take some time and patience to get the hang of.
Ease of Use
The AVR-X8500HA is very simple to use and gives you total control. There's this impressive setup wizard on the screen that makes the initial installation a cinch, and there's also calibration software that customizes the audio to fit your room. The remote control works fine, but it might not be everyone's cup of tea in terms of design.
But if you're new to A/V receivers, you might feel a bit confused by all the settings and options. The user interface might not be as responsive as you'd expect for the price you paid.
Cost
The AVR-X8500HA is pretty expensive, but it's well worth it if you're serious about having an excellent home theatre setup. The audio and video quality are top-notch, so it's a solid investment.
But for casual users or people with limited space, the AVR-X8500HA might seem a bit over the top. This thing is really meant for big home theatres. It's got all these amazing features that are really high-performance. But honestly, if you're not going to make the most of them, it might not be worth the price.
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