Denon AVR-S760H Review

Denon AVR-S760H:A Budget-Friendly Powerhouse for Immersive Home Theater

The Denon AVR-S760H is a testament to the brand’s commitment to delivering high-quality audio and video experiences at an accessible price point. As a 7.2-channel AV receiver, it bridges the gap between entry-level affordability and premium features, making it a compelling choice for both casual listeners and avid home theater enthusiasts. Priced at $599, it offers a wealth of modern technologies, including HDMI 2.1, Dolby Atmos, and HEOS multi-room audio, all wrapped in a sleek, user-friendly design.  

Design and Build Quality 
The AVR-S760H retains Denon’s signature minimalist aesthetic, with a brushed metal front panel and a clean layout of controls. The absence of a front HDMI input might disappoint some users, but the rear panel more than compensates with six HDMI ports, three of which support HDMI 2.1 for 8K/60Hz and 4K/120Hz pass-through. The build quality is robust, reflecting Denon’s reputation for durability, and the unit feels substantial without being overly bulky.  

Audio Performance
At its core, the AVR-S760H delivers 75 watts per channel (8 ohms, 20Hz–20kHz), which, while not earth-shattering, is more than sufficient for small to medium-sized rooms. It supports a wide array of audio formats, including Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, and Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization, ensuring a truly immersive 3D soundstage. Whether you’re watching a blockbuster movie or listening to high-resolution music, the receiver excels in clarity and detail. The bass is tight and controlled, while the midrange and treble remain balanced, even at higher volumes.  

One standout feature is the Audyssey MultEQ room calibration system, which optimizes audio output based on your room’s acoustics. This ensures that every seat in your home theater enjoys consistent, high-quality sound.  

Video Capabilities 
The AVR-S760H is future-proofed with its 8K/60Hz and 4K/120Hz pass-through capabilities, making it an excellent choice for gamers and cinephiles alike. It supports HDR10, HDR10+, Dolby Vision, and HLG, ensuring vibrant colors and deep contrasts for an unparalleled visual experience. Gamers will appreciate features like Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) and Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM), which reduce lag and screen tearing for a smoother gaming experience.  

Connectivity and Smart Features
With six HDMI inputs (three HDMI 2.1), built-in Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and HEOS multi-room audio, the AVR-S760H offers exceptional connectivity options. The HEOS app allows seamless streaming from popular services like Spotify, Tidal, and Amazon Music, while AirPlay 2 ensures compatibility with Apple devices. Voice control via Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and Siri adds a layer of convenience, allowing you to control your system with simple voice commands.  

Setup and Usability
Setting up the AVR-S760H is a breeze, thanks to its intuitive on-screen interface and guided setup process. The included calibration microphone ensures that your speakers are perfectly tuned to your room’s acoustics, making it accessible even for beginners.  

Stream your favorite music from anywhere and everywhere around your home with HEOS Built-in technology. Enjoy high quality music from a wide range of streaming services including Spotify®, TuneIn, Amazon Music HD, iHeartRadio, Soundcloud®, Tidal, Napster, Deezer or local music sources. Control it all seamlessly with the free HEOS app.

Pros and Cons  

Pros
- Exceptional value for money, offering premium features at an entry-level price.  
- Supports the latest audio and video formats, including Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, and 8K pass-through.  
- Robust build quality and sleek design.  
- Easy setup with Audyssey MultEQ room calibration.  
- Excellent connectivity options, including HEOS and voice control.  

Cons
- Limited power output (75W per channel) may not suffice for larger rooms or demanding setups.  
- No front HDMI input, which could be inconvenient for some users.  
- Audyssey MultEQ Editor app requires an additional purchase.  

Final Thoughts 
The Denon AVR-S760H is a remarkable achievement in the realm of budget-friendly AV receivers. It combines cutting-edge technology, user-friendly features, and exceptional performance, making it an ideal choice for anyone looking to elevate their home theater experience without breaking the bank. While it may not satisfy the most demanding audiophiles, it offers more than enough to delight the average enthusiast. For its price, the AVR-S760H is a true gem, embodying Denon’s legacy of quality and innovation.  

Whether you’re a movie buff, a gamer, or a music lover, the Denon AVR-S760H is a worthy investment that promises to transform your living room into a cinematic paradise.