In our comprehensive comparison between the Denon AVR-S960H and AVR-S970H, we tested and compared both devices extensively to provide an objective analysis of their performance, features, and specifications.
Denon AVR-S960H vs AVR-S970H Specs:
| Denon AVR-S960H | Denon AVR-S970H | |
|---|---|---|
 |  |
|
| Number of Channels | 7.2 | 7.2 |
| Power Output | 90W per channel (8 ohms, 20Hz - 20kHz, THD 0.08%) | 90W per channel (8 ohms, 20Hz - 20kHz, THD 0.08%) |
| Video | 8K/60Hz and 4K/120Hz pass-through, 4:4:4 Pure Color sub-sampling, HDR10, HLG, BT.2020, Dolby Vision, and eARC (HDMI 2.1) | 4K Ultra HD 60Hz video, 4:4:4 Pure Color sub-sampling, HDR10, HLG, BT.2020, Dolby Vision, 3D, and eARC (HDMI 2.0a) |
| Audio | Dolby Atmos, Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization, DTS:X, DTS Virtual:X, DTS:X Pro, IMAX Enhanced, Auro-3D | Dolby Atmos, Dolby Surround, DTS:X, DTS Neural:X, DTS Virtual:X, IMAX Enhanced |
| Bluetooth Version | 4.2 | 5.0 |
| Wireless LAN | IEEE 802.11a/b/g/n | IEEE 802.11a/b/g/n/ac |
| Voice Control | Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, Apple Siri, Josh.ai | Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, Apple Siri, Josh.ai |
| Dimensions (W x H x D) | 17.1 x 6.6 x 13.3 inches | 17.1 x 6.6 x 13.3 inches |
| Weight | 21 pounds | 21 pounds |
| Price | Check on Amazon | Check on Amazon BHPhotoVideo.com |
Power Amplifier and Audio Section
Both the AVR-S960H and the AVR-S970H have the same rated output for Front, Center, Surround, and Surround Back channels. They both provide 90 W + 90 W (8 Ω/ohms, 20 Hz – 20 kHz with 0.08% T.H.D.) and 125 W + 125 W (6 Ω/ohms, 1 kHz with 0.7% T.H.D.). The output connectors for both devices support 4 – 16 Ω/ohms, making them compatible with a wide range of speakers. Check the AVR-S970H on Amazon
Analog Input Sensitivity and Frequency Response
Both AV receivers feature the same analog input sensitivity of 200 mV and frequency response of 10 Hz – 100 kHz (±1, -3 dB in Direct mode). They also have the same signal-to-noise ratio (S/N) of 100 dB (IHF-A weighted, Direct mode).
Phono Equalizer
The phono equalizers in both devices are also identical, with an input sensitivity of 2.5 mV, RIAA deviation of ±1 dB (20 Hz to 20 kHz), signal-to-noise ratio of 74 dB (IHF-A weighted, with 5 mV input), and distortion factor of 0.03% (1 kHz, 3 V).
Tuner Section
The tuner sections in both receivers are the same for FM and AM bands, with reception frequency ranges of 87.5 MHz – 107.9 MHz (FM) and 520 kHz – 1710 kHz (AM). They share the same effective sensitivity, signal-to-noise ratio, and distortion values.
Wireless LAN
The AVR-S970H offers an upgraded wireless LAN section, conforming to IEEE 802.11a/b/g/n/ac standard, whereas the AVR-S960H conforms to IEEE 802.11a/b/g/n standard. Both devices support WEP 64 bit, WEP 128 bit, WPA/WPA2-PSK (AES), and WPA/WPA2-PSK (TKIP) security, and use the 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz frequency ranges. Check the AVR-S960H on Amazon
Bluetooth
The AVR-S970H features a more advanced Bluetooth communication system with Bluetooth Specification Version 5.0, while the AVR-S960H has Bluetooth Specification Version 4.2. Despite the difference in Bluetooth versions, both devices have the same maximum communication range of approximately 98.4 ft/30 m in line of sight, use the 2.4 GHz frequency range, and support A2DP and AVRCP profiles with SBC codec.
General
Both devices have the same operating temperature range (41 °F – 95 °F or 5 °C – 35 °C), power supply (AC 120 V, 60 Hz), and power consumption (460 W). They also share the same power consumption in standby mode (0.1 W) and CEC standby mode (0.5 W). The AVR-S970H is slightly larger, measuring 17.1 x 13.4 x 6.6 inches compared to the AVR-S960H’s 17.1 x 13.0 x 6.6 inches, but they both weigh 21 lbs.
Individual Reviews
Denon AVR-S960H
Pros
- Solid power output performance
- Wide frequency response range
- Excellent signal-to-noise ratio
- Phono input for turntables
- Affordable, value for money
Cons
- Outdated Bluetooth 4.2 version
- Lacks advanced wireless standard
Denon AVR-S970H
Pros
- Enhanced digital audio capabilities
- Improved wireless connectivity (802.11a/b/g/n/ac)
- Upgraded Bluetooth 5.0 support
- Slightly larger dimensions for better ventilation
- Consistent power output performance
Cons
- Potentially higher price point
- No major improvements in power output
Check out our detailed review article on the Denon AVR-S970H.
Denon AVR-S960H vs AVR-S970H, the conclusion:
In conclusion, the Denon AVR-S960H and AVR-S970H are very similar in many aspects, including power output, tuner specifications, and general physical dimensions. The main differences lie in the enhanced digital audio capabilities, wireless connectivity, and Bluetooth specifications of the AVR-S970H. The choice between the two will ultimately depend on the specific needs and preferences of the user.
If you value the higher digital audio performance and improved wireless and Bluetooth capabilities, the AVR-S970H may be worth the investment. (Check on BHPhotoVideo) However, if these features aren’t a priority, the AVR-S960H should serve you well and provide excellent overall performance at a potentially lower price point.