Denon AVR-S960H vs Pioneer SC-1522-K

      Denon AVR-S960H

      Pioneer SC-1522-K
      88
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      79
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      UK
      USA
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      Highlights

      • 7.2 Channels
      • 7.1 Channel Processing
      • 90 W (8 Ω, 20 Hz - 20 kHz, 2 channel driven)
      • HDMI 2.1
      • Dolby Atmos, DTS:X
      • HDR10, HDR10+, Dolby Vision
      • 8K Passthrough, 8K Upscaling
      • Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Ethernet
      • Phono Input

      Highlights

      • 9.2 Channels
      • 9.1 Channel Processing
      • 130 W (8 Ω, 1 kHz, 2 channel driven)
      • THX™Select™2 Plus Certified
      • Bluetooth, Ethernet

      Disclosure: We earn money from the affiliate links to products associated with content in this article.

      Table of Contents
      1. Overview
      2. Pros and Cons
      3. Advantage of Denon AVR-S960H
      4. Advantage of Pioneer SC-1522-K
      5. Common Strengths and Weaknesses
      6. Amplifier
      7. Speaker Configurations
      8. Immersive Audio Formats
      9. HDMI
      10. Inputs and Outputs
      11. Evaluations
      12. Specifications

      1. Overview

      Here we are comparing Denon AVR-S960H to Pioneer SC-1522-K to reveal their common strengths and weaknesses as well as the differences between them which will help you in making a correct decision before the purchase. The Denon AVR-S960H has 7 channel and the Pioneer SC-1522-K has 9 channel amplifiers with Denon AVR-S960H's being less powerful.


      Denon AVR-S960H Pioneer SC-1522-K

      Denon AVR-S960H was introduced in 2020. It is equipped with 7 channel amplifier with 90 W (8 Ω, 20 Hz - 20 kHz, 2 channel driven) power per channel and is capable of 7.1 maximum channel processing. It supports Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, passes 8K/60Hz and 4K/120Hz and upscales up to 8K 50/60Hz and 4K 50/60Hz 4:4:4 video signal.

      Pioneer SC-1522-K was introduced in 2012. It is equipped with 9 channel amplifier with 130 W (8 Ω, 1 kHz and 2 channel driven) power per channel and is capable of 9.1 maximum channel processing. It , passes 1080/60p and upscales up to 1080/24p (Marvell Qdeo) video signal.

      We evaluated Denon AVR-S960H and Pioneer SC-1522-K and gave them scores of 88 and 79 out of 100 recpectively. Our ranking system is based on the amplifier specifications, audio and video features, connectivity, multizone capabilities, radio and many other details.

      Denon AVR-S960H

      Pioneer SC-1522-K

      Amplifier
      87
      Amplifier
      94
      Audio Features
      85
      Audio Features
      76
      Video Features
      99
      Video Features
      54
      Connectivity
      86
      Connectivity
      84
      Zones
      77
      Zones
      88
      Radio
      92
      Radio
      85
      OVERALL
      88
      OVERALL
      79

      For more details about the ranking please go to    Evaluations section.

      2. Pros and Cons

      In this section we present pros and cons of Denon AVR-S960H and Pioneer SC-1522-K.

      PROS

      Denon AVR-S960H

      Pioneer SC-1522-K

      •   Dolby Atmos
      •   Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization
      •   DTS:X
      •   Auto Speaker Calibration System with Mic.
      •   HDR10
      •   HDR10+
      •   Dolby Vision
      •   HDMI 2.1
      •   eARC
      •   New HDCP Version
      •   Auto Low Latency Mode Pass-through
      •   VRR
      •   QFT
      •   8K Passthrough
      •   8K Upscaling
      •   Wi-Fi
      •   Bluetooth
      •   Works with Amazon Alexa
      •   Google Assistant
      •   HEOS
      •   USB Input
      •   Phono Input
      •   Composite Video Inputs
      •   Component Video Inputs
      •   Ethernet
      •   Analog Tuner
      •   Spotify
      •   Tidal
      •   High Power Output - 130 W
      •   Front Wide Channel Support
      •   THX™ Certification
      •   9.1 Channel Processing
      •   DSD via HDMI
      •   Auto Speaker Calibration System with Mic.
      •   New HDCP Version
      •   Analog To HDMI Upconversion
      •   Bluetooth
      •   8 HDMI Inputs
      •   USB Input
      •   RCA Pre-Outs
      •   Composite Video Inputs
      •   Component Video Inputs
      •   Ethernet
      •   3 Zones
      •   Analog Tuner
      •   Pandora

      CONS

      Denon AVR-S960H

      Pioneer SC-1522-K

      •   No Front Wide Channel Support
      •   No IMAX Enhanced
      •   No Auro 3D with Auro-Matic Upmixer
      •   No DSD via HDMI
      •   1 8K Input
      •   No RCA Pre-Outs
      •   No Digital Radio
      •   No Pandora
      •   No Dolby Atmos
      •   No Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization
      •   No DTS:X
      •   No IMAX Enhanced
      •   No Auro 3D with Auro-Matic Upmixer
      •   No HDR10
      •   No HDR10+
      •   No Dolby Vision
      •   No eARC
      •   No 8K Passthrough
      •   Does not Work with Amazon Alexa
      •   0 8K Input
      •   No Phono Input
      •   No Digital Radio
      •   No Spotify
      •   No Tidal


      And here are some specifications which fall into average criteria and are neither in PROs nor in CONs category:

      AVERAGE

      Denon AVR-S960H

      Pioneer SC-1522-K

      •   7.2 Channels
      •   Power Output - 90 W
      •   7.1 Channel Processing
      •   6 HDMI Inputs
      •   2 HDMI Outputs
      •   RCA Line Inputs
      •   2 Zones
      •   Bluetooth 4․2
      •   9.2 Channels
      •   Wi-Fi
      •   2 HDMI Outputs
      •   RCA Line Inputs

      3. Advantage of Denon AVR-S960H

      This section shows those features and specifications which are the reason to choose Denon AVR-S960H over Pioneer SC-1522-K.

      Check the Price

      Denon AVR-S960H
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      Denon AVR-S960H vs Pioneer SC-1522-K
      Dolby Atmos up to 5.1.2 vs
      Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization vs
      Dolby Surround Upmixer vs
      DTS:X up to 5.1.2 vs
      DTS Neural:X vs
      DTS Virtual:X vs
      Network Audio Formats MP3, WMA, MPEG-4 AAC, Apple Lossless, WAV, FLAC, DSD vs WAV, MP3, WMA, MPEG-4 AAC, FLAC
      Music Playback via USB MP3, WMA, MPEG-4 AAC, Apple Lossless, WAV, FLAC, DSD vs WAV, MP3, WMA, AAC, FLAC
      High Resolution Audio Formats via USB Apple Lossless, WAV, FLAC, DSD vs WAV/FLAC
      Gapless Playback vs
      Audyssey Dynamic EQ vs
      Audyssey Dynamic Volume vs
      HDR10 vs
      HDR10+ vs
      Dynamic HDR vs
      BT.2020 color space vs
      Dolby Vision vs
      HLG vs
      Enhanced Audio Return Channel (eARC) vs
      Newer HDCP Version 2.3 vs 2.2
      Auto Low Latency Mode Pass-through vs
      VRR vs
      QFT vs
      Video Signal Passthrough up to 8K 50/60Hz and 4K 100/120Hz 4:4:4 vs up to 1080p
      Video Signal Upscaling up to 8K 50/60Hz and 4K 50/60Hz 4:4:4 vs up to 1080/24p (Marvell Qdeo)
      Wi-Fi vs via optional AS-WL300 adapter (sold separately)
      Bluetooth SBC vs via optional AS-BT100 or AS-BT200 adapters (sold separately)
      Works with Amazon Alexa vs
      AirPlay AirPlay 2 vs AirPlay
      More 8K Inputs 1 vs
      Phono Input vs
      IP Control for CI vs
      Analog Tuner FM/AM with RDS vs FM/AM
      Spotify vs
      Tidal vs
      Deezer vs
      Napster vs
      Color-Coded Speaker Terminals vs
      Bigger Power Supply 460 W vs 330 W
      Longer Warranty 3 Years vs 1 Year
      Check out other receivers which are frequently compared to Denon AVR-S960H.
      Denon AVR-S970H
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      7.2 channel

      90 W

      Denon AVR-S760H
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      7.2 channel

      75 W

      Yamaha RX-V6A
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      7.2 channel

      100 W

      Denon AVR-X1700H
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      7.2 channel

      80 W

      Yamaha RX-A2A
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      7.2 channel

      100 W

      Denon AVR-X2700H
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      7.2 channel

      95 W

      Denon AVR-X2800H
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      7.2 channel

      95 W

      Yamaha RX-V4A
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      5.2 channel

      80 W

      Denon AVR-X1800H
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      7.2 channel

      80 W

      Yamaha RX-A4A
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      7.2 channel

      110 W

      Onkyo TX-NR6100
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      7.2 channel

      100 W

      Yamaha RX-A6A
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      9.2 channel

      150 W

      4. Advantage of Pioneer SC-1522-K

      This section shows those features and specifications which are the reason to choose Pioneer SC-1522-K over Denon AVR-S960H.

      Check the Price

      Pioneer SC-1522-K
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      Denon AVR-S960H vs Pioneer SC-1522-K
      More Channels 7.2 vs 9.2
      Higher Power Output 90 W (8 Ω, 20 Hz - 20 kHz, 2 channel driven) vs 130 W (8 Ω, 1 kHz, 2 channel driven)
      Front Wide Channel Support vs
      THX™ Certification vs Select™2 Plus
      Bi-amp capability vs Front Channel
      More Channel Processing 7.1 vs 9.1
      Dolby Pro Logic vs PLIIz
      Surround EX vs
      DTS Neo vs Neo:X
      DSD via HDMI vs 2-ch/Multi-ch Input
      DSD to PCM Converter vs
      Jitter Reduction vs plus PQLS (HDMI Bitstream/ Multi)
      Dialog Enhancement vs
      Dialogue Lift vs via Dialog Enhancement
      High-resolution Music Enhancer vs Hi-bit32 Audio Processing
      Analog To HDMI Upconversion vs Component****, Composite
      MHL Input vs 1 Front
      More HDMI Inputs 6 vs 8 (1 front)
      USB DC Out Port vs 1 Rear for AS-WL300 (5 V, 0.6 A)
      More Optical Outputs vs 1
      More Coaxial Inputs/Outputs vs 2
      More RCA Line Outputs vs 1
      More RCA Pre-Outs 0.2 vs 11.2
      More Composite Video Inputs 2 vs 5 (1 front)
      More Composite Video Outputs 1 vs 2
      Front A/V Inputs USB vs HDMI, USB, Composite Video
      Speaker A/B vs
      More Zones 2 vs 3
      Zone 2 Outs vs Composite Video, RCA Pre/Line Out + Subwoofer
      RS-232C Interface vs
      +12V Trigger Output vs 2 (Main, Zone2, Zone 3)
      Remote (IR) Input/Output 0 / 0 vs 2 / 1
      Pandora vs
      SiriusXM vs
      More Speaker Terminals 7 vs 11
      More Large Speaker Terminals 7 vs 11
      Higher Power Output (6 Ω, 1 kHz, 2 channel driven, FTC) 125 W (0.7% THD) vs 170 W (1.0% THD)
      Higher S/N Ratio (Line, IHF-A) 100 dB vs 101 dB

      5. Common Strengths and Weaknesses

      We already listed pros and cons of each model. However, you may also find useful to look at their common strengths and weaknesses shown side-by-side.

      STRENGTHS Denon AVR-S960H Pioneer SC-1522-K
        Auto Speaker Calibration System with Mic. Audyssey MultEQ Advanced MCACC
        New HDCP Version2.32.2
        Bluetooth SBC via optional AS-BT100 or AS-BT200 adapters (sold separately)
        USB Input1 Front for USB memory1 Front
        Composite Video Inputs25 (1 front)
        Component Video Inputs22
        Ethernet
        Analog Tuner FM/AM with RDS FM/AM
      WEAKNESSES Denon AVR-S960H Pioneer SC-1522-K
        No IMAX Enhanced
        No Auro 3D with Auro-Matic Upmixer
        Few 8K Inputs1
        No Digital Radio

      6. Amplifier

      Denon AVR-S960H Pioneer SC-1522-K

      7 channel Amplifier: Denon AVR-S960H features 7 channel power amplifier. It is rated at 90 W (8 Ω, 20 Hz - 20 kHz, 2 channel driven) and is able to drive 4 ohm speakers.

      9 channel Class D3 Amplifier: Pioneer SC-1522-K features 9 channel power amplifier with Class D3 design. It is rated at 130 W (8 Ω, 1 kHz, 2 channel driven) and is able to drive 4 ohm speakers.

        THX™ Select™2 Plus certification

        Pioneer SC-1522-K is THX™ Select™2 Plus certified. This means that it is ideally suited for a room where the screen-to-seat viewing distance is approximately 3 to 4 meters, and the room size is approximately 56 cubic meters.

        AMPLIFIER Denon AVR-S960H Pioneer SC-1522-K
        Channels7.29.2
        Power Output90 W (8 Ω, 20 Hz - 20 kHz, 2 channel driven)130 W (8 Ω, 1 kHz, 2 channel driven)
        Front Wide Channel Support
        THX™ Certification Select™2 Plus
        Continuous 6 Ω Rated
        Certified 4 Ω Performance
        Bi-amp Capability Front Channel

        Check the Price

        Denon AVR-S960H
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        7. Speaker Configurations

        Denon AVR-S960H's and Pioneer SC-1522-K's amplifiers can be assigned for different speaker configurations.

        • Dolby Atmos Configurations: The following speaker configurations are supported for Dolby Atmos:
        • Denon AVR-S960H: 5.2.2 with internal amplifier.
        • Pioneer SC-1522-K: Not supported.
        • DTS:X Configurations: The following speaker configurations are supported for DTS:X:
        • Denon AVR-S960H: The speaker configurations for DTS:X are the same as for Dolby Atmos - 5.2.2 with internal amplifier.
        • Pioneer SC-1522-K: Not supported.
        • Configurations without height channels: There are also other speaker configurations available which do not include height channels:
        • Denon AVR-S960H: 5.2, 7.2 with internal amplifier.
        • Pioneer SC-1522-K: 5.2, 7.2, 9.2 with internal amplifier.
        • Front Wide Channel support: With the presence of two front wide speakers you can enhance the front surround stage. The following speaker configurations are available for front wide channels:
        • Denon AVR-S960H: Does not support.
        • Pioneer SC-1522-K: 9.2.
        • Bi-Amp: Pioneer SC-1522-K is able to bi-amp up to 2 main channels simultaneously. During bi-amplification two amplifiers are used for one speaker. One amplifier powers the midrange and tweeter section of the speaker and another amplifier powers the low frequency woofers. Each amplifier is less loaded and performs better. In order to use this feature speakers must have 2 pairs of connectors.

        8. Immersive Audio Formats

        Dolby Atmos

        Denon AVR-S960H supports Dolby Atmos.

        • Dolby Surround Upmixer: Denon AVR-S960H supports Dolby Surround Upmixer. If the content is not mixed in Dolby Atmos then the Dolby surround upmixer will expand the audio to all channels including ceiling speakers. The upmixer has replaced the Dolby Pro Logic II family with improved upmixing algorithms.
        • Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization: Denon AVR-S960H supports Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization which is a digital signal processing solution that leverages Dolby's deep understanding of human audio perception to create the sensation of overhead sound from the listener-level speakers.

        DTS:X

        Denon AVR-S960H supports DTS:X.

        • DTS Neural:X: Denon AVR-S960H supports DTS Neural:X which is an advanced upmixer that can take non DTS:X content and upmix it to the DTS:X speaker layout. It has replaced the DTS Neo family with improved flexibility.
        • DTS Virtual:X: Denon AVR-S960H supports DTS Virtual:X which bridges the gap between DTS:X codec and the reality of so many consumers' homes, allowing you to enjoy multi-dimensional sound regardless of room size, layout, or speaker configuration. If you have a limited speaker setup you will miss a full immersive potential of your entertainment system. DTS Virtual:X adds height and surround audio effect to your system without adding height speakers. It works with multiple configurations and delivers immersive sound experience out of 5.1 or even 2.1 speaker layouts.
        • DTS Dialog Control: Both models have DTS Dialog Control. This function adjusts the dialog levels during playback of the DTS:X stream. It allows you to separately increase the dialog levels in contrast with the background sound and hear dialog easily even under noisy circumstances.
        AUDIO DECODING Denon AVR-S960H Pioneer SC-1522-K
        Dolby Atmos up to 5.1.2
        Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization
        Dolby Atmos Music
        Dolby TrueHD
        Dolby Digital Plus
        Dolby Surround Upmixer
        Dolby Pro Logic PLIIz
        Dolby Digital EX
        Surround EX
        DTS:X up to 5.1.2
        DTS Neural:X
        DTS Virtual:X
        DTS Neo Neo:X
        DTS-HD Master Audio
        DTS-HD High Resolution Audio
        DTS 96/24
        DTS Express
        DTS-ES Discrete 6.1, Matrix 6.1 Discrete 6.1, Matrix 6.1
        IMAX Enhanced
        Auro 3D with Auro-Matic Upmixer

        Check the Price

        Pioneer SC-1522-K
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        9. HDMI

        Denon AVR-S960H comes with 1 HDMI 2.1 input with 8K support and 5 inputs with 4K support. It has 2 outputs which work parallelly and output the same signal.

        Pioneer SC-1522-K comes with 8 HDMI inputs. It has 2 outputs which work parallelly and output the same signal.

        • 8K/60Hz and 4K/120Hz Passthrough on Denon AVR-S960H: 1 out of 6 inputs passes up to 8K 50/60Hz and 4K 100/120Hz 4:4:4 and the rest of the inputs pass up to 4K 50/60Hz 4:4:4 video signal.
          1080/60p Passthrough on Pioneer SC-1522-K: All inputs pass up to 1080p video signal.
        • 8K Upscaling on Denon AVR-S960H: It can upscale up to 8K 50/60Hz and 4K 50/60Hz 4:4:4 from HDMI sources.
          1080p Upscaling on Pioneer SC-1522-K: It can upscale up to 1080/24p (Marvell Qdeo) from HDMI and analog sources.
        • Analog To HDMI Upconversion: Pioneer SC-1522-K supports analog to HDMI Upconversion, so you can input your analog video sources and output them digitally via HDMI. This means that you will need only one HDMI cable to connect to your TV.
        • BT.2020 Color Space: BT.2020 or Rec. 2020 is a color standard which delivers a wider color gamut compared to Rec. 709. It covers approximately 75% of the total visual spectrum while the Rec. 709 covers only 35% (available on Denon AVR-S960H only).
        • HDCP Copy Protection: Denon AVR-S960H is HDCP 2.3 and Pioneer SC-1522-K is HDCP 2.2 compliant which is a requirement for 4K/HDR copy-protected content transmission.
        • 3D Ready: Both receivers are able to pass 3D video through HDMI.

        HDR (High Dynamic Range)

        Denon AVR-S960H supports HDR10, HDR10+, Dolby Vision, Dynamic HDR and Hybrid Log-Gamma.

        Pioneer SC-1522-K does not support HDR. High dynamic range video has greater dynamic range than standard dynamic range (SDR) video with brighter whites and deeper blacks. The result is greater contrast and more details in dark and bright areas, better color and depth.


        Enhanced Audio Return Channel (eARC)

        Denon AVR-S960H supports Audio Return Channel (ARC) which allows the compatible TV to send audio signal to the a/v receiver through the same HDMI cable which is used to send audio and video signals to the TV. So one HDMI cable is used to transfer audio signal in both directions. New Enhanced ARC will support uncompressed audio formats such as Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, Dolby TrueHD and DTS HD Master Audio whereas the previous ARC could support only Dolby Digital, Dolby Digital Plus, DTS, DTS HD, and PCM.


        Gaming Features

        Denon AVR-S960H supports Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM), Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) and Quick Frame Transport (QFT) for lag-free and smooth gaming.



        VIDEO FEATURES Denon AVR-S960H Pioneer SC-1522-K
        HDR10
        HDR10+
        Dynamic HDR
        BT.2020 color space
        Dolby Vision
        HLG (Hybrid Log Gamma)
        HDBaseT Compatible
        Enhanced Audio Return Channel (eARC)
        HDCP Version2.32.2
        QMS (Quick Media Switching)
        ALLM (Auto Low Latency Mode)
        VRR (Variable Refresh Rate)
        QFT (Quick Frame transport)
        3-D Ready
        Video Signal Passthroughup to 8K 50/60Hz and 4K 100/120Hz 4:4:4up to 1080p
        Video Signal Upscaling up to 8K 50/60Hz and 4K 50/60Hz 4:4:4 up to 1080/24p (Marvell Qdeo)

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        Denon AVR-S960H
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        10. Inputs and Outputs

        Audio

        • Phono Input: There is an MM phono input on Denon AVR-S960H with built-in phono stage for connecting the moving magnet cartridge output of the turntable directly to the receiver.
        • Analog Pre-Outs: Pioneer SC-1522-K has 11.2 preamplifier outputs which allows you to connect the receiver to the external power amplifier. You may want to use a high quality external amplifier for certain channels, usually for front L/R and center, and use the receiver to power the rest.
        • Analog Line Inputs and Outputs: There are 5 pair of line inputs on both receivers for connecting sources with analog outputs. There is also 1 pair of line outputs on Pioneer SC-1522-K.
        • Digital Inputs: 2 optical inputs are available on Denon AVR-S960H and 2 optical inputs, 1 optical output and 2 coaxial inputs are available on Pioneer SC-1522-K for digital audio connections.
        • Headphone Output: There is a 6.3 mm (1/4") headphone output jack on the front panel of each receiver.

        Video

        • HDMI:
        • Denon AVR-S960H
          Inputs:           6   Outputs: 2 x 8K (simultaneous)
          8K Inputs: 1.
        • Pioneer SC-1522-K
          Inputs:           8 (1 front)   Outputs: 2 (simultaneous)
          8K Inputs: 0.
        • Composite Video: Connect you VCR, Laserdisc player and other old video equipment with composite video cables.
        • Denon AVR-S960H
          Inputs:           2   Outputs: 1.
        • Pioneer SC-1522-K
          Inputs:           5   Outputs: 2.
        • Component Video: Component video connection gives you the higher quality video compared to the composite video connection. So in case your old DVD player and other equipment do not have an HDMI output but have Component video output use this connection over the composite one. resolution on Component video connectors.
        • Pioneer SC-1522-K supports up to 1080p (1125p) resolution on Component video connectors.
        • Denon AVR-S960H
          Inputs:           2   Outputs: 1.
        • Pioneer SC-1522-K
          Inputs:           2   Outputs: 1.

        Front A/V Inputs

        • Denon AVR-S960H: USB
        • Pioneer SC-1522-K: HDMI, USB, Composite Video

        Denon AVR-S960H

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        Pioneer SC-1522-K

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        TERMINALS Denon AVR-S960H Pioneer SC-1522-K
        HDMI Inputs68 (1 front)
        HDMI Outputs2 x 8K (simultaneous)2 (simultaneous)
        8K Inputs1
        USB Input1 Front for USB memory1 Front
        USB DC Out Port1 Rear for AS-WL300 (5 V, 0.6 A)
        Optical Inputs22
        Optical Outputs1
        Coaxial Inputs2
        RCA Line Inputs55
        RCA Line Outputs1
        XLR Line Inputs
        Phono Input
        Multi-Channel Input
        RCA Pre-Outs0.211.2
        XLR Pre-outs
        Composite Video Inputs25 (1 front)
        Composite Video Outputs12
        S-Video Inputs
        S-Video Outputs
        Component Video Inputs22
        Component Video Outputs11

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        Pioneer SC-1522-K
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        11. Evaluations

        We evaluated Denon AVR-S960H and Pioneer SC-1522-K and gave them scores of 88 and 79 out of 100 recpectively. We also gave separate scores for 7 different categories according to the available features and specifications some of which are listed below. These evaluations are relative and may change each time a new receiver is added to the database.


        Denon AVR-S960H

        Pioneer SC-1522-K

        OVERALL
        88
        OVERALL
        79

        Amplifier

        EXCELLENT
        87
        •   7.2 Channels
        •   Power Output - 90 W
        EXCELLENT
        94
        •   9.2 Channels
        •   High Power Output - 130 W
        •   THX™ Certification

        Audio Features

        EXCELLENT
        85
        •   7.2 Channels
        •   No Front Wide Channel Support
        •   7.1 Channel Processing
        •   Dolby Atmos
        •   Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization
        •   DTS:X
        •   No IMAX Enhanced
        •   No Auro 3D with Auro-Matic Upmixer
        •   No DSD via HDMI
        GOOD
        76
        •   9.2 Channels
        •   Front Wide Channel Support
        •   9.1 Channel Processing
        •   No Dolby Atmos
        •   No Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization
        •   No DTS:X
        •   No IMAX Enhanced
        •   No Auro 3D with Auro-Matic Upmixer
        •   DSD via HDMI

        Video Features

        EXCELLENT
        99
        •   HDR10
        •   HDR10+
        •   Dolby Vision
        •   HDMI 2.1
        •   Auto Low Latency Mode Pass-through
        •   VRR
        •   QFT
        •   8K Passthrough
        •   8K Upscaling
        POOR
        54
        •   No HDR10
        •   No HDR10+
        •   No Dolby Vision
        •   No 8K Passthrough
        •   Analog To HDMI Upconversion

        Connectivity

        EXCELLENT
        86
        •   eARC
        •   New HDCP Version
        •   Wi-Fi
        •   Bluetooth
        •   Works with Amazon Alexa
        •   Google Assistant
        •   HEOS
        •   6 HDMI Inputs
        •   2 HDMI Outputs
        •   1 8K Input
        •   USB Input
        •   RCA Line Inputs
        •   Phono Input
        •   No RCA Pre-Outs
        •   Composite Video Inputs
        •   Component Video Inputs
        •   Ethernet
        •   Bluetooth 4․2
        GOOD
        84
        •   No eARC
        •   New HDCP Version
        •   Wi-Fi
        •   Bluetooth
        •   Does not Work with Amazon Alexa
        •   8 HDMI Inputs
        •   2 HDMI Outputs
        •   0 8K Input
        •   USB Input
        •   RCA Line Inputs
        •   No Phono Input
        •   RCA Pre-Outs
        •   Composite Video Inputs
        •   Component Video Inputs
        •   Ethernet

        Zones

        GOOD
        77
        •   2 Zones
        EXCELLENT
        88
        •   3 Zones

        Radio

        EXCELLENT
        92
        •   Analog Tuner
        •   No Pandora
        •   Spotify
        •   Tidal
        EXCELLENT
        85
        •   Analog Tuner
        •   Pandora
        •   No Spotify
        •   No Tidal

        12. Specifications

        GENERAL Denon AVR-S960H Pioneer SC-1522-K
        BrandDenonPioneer
        ModelAVR-S960HSC-1522-K
        TypeA/V ReceiverA/V Receiver
        CountryUKUSA
        Release Year20202012
        PredecessorDenon AVR-S950H
        SuccessorDenon AVR-S970H Pioneer SC-1523-K
        AMPLIFIER Denon AVR-S960H Pioneer SC-1522-K
        Channels7.29.2
        Power Output90 W (8 Ω, 20 Hz - 20 kHz, 2 channel driven)130 W (8 Ω, 1 kHz, 2 channel driven)
        Front Wide Channel Support
        Amplifier DesignClass D3
        Discrete Amplification
        THX™ Certification Select™2 Plus
        Continuous 6 Ω Rated
        Certified 4 Ω Performance
        Mono Block Power Amplifier Construction
        Bi-amp Capability Front Channel
        AUDIO FEATURES Denon AVR-S960H Pioneer SC-1522-K
        Digital Signal Processing (DSP) EngineTexas Instruments Aureus x 2
        DACAKM
        DAC Specs192 kHz/32 Bit
        Maximum Channel Processing7.19.1
        D.D.S.C. HD Digital
        Alpha Processing
        Air Studios Monitor Certification
        Dolby Atmos up to 5.1.2
        Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization
        Dolby Atmos Music
        Dolby TrueHD
        Dolby Digital Plus
        Dolby Surround Upmixer
        Dolby Pro Logic PLIIz
        Dolby Digital EX
        Surround EX
        DTS:X up to 5.1.2
        DTS Neural:X
        DTS Virtual:X
        DTS Neo Neo:X
        DTS-HD Master Audio
        DTS-HD High Resolution Audio
        DTS 96/24
        DTS Express
        DTS-ES Discrete 6.1, Matrix 6.1 Discrete 6.1, Matrix 6.1
        IMAX Enhanced
        Auro 3D with Auro-Matic Upmixer
        PCM 2-ch/Multi-ch Input 2-ch/Multi-ch Input
        Network Audio FormatsMP3, WMA, MPEG-4 AAC, Apple Lossless, WAV, FLAC, DSDWAV, MP3, WMA, MPEG-4 AAC, FLAC
        Music Playback via USBMP3, WMA, MPEG-4 AAC, Apple Lossless, WAV, FLAC, DSDWAV, MP3, WMA, AAC, FLAC
        High Resolution Music Playback via USB and/or Network up to 192 kHz 88.2, 96, 176.4, 192 kHz/24 bit
        High Resolution Audio Formats via USBApple Lossless, WAV, FLAC, DSDWAV/FLAC
        Gapless Playback
        DSD via HDMI 2-ch/Multi-ch Input
        DSD via USB 2-ch Input
        DSD to PCM Converter
        USB DAC
        Jitter Reduction plus PQLS (HDMI Bitstream/ Multi)
        Auto Level ControlMulti-Channel
        DTS Dialogue Control
        Dialog Enhancement
        Dialog Level Adjustment
        Dialog normalization
        Dialogue Lift via Dialog Enhancement
        Sound Retriever Advanced (Multi-Channel / Auto with ARC)
        Sound Retriever AIR
        Digital noise Reduction
        Tone Control All Channels
        Compressed Music Enhancer Advanced Sound Retriever
        High-resolution Music Enhancer Hi-bit32 Audio Processing
        Digital Filter Slow Mode 192 kHz
        Audyssey Dynamic EQ
        Audyssey Dynamic Volume
        Audyssey LFC
        Audyssey Sub EQ HT
        Audyssey DSX
        Direct Mode
        Pure Direct Mode
        Auto Surround
        Optimum Surround
        Advanced Surround15+1 Modes
        Wide Surround
        Front Stage Surround Advance (Focus, Wide)
        Headphone Surround
        Virtual SpeakersSurround Back / Height / Depth / Wide
        Virtual Depth
        Independent Subwoofer Outputs
        CALIBRATION Denon AVR-S960H Pioneer SC-1522-K
        Auto Speaker Calibration System with Mic. Audyssey MultEQ Advanced MCACC
        Audyssey App Support
        Manual MCACC
        MCACC Memory6
        Phase Control
        Auto Phase Control Plus
        Full Band Phase Control
        Standing Wave Control
        EQ Bands9-Band
        Symmetric EQ
        X-Curve
        Distance Adjustment1/2 inch
        Precision Distance
        Polarity Check
        Auto Subwoofer Crossover
        PC Display
        Optimized Bass Redirection
        Bass Sync
        VIDEO FEATURES Denon AVR-S960H Pioneer SC-1522-K
        HDR10
        HDR10+
        Dynamic HDR
        BT.2020 color space
        Dolby Vision
        HLG (Hybrid Log Gamma)
        HDMI Version2.1
        HDBaseT Compatible
        Enhanced Audio Return Channel (eARC)
        HDCP Version2.32.2
        QMS (Quick Media Switching)
        ALLM (Auto Low Latency Mode)
        VRR (Variable Refresh Rate)
        QFT (Quick Frame transport)
        3-D Ready
        Video Signal Passthroughup to 8K 50/60Hz and 4K 100/120Hz 4:4:4up to 1080p
        Video Signal Upscaling up to 8K 50/60Hz and 4K 50/60Hz 4:4:4 up to 1080/24p (Marvell Qdeo)
        Analog To HDMI Upconversion Component****, Composite
        Component Video Upscaling
        Analog to Analog Video conversion
        Component Video Maximum Resolution1080p (1125p)
        Stream Smoother
        Pure Cinema
        Video Parameter AdjustmentsHD Sources Progressive Motion - YNR, CNR, BNR, MNR, Detail, Brightness, Contrast, Hue, Chroma, Black level
        Triple HD noise Reduction
        Super Resolution
        isf Certified Calibration Control
        CONNECTIVITY Denon AVR-S960H Pioneer SC-1522-K
        Wi-Fi via optional AS-WL300 adapter (sold separately)
        Bluetooth SBC via optional AS-BT100 or AS-BT200 adapters (sold separately)
        Bluetooth Headphone Transmission
        Works with Amazon Alexa
        Google Assistant
        Chromecast Built-In
        Apple Siri
        Works with SonoS
        HEOS
        DTS Play-Fi
        MHL Input 1 Front
        DLNA 1.5
        AirPlay AirPlay 2 AirPlay
        Apple Product Connection iPod, iPhone and iPad iPod, iPhone and iPad via front USB
        Remote App Denon 2016 AVR Remote App for iOS and Android devices and Kindle FireiControlAV2012
        InstaPrevue Input Source Prevue
        TERMINALS Denon AVR-S960H Pioneer SC-1522-K
        HDMI Inputs68 (1 front)
        HDMI Outputs2 x 8K (simultaneous)2 (simultaneous)
        8K Inputs1
        USB Input1 Front for USB memory1 Front
        USB DC Out Port1 Rear for AS-WL300 (5 V, 0.6 A)
        Optical Inputs22
        Optical Outputs1
        Coaxial Inputs2
        RCA Line Inputs55
        RCA Line Outputs1
        XLR Line Inputs
        Phono Input
        Multi-Channel Input
        RCA Pre-Outs0.211.2
        XLR Pre-outs
        Composite Video Inputs25 (1 front)
        Composite Video Outputs12
        S-Video Inputs
        S-Video Outputs
        Component Video Inputs22
        Component Video Outputs11
        Ethernet
        Ethernet Switch
        PC In
        Front A/V InputsUSBHDMI, USB, Composite Video
        Speaker A/B
        Headphone Out6.3 mm (1/4")6.3 mm (1/4")
        Detachable Power Cord
        adapterport
        ZONES Denon AVR-S960H Pioneer SC-1522-K
        Number of Zones23
        Powered Zones 2 2 and 3
        Zone 2 OutsComposite Video, RCA Pre/Line Out + Subwoofer
        Zone 3 OutsRCA Pre/Line Out
        RS-232C Interface
        +12V Trigger Output2 (Main, Zone2, Zone 3)
        Remote (IR) Input/Output0 / 02 / 1
        MISCELLANEOUS Denon AVR-S960H Pioneer SC-1522-K
        On-Screen Display Advanced Graphic User InterfaceGUI
        GUI Languages9
        Web Control
        Multi-Zone On-Screen DisplayZone 2 Text
        AV Navigator
        IP Control
        Control4 SDDP
        PreAmp Mode
        Versatile Speaker Configuration7 Mode (Bi-Amp / Zone 2 / B-Speaker / Surround Back / Front Height / Front Width
        Display 1 line
        FL Dimmer
        Function Rename
        Remote ControllerRC-1239learning remote control
        Pre-programmed / Learnable / LCD Display / /
        Denon Link HD
        Setup Assistant
        Quick Select plus / Quick Select /
        RADIO Denon AVR-S960H Pioneer SC-1522-K
        Analog Tuner FM/AM with RDS FM/AM
        Presets63
        Digital Radio
        Internet Radio TuneIn vTuner
        Pandora
        Spotify
        Tidal
        Deezer
        Napster
        SiriusXM
        CONSTRUCTION Denon AVR-S960H Pioneer SC-1522-K
        ChassisInsulated Dual Chassis
        Front Panelnot MetalBrushed Aluminum
        Solid Aluminum FrontAluminum Chassis
        ConstructionAdvanced Direct Construction
        Speaker Terminals711
        Large Speaker Terminals711
        Color-Coded Speaker Terminals
        Transparent High-Grade Speaker Terminals
        3D Space Frame Construction
        High Grade Audio Components
        Gold plated RCA terminals
        POWER Denon AVR-S960H Pioneer SC-1522-K
        Power SupplyAC 230 V, 50/60 HzAC 120 V, 60 Hz
        Low Leakage Flux Power Transformer
        Transformer Stabilizer
        Power Consumption460 W330 W
        No Sound PowerECO On/Off: 35 W/75 W
        Standby Power0.1 W0.1 W
        ECO Mode / Hybrid Standby Function
        Auto Power Standby
        Auto Power off
        PHYSICAL Denon AVR-S960H Pioneer SC-1522-K
        Dimensions (W x H x D)434 mm x 167 mm x 341 mm (with antenna: 434 mm x 237 mm x 341 mm)
        17 1/8" x 6 5/8" x 13 1/2" (with antenna: 17 1/8" x 9 3/8" x 13 1/2")        		435 mm x 185 mm x 441 mm
        17-1/8" x 7-1/4" x 17-3/8"
        Dimensions of Package (W x H x D)520 mm x 243 mm x 429 mm
        20.5" x 9.6" x 16.9"
        Weight9.5 kg (20 lbs 15 oz)15.1 kg (33.3 lbs)
        Weight of Package11.5 kg (25.4 lbs)
        SPECIFICATIONS Denon AVR-S960H Pioneer SC-1522-K
        Power Output (8 Ω, 20 Hz - 20 kHz, 2 channel driven, FTC)90 W (0.08% THD)
        Power Output (8 Ω, 1 kHz, 2 channel Driven, FTC)130 W (0.08% THD)
        Power Output (6 Ω, 1 kHz, 2 channel driven, FTC)125 W (0.7% THD)170 W (1.0% THD)
        Maximum Effective Power Output (6 Ω, 1 kHz, 1 channel driven, JEITA or IEC)185 W (10% THD)
        Rated Power Output (6 Ω, 1 kHz, 1 channel driven, IEC)145 W (1% THD)
        Power Output (4 Ω, 1 kHz, 2 channel Driven)210 W (1.0% THD)
        Multi Channel Simultaneous Drive720 W (8 Ω, 1 kHz, 1.0%)
        THD0.04% (1 kHz, 110 W + 110 W, 8 Ω)
        Phono Distortion0.03% (1 kHz, 3 V)
        Input Sensitivity and Impedance (Line)200 mV/47 kΩ380 mV/47 kΩ (Line)
        Input Sensitivity and Impedance (Phono MM)2.5 mV
        Rated Lineout Level and Impedance380 mV/2.2 kΩ (REC OUT)
        S/N Ratio (Line, IHF-A)100 dB101 dB
        S/N Ratio (Phono MM, IHF-A)74 dB
        Phono RIAA Deviation±1 dB (20-20 kHz)
        Frequency Response (Analog In)+1/-3 dB (10 Hz to 100 kHz, Direct mode)
        DSD Sampling Rates via HDMI2.8 MHz
        DSD Sampling Rates via USB5.6 MHz, 2.8 MHz
        Video Input Sensitivity/Output Level and Impedance 1 Vp-p/75 Ω (Component Y)
        0.7 Vp-p/75 Ω (Component PB/CB, PR/CR)
        1 Vp-p/75 Ω (Composite)        		1 Vp-p/75 Ω (Component Y)
        0.7 Vp-p/75 Ω (Component PB/CB, PR/CR)
        1 Vp-p/75 Ω (Composite)
        Video Frequency Response5 Hz to 10 MHz, 0 dB/-3 dB (Composite)
        5 Hz to 60 MHz, 0 dB/-3 dB (Component)
        Ethernet Standard100BASE-TX10BASE-T/100BASE-TX
        Wi-Fi StandardIEEE 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac
        Wi-Fi Terminal Frequency5 GHz, 2.4 GHz
        Bluetooth Version4․2
        Bluetooth Frequency2.4 GHz
        HDMI Terminal19-pin (not DVI)
        HDMI Output Type5 V, 55 mA
        HDMI Input/MHL Terminal5 V, 1 A
        USB TerminalUSB2.0 5V, 1 AUSB2.0 (Type A) 5 V, 2,1 A
        FM Frequency87.5 MHz - 108.0 MHz87.5 MHz - 108 MHz
        FM 50 dB Quiet Sensitivity (IHF, 1 kHz, 100% MOD.)Mono: 2.8 µV (20.2 dBf)
        FM Effective Sensitivity1.2 µV (12.8 dBf)
        FM S/N RatioMono/Stereo: 70 dB/67 dB
        FM Harmonic Distortion (IHF, 1 kHz)Mono/Stereo: 0.7%/1.0%
        AM Frequency522 kHz - 1611 kHz530 kHz - 1700 kHz
        AM Effective Sensitivity18 µV
        Warranty3 Years1 Year

        * - 480i/576i and 480p/576p only
        ** - 480i/576i only
        *** - no 1080p/24 upconversion
        **** - 1080p signal is not converted

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