1-on-1 Comparison

Side-by-Side Comparison

Denon AVR-X3800H

Onkyo TX-RZ50

SCORE:
91
SCORE:
93

Highlights

  • 9.4 channels
  • 11.4 channel processing
  • 105 W (8 Ω, 20 Hz - 20 kHz, 2 channel driven)
  • HDMI 2.1
  • Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, Auro 3D capable
  • HDR10, HDR10+, Dolby Vision, 8K Upscaling, 8K Passthrough
  • AirPlay 2, DLNA, HEOS
  • Ethernet, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth
  • USB and Phono inputs

Highlights

  • 9.2 channels
  • 11.2 channel processing
  • 120 W (8 Ω, 20 Hz - 20 kHz, 2 channel driven)
  • HDMI 2.1
  • THX Select™ certified
  • Dolby Atmos, DTS:X capable
  • HDR10, HDR10+, Dolby Vision, 8K Upscaling, 8K Passthrough
  • AirPlay 2, Chromecast
  • Ethernet, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth
  • USB and Phono inputs

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Content

Overview

Here we are comparing Denon AVR-X3800H to Onkyo TX-RZ50 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-X3800H has 9 channel and the Onkyo TX-RZ50 has 9 channel amplifiers with Denon AVR-X3800H's being less powerful.


Denon AVR-X3800H Onkyo TX-RZ50

Denon AVR-X3800H was introduced in 2022. It is equipped with 9 channel amplifier with 105 W (8 Ω, 20 Hz - 20 kHz, 2 channel driven) power per channel and is capable of 11.4 maximum channel processing. It supports Dolby Atmos, DTS:X and Auro-3D, passes 8K/60Hz and 4K/120Hz and upscales up to 8K 50/60Hz and 4K 100/120Hz 4:4:4 video signal.

Onkyo TX-RZ50 was introduced in 2021. It is equipped with 9 channel amplifier with 120 W (8 Ω, 20 Hz - 20 kHz, 2 channel driven) power per channel and is capable of 11.2 maximum channel processing. It supports Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, passes 8K/60Hz and 4K/120Hz and upscales 1080p to 4K/8K and 4K to 8K video signal.

We evaluated the a/v receiver and gave 91 overall score out of 100. Our ranking system is based on the amplifier specifications, audio and video features, connectivity, multizone capabilities, radio and many other details.

We evaluated the a/v receiver and gave 93 overall score out of 100. Our ranking system is based on the amplifier specifications, audio and video features, connectivity, multizone capabilities, radio and many other details.

AMPLIFIER
89
VIDEO FEATURES
100
AUDIO FEATURES
93
CONNECTIVITY
89
MULTIZONE
84
MISCELLANEOUS
75
RADIO
98
OVERALL
91

AMPLIFIER
93
VIDEO FEATURES
100
AUDIO FEATURES
91
CONNECTIVITY
91
MULTIZONE
91
MISCELLANEOUS
76
RADIO
92
OVERALL
93

Advantage of Denon AVR-X3800H

This section shows those features and specifications which are the reason to choose Denon AVR-X3800H over Onkyo TX-RZ50.

Denon AVR-X3800H has more channels and higher DAC specs. It supports Auro3D, Napster and SiriusXM.

Denon AVR-X3800H vs Onkyo TX-RZ50
More Channels 9.4 vs 9.2
Higher DAC Specs 384 kHz/32 Bit vs 192 kHz/24 Bit
Dolby Atmos Music vs
Dolby Digital EX vs
DTS Virtual:X vs
Auro 3D with Auro-Matic Upmixer Built-In vs
Audyssey Dynamic EQ vs
Audyssey Dynamic Volume vs
Audyssey LFC vs
Audyssey Sub EQ HT vs
Dynamic HDR vs
isf Certified Calibration Control vs
More HDMI Outputs 3 (2 x 8K for MAIN, 1 x 4K for ZONE2) vs 2 (1 Main, 1 Sub/Zone2)
More Optical Outputs vs
More Coaxial Inputs/Outputs 2 vs 1
Speaker A/B assignable vs
Remote (IR) Input/Output 1 / 1 vs 1 / 0
Napster vs
SiriusXM Internet Radio vs
Color-Coded Speaker Terminals vs
Wider AM Frequency Range 520 kHz - 1710 kHz vs 530 kHz - 1710 kHz

Advantage of Onkyo TX-RZ50

This section shows those features and specifications which are the reason to choose Onkyo TX-RZ50 over Denon AVR-X3800H.

Onkyo TX-RZ50 has more power per channel, more zones, bigger power supply, higher signal to noise ratio and higher DSD sampling rate via USB. It supports SONOS.

Denon AVR-X3800H vs Onkyo TX-RZ50
THX™ Certification vs Select™ (previously known as Select2)
Music Playback via USB MP3, WMA, MPEG-4 AAC, Apple Lossless, WAV, FLAC, DSD vs FLAC, WAV, Apple Lossless, WMA, MP3, DSD, AIFF, AAC, Dolby TrueHD
High Resolution Audio Formats via USB Apple Lossless, WAV, FLAC, DSD vs FLAC, WAV, Apple Lossless, DSD, AIFF, AAC, Dolby TrueHD
Jitter Reduction vs PLL (Phase Locked Loop) Jitter-Cleaning Circuit Technology for S/PDIF Audio
Chromecast Built-In vs
DTS Play-Fi vs via Onkyo Music Control app
Works with SONOS vs
More HDMI Inputs 6 vs 7 (1 front)
More 8K Inputs 6 vs 7
More RCA Line Inputs 5 vs 6
More Composite Video Inputs vs 2
More Component Video Inputs vs 1
Front A/V Inputs USB vs HDMI
More Zones 2 vs 3
More Powered Zones 2 vs 2 and 3
More GUI Languages 3 vs 7
Bigger Power Supply 660 W vs 850 W
Higher Power Output (8 Ω, 20 Hz - 20 kHz, 2 channel driven, FTC) 105 W (0.08% THD) vs 120 W (0.08% THD)
Higher Power Output (6 Ω, 1 kHz, 1 channel driven, JEITA) 215 W (10% THD) vs 250 W (10% THD)
Higher S/N Ratio (Line, IHF-A) 100 dB vs 106 dB
Higher S/N Ratio (Phono MM, IHF-A) 74 dB vs 80 dB
Higher DSD Sampling Rate via USB 5.6 MHz, 2.8 MHz vs 2.8 MHz, 5.6 MHz, 11.2 MHz

Common Strengths and Weaknesses

Here we list common strengths and weaknesses of both receivers.

STRENGTHS
  11.4 Channel Processing
  Dolby Atmos
  Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization
  DTS:X
  IMAX Enhanced
  DSD via HDMI
  Auto Speaker Calibration System with Mic.
  HDMI 2.1
  eARC
  New HDCP Version
  HDR10
  HDR10+
  Dolby Vision
  Auto Low Latency Mode Pass-through
  VRR
  QFT
  4K or 8K Video Passthrough
  4K or 8K Signal Upscaling
  Works with Amazon Alexa
  Google assistant
  Ethernet
  Wi-Fi
  Bluetooth
  Many 8K Inputs
  USB Input
  Many Optical Inputs
  RCA Pre-Outs
  Zones
  Analog Tuner
  Pandora
  Spotify
  Tidal
  New Bluetooth Version
WEAKNESSES
  No Front Wide Channel Support

Audio Section

Amplifier

Denon AVR-X3800H Onkyo TX-RZ50

9 channel Amplifier: Denon AVR-X3800H features 9 channel power amplifier. It is rated at 105 W (8 Ω, 20 Hz - 20 kHz, 2 channel driven) and is able to drive 4 ohm speakers.

9 channel Amplifier: Onkyo TX-RZ50 features 9 channel power amplifier. It is rated at 120 W (8 Ω, 20 Hz - 20 kHz, 2 channel driven) and is able to drive 4 ohm speakers.

  • Dynamic Audio Amplification: Onkyo TX-RZ50 features Dynamic Audio Amplification which is Onkyo’s amplification philosophy that focuses on capturing the energy and dynamism contained in the audio signal and reproducing it without loss. Audio signals are not static like a test tone, but rather a countless collection of constantly moving waves. While static measurements such as S/N ratio and Total Harmonic Distortion are important, Onkyo believes that excellent dynamic and transient response is the key to emotionally involving sound. Dynamism - the “life” in music - is achieved when the amp can respond to changes in the signal instantaneously, so notes start and stop naturally and the nuances in attack, decay, sustain, and release are voiced with conviction. Onkyo home theater receivers represent the culmination of almost 70 years’ experience in amplifier design. The unique elements of their amplification system comprise high-current, low-impedance architecture to accurately control large speaker cones while enabling instantaneous response to dynamic changes, and discrete wide-range amplifier circuit topology to eliminate phase shift for clear and accurate audio imaging.

THX Select™ (previously known as Select2) certification

Onkyo TX-RZ50 is THX Select™ (previously known as Select2) certified. This means that it is for medium sized rooms, up to 2,000 cubic feet in size, with a 10-12 foot viewing distance from the screen.

  • THX™ Certification: THX™ Certification offers optimal performance, superior quality and seamless integration. THX works with partners from the ground up, so that certified products deliver professional quality audio-visual experiences right out of the box. They only certify the very best products with uncompromised quality, performance and consistency. They ensure that THX certified devices play well with lower performing devices and components. THX listening modes make the receiver to have one speaker set up for movies, music and games. They are tested for power output, bass management, signal-to-noise ratio and feature THX Loudness Plus, Boundary Gain Compensation, Timbre Matching and RE-EQ.
  • Power Output: Power output is tested to ensure the receiver accurately plays source material at THX Reference Level in every input and mode and at every sampling rate for all possible playback combinations selected by the listener.
  • Frequency Response: THX has strict requirements for frequency response to ensure that you hear all the details in high-resolution tracks, ensures dialog in movies, and vocals in music are clear while maintaining deep, impactful bass output that doesn’t overpower the listening experience.
  • Signal-to-Noise Ratio: THX tests the signal-to-noise ratio to ensure the unit is designed to have low noise performance with very little to no audible hiss from the speakers.
  • Bass Management: THX requires an 80Hz crossover point in the setup menu to ensure proper bass management in every THX Certified AVR. This setting confirms that the subwoofer handles low frequencies, freeing up the loudspeakers to handle mids and highs.
  • THX Loudness Plus™: THX Loudness Plus™ is a volume control technology featured in THX Certified Dominus, THX Certified Ultra and THX Certified Select AV Receivers, and preamplifiers that automatically adjusts the front-to-back speaker level relationship as you turn the volume down. With THX Loudness Plus, home theater audiences can now experience the rich details of surround sound at any volume level.
  • Boundary Gain Compensation: Sitting near a wall may result in increased acoustic levels at the lower frequencies. BGC corrects the way low frequency sound is perceived when seated near a wall. This results in a more accurate bass response.
  • Timbre Matching: Your ears hear different tonal qualities in sounds coming from different directions. Timbre Matching restores the frequency balance between your front and surround speakers ensuring seamless and smooth panning between the front to back of the room.
  • RE-EQ: Many movie soundtracks are mixed in studios for playback in large cinema auditoriums with an array of speakers. When played on home systems, they may appear abrasive and edgy. Re-EQ establishes a more accurate tonal balance when enjoying movies in your home.

Speaker Configurations

Denon AVR-X3800H's and Onkyo TX-RZ50's amplifiers can be assigned for different speaker configurations.

  • Dolby Atmos Configurations: The following speaker configurations are supported for Dolby Atmos:
  • Denon AVR-X3800H: 5.4.2, 5.4.4, 7.4.2 with internal amplifier and 7.4.4 with addition of external 2 channel amplifier.
  • Onkyo TX-RZ50: 5.2.2, 5.2.4, 7.2.2 with internal amplifier and 7.2.4 with addition of external 2 channel amplifier.
  • DTS:X Configurations: The following speaker configurations are supported for DTS:X:
  • Denon AVR-X3800H: The speaker configurations for DTS:X are the same as for Dolby Atmos - 5.4.2, 5.4.4, 7.4.2 with internal amplifier and 7.4.4 with addition of external 2 channel amplifier.
  • Onkyo TX-RZ50: The speaker configurations for DTS:X are the same as for Dolby Atmos - 5.2.2, 5.2.4, 7.2.2 with internal amplifier and 7.2.4 with addition of external 2 channel amplifier.
  • Configurations without height channels: There are also other speaker configurations available which do not include height channels:
  • Denon AVR-X3800H: 5.4, 7.4 with internal amplifier.
  • Onkyo TX-RZ50: 5.2, 7.2 with internal amplifier.
  • 2-ch Bi-Amp: Both models are 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.

  • Dolby Atmos

    Denon AVR-X3800H and Onkyo TX-RZ50 support Dolby Atmos. It is a cinematic audio format in which sounds exist as individual entities, called audio objects. In Dolby Atmos, any sound can exist as an independent audio object, free of channel restrictions. They can be precisely placed and moved anywhere in your room, including overhead, to flow above and around you in three-dimensional space. Through the use of audio objects, overhead sound, and all the richness, clarity, and power of Dolby sound, Dolby Atmos turns your room into an amazing place for entertainment. The format supports up to 128 simultaneous independent audio objects in a mix for rich, realistic, and breathtaking sound. It recreates the director's original concept through descriptive metadata to provide customized playback for home theater and delivers sounds above you through overhead speakers, special upward-firing Dolby Atmos speakers, or a Dolby Atmos enabled sound bar.

    • Dolby Surround Upmixer: Both models support 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: Both models support 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-X3800H and Onkyo TX-RZ50 support DTS:X. A technique used in DTS:X is similar to the one used in Dolby Atmos. Instead of a fixed number of channels, DTS:X defines object locations from the listener in polar coordinates. An a/v receiver then dynamically renders sound according to the current speaker configuration. The speaker layout employed by DTS:X is the sum of Dolby Atmos and Auro-3D. It has standard 7.1 channel base layer, a 5 channel height layer above the base layer on the front and side walls, and 3 rows of speakers on the ceiling.

    • DTS Neural:X: Both models feature 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-X3800H 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.

    Auro-3D

    Denon AVR-X3800H supports Auro-3D. It is an immersive 3D audio format developed by the Belgium-based company Auro Technologies. It consists of three layers of sound - surround, height and overhead ceiling. The base horizontal layer uses 5.1 or 7.1 format, the height layer is on top of the base layer and its information is extracted from the standard 5.1 surround PCM carrier. The a/v receiver decoder then extracts this information during playback. In home cinema Auro-3D comes with different listening formats - Auro 9.1, Auro 10.1 with added Top Ceiling channel ("Voice of God"), Auro 11.1 with added Front Height Center channel, and Auro 13.1 with added Left Rear Surround & Right Rear Surround channel.

    • Auro-Matic upmixer: Auro-Matic upmixer takes non Auro-3D sound and upmixes to the current speaker configuration.

    Enhanced Audio Return Channel (eARC)

    Denon AVR-X3800H and Onkyo TX-RZ50 support Audio Return Channel (ARC) feature 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.



    Sound Processing

    • Audyssey: Denon AVR-X3800H comes with Audyssey Dynamic EQ, Dynamic Volume, LFC and Sub EQ HT.
    • Dynamic EQ: selects the best possible frequency response and surround volume levels moment-by-moment. This ensures that the bass response, tonal balance and surround impression remain constant despite changes in volume. This is the first technology that carefully combines information from incoming source levels with actual output sound levels in the room, a pre-requisite for delivering a dynamic volume solution.
    • Dynamic Volume: Your Listening experience can be greatly diminished when there are significant shifts in volume between television programs, commercials and within the program material itself. When this happens you must constantly adjust the volume to maintain your desired listening level. Audyssey Dynamic Volume monitors the volume of program material moment-by-moment and automatically adjusts it, maintaining the desired listening level for all content while optimizing the dynamic range to preserve impact.
    • LFC (Low Frequency Containment): While high frequencies are easily stopped by walls low frequencies pass right through. After identifying the frequency range that most readily passes through walls Audyssey developed a technique, called Audyssey LFC (Low Frequency Containment) that reduses the volume at those frequencies and applies psychoacoustic processing to restore the perception of low bass for listeners in the room. The result is no more angry neighbors and no loss of enjoyment for listeners.
    • Sub EQ HT: Placing two subwoofers in the room can cause problems, they can create standing waves or even cancel each other out resulting in even less bass than a single sub can produce. Audyssey Sub EQ HT allows two subwoofers to be properly used in a home theater system. The process is automated and takes only a few minutes. The result is rich, full bass for everyone in the room.
    • Compressed Music Enhancer: Denon AVR-X3800H and Onkyo TX-RZ50 feature Compressed Music Enhancer which enhances the quality of the music files with lossy compression.
    • Advanced Music Optimizer: Compressed music enhancement in Onkyo TX-RZ50 is done by Onkyo’s Advanced Music Optimizer. While MP3 or AAC files may sound fine through the headphones of your portable digital player, the limitations of these files can be exposed when played back through a quality home entertainment system. This is because a significant amount of high-frequency bit information is lost during the file-compression process. To counter this, Onkyo has designed the Advanced Music Optimizer to compensate for lost bit information and improve the quality of compressed audio signals. This results in a clearer and more expansive sound. Also included in this technology is a loudness correction feature that further improves the audio character of compressed files.

    Room Calibration

    Denon AVR-X3800H comes with Audyssey MultEQ XT32 and Dirac Live (upgrade) and Onkyo TX-RZ50 comes with Dirac Live™ and AccuEQ room correction system.

    • Audyssey Room Calibration: Audyssey is an acoustic measurement technology which automatically restores the acoustic distortion caused by the acoustic behaviour of a room with only a push on a button. Audyssey equalization provides an clear, accurate, natural sound with voices and dialog that become focused and intelligible, restoring the musical balance. Musical instruments and sound effects become precisely localized and the surround soundstage is made seamless and enveloping.
    • AccuEQ: First, AccuEQ detects the presence of speakers and evaluates the impedance of each. Next, it pinpoints their distance relative to the main listening position using the mic and sets suitable sound-pressure levels. Then it selects the optimal crossover frequency so that deeper bass rolls smoothly off to the subwoofer. Finally, AccuEQ performs frequency response equalization based on room-acoustic and speaker data collected via microphone. The sound-field is now tailored around the listening position, resulting in a more immersive and realistic in-film experience.
    • Dirac Live: The interaction between your sound system and the physical layout of your room has a huge impact on sound quality. Dirac Live™ Room Correction applies state-of-the-art, patented algorithms to analyze and digitally reduce room impact and enhance speaker performance. Dirac Live delivers a larger sweet spot, accurate staging, clarity, voice intelligibility, and a deeper, tighter bass not otherwise possible. Fully tunable to your preference.

Video Section

HDMI 2.1

Denon AVR-X3800H comes with 6 HDMI 2.1 inputs with 8K support. It has 3 outputs - 2 x 8K for MAIN and 1 x 4K for ZONE2.

Onkyo TX-RZ50 comes with 7 HDMI 2.1 inputs with 8K support. It has 2 outputs - 1 Main and 1 Sub/Zone2.

  • 8K/60Hz and 4K/120Hz Passthrough on Denon AVR-X3800H: All inputs pass up to 8K 50/60Hz and 4K 100/120Hz 4:4:4 video signal.
    8K/60Hz and 4K/120Hz Passthrough on Onkyo TX-RZ50: All inputs pass up to 8K/60p (RGB/YCbCr4:4:4) video signal.
  • 8K Upscaling: Both receivers can upscale up to 8K 50/60Hz and 4K 100/120Hz 4:4:4 from HDMI sources. Onkyo TX-RZ50 can also upscale from analog sources.
  • Analog To HDMI Upconversion: Onkyo TX-RZ50 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 both models).
  • HDCP 2.3 Copy Protection: Both receivers are HDCP 2.3 compliant which is a requirement for 4K/HDR copy-protected content transmission.
  • Quick Media Switching (QMS): With HDMI 2.1a, Quick Media Switching for movies and video uses the HDMI VRR mechanism to eliminate the blackout period when an HDMI Source device switches its video mode. As long as the resolution remains the same and only the frame rate changes, QMS will instantly switch between frame rates. QMS eliminates A/V blackouts by using VRR technology to change frame rates, allowing instant changes from 24Hz to 60Hz frame rate, and anywhere in-between. The viewer never sees blank screens and gets a seamless experience (available on both models).
  • 3D Ready: Both receivers are able to pass 3D video through HDMI.

HDR (High Dynamic Range)

Denon AVR-X3800H supports HDR10, HDR10+, Dolby Vision, Dynamic HDR and Hybrid Log-Gamma.

Onkyo TX-RZ50 supports HDR10, HDR10+, Dolby Vision and Hybrid Log-Gamma.

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.

  • HDR10: HDR10 uses the wide-gamut Rec. 2020 color space. It sends static metadata via video stream to the TV which calibrates its screen brightness and color according to that. HDR10 supports 10-bit color which corresponds to 1024 shades of the primary RGB colors. It is technically limited to a maximum of 10,000 nits peak brightness, however common HDR10 contents are mastered with peak brightness from 1,000 to 4,000 nits.
  • HDR10+: HDR10+ is an HDR video technology that adds dynamic metadata to HDR10 source files. The dynamic metadata are used to adjust brightness levels on a scene-by-scene or even frame-by-frame basis. HDR10+ supports maximum of 10,000 nits peak brightness and 10-bit or more (up to 16-bit) color bit depth. It uses Samsung's dynamic metadata defined in SMPTE ST 2094-40.
  • Dolby Vision: Dolby Vision is a set of technologies developed by Dolby Laboratories for high dynamic range (HDR) video. It covers content creation, distribution, and playback. Like HDR10+, it includes dynamic metadata that are used to adjust and optimize each frame of the HDR video to the consumer display's capabilities in a way specified by the content creator. Dolby Vision allows for a maximum resolution of 8K up to 12-bit color depth, maximum peak brightness of 10,000 nits and a color gamut up to Rec. 2020. It uses Dolby's proprietary dynamic metadata defined in SMPTE ST 2094-10.
  • Dynamic HDR: Dynamic HDR enables a noticeable progression in overall video image quality from SDR to static HDR, and now static HDR to dynamic HDR. Dynamic HDR support ensures every moment of a video is displayed at its ideal values for depth, detail, brightness, contrast, and wider color gamuts - on a scene-by-scene or even a frame-by-frame basis. HDR-enhanced content is available for movies, videos, TV shows, video and PC games and VR.
  • Hybrid Log-Gamma (HLG): The Hybrid Log-Gamma (HLG) is a transfer function developed mainly for HDR live video feed and over-the-air broadcasts. It is an HDR format that uses BT.2020 color primaries and a bitdepth of 10-bit. It is backward compatible with the transfer function of SDR and is designed to be better-suited for television broadcasting, where the metadata required for other HDR formats is not backward compatible with non-HDR displays. HLG defines a non-linear optical-electro transfer function, in which the lower half of the signal values use a gamma curve and the upper half of the signal values use a logarithmic curve.

IMAX Enhanced

Denon AVR-X3800H and Onkyo TX-RZ50 are IMAX Enhanced certified. To qualify for IMAX Enhanced certification, 4K HDR televisions, projectors, sound bars, a/v receivers, loudspeakers, powered subwoofers and other premium home entertainment devices must meet carefully prescribed performance requirements established by IMAX, DTS and Hollywood's leading experts.

  • What makes an IMAX Enhanced A/V receiver different from an A/V receiver with DTS:X technology? DTS:X technology is commonly found in most multi-channel A/V receivers on the market today. All IMAX Enhanced A/V receivers include DTS:X technology and deliver additional features, such as auto-sensing of IMAX Enhanced content, via IMAX Mode. IMAX Mode indicates that your A/V receiver supports fully immersive IMAX signature sound.
  • IMAX Enhanced Content: IMAX Enhanced studio partners have announced IMAX Enhanced versions of movies that exclusively feature IMAX's signature picture, sound and scale.
  • Picture: Stunning, ultra-vivid 4K HDR picture that utilizes the newest, proprietary Digital Media Remastering technology (DMR) developed by IMAX. DMR accurately reduces noise and grain under the filmmaker’s guidance to best optimize the content for a much higher-quality, higher-brightness display. Without this technology, high-dynamic range content can actually look worse than what was originally seen and intended by the filmmaker.
  • Sound: IMAX and DTS have partnered with award-winning Hollywood sound mixers leveraging DTS:X codec technology integrated in home audio equipment and select televisions to deliver an IMAX signature sound experience with deeper bass and more dynamic range.
  • Scale: Select IMAX Enhanced titles that were shot with IMAX-certified cameras or specially formatted for IMAX theatres feature its exclusive expanded aspect ratio, enabling viewers to see the full scale and scope of the picture on 4K HDR TVs.
  • Streaming Services: IMAX Enhanced is now available on the world’s biggest streaming services, including Disney+, BRAVIA CORE, Tencent, iQiyi and more.

Gaming Features

Both receivers support Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM), Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) and Quick Frame Transport (QFT) for lag-free and smooth gaming.

  • Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM): Auto Low Latency Mode enables the ideal latency setting to automatically be set allowing for smooth, lag-free and uninterrupted viewing and interactivity. When the receiver detects a gaming signal it will enter ALLM. The signal will also be sent to the TV causing it to automatically switch to a low-latency, low-lag mode for gaming. Some functions will not be available on the receiver and TV during ALLM.
  • Variable Refresh Rate (VRR): VRR enables a gaming source such as a console or computer to deliver video frames as fast as it can, which in many cases is slower than the normal static refresh rate. It allows the TV to adapt to certain frame rate which reduces or eliminates lag, judder and frame tearing for more fluid and better detailed gameplay.
  • Quick Frame Transport (QFT): QFT reduces latency for smoother no-lag gaming, and real-time interactive virtual reality. It transports each frame at a higher rate to decrease display latency, which is the amount of time between a frame being ready for transport in the GPU and that frame being completely displayed.

Inputs and Outputs

Audio

  • Analog Pre-Outs: Denon AVR-X3800H has 11.4 and Onkyo TX-RZ50 has 11.2 preamplifier outputs which allow you to connect the receivers to the external power amplifiers. 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. Also, both receivers have 11 channel processing but have only 9 channel amplifiers, so they need external amplifiers connected to the analog pre-outs in order to reach their maximum speaker configurations.
  • Analog Line Inputs: There are 5 pair of line inputs on Denon AVR-X3800H and 6 pair of line inputs on Onkyo TX-RZ50 for connecting sources with analog outputs.
  • Digital Inputs and Outputs: 1 optical input, 2 optical outputs and 2 coaxial inputs are available on Denon AVR-X3800H and 1 optical input, 1 optical output and 1 coaxial input are available on Onkyo TX-RZ50 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-X3800H
    Inputs:
    6   Outputs: 3 (2 x 8K for MAIN, 1 x 4K for ZONE2)
    8K Inputs: 6.
  • Onkyo TX-RZ50
    Inputs:
    7 (1 front)   Outputs: 2 (1 Main, 1 Sub/Zone2)
    8K Inputs: 7.
  • Composite Video: Connect you VCR, Laserdisc player and other old video equipment with composite video cables.
  • Denon AVR-X3800H
    Inputs:
    0   Outputs: 0.
  • Onkyo TX-RZ50
    Inputs:
    2   Outputs: 0.
  • 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.
  • Onkyo TX-RZ50 supports up to 480i/576i resolution on Component video connectors.
  • Denon AVR-X3800H
    Inputs:
    0   Outputs: 0.
  • Onkyo TX-RZ50
    Inputs:
    1   Outputs: 0.

Front A/V Inputs

  • Denon AVR-X3800H: USB
  • Onkyo TX-RZ50: HDMI

Denon AVR-X3800H

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Onkyo TX-RZ50

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Specifications

And in the end let us list all the available specifications of the receivers side-by-side.

BASICS Denon AVR-X3800H Onkyo TX-RZ50
BrandDenonOnkyo
ModelAVR-X3800HTX-RZ50
TypeA/V ReceiverA/V Receiver
CountryUSANorth America
Release Year20222021
AMPLIFIER Denon AVR-X3800H Onkyo TX-RZ50
Channels9.49.2
Front Wide Channel Support
Discrete Amplification
Dynamic Audio Amplification
Non-Phase Shift Amplifier Original 2-stage
VLSC (Vector Linear Shaping Circuitry) Front L/R Channels
THX™ Certification Select™ (previously known as Select2)
Continuous 6 Ω Rated
Certified 4 Ω Performance
Discrete Output Stage Circuitry
Mono Block Power Amplifier Construction
Independent Block Construction (Amp/Preprocessor)
Bi-amp Capability assignable
BTL (Bridged Transless or Bridging)
AUDIO Denon AVR-X3800H Onkyo TX-RZ50
Digital Signal Processing (DSP) Engine32-bit Digital Signal Processing Engines
DACAKM
DAC Specs384 kHz/32 Bit192 kHz/24 Bit
Maximum Channel Processing11.411.2
D.D.S.C. HD Digital
Alpha Processing
Air Studios Monitor Certification
Dolby Atmos up to 7.1.4
Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization
Dolby Atmos Music
Dolby TrueHD
Dolby Digital Plus
Dolby Surround Upmixer
Dolby Pro Logic
Dolby Digital EX
THX Listening Modes
Surround EX
DTS:X up to 7.1.4
DTS Neural:X
DTS Virtual:X
DTS Neo
DTS-HD Master Audio
DTS-HD High Resolution Audio
DTS 96/24
DTS Express
DTS-ES Discrete 6.1, Matrix 6.1
IMAX Enhanced
Auro 3D with Auro-Matic Upmixer Built-In
PCM 2-ch/Multi-ch Input 2-ch/Multi-ch Input
Music Playback via USBMP3, WMA, MPEG-4 AAC, Apple Lossless, WAV, FLAC, DSDFLAC, WAV, Apple Lossless, WMA, MP3, DSD, AIFF, AAC, Dolby TrueHD
High Resolution Music Playback via USB and/or Network up to 192 kHz up to 192 kHz
High Resolution Audio Formats via USBApple Lossless, WAV, FLAC, DSDFLAC, WAV, Apple Lossless, DSD, AIFF, AAC, Dolby TrueHD
Gapless Playback
DSD via HDMI 2-ch/Multi-ch Input 2-ch/Multi-ch Input
DSD via USB 2-ch Input 2-ch Input
DSD to PCM Converter
USB DAC
Jitter Reduction PLL (Phase Locked Loop) Jitter-Cleaning Circuit Technology for S/PDIF Audio
DTS Dialog Control
Dialog Enhancement
Dialog Level Adjustment
Dialog Normalization
Dialogue Lift
Tone Control All Channels
Compressed Music Enhancer Advanced Music Optimizer
High-resolution Music Enhancer
THX Processing Mode
Audyssey Dynamic EQ
Audyssey Dynamic Volume
Audyssey LFC
Audyssey Sub EQ HT
Audyssey DSX
Direct Mode
Pure Audio Mode
Pure Direct Mode
Virtual Speakers T-D (Theater-Dimensional)
Independent Subwoofer Outputs
CALIBRATION Denon AVR-X3800H Onkyo TX-RZ50
Auto Speaker Calibration System with Mic. Audyssey MultEQ XT32 and Dirac Live (upgrade) Dirac Live™ and AccuEQ Room Corrections
Audyssey App Support
Optimized Bass Redirection
Bass Sync
VIDEO Denon AVR-X3800H Onkyo TX-RZ50
HDMI Version2.12.1
Enhanced ARC
HDCP Version2.32.3
HDR10
HDR10+
Dynamic HDR
Dolby Vision
HLG (Hybrid Log Gamma)
BT.2020 color space
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 8K/60p (RGB/YCbCr4:4:4)
Video Signal Upscaling up to 8K 50/60Hz and 4K 100/120Hz 4:4:4 1080p to 4K/8K and 4K to 8K
Analog To HDMI Upconversion Component**, Composite
Component Video Upscaling
Analog to Analog Video conversion
Component Video Maximum Resolution480i/576i
isf Certified Calibration Control
CONNECTIVITY Denon AVR-X3800H Onkyo TX-RZ50
MHL Input
DLNA 1.5
FireConnect
FlareConnect
HEOS
Chromecast Built-In
DTS Play-Fi via Onkyo Music Control app
Works with Amazon Alexa
Google assistant
Apple Siri
Works with SONOS
AirPlay AirPlay 2 AirPlay 2
Apple Product Connection iPod, iPhone and iPad iPod, iPhone and iPad
Remote App Denon 2016 AVR Remote App for iOS and Android devices and Kindle FireOnkyo Controller and Music Control apps
InstaPrevue Input Source Prevue
Ethernet
Ethernet Switch
Wi-Fi
Bluetooth SBC SBC, AAC, aptX, aptX HD
Bluetooth Headphone Transmission
HDBaseT Compatible
HDMI Inputs67 (1 front)
HDMI Outputs3 (2 x 8K for MAIN, 1 x 4K for ZONE2)2 (1 Main, 1 Sub/Zone2)
8K Inputs67
USB Input1 Front for USB memory1 (Rear)
USB DC Out Port
RCA Line Input56
RCA Line Output
XLR Line Inputs
Phono Input
Optical Inputs21
Optical Outputs
Coaxial Inputs21
Composite Video Input2
Composite Video Output
S-Video Input
S-Video Output
Component Video Input1
Component Video Output
PC In
Multi-Channel Input
RCA Pre-Outs11.411.2 (barter to Zone 3 Pre/Line Out)
XLR Pre-outs
Front A/V InputsUSBHDMI
Speaker A/B assignable
Headphone Out6.3 mm (1/4")6.3 mm (1/4")
ZONES Denon AVR-X3800H Onkyo TX-RZ50
Zones23
Powered Zones 2 2 and 3
Zone 2 OutsHDMI, Pre OutHDMI, RCA Pre/Line Out (shared with Zone B Line out)
Zone 3 OutsRCA Pre/Line Out
Whole House Mode
RS-232C Interface
+12V Trigger Output11 (MAIN, 100 mA)
Remote (IR) Input/Output1 / 11 / 0
MISC Denon AVR-X3800H Onkyo TX-RZ50
On-Screen Display Advanced Graphic User Interface Graphical User Interface with Overlaid On-Screen Display (OSD) via HDMI
GUI Languages37
Web Browser Control
IP Control for CI
Control4 SDDP
PreAmp Mode
Display 1 line
Remote ControllerRC-1253
Pre-programmed / Learnable / LCD Display / /
Detachable Power Cord
Denon Link HD
Setup Assistant
Quick Select plus / Quick Select /
RADIO Denon AVR-X3800H Onkyo TX-RZ50
Analog Tuner FM/AM FM/AM
Presets40
Digital Radio
Internet Radio TuneIn TuneIn
Pandora
Spotify
Tidal
Deezer
Napster
SiriusXM Internet Radio
CONSTRUCTION Denon AVR-X3800H Onkyo TX-RZ50
Front Panelnot Metal
Solid Aluminum Front
Speaker Terminals1111
Large Speaker Terminals1111
Color-Coded Speaker Terminals
Transparent High-Grade Speaker Terminals
High Grade Audio Components
Gold plated RCA terminals
POWER Denon AVR-X3800H Onkyo TX-RZ50
Power SupplyAC 120 V, 60 HzAC 120 V, 60 Hz
H.C.P.S. (High Current Power Supply) Custom High-Current Low-Noise Power Transformer
Toroidal Transformer
Power Consumption660 W850 W
No Sound PowerECO On/Off: 60 W/100 W75 W
Standby Power0.1 W0.1 W
GENERAL Denon AVR-X3800H Onkyo TX-RZ50
ECO Mode / Hybrid Standby Function
Auto Power off
Dimensions (W x H x D)434 mm x 167 mm x 389 mm (with antenna: 434 mm x 236 mm x 389 mm)
17 1/8" x 6 5/8" x 15 3/8" (with antenna: 17 1/8" x 9 3/8" x 15 3/8")
435 mm x 201.5 mm x 398 mm
17-1/8" x 7-15/16" x 15-11/16"
Dimensions of Package (W x H x D)519 mm x 242 mm x 478 mm
21.2" x 10.1" x 19.0"
570 mm x 335 mm x 490 mm
22-7/16" x 13-3/16" x 19-5/16"
Weight12.5 kg (27.6 lbs)14 kg (30.9 lbs)
Weight of Package15.1 kg (33.3 lbs)17.0 kg (37.5 lbs)
Warranty3 Years3 Years
SPECS Denon AVR-X3800H Onkyo TX-RZ50
Power Output (8 Ω, 20 Hz - 20 kHz, 2105 W (0.08% THD)120 W (0.08% THD)
Power Output (6 Ω, 1 kHz, 2135 W (0.7% THD)
Maximum Effective Power Output (6 Ω, 1 kHz, 1 channel driven, JEITA)215 W (10% THD)250 W (10% THD)
Rated Power Output (6 Ω, 1 kHz, 1 channel driven, IEC)180 W (1% THD)
Dynamic Power per Channel (3 Ω, Front)250 W
Dynamic Power per Channel (4 Ω, Front)220 W
Dynamic Power per Channel (8 Ω, Front)130 W
THD0.08% (20 Hz - 20 kHz, Half power)
THD digital0.008% (1 kHz, at 0 dB)
Analog Distortion0.008% (20 Hz-20 kHz, Direct mode)
Phono Distortion0.03% (1 kHz, 3 V)
Input Sensitivity and Impedance (Line)200 mV/47 kΩ200 mV/47 kΩ
Input Sensitivity and Impedance (Phono MM)3.5 mV/47 kΩ
Rated Preout Level and Impedance1 V/470 Ω
Rated Lineout Level and Impedance1.2 V
Rated Output digital2 V (at 0 dB playback)
Rated Headphone Power Output85 mW (32 Ω, 1 kHz, 10% THD)
Phono Overload70 mV (MM, 1 kHz 0.5%)
S/N Ratio (Line, IHF-A)100 dB106 dB
S/N Ratio (Phono MM, IHF-A)74 dB80 dB
S/N Ratio (digital)102 dB
Dynamic Range (digital)100 dB
Phono RIAA Deviation±1 dB (20 Hz to 20 kHz)
Frequency Response (Analog In)+1/-3 dB (10 Hz to 100 kHz, Direct mode)5 Hz - 100 kHz/+1 dB, -3 dB (Direct/Pure Audio)
DSD Sampling Rates via HDMI2.8 MHz2.8 MHz
DSD Sampling Rates via USB5.6 MHz, 2.8 MHz2.8 MHz, 5.6 MHz, 11.2 MHz
Video Input Sensitivity/Output Level and Impedance1 Vp-p/75 Ω (Component Y)
0.7 Vp-p/75 Ω (Component PB/CB, PR/CR)
1 Vp-p/75 Ω (Composite)
Ethernet Standard100BASE-TX10BASE-T/100BASE-TX
Wi-Fi StandardIEEE 802.11 a/b/g/n/acIEEE 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac
Wi-Fi Terminal Frequency5 GHz, 2.4 GHz5 GHz, 2.4 GHz
Bluetooth Version4․24․2
Bluetooth Frequency2.4 GHz2.4 GHz
USB TerminalUSB2.0 5V, 1 AVer. 2.0, 5 V, 1 A
FM Frequency87.5 MHz - 107.9 MHz87.5 MHz - 107.9 MHz
FM 50 dB Quiet Sensitivity (IHF, 1 kHz, 100% MOD.)Mono: 2.8 µV (20.2 dBf)Mono: 1.0 µV (11.2 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 Frequency520 kHz - 1710 kHz530 kHz - 1710 kHz
AM Effective Sensitivity18 µV

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

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