Denon AVR-X2800H vs AVR-X2700H: A Detailed Comparison

If you’re building or upgrading your home theater system, chances are Denon receivers have caught your eye—especially the popular AVR-X2700H and its newer sibling, the AVR-X2800H. Both are packed with features like 8K video support, Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, wireless music streaming via HEOS, and even gaming-friendly specs like 4K/120Hz pass-through. In this report, we’ll break down the real differences—performance, connectivity, ease of use, and gaming features—so you can decide which one fits your setup and budget better.

Denon AVR-X2800H

The Denon AVR-X2800H is a powerful and feature-rich 7.2 channel AV receiver that delivers an impressive home theater experience, especially for users with an 8K setup. With support for Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, and a variety of advanced video formats like HDR10+ and Dolby Vision, this receiver offers immersive audio and crystal-clear visuals. Setting it up is straightforward thanks to the intuitive HD GUI Setup Assistant and the Audyssey Room Correction Suite, which calibrates your speakers for optimal performance. Whether you’re upgrading your current system or diving into surround sound for the first time, the AVR-X2800H provides excellent value with its broad compatibility, solid build quality, and rich connectivity options—including support for HEOS wireless streaming, AirPlay2, Bluetooth, and Wi-Fi.

In real-world use, the receiver impresses with its sound clarity, 3D audio depth, and ability to handle high-res formats effortlessly. The flexibility in speaker configurations (from 2.1 to 7.2 setups) and the inclusion of three 8K-compatible HDMI inputs make it future-proof for high-end video and gaming. However, not all is perfect—some users have encountered issues with Bluetooth connectivity and HDMI ARC functionality.

Key Features, Pros, and Cons

Key Features

• 7.2-channel configuration with Dolby Atmos and DTS:X
• 95W per channel power output
• 8K/60Hz and 4K/120Hz pass-through with 3 HDMI 2.1 inputs
• Built-in HEOS for wireless multi-room streaming
• Audyssey Room Correction Suite for automatic speaker calibration

Pros

• Excellent 3D audio and video quality
• Simple setup with user-friendly interface
• Versatile streaming via Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and AirPlay2
• Robust build and premium design
• Compatible with major smart home platforms

Cons

• Slightly complex for beginners without prior AV experience

Denon AVR-X2700H

The Denon AVR-X2700H is a well-rounded 7.2 channel AV receiver that strikes a strong balance between home theater performance and next-gen gaming features. Delivering 95 watts per channel, it supports Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, and even IMAX Enhanced, making it a great choice for immersive 3D audio setups. The unit is future-proofed with 8K/60Hz and 4K/120Hz pass-through (though not from all sources), and gamers will appreciate features like Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) and Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM). Setup is smooth and beginner-friendly thanks to Denon’s award-winning Setup Assistant and Audyssey MultEQ room calibration. With seven HDMI inputs (including one dedicated for 8K), full HDR format support, and eARC, this receiver is equipped for both high-end video and audio delivery.

In daily use, the AVR-X2700H performs exceptionally well, with crisp surround sound and reliable wireless streaming via HEOS, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and AirPlay2. It integrates seamlessly with smart homes through Alexa, Google Assistant, and Siri. Users particularly praise the intuitive setup process and compatibility with various TVs, including QLEDs. However, it’s not without flaws—some report HDMI-related issues, especially around the 4K/120Hz HDR passthrough, which can limit its appeal for hardcore gamers expecting flawless support.

Key Features, Pros, and Cons

Key Features

• 7.2-channel 95W per channel AV receiver with Dolby Atmos and DTS:X
• 8K/60Hz and 4K/120Hz video pass-through and upscaling
• Advanced HDMI section (7 in/3 out) with full HDR format support
• HEOS Built-in for multi-room wireless music streaming
• Voice control with Alexa, Siri, Google Assistant, and Josh.ai

Pros

• Excellent 3D surround sound with Dolby and DTS support
• Gamer-friendly features like VRR, QFT, and ALLM
• Easy and guided setup via Denon Setup Assistant
• Strong streaming and wireless connectivity options
• Smart home integration with major voice assistants

Cons

• Inconsistent HDMI performance with 4K/120Hz HDR sources

Denon AVR-X2800H vs AVR-X2700H: Detailed Comparison

The AVR-X2800H is the newer iteration of the AVR-X2700H, and while both are 7.2 channel AV receivers offering 95W per channel, the X2800H brings a few evolutionary upgrades. At their core, both support immersive 3D audio formats like Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, offer 8K compatibility, and provide gamers with 4K/120Hz pass-through and low-latency modes.

Where the X2800H shines is in connectivity refinements and improved setup experience. It adds a more polished on-screen interface, slightly upgraded HDMI architecture, and better speaker calibration with Audyssey features.

Key Specifications Comparison

Feature	Denon AVR-X2700H	Denon AVR-X2800H
Amplifier Power	95W x 7	95W x 7
HDMI Inputs/Outputs	6 in / 2 out (1x 8K input)	6 in / 2 out (3x 8K inputs)
Video Pass-through	8K/60Hz, 4K/120Hz*	8K/60Hz, 4K/120Hz
3D Audio Support	Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, Virtual:X	Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, Virtual:X
Gaming Features	VRR, QFT, ALLM	VRR, QFT, ALLM
Wireless Streaming	HEOS, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, AirPlay2	HEOS, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, AirPlay2
Room Calibration	Audyssey MultEQ XT	Audyssey MultEQ XT (with newer GUI)
Voice Control	Alexa, Google Assistant, Siri, Josh.ai	Alexa, Google Assistant, Siri

*X2700H does not support 4K/120Hz passthrough from all sources due to early HDMI chipset limitations.

Audio & Video Performance

In terms of audio quality, both receivers are very similar. With discrete high-current amplifiers and the same power output, you’ll get equally strong and clear sound whether you’re watching movies or listening to music. Both support Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization and DTS Virtual:X, offering an overhead sound experience without physical height speakers.

However, when it comes to video performance, the AVR-X2800H has the upper hand. It supports three 8K HDMI inputs, compared to only one on the X2700H. This gives it more future-proof flexibility for connecting multiple next-gen gaming consoles or streaming devices. The X2800H also comes with a smoother and updated on-screen setup interface, which feels more modern and responsive.

Gaming Capabilities

Both models are positioned as gaming-friendly receivers, featuring 4K/120Hz pass-through, VRR, ALLM, and QFT, which reduce lag and frame tearing. However, early batches of the X2700H suffered from a known HDMI 2.1 chipset issue that limited full 4K/120Hz support from certain sources (like NVIDIA RTX 30 series or Xbox Series X). This was later patched with external adapters, but it’s not ideal. The X2800H doesn’t have this issue, making it a safer bet for gamers who want out-of-the-box compatibility.

Streaming & Smart Features

Both units come with HEOS Built-in, allowing for wireless multi-room audio with Denon speakers, and support major streaming platforms like Spotify, TIDAL, and Pandora. Voice control is seamless on both, with support for Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple Siri.

Setup Experience

While both units feature Denon’s Setup Assistant and Audyssey MultEQ XT, the X2800H offers a more modern, user-friendly interface that simplifies installation. The on-screen graphics are cleaner, and adjustments feel quicker and more intuitive. This makes the X2800H slightly more appealing for first-time users or those setting up more complex systems.

FAQ

Is the Denon AVR-X2800H worth the upgrade over the X2700H?

If you plan to connect multiple 8K or 4K/120Hz devices—like a gaming console, streaming box, and a Blu-ray player—the X2800H is definitely worth the upgrade. It offers three 8K HDMI inputs versus only one on the X2700H, and it resolves the known HDMI chipset issues that affected early X2700H units. It also has a cleaner on-screen setup interface, making it more user-friendly for beginners.

Do both models support Dolby Atmos and DTS:X?

Yes, both the AVR-X2700H and AVR-X2800H support Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, and virtual height processing technologies like Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization and DTS Virtual:X. You can enjoy immersive 3D audio experiences with either receiver, whether you have height speakers or not.

Can I use either receiver with voice assistants like Alexa or Siri?

Absolutely. Both models support Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, Apple Siri, and Josh.ai. This lets you control volume, switch inputs, or even start streaming music using just your voice—hands-free. The integration works well and adds an extra layer of convenience to your setup.

What are the main HDMI differences between the two?

The AVR-X2700H has six HDMI inputs, with only one supporting 8K/60Hz or 4K/120Hz. In contrast, the AVR-X2800H comes with three HDMI inputs that support those formats, making it much more future-proof for users with multiple high-end devices. The X2800H also avoids the HDMI 2.1 chipset issue that plagued the X2700H.

Which one is better for gaming?

While both support gaming features like VRR, QFT, and ALLM, the AVR-X2800H is more reliable out of the box, especially with newer gaming consoles or GPUs that output 4K/120Hz. The X2700H may still require a workaround (like a firmware update or HDMI adapter) to handle those signals properly, depending on the source device.

Final Verdict

The Denon AVR-X2800H is a thoughtful refinement of the X2700H, not a radical departure. If you’re starting fresh and want the most seamless experience, it’s worth the extra cost. However, the X2700H still holds up well, especially for those who primarily focus on audio performance and can live with minor HDMI limitations.

• Choose the AVR-X2800H if:
  • You plan to use multiple 8K or 4K/120Hz devices.
  • You want a smoother, more modern setup and UI experience.
  • You are a gamer needing reliable HDMI 2.1 compatibility.
  • You’re building a future-proof system.
• Choose the AVR-X2700H if:
  • You want similar audio performance at a potentially lower price.
  • You don’t need more than one 8K input.
  • You’re willing to work around some HDMI limitations.