Onkyo TX-RZ50 vs. Denon AVR-X3800H: A Comparison

When it comes to creating the ultimate home theater experience, selecting the right AV receiver is crucial. Two of the top contenders in the high-end AV receiver market are the Onkyo TX-RZ50 and the Denon AVR-X3800H. Both of these premium receivers offer advanced audio and video features that will elevate your home entertainment setup. From immersive 3D audio to 8K video support, these models provide exceptional performance for movies, music, and gaming. In this comparison, we’ll break down the key features, pros, and cons of each receiver to help you make an informed decision based on your specific needs and preferences.

Onkyo TX-RZ50 9.2-Channel AV Receiver

The Onkyo TX-RZ50 9.2-Channel AV Receiver is an outstanding choice for home theater enthusiasts seeking premium performance and flexibility. With up to 11.2 channels of processing power and THX certification, this receiver ensures an immersive audio experience. The Dirac Live® Room Correction feature automatically adjusts the sound to your room’s acoustics, optimizing audio quality for movies, music, and gaming. The TX-RZ50 also excels in video performance, offering support for 4K/120Hz, Dolby Vision, and HDMI 2.1 with 8K compatibility, making it ideal for next-gen gaming and UHD content. Furthermore, its compatibility with Sonos allows seamless integration with existing home sound systems, providing additional versatility.

On the downside, while the TX-RZ50 delivers exceptional audio and video performance, some users have reported mixed experiences with the setup process. The user interface can feel unintuitive to those unfamiliar with advanced AV receivers, and certain features might require additional troubleshooting for optimal performance.

Key Features, Pros, and Cons

Key Features:

1. Dirac Live® Room Correction for optimized sound quality.
2. 11.2 channels of processing with support for 7.2.4 layouts.
3. THX Certified for pristine audio fidelity.
4. 4K/120Hz and 8K video support with HDMI 2.1.
5. Works with Sonos for seamless integration into home sound systems.

Pros:

1. Exceptional sound quality with wide dynamic range and clarity.
2. Easy integration with Sonos systems for multi-room audio.
3. Excellent video performance, supporting 8K and next-gen gaming consoles.
4. Support for Dolby Atmos and DTS:X for an immersive experience.
5. Advanced Dirac Live® Room Correction improves acoustic accuracy.

Cons:

1. Requires additional equipment (e.g., USB mic) for full Dirac Live® calibration.

Denon AVR-X3800H 9.4-Ch Receiver

The Denon AVR-X3800H 9.4-Ch Receiver offers an impressive blend of cutting-edge audio and video technologies, designed to elevate the home theater experience. With support for 8K video pass-through, HDR10+, Dolby Vision, and Dynamic HDR, it ensures stunning visual clarity, while its robust audio capabilities, including Dolby Atmos, DTS:X Pro, IMAX Enhanced, and Auro 3D, create an immersive 3D sound environment. The receiver’s 9.4-channel configuration and 105W per channel amplification provide ample power for even large home theater setups, and its support for multiple subwoofers offers advanced bass management. Furthermore, it supports a wide variety of streaming options, from built-in HEOS to Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, making it easy to extend audio throughout the home.

Despite its exceptional features, the Denon AVR-X3800H is not without its drawbacks. Some users have reported issues with Bluetooth connectivity, with functionality that may not always work as expected. Additionally, while the HDMI 2.1 inputs are praised for their 8K and 4K/120Hz support, some users found them to be less reliable in certain setups.

Key Features, Pros, and Cons

Key Features:

1. 8K/60Hz pass-through and support for HDR10+, Dolby Vision, and Dynamic HDR.
2. Dolby Atmos, DTS:X Pro, IMAX Enhanced, and Auro 3D for immersive audio.
3. 9 HDMI 2.1 ports (6 In/3 Out) supporting 8K/4K/120Hz.
4. Built-in HEOS, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth for multi-room streaming.
5. 11.4 channel processing with Pre-Amplifier mode for system expandability.

Pros:

1. Excellent audio quality with advanced 3D audio technologies.
2. Seamless integration with the latest video formats for high-quality visuals.
3. Powerful amplification with 105W per channel, ideal for large setups.
4. Intuitive setup with the HD GUI and Audyssey Room Correction Suite.
5. Multi-room audio streaming through HEOS and support for popular streaming services.

Cons:

1. Bluetooth functionality can be unreliable for some users.

Comparison Between Onkyo TX-RZ50 and Denon AVR-X3800H

When it comes to high-end AV receivers for home theater systems, both the Onkyo TX-RZ50 and Denon AVR-X3800H stand out with impressive features, advanced sound technologies, and premium build quality. However, these two models cater to different preferences in terms of audio performance, video support, setup ease, and connectivity.

Audio Performance and Features

Both receivers offer excellent audio capabilities, but their approach to sound differs slightly.

• Onkyo TX-RZ50: This receiver supports 9.2-channel surround sound and features Dirac Live® Room Correction for a highly tailored sound experience. With Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, it brings immersive 3D audio to your living room. The TX-RZ50 also integrates Klipsch Optimize Mode, making it a great choice for those who own Klipsch speakers, as it automatically applies the right crossover values for optimal performance.
• Denon AVR-X3800H: The Denon receiver also provides 9.4 channels of sound with support for Dolby Atmos, DTS:X Pro, IMAX Enhanced, and Auro 3D, delivering a truly immersive audio experience. It goes further by including Dolby Height Virtualization and DTS Virtual:X, allowing users to simulate height effects even in systems that lack height speakers. Additionally, the AVR-X3800H supports the DTS Neural:X upmixer, enhancing legacy content with 3D audio.

Audio Features	Onkyo TX-RZ50	Denon AVR-X3800H
Audio Channels	9.2	9.4
Supported Audio Formats	Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, Dirac Live®	Dolby Atmos, DTS:X Pro, Auro 3D, IMAX Enhanced
Special Audio Features	Klipsch Optimize Mode, Dirac Live® Room Correction	Dolby Height Virtualization, DTS Virtual:X

Video Support and Connectivity

In terms of video performance, both receivers support high-quality visuals, but the Denon AVR-X3800H excels slightly in this area due to its advanced video features.

• Onkyo TX-RZ50: The TX-RZ50 offers support for 4K/120Hz, 8K, and HDR10+ with HDMI 2.1. This makes it a solid choice for gamers and home theater enthusiasts who want to take advantage of the latest in video technology, especially with next-gen gaming consoles. It also supports HDMI eARC, allowing high-quality audio to pass seamlessly from your TV back to the receiver.
• Denon AVR-X3800H: The AVR-X3800H also supports 8K/60Hz, 4K/120Hz, and HDR10+, but it adds an extra layer with Dynamic HDR and Dolby Vision pass-through. With HDCP 2.3 and eARC support, it guarantees top-tier video quality for modern setups. Additionally, its VRR, ALLM, and QFT features ensure a smoother gaming experience with lag-free visuals.

Video Features	Onkyo TX-RZ50	Denon AVR-X3800H
Supported Resolutions	8K, 4K/120Hz, HDR10+, Dolby Vision	8K/60Hz, 4K/120Hz, Dolby Vision, Dynamic HDR
HDMI Ports	8 HDMI Ports (1 Out, 7 In)	9 HDMI Ports (3 Out, 6 In)
Additional Video Features	HDMI 2.1, eARC	VRR, ALLM, QFT, Dynamic HDR, eARC

Connectivity and Streaming

Both models offer versatile connectivity options, but they cater to different preferences when it comes to streaming and multi-room audio.

• Onkyo TX-RZ50: This receiver offers Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity, along with support for streaming services like Spotify, TIDAL, and Pandora. Additionally, it integrates with Sonos systems, allowing you to extend your audio experience throughout the home. The Dirac Live® Room Correction is another highlight for precise audio calibration.
• Denon AVR-X3800H: The Denon receiver also supports Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, but its standout feature is HEOS multi-room audio. HEOS allows seamless streaming across multiple rooms, compatible with services like Spotify, Pandora, and TIDAL. The inclusion of AirPlay 2 and support for voice assistants make it an ideal choice for users seeking smart home integration.

Connectivity	Onkyo TX-RZ50	Denon AVR-X3800H
Streaming Support	Spotify, TIDAL, Pandora, Deezer	Spotify, TIDAL, Pandora, AirPlay 2, HEOS
Multi-room Audio	Works with Sonos	HEOS Multi-room Audio
Bluetooth & Wi-Fi	Yes, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi	Yes, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi

Setup and Ease of Use

Both receivers offer user-friendly setup options, but there are some key differences in their approach to helping you get your system up and running.

• Onkyo TX-RZ50: Onkyo’s Dirac Live® Room Correction does an excellent job of optimizing the sound for your space. Additionally, the receiver includes a wired mic for room calibration, ensuring a high-quality, personalized listening experience. The setup process may require a bit of patience, as Dirac Live® requires external software (PC or MacOS) for the most accurate tuning.
• Denon AVR-X3800H: Denon makes setup easy with its on-screen HD GUI and the Audyssey Room Correction Suite. The GUI provides intuitive step-by-step instructions for connecting devices, while Audyssey ensures the system is calibrated for optimal sound. The process is seamless, and users have praised the easy-to-follow interface.

Setup & Calibration	Onkyo TX-RZ50	Denon AVR-X3800H
Room Calibration	Dirac Live® Room Correction	Audyssey Room Correction
Setup Assistance	Requires external software for Dirac Live®	HD GUI Setup Assistant, intuitive

FAQ

What is the difference in audio performance between the Onkyo TX-RZ50 and Denon AVR-X3800H?

Both the Onkyo TX-RZ50 and Denon AVR-X3800H offer impressive audio performance, but they differ in certain features. The Onkyo TX-RZ50 supports Dirac Live® Room Correction, which customizes the sound for your room’s acoustics, providing highly precise calibration. It also integrates Klipsch Optimize Mode for users with Klipsch speakers. On the other hand, the Denon AVR-X3800H features Dolby Height Virtualization and DTS Virtual:X, creating virtual overhead sound without the need for additional height speakers. The Denon receiver also supports DTS:X Pro and Auro 3D, which further enhances immersive sound experiences.

How do the video capabilities of the Onkyo TX-RZ50 and Denon AVR-X3800H compare?

Both receivers excel in video performance, but the Denon AVR-X3800H offers more advanced video features. It supports 8K/60Hz, 4K/120Hz, and Dynamic HDR, along with features like VRR, ALLM, and QFT for smoother gaming experiences. The Onkyo TX-RZ50 also supports 4K/120Hz and 8K, but lacks the additional gaming-oriented features provided by the Denon receiver. Both models offer HDR10+, Dolby Vision, and eARC, but if gaming is a priority, the Denon AVR-X3800H is better equipped.

Which receiver is better for multi-room audio?

When it comes to multi-room audio, the Onkyo TX-RZ50 offers compatibility with Sonos, allowing users to expand their home sound system with ease. However, the Denon AVR-X3800H shines with its HEOS multi-room streaming technology, which offers seamless integration with various music streaming services like Spotify and TIDAL. HEOS supports synchronization across multiple rooms, giving users the flexibility to enjoy music throughout the home. While both receivers offer multi-room options, Denon’s HEOS is generally considered more versatile for home audio systems.

Is the setup process easy for both receivers?

Both receivers offer straightforward setup processes, though they use different methods. The Onkyo TX-RZ50 relies on Dirac Live® Room Correction and requires a wired mic or PC/MacOS software for calibration, which may require more technical know-how for optimal results. On the other hand, the Denon AVR-X3800H features an on-screen HD GUI and the Audyssey Room Correction Suite, providing an intuitive and user-friendly setup experience. The Denon system is generally considered easier to set up, especially for users new to AV receivers.

Are these receivers good for gaming?

Both receivers are great for gaming, but the Denon AVR-X3800H has a slight edge in this area due to its support for VRR, ALLM, and QFT, which are specifically designed to enhance the gaming experience by reducing lag and providing smoother graphics. Additionally, the 4K/120Hz and 8K video pass-through in both models will support next-gen consoles like the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X. The Onkyo TX-RZ50 also supports 4K/120Hz but lacks the specialized gaming features offered by Denon, making the Denon receiver the better choice for gamers.

Final Verdict

Both the Onkyo TX-RZ50 and the Denon AVR-X3800H are fantastic choices for any home theater enthusiast, offering premium performance, 3D audio support, and the latest video features. However, if you prioritize advanced audio calibration and Sonos integration, the Onkyo TX-RZ50 may be the better choice. On the other hand, if you’re looking for an all-around system with excellent video capabilities, seamless setup, and multi-room streaming via HEOS, the Denon AVR-X3800H stands out as the winner.