With so many units available, Denon is trying to cover all bases. As a result many of them feel very close in specs making it hard to choose the one suitable for your needs. The X-series obviously offers a bit more with a better Audyssey system, custom integration, longer warranty and a few other extras but you can say that these are worth it only if you specifically need them. If you don’t then the AVR-S960H will cover you entirely.

Yamaha went for something new, leaving Denon as the dependable option. Very little has changed from previous years, but as the saying goes "if it ain't broke, don't fix it." The Denon offers gutsy home theater sound, subtle musicality and chunky, big receiver energy.