I recently delved into the realm of home audio with the Denon AVR-S660H AV Receiver. As a sound quality and entertainment enthusiast, I eagerly anticipated exploring what this receiver had to offer. Priced at $379, the Denon AVR-S660H came with a promising set of features and capabilities. In this in-depth review, I’ll share my hands-on experience and insights regarding this AV receiver.
Specifications :
- Power : Up to 75W per channel at 8 Ohms
- HDMI Inputs: 3 x HDMI 2.1 Inputs (8K/60 & 4K/120), 3 x HDMI Inputs (4K/60)
- Wi-Fi: Dual Antenna Wi-Fi
- Multiroom Streaming: HEOS Built-In
- Voice Control: Siri & Alexa
- Bluetooth Connectivity: Yes
- Audio File Support: FLAC, ALAC, WAV, DSD 2.8/5.6 MHz
- Additional Support: HDMI eARC, AirPlay 2, AM/FM Tuner
- Network Connectivity: Ethernet port
- Room Calibration: Audyssey MultEQ
- Remote Control: Mobile App Support
Pros:
- High power
- Multiple inputs
- Multiroom streaming
- Voice control
- Easy setup
Cons:
- Pricey
- Limited USB ports
- No included speakers
Design and Build Quality :
Let’s kick things off with the design. The Denon AVR-S660H features a sleek and modern design, avoiding unnecessary extravagance, which is a plus in my book. Its unassuming appearance seamlessly blends with various home decor styles. The front panel is organized, with a clean and minimalistic layout. The informative display is easily readable from a distance, ensuring user-friendliness.
The build quality is robust, providing a sense of durability. It’s evident that attention has been paid to construction, with tactile and responsive buttons and knobs that enhance the overall user experience.
Performance :
The performance of the Denon AVR-S660H stands out prominently. Delivering up to 75W per channel at 8 ohms, this receiver provides a powerful and immersive audio experience. It handled various content types, from action-packed movies to music, with remarkable finesse.
One of its standout features is its HDMI connectivity. Equipped with three HDMI 2.1 inputs capable of supporting 8K/60 and 4K/120 content, along with three additional HDMI inputs for 4K/60 content, the AVR-S660H offers impressive versatility. This ensures that the receiver remains adaptable and future-proof for home theater upgrades.
Multiroom Streaming and High-Resolution Audio :
The HEOS Built-In Multiroom Streaming feature is a game-changer. It allows music to flow seamlessly throughout your home, a feature I found incredibly convenient. The ability to have different music playing in different rooms is a fantastic addition, and the consistent sound quality is noteworthy.
For audiophiles like me, the AVR-S660H offers support for high-resolution audio playback. It can handle a variety of file formats, including FLAC, ALAC, and even DSD at 2.8/5.6 MHz. This capability means that my music collection can be enjoyed in all its glory, with every nuance and detail coming through vividly.
Voice Control :
The inclusion of voice control is a practical and convenient feature. With support for both Apple Siri and Amazon Alexa, I could effortlessly command the AVR-S660H to adjust the volume, change input sources, or find and play specific songs. It seamlessly integrates into our smart homes, providing a hassle-free way to interact with the receiver.
Setup and Connectivity :
Setting up the Denon AVR-S660H is a breeze, thanks to the Denon Setup Assistant. It guides you step by step through the setup process, making it accessible even for those who aren’t tech-savvy.
In terms of connectivity, the AVR-S660H offers both stable Wi-Fi transmission and Bluetooth options. The dual external antennas ensure a strong Wi-Fi connection throughout your home, while Bluetooth connectivity allows you to connect headphones or speakers for a wireless and personalized listening experience.
Mobile Control :
Denon recognizes the significance of mobile control. They offer a dedicated mobile app for both iOS and Android devices, with compatibility for Amazon Kindle. This app is user-friendly and enables complete control of the receiver from your smartphone or tablet. I found it particularly handy in cases where the remote control was elusive.
Additional Features :
The AVR-S660H comes with several supplementary features that enhance its appeal. It includes an AM/FM tuner, a nostalgic touch for those who still enjoy traditional radio broadcasts. The front-panel USB port serves a dual purpose, allowing playback of audio files and device charging, a thoughtful inclusion.
Another noteworthy feature is the HDMI eARC support. This facilitates higher-quality audio transmission between your TV and the receiver, resulting in an improved audio experience when watching movies or TV shows. AirPlay 2 support simplifies the streaming of music from Apple devices to the receiver.
The presence of an Ethernet port for wired internet access is a welcome addition for those who prefer a stable, wired connection. Roon Tested support is a boon for music enthusiasts, enhancing the music experience by providing comprehensive and searchable song information, whether you seek artist, album, or lyrics details.
Eco-Friendly and Remote Monitoring :
Denon has also incorporated eco-friendly options in this receiver. It features an ECO mode, an auto power-off function, and a sleep timer. These not only save energy but also contribute to the receiver’s longevity.
Furthermore, the receiver offers remote system monitoring and management support through Domotz Pro and OvrC. This feature enables you to remotely monitor your system’s status and make adjustments, adding an extra layer of convenience and control to your home entertainment setup.
Auto Speaker Setup :
For those who value optimal sound quality, the Denon AVR-S660H includes an auto speaker setup feature using Audyssey MultEQ. This feature calibrates the audio based on your room’s acoustics and speaker placement, resulting in a balanced and tailored audio experience suited to your specific environment.
Cons :
Now, let’s delve into some of the drawbacks of the Denon AVR-S660H.
- Pricey: The AVR-S660H, priced at $379, may be considered relatively expensive by budget-conscious consumers. However, the quality and capabilities it offers justify the cost, making it a sound investment for home entertainment enthusiasts.
- Limited USB Ports: While the AVR-S660H includes a front-panel USB port that is handy for playing audio files and charging devices, having additional USB ports, especially on the rear panel, would have been more convenient to accommodate multiple devices simultaneously.
- No Included Speakers: The receiver does not come with speakers. Although it’s common for AV receivers to be sold separately from speakers, it’s important to note that you’ll need to budget for speakers or utilize existing ones to fully exploit the audio capabilities of the AVR-S660H.
Conclusion :
In summary, the Denon AVR-S660H is a feature-rich and performance-driven AV receiver that caters to a wide spectrum of audio and entertainment needs. With its substantial power, versatile HDMI connectivity, multiroom streaming capabilities, high-resolution audio support, and user-friendly attributes like voice control, setup assistance, and mobile control, it stands out as a hub for home entertainment.
While it may not be the most budget-friendly option, the AVR-S660H justifies its price with a compelling set of features and capabilities. Whether you’re a movie enthusiast, a music aficionado, a gamer, or all of the above, this receiver delivers on multiple fronts.
Its eco-friendly features, remote monitoring, and Audyssey MultEQ for tailored sound optimization make it a compelling choice for those who prioritize convenience and environmental consciousness.
Despite some minor drawbacks, such as limited USB ports and the absence of included speakers, the Denon AVR-S660H excels in terms of overall performance and versatility, making it a robust contender for the central piece of your home entertainment system.
If you’re willing to invest in a high-quality AV receiver that elevates your audio and entertainment experience, the Denon AVR-S660H deserves a prominent place at the top of your list. It’s a versatile and potent hub that can elevate your home entertainment to the next level.
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