Sony STR-ZA3100ES vs Denon AVR-X540BT

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Along with the growing popularity of custom home theater builds, the comparison of Sony STR-ZA3100ES and Denon AVR-X540BT takes place. According to the results of our review, Sony STR-ZA3100ES received 6.3 points out of 10 possible, and Denon AVR-X540BT was rated 5.3 points. The release date of STR-ZA3100ES is 2017, and AVR-X540BT is 2018. Based on the data on the characteristics and features of both models, we can conclude that STR-ZA3100ES has better performance than AVR-X540BT.

Main advantages Sony STR-ZA3100ES over Denon AVR-X540BT

Main advantages Denon AVR-X540BT over Sony STR-ZA3100ES

Amplifiers

For the built-in amplifier, the devices received different marks - 7 and 6, respectively, on a 10-point scale.

The number of channels is equal to the number of possible connected speakers. The Sony STR-ZA3100ES supports 7.2-channels sound, but Denon AVR-X540BT supports a 5.2-channels configuration.

RMS stands for the actual power of the receiver. The higher this value, the louder the sound can be produced. In terms of RMS power, the models have the same characteristics - 70/8, 90/6/8 W/Ohm.

Audio features

After reviewing the audio features of each model, we can rate the STR-ZA3100ES 7 out of 10, and the AVR-X540BT - 6.

Bi-amping is the amplification of one speaker with two amplifiers. This amplification method has a positive effect on sound quality. Bi-amping is possible only on the STR-ZA3100ES.

Most receivers now come with a microphone included. It is with the help of this microphone that the auto-calibration system functions, which adjusts the sound of the receiver to the room.

Connectivity

The connectivity of competitors in our comparison is equal and was rated 6 out of 10.

Bluetooth connection is now one of the main communication protocols for the receiver's control or even music broadcasting.

Streaming services

Now music streaming services are gaining more and more popularity. They allow users to listen to millions of songs by subscription.

Extensive connections

The presence of many connectors makes the receiver more versatile. But there are also narrowly targeted models, the number of connectors which are limited to a certain area of use. And when choosing their own receiver, users need to consider exactly your goals for using the receiver. For extensive connection, Sony STR-ZA3100ES got 9 points, but Denon AVR-X540BT received 6 points.

Sony STR-ZA3100ES is equipped with 6/2 HDMI inputs and outputs, and Denon AVR-X540BT has 5/1 HDMI inputs and outputs.

HDMI eARC is the next step in the development of audio return channel technology, which works in conjunction with HDMI 2.1. Using eARC provides the highest sound quality for home audio systems. HDMI eARC is available only on Sony STR-ZA3100ES.

Video features

The AV receiver is the heart of the home theater. And in this case, support for all current video formats ensures the best user experience, so it is very important to consider this when choosing a device. Video features of the STR-ZA3100ES were rated 7 out of 10 against the 6 for the AVR-X540BT.

Additional features

In terms of evaluating additional features, the STR-ZA3100ES got 6 points, but the AVR-X540BT has 8.

Denon AVR-X540BT has the ECO mode.

Multi-room

As the center of a home media system, each multichannel receiver has an additional set of terminals for connecting the second set of speakers to create additional audio space in Zone 2 or even Zone 3 where audio can have the separate source.

Multichannel surround

Sony STR-ZA3100ES got 7 points for the multichannel surround sound and Denon AVR-X540BT got 5.

Dolby Atmos' particularity is that this is the object-oriented sound format, that is, each audio signal object is independently sounded and connected to its spatial position. Sony STR-ZA3100ES can create 3D sound due to the Dolby Atmos support.

DTS:X is an algorithm used by the processor to create sound scenes, where sounds connected directly to objects rather than channels, and to determine the optimum sound output distribution in space. Surround sound with DTS:X is available only on the STR-ZA3100ES.

IMAX Enhanced is a licensing and certification program under which home theater devices deliver crisp 4K HDR pictures and powerful sound as it was designed by the IMAX engineers. Only the STR-ZA3100ES licensed by IMAX.