Denon AVR-S970H vs Denon AVR-X3800H
The Denon AVR-S970H costs less ($949 vs $1,799). The Denon AVR-X3800H powers more speakers (9 vs 7), processes more channels (11 vs 7) and is rated for more power (105 W vs 90 W per channel).
What each one works with
Checked against every product in our catalogue by the same engine as the compatibility checker.
| AVR-S970H | AVR-X3800H | |
|---|---|---|
| Speakers it drives | 98 of 98, 17 after a setting change | 98 of 98, 17 after a setting change |
| Subwoofers that connect | 17 of 17 | 17 of 17 |
| Largest layouts on its own amps | 5.1.2, 7.1 | 5.1.4, 7.1.2 |
Specs side by side
Values that differ are bold. A dash means that model doesn't publish the spec.
| AVR-S970H | AVR-X3800H | |
|---|---|---|
| Amplifier channels | 7 | 9 |
| Processing channels | 7 | 11 |
| Height formats | Dolby Atmos, DTS:X | Dolby Atmos, DTS:X |
| Power | 90 W at 8 Ω | 105 W at 8 Ω |
| Room correction | Audyssey MultEQ | Audyssey MultEQ XT32 |
| Size | 17×7×13 in | 17×7×15 in |
| Lowest speaker impedance | 4 Ω | 4 Ω |
| Impedance setting | 8 Ω, 6 Ω, 4 Ω | 8 Ω, 6 Ω, 4 Ω |
| Subwoofer outputs | 2 | 4 |
| Speaker layouts | 7.1, 5.1.2 | — |
| Weight | 9.5 kg (20.9 lb) | 12.5 kg (27.6 lb) |
| MSRP | $949 each (MSRP, September 2026) | $1,799 each (MSRP, September 2026) |
Every spec and pairing: Denon AVR-S970H, Denon AVR-X3800H.
Try either one in your own room.
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References
- Denon AVR-S970H: Spec sheet, denon.com, retrieved September 15, 2026
- Denon AVR-S970H: Manufacturer product page, denon.com, retrieved September 15, 2026
- Denon AVR-S970H: Owner's manual, manuals.denon.com, retrieved September 15, 2026
- Denon AVR-X3800H: Spec sheet, denon.com, retrieved September 14, 2026
- Denon AVR-X3800H: Manufacturer product page, denon.com, retrieved September 14, 2026
- Denon AVR-X3800H: Owner's manual, manuals.denon.com, retrieved September 14, 2026
- Denon AVR-X3800H: Owner's manual, manuals.denon.com, retrieved September 14, 2026 (2)
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