Denon AVR-S650H: 5-Channel AV receiver with Multiple Options

The Denon AVR-S650H is a basic model of the S-series of Denon AV receivers. Still, the middle-level cost is backed up by a solid processor, enhanced video possibilities (full UHD support), clean high-resolution sound with multiple equalization options, and well-developed connectivity. The receiver features typical for Denon sturdiness and minimalist look while offering simple and comprehensive navigation both on-panel and via remote / wireless control.

Managing 5.2-channel configuration and popular surround sound formats, this receiver would definitely fit as the heart of the home theater while its options enable various activities including music listening, TV watching, gaming, etc.

Design

Heavy weight (almost 21 lbs) and considerable size (13.3 x 17.1 x 6 inches) of the Denon AVR-S650H AV receiver are justified by the overall solid quality of build it has. All elements (buttons, dials, screen, connection ports, feet) are made reliably. The controls panel and the screen are quite wide, with a few functional buttons. Most of the connections are situated on the rear side.

Features

The receiver supports the UHD video format with HDR and Dolby vision delivering the 4K signal in its programmed richness of color and precision of detail. HDMI eARC activated, the sound can be processed via the acoustic set enriching the TV watching with surround sound. The 5.2-channel configuration lets hook up two subwoofers, while the EQ panel brings multiple possibilities for calibrating the sound for different sets / activities and tweak it at the user’s liking.

Performance

Browsing the Denon AVR-S650H specs, one can find this receiver is quite a powerful feeding 150W per channel (75W in stereo mode). Its relatively low impedance lets it work with a wide array of speakers. The processors work fast ensuring the lagless sound and video even for the highly dynamic content and video gaming. Besides, the receiver supports HEOS multi-room connectivity letting it transmit the sound to two different acoustic sets via a wireless connection.

Sound Quality

With the well-set EQ, the Denon AVR-S650H delivers a clean, detailed, and almost colorless sound. Within the standard frequency range of 20 – 20,000 Hz, it provides even response filling the air with the wide soundstaging and creating exact imaging. It’s good at producing sharp and clear yet non-shrieking highs and solid rich mids. The bass goes thumpy and deep, though at complex bass compositions it might lack dynamics a bit. The general tonal balance of the Denon AVR-S650H stereo receiver isn’t bright but rather a fraction darkened constituting a “character” of this model.

Connectivity

The rear panel of the AVR-S650H features five HDMI, two coaxial, and two optical digital inputs, with two analog inputs and one HDMI output. There’s a USB port and phone connection on the front. Wireless includes Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, smartphone application. HDMI CEC works well enabling immediate system activation from a single remote. The device works with different voice control techs (Alexa, Google, etc.), while the voice functionality includes only basic navigation options.

Setup

Default settings and modes on this receiver are well-tuned to fit wide application purposes. Highlight the dialogues in the “Reference” mode, enjoy Dolby or DTS HD sound in the home theater option or colorless pure sound in the “Flat” setting. The setup on-screen assistant menu helps perform the initial tuning, while the overall navigation and EQ settings are quite simple and comprehensive.

Conclusion

Let’s sum up the highlights of the Denon AVR-S650H review:

• High clarity and fidelity of 24 bit / 192 kHz sound.
• Developed wireless with reverse Bluetooth technology.
• Smart and precise calibration with Audyssey MultEq system (with remote