Denon AVR-S570BT — The Default Entry-Level Receiver Recommendation
The Denon AVR-S570BT is a $250 5.2-channel AV receiver that hits every feature most first-time home theater builders need: Audyssey room correction, eARC, 8K HDMI passthrough (one port), Bluetooth, and Dolby TrueHD/DTS-HD Master Audio decoding. At $250, it costs $50 more than the Sony STR-DH590 and addresses every one of that receiver''s limitations. It''s the receiver most home theater forums recommend to beginners, and for good reason.
What Matters
Audyssey MultEQ room correction: an included microphone measures your room and automatically sets speaker levels, distances, crossover frequencies, and room EQ. This single feature justifies the $50 premium over the Sony, which requires manual calibration. Audyssey makes a measurable improvement in bass response, reducing room-induced peaks and nulls that make bass sound boomy or thin.
eARC via HDMI: supports lossless audio formats (Dolby TrueHD, DTS-HD Master Audio) from the TV. The Sony''s ARC-only connection compresses these formats. For Blu-ray and 4K disc viewers, the difference is audible.
One HDMI port supports 8K/60Hz and 4K/120Hz passthrough — future-proof for next-gen gaming and content. The remaining ports support 4K/60Hz HDR. All ports pass Dolby Vision, which the Sony does not.
Sound
70 watts per channel (8 ohms, 20Hz-20kHz, 2 channels driven, 0.08% THD). The amplification is adequate for bookshelf speakers in rooms up to 300 square feet. Denon''s house sound is neutral and slightly warm — inoffensive and well-suited to movies where dialogue clarity and surround effects matter more than audiophile detail retrieval.
Limitations
No Dolby Atmos or DTS:X — strictly 5.1/5.2 processing. For height channels, the Denon AVR-S660H ($400) or AVR-S760H ($500) add Atmos support. No Wi-Fi — music streaming requires Bluetooth or an HDMI-connected streaming device. The Denon AVR-S660H adds HEOS Wi-Fi streaming for $150 more.
Bottom Line
- Audyssey room correction — the single most impactful feature for a first receiver.
- eARC with lossless audio passthrough.
- Dolby Vision and 4K/120Hz HDMI passthrough.
- $250 price point — the best-featured receiver at this budget.
- No Atmos/DTS:X — height channels require the S660H or higher.
- No Wi-Fi streaming — Bluetooth only for wireless audio.
- Amplification is adequate but not impressive — demanding speakers may need more power.
The Denon S570BT is the safest first AV receiver purchase. Audyssey alone makes it worth the price. Add eARC and Dolby Vision, and it addresses the most common complaints about budget receivers. For $250, nothing else combines these features. The upgrade path is clear: S660H for HEOS streaming, S760H for Atmos.
Key Features
Pros & Cons
What We Like
- Great entry point for home theater.
- Solid sound quality for the price.
- Easy to use Bluetooth streaming.
- Simple, guided setup process.
What Could Be Better
- Only 4 HDMI inputs, can feel limited.
- Lacks network features like Wi-Fi/AirPlay.
- Room correction is pretty basic.
- Modest power for very large spaces.
Specifications
| Brand | Denon |
|---|---|
| Model | AVR-S570BT |
| Dimensions | 17.1 x 13.0 x 5.9 inches |
| Weight | 17.0 lbs |
| Material | Metal Chassis, Plastic Front Panel |
| Color Options | Black |
| Warranty | 1-Year Limited |
| Channels | 5.2 |
| HDMI Inputs | 4 (HDCP 2.3) |
| Power Output | 70W per channel (8 ohms, 20Hz-20kHz, 0.08% THD, 2-ch driven) |
Frequently Asked Questions
Absolutely, if you're looking for an affordable way to get into real home theater. It offers solid sound, 4K video support, and Bluetooth for the price. It's perfect for a first-time setup or a smaller living room.
Denon typically offers a 1-year limited warranty on their AV receivers. It covers manufacturing defects, so if anything goes wrong within that first year that's not your fault, you should be covered. Always keep your proof of purchase!
Compared to something like a higher-end Denon model (e.g., AVR-S770H) or a mid-range Yamaha, the S570BT is more stripped down. It's great for basic needs but misses out on advanced room correction, Wi-Fi, more HDMI inputs, or fancier audio formats like Dolby Atmos. It's a fantastic starter, but you'll pay more for those extra bells and whistles.
This receiver is ideal for anyone new to home theater who wants a good sound experience without breaking the bank. It's also great for smaller living rooms or if you primarily want to connect a couple of video sources and enjoy Bluetooth music. If you don't need all the smart features or tons of inputs, this is a solid choice.
Available on Amazon and other major retailers. We recommend checking Amazon for the best current price and fast shipping.
Final Verdict
The Denon AVR-S570BT is an excellent entry-level AV receiver, offering solid 5.2 channel sound and 4K video pass-through at an attractive price point. While it lacks advanced network features and has limited HDMI inputs, it's perfect for first-time home theater enthusiasts or anyone looking for a no-fuss setup in a smaller space. Check Amazon for current pricing to start building your home cinema today.
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