Denon DHT-S516H Soundbar

Denon DHT-S516H soundbar is designed for television sound, films, music and video games. The package includes a wireless subwoofer. HDMI ARC simplifies connection to a TV, while HEOS Built-in provides network playback and multi-room system capabilities.

Sound system and signal processing

The soundbar uses two individually amplified mid-range and bass drivers. These are complemented by two soft-dome tweeters with neodymium magnets. Together, these four drivers form the soundbar’s speaker configuration.

The four-channel amplification system is paired with a 400 MHz 32-bit floating-point DSP processor. Dolby Digital, Dolby Digital Plus and DTS decoding are supported, allowing the soundbar to process film and television soundtracks delivered in these formats.

Connecting a TV and other sources

The HDMI output with ARC returns audio from a compatible TV to the soundbar. A separate HDMI input can be used for a player, games console or another video source. The video signal is passed through to the television with support for 4K Ultra HD, HDCP 2.2, HDR10 and Dolby Vision.

For a television without HDMI ARC, you can use the optical or coaxial digital input. The AUX input accepts an analogue stereo signal. The USB connection plays music from a USB storage device, so a separate network player is not required for this source.

Music from a network or USB storage device

HEOS Built-in enables streaming from supported music services and lets the system work with other compatible HEOS products. The selection of available services depends on the HEOS ecosystem being used. AirPlay 2 provides playback from compatible Apple devices, while Bluetooth offers quick, direct pairing.

Network and USB playback support DSD files at 2.4 and 5.6 MHz. FLAC, WAV and ALAC files are supported at resolutions up to 192 kHz/24-bit.

Control and initial setup

Alexa voice control requires the HEOS Home Entertainment Skill and a separate compatible Amazon Alexa device. The voice assistant is not built into the soundbar.

The availability and functionality of Alexa control may depend on the account and compatible ecosystem being used.

Positioning in the room

Place the soundbar near the television and make sure its speakers are not obstructed. The subwoofer receives its audio signal wirelessly, but the subwoofer itself still requires a mains power connection.

Start with the subwoofer in the front part of the room and listen from your usual seating position. Moving it closer to a wall may increase the bass level. Choose a position where the bass sounds even and does not overwhelm dialogue.

Technical specifications

FAQ

Is it better to connect the TV using HDMI or an optical cable?

Use HDMI ARC if your television has this connection. The optical input is suitable for a TV without ARC or when its HDMI connections are already occupied.

How do I connect a 4K video source?

Connect the source to the soundbar’s HDMI input, then connect the HDMI output with ARC to the television. This signal path supports HDR10 and Dolby Vision pass-through.

Does the subwoofer work without a cable?

It receives the audio signal wirelessly from the soundbar. A mains connection is still required for electrical power.

Does the HDMI connection support eARC?

The supplied information specifies HDMI ARC support, but eARC support has not been established. When planning the TV audio connection, rely on ARC or the optical or coaxial input.

Is Alexa control built into the soundbar?

Voice control requires a separate compatible Amazon Alexa device and the HEOS Home Entertainment Skill. An integrated voice assistant is not specified for the soundbar.

Can the system be added to a multi-room audio system?

Yes. HEOS Built-in allows it to be grouped with other compatible HEOS products. Linked music content can then be played in different rooms.