Denon AVR-S960H AV Receiver

The Denon AVR-S960H is a 7.2-channel network AV receiver designed for home cinema systems. Seven discrete amplification channels allow you to create a surround sound setup.

The stated maximum output power is 145 W per channel. Measurement conditions are not provided, so this figure cannot be compared directly with qualified continuous-power measurements.

Surround sound capabilities

The receiver supports Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization and DTS Virtual:X. The virtualization technologies can create a sense of height when separate height speakers are not used in the system.

HDMI connections for video sources

Six HDMI inputs provide connections for multiple players, consoles and other video sources. One input is intended for 8K/60 Hz or 4K/120 Hz signals. Two HDMI outputs allow video to be sent to two displays.

All six inputs support upscaling to 8K and HDCP 2.3. The HDMI outputs also support this content-protection standard. HDR compatibility includes HDR10, HDR10+, Dynamic HDR, HLG and Dolby Vision.

VRR, ALLM and QFT are intended for gaming signals. They help reduce latency and coordinate frame changes. QMS helps the system switch more quickly between different video modes.

These video features require a compatible source, display, content and suitable connections. Sources offering 8K capabilities should be connected to the dedicated HDMI input.

Music sources and network features

The front USB input plays MP3, WAV, FLAC, ALAC and DSD 2.8 or 5.6 MHz files. A phono input allows a turntable to be connected without a separate external phono preamplifier.

Music can be streamed through Bluetooth, Apple AirPlay 2 or dual-band Wi-Fi. The built-in HEOS system is designed for multi-room music and use with Denon Home speakers.

Listed services include Spotify Connect, Amazon Music HD, TIDAL, TuneIn and Deezer. Their operation depends on the region, accounts, software and service providers.

The model is marked as Roon Tested and can be used within a compatible Roon environment. The application can be used to browse artist information, lyrics, photographs and concert details.

The Bluetooth transmitter supports wireless headphones and simultaneous playback through the headphones and main system.

Setup and everyday operation

The on-screen Denon Setup Assistant guides you through the main connection and configuration steps. Audyssey MultEQ measures the system response and adjusts the receiver settings for the listening position.

Dynamic EQ helps preserve tonal balance when listening at lower levels. Dynamic Volume moderates large volume differences between parts of the content.

Four front-panel Quick Select buttons store selected source and sound settings. All Zone TV Audio can send television sound to the second zone.

Voice-control options are associated with Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant and Apple Siri. Availability depends on the region, accounts, network and software in use.

Placement

Place the receiver on a stable, open piece of furniture and do not cover its ventilation openings. Leave sufficient room for the HDMI, speaker and power connections. Perform the final Audyssey calibration only after completing the equipment layout.

Technical specifications

FAQ

What is this AV receiver designed for?

It is designed for a 7.2-channel home cinema system with multiple HDMI sources. The model is also suitable for network music and connecting a turntable.

Which HDMI input should I use for a games console?

Connect a 4K/120 Hz or 8K/60 Hz signal to the single input provided for these modes. The source, display and cable must also support the selected mode.

How can I send Dolby Atmos audio from a television?

Connect the television to the main HDMI output with eARC and enable eARC on both devices. The connection can receive uncompressed and object-based Dolby Atmos or DTS:X audio from a compatible television.

When should I perform Audyssey calibration?

Calibrate the system after the speakers, subwoofers and furniture are in their final positions. If their positions change, it is worth repeating the measurements.

Can I connect a turntable directly?

Yes. The receiver has a phono input. Connect the turntable to this input rather than to a standard line-level connection.

Are the two subwoofer outputs controlled separately?

The two outputs allow two subwoofers to be connected, but independent processing is not specified. Their placement should be adjusted at the listening position.