The built-in phono input on the Denon AVR-S650H is a game changer for anyone diving into vinyl. If you’ve got a turntable with a moving magnet cartridge, you can plug it right in and start spinning records without a hitch. This is a huge convenience for first-time buyers—no need to hunt down a separate phono preamp or worry about extra cables cluttering your setup.
For example, if you own a Fluance RT82, you can connect it directly to the phono input and be up and running in no time. It’s a straightforward solution that simplifies the whole process, especially if you’re still figuring out the ins and outs of vinyl. You’ll appreciate how easy it is to jump into your record collection without feeling overwhelmed by the technical side of things.
02Versatile Streaming Options
The S650H really shines in mixed-use households, seamlessly blending vinyl, streaming, and TV audio. With HEOS built in, plus Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and AirPlay 2, you can easily stream your favorite playlists or podcasts without needing to switch systems. HDMI ARC is also a nice touch, keeping your TV audio setup neat and tidy with just one cable.
Imagine a typical week: streaming music from your phone while cooking, binge-watching Netflix at night, and then enjoying a Saturday morning spent with your records. The S650H handles all of this without turning your cabinet into a mess of wires, making it an excellent choice for anyone looking to consolidate their media setup.
03Room Size and Speaker Compatibility
While the 75 watts per channel is decent for smaller spaces, I wouldn’t push it in larger rooms or with less efficient speakers. If you have a small apartment with bookshelf speakers, you’ll find that the S650H performs well enough, but in bigger spaces or with power-hungry floorstanders, it might leave you wanting more. This is where you really have to consider the sensitivity of your speakers; a mismatch can lead to a strained sound.
In my experience, the receiver does well in modest environments, but if you plan on upgrading to more demanding gear in the future, you might want to think twice. For those who prioritize vinyl listening, a dedicated two-channel amp at a similar budget could deliver a richer audio experience than this multi-channel receiver.
04Feature Set Limitations
The S650H does show its age, especially when it comes to HDMI capabilities. While it handles 4K video just fine, you won’t find support for 8K passthrough here, which could be a dealbreaker if you’re future-proofing your setup. It’s equipped with HDCP 2.3, Dolby Vision, HDR10, and HLG, but if you’re looking for the latest and greatest, you might feel like you’re missing out.
HDMI ARC is useful for keeping things simple, but don’t expect it to match the full capabilities of modern eARC setups. If you’re gearing up for a PlayStation 5 or a new TV with advanced features, this receiver might start feeling a bit dated sooner than you’d like. If your system is firmly 4K, you might not notice these limitations right away, but they could become more apparent as technology evolves.
Setting up the Denon AVR-S650H is a breeze, making it a great choice for those who want to jump in without a steep learning curve. The on-screen setup assistant guides you through everything, from speaker connections to network settings, which is a relief for anyone who’s not overly tech-savvy. I found that it took me just a short time to get everything dialed in and ready to go.
Once you’re set up, switching between inputs is intuitive, and the remote control is user-friendly, which is a bonus for everyday use. Whether you’re cranking up a record or streaming a movie, the S650H makes it easy to enjoy your media without fussing over complicated settings. This kind of straightforward functionality is a strong selling point for anyone looking to simplify their audio-visual experience.
