Home theater systems: Denon AVR-X2800H + Klipsch Reference Premiere Speakers vs. Sony HT-A9
Quick Verdict
Both systems offer excellent home theater performance, catering to different preferences: Denon + Klipsch for traditional setups and Sony HT-A9 for a modern, wireless experience.
- Denon AVR-X2800H offers more HDMI 2.1 ports and a traditional AVR setup, while Sony HT-A9 provides a unique spatial audio experience with wireless speakers.
- Klipsch Reference Premiere speakers are known for their dynamic performance and high efficiency, while Sony HT-A9 prioritizes ease of setup and immersive sound virtualization.
Key features – Side-by-Side
| Attribute | Denon AVR-X2800H + Klipsch Reference Premiere Speakers | Sony HT-A9 |
|---|---|---|
| Number of Channels | 7.2 (configurable for 5.2.2) | 4.0.4 (up to 12 phantom speakers) |
| Dolby Atmos Support | Yes, with Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization | Yes |
| DTS:X Support | Yes, with DTS Virtual:X | Yes |
| HDMI 2.1 Ports | 6 inputs (3 support 8K/60Hz and 4K/120Hz), 2 outputs | 1 input, 1 eARC output (8K/60Hz and 4K/120Hz pass-through) |
| Wireless Connectivity | Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, AirPlay 2 | Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Chromecast, AirPlay 2 |
| Calibration System | Audyssey MultEQ XT | Sound Field Optimization (dual microphones in each speaker) |
Overall Comparison
Channels: Denon has more; Connectivity: Similar; Calibration: Different approaches; Sound: Both immersive
Pros and Cons
Denon AVR-X2800H + Klipsch Reference Premiere Speakers
Pros:
- User-friendly interface with Denon's Setup Assistant
- Upgraded GUI to 1080p
- Stable Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity with dual antennas
- Smart home integration (Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, Siri)
- HEOS for multi-room audio
- Klipsch Reference Premiere series offers better components and smoother sound compared to the Klipsch Reference series
- Supports various streaming services (Spotify, Tidal, Amazon Music HD, etc.)
- Phono input for connecting a turntable
- Precise sound positioning
- Dynamic performance and high efficiency due to horn tweeters
Cons:
- AVR-X2800H can have weak bass weight initially (adjustable in settings)
- Klipsch speakers can have a 'bright' sound (less so in the Reference Premiere series)
Sony HT-A9
Pros:
- Impressively dynamic, handles sudden bursts of sound with speed
- Reproduces both quiet and powerful sounds with clarity, without distortion
- Fantastic dialogue clarity with a balanced mid-range
- Voice Mode for enhanced dialogue clarity
- Spacious, three-dimensional sound
- Immersive surround sound experience with Dolby Atmos and DTS:X content
- Effective room correction software
- Easy setup
- Pronounced bass extension
- Deep and resonant bass
- Adapts seamlessly to various types of audio content
- Maintains consistency across volume levels
- Built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth for wireless music streaming
- Supports Spotify Connect, Apple AirPlay 2, and Chromecast built-in
- Compatible with Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa devices
Cons:
- Lacks a physical subwoofer (optional wireless subwoofer available separately)
User Experiences and Feedback
Denon AVR-X2800H + Klipsch Reference Premiere Speakers
What Users Love
- Open and well-spread soundstage
- Superb dialogue rendering
- Immersive soundstage
- Powerful, solid bass foundation (Klipsch speakers)
Common Complaints
- Weak bass weight initially (AVR-X2800H)
- Bright sound (Klipsch speakers, less so in Reference Premiere)
Value Perception
- High sensitivity allows use with modestly powered AVRs
- Dynamic EQ helps retain bass and clarity at lower volume levels
User Recommendations
- RP-504C center channel speaker is designed for superb dialogue rendering
- Klipsch Reference Premiere speakers are designed for a powerful, solid bass foundation
Sony HT-A9
What Users Love
- Handles dynamic range well
- Excellent dialogue clarity
- Immersive surround sound
- Effective room correction
- User-friendly setup
Common Complaints
- No major complaints reported.
Value Perception
- No value feedback reported.
User Recommendations
- The system delivers a spacious, three-dimensional sound that pulls you into movies and games.
- The HT-A9 calibrates the sound for the room, delivering an immersive experience regardless of the space.