Denon has launched the AVR-S980H, a 7.2-channel AV receiver specifically developed for people who want to go a step further than a soundbar or basic setup, but still expect their system to remain accessible and user-friendly. The new AVR-S980H is flexible to use for both two-channel and multi-channel sound.
Designed for the home entertainment of the future
More and more people are looking for great sound that fits their lifestyle: the power of a full-featured AV receiver, but without the complexity. That is exactly what the AVR-S980H offers. It builds on Denon’s rich audio tradition and seamlessly meets the needs of modern households that want versatility, simplicity, and high-quality sound in a single solution.
“Denon has always operated on the conviction that if you make something better, it sounds better. That conviction forms the basis of all our innovations,” says Lyle Smith, President of Sound United at HARMAN. “Better sound is powerful and brings people closer to the stories, music, and moments they love. With the AVR-S980H, we offer families a simple way to get even more enjoyment out of their everyday experiences.”
The AVR-S980H has a solid foundation. With 90 watts per channel, the amplifier is powerful enough for intense action movies, dynamic music, and the growing number of high-quality speakers paired with AV receivers today. According to the manufacturer, carefully selected new components ensure more detail and a more accurate spatial sound image, so you enjoy better sound quality every day.
Denon has a long history in sound engineering, and this is clearly reflected here. The AVR-S980H is tuned to deliver the open and spacious sound that Denon is known for. Whether you connect it to existing wired speakers or combine it with the latest wireless Denon models, such as the Denon Home 200, 400, or 600 , the designers say the AVR-S980H always forms a solid foundation.
Flexible wireless options for every room in the house
One of the AVR-S980H's strengths is its seamless integration with HEOS, the versatile multiroom home streaming platform. With HEOS, you can easily enjoy music in any room, link rooms together, or create a flexible entertainment setup that aligns with your family's daily routine. Whether you are streaming a playlist in the kitchen or sending TV sound to Denon Home speakers in another room, the system adapts effortlessly.
Because Denon places great value on innovation and user feedback, the AVR-S980H will soon also support the ability to use the new Denon Home 200, 400, and 600 speakers as wireless surround speakers. This is ideal for rooms where cabling is less practical. This functionality is not available at launch but will be added at a later date via a firmware update. Further details will follow, according to Denon's press release.
This offers added convenience for households seeking an even more immersive experience, without compromising the layout or flexibility of their living space.
Ready for today's entertainment
The AVR-S980H not only takes the movie experience to a higher level but also improves the way people game at home. Support for 1440p passthrough and AMD FreeSync ensures smoother visuals and more responsive gameplay. Fast-paced scenes remain sharp and clear, making players feel even more immersed in the action without added complexity.
These improvements underscore that the AVR-S980H is designed for much more than just movies. It is just as suitable for intensive gaming, binge-watching series, or listening to music all day long.
Designed for real homes and real users
Denon believes that great sound should be self-evident and intuitive. That vision is reflected in every aspect of the AVR-S980H. From the moment the new owner takes the AV receiver out of the box, clear, step-by-step on-screen instructions guide you through the setup. This makes the system easy to use, even for beginners.
After that, you can effortlessly configure the AVR via the menu on the TV screen, or control it via an app or web interface on your smartphone or PC.
The AVR-S980H is also easy to integrate into daily use. It supports Bluetooth, AirPlay 2, Spotify Connect, and HEOS multiroom audio, so you always have access to your favorite music sources.
At least as important is that the AVR-S980H grows with the needs of its user. You can start with a simple setup with two speakers and later expand it to a full 5.1 surround system or even a 5.1.2 Dolby Atmos configuration, without having to replace the AV receiver. This way, it remains the heart of your system for years, even if your needs change.
Price
The Denon AVR-S980H will be available worldwide via Denon.com and at authorized Denon dealers in the course of April 2026 for a suggested retail price of just under 900 euros.
