Denon DHT-S517 Review

The Denon DHT-S517 soundbar offers an affordable upgrade for enhancing TV audio, featuring a 3.1.2 channel setup with Dolby Atmos support and a wireless subwoofer for deep bass. Its design is sleek, with a robust build quality, though its length may challenge those with limited space. The soundbar provides various connectivity options, including HDMI eARC, optical input, and Bluetooth, but lacks Wi-Fi and voice assistant integration, which might disappoint some users.

Sound performance is impressive, especially for movies, with clear dialogue and immersive soundscapes, though at high volumes, audio clarity may diminish. Setup is straightforward, aided by a user-friendly interface and included cables, making it accessible even for non-tech-savvy users. However, some users report minor issues with subwoofer integration and audio format recognition.

Compared to competitors like Sonos Beam and Yamaha YAS-209, the Denon DHT-S517 offers a good balance of features and price, though it lacks advanced smart features. Overall, it is a solid choice for those seeking enhanced sound quality and ease of use in a home theater setup.

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If you like this review, you might also like our review on the Denon DHT-S218 or Sony HT-S2000.

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Looking to upgrade your TV audio experience without breaking the bank? The Denon DHT-S517 could be exactly what you need. This soundbar promises to elevate your home theater setup by delivering immersive sound quality in a sleek package. As TVs get thinner, their built-in speakers often lack depth and clarity. This is where a solid soundbar steps in, providing a richer audio experience.

The Denon DHT-S517 is designed to cater to both movie enthusiasts and casual viewers. It's equipped with modern features that aim to enhance your overall listening experience. The soundbar features a 3.1.2 channel configuration, including up-firing speakers for Dolby Atmos, and a wireless subwoofer for enhanced bass. It also offers a variety of connectivity options, including HDMI with eARC, digital optical, and a 3.5mm analogue input, as well as Bluetooth for streaming music.

However, no product is without its downsides. Some users might find the occasional audio format confusion or the imperfect integration between the soundbar and subwoofer. Additionally, while it boasts a range of features, it may not have the most advanced options available on the market, and its performance with music can be less unified compared to movie soundtracks. But for those looking for a reliable and efficient upgrade from their TV’s built-in speakers, this soundbar could be a compelling choice.

The Denon DHT-S517 soundbar boasts a sleek and modern design that easily blends with most home entertainment setups. Its minimalistic aesthetic is not only pleasing to the eye but also practical, as it doesn't draw unnecessary attention away from your TV screen. The soundbar is finished in a matte black color, which helps it seamlessly integrate into various home decors.

Build Quality

When it comes to build quality, the Denon DHT-S517 is quite robust. The materials used feel sturdy and durable, ensuring that it can withstand the test of time. The soundbar's front is covered with a fine mesh grille, providing a clean look while also protecting the internal components. This attention to detail in construction is what you’d expect from a brand like Denon. However, the soundbar's size might be a bit cumbersome for those with limited space. It’s relatively long, measuring 41-5/16"W x 2-5/16"H x 3-13/16"D, which might pose a challenge if you're trying to fit it on a smaller shelf or TV stand. Despite this, its low-profile design means it won't obstruct the TV screen, a definite plus for those who prefer a neat setup.

Additional Features

The Denon DHT-S517 also includes a wireless subwoofer, which is compact and easy to place in smaller spaces. The subwoofer is powered by a 100-watt amplifier and measures 6-3/4"W x 14-9/16"H. The subwoofer's design complements the soundbar nicely, maintaining a cohesive look across your audio setup. This pairing not only enhances the overall aesthetic but also contributes significantly to the sound experience. Overall, the design and build quality of the Denon DHT-S517 are impressive, offering both style and substance. While the length may be a consideration for some, the premium materials and thoughtful design elements make it a strong contender in the soundbar market.

The sound performance of the Denon DHT-S517 is nothing short of impressive. This soundbar is designed to deliver a rich audio experience with its Dolby Atmos support. Dolby Atmos creates a three-dimensional soundstage, making you feel like you're right in the middle of the action. Whether you're watching an action-packed movie or listening to your favorite tunes, you'll notice the depth and clarity it brings to the table.

The soundbar comes with a wireless subwoofer that adds a powerful low-end punch to your audio. This combination ensures that the bass is not just heard, but felt, which is a huge plus for those who love their audio immersive. The subwoofer, powered by a 100-watt amplifier, provides solid performance, but if you're in a really large room, it might not shake the walls as you'd expect. Still, for most living spaces, it provides ample bass.

Mid-range frequencies are handled well, making dialogues crystal clear. This is particularly important for TV shows and movies where understanding speech is key. The treble is crisp, but not overly bright, which means it won’t become tiring to listen to over extended periods. The soundbar also features a dedicated center channel with a 1" full-range driver, which enhances dialogue clarity.

One potential downside is that at maximum volume, the sound might lose a bit of its clarity and richness. However, for everyday use at moderate volumes, it performs remarkably well. The soundbar also offers different sound modes like Movie, Music, and Night mode, allowing you to tailor the audio experience to your liking. The Night mode is especially useful for late-night viewing, where it reduces the dynamic range to make audio easier to hear at low volumes without sacrificing clarity. Additionally, the Dialogue Enhancer feature can independently raise the volume of voices to make them more intelligible.

In summary, the sound performance of this soundbar is robust and versatile, making it a great choice for both casual listeners and audiophiles alike. It excels in delivering dynamic soundscapes, although extreme volume levels might slightly compromise quality.

When it comes to connectivity options, the Denon DHT-S517 offers a solid range of choices that cater to most modern setups. The soundbar supports both wired and wireless connections, providing flexibility based on your preferences and existing devices.

First off, the soundbar is equipped with an HDMI eARC port, which is a fantastic feature for anyone looking to get high-quality audio directly from their TV. This allows for seamless audio transmission and even supports advanced audio formats like Dolby Atmos, giving you that immersive experience. There's also an HDMI passthrough, which can be handy if you're dealing with multiple devices.

For those who prefer a more traditional setup, the soundbar includes an optical input. This is great for older TVs that might not support HDMI ARC. There's also a 3.5mm mini jack input, which can be a lifesaver if you're connecting a device without digital outputs.

On the wireless side, the Denon DHT-S517 supports Bluetooth 5.0 connectivity. This is perfect for streaming music directly from your smartphone or tablet without needing any cables. However, it lacks Wi-Fi connectivity, which means no direct access to streaming services like Spotify or AirPlay. This could be a downside if you're looking for a fully integrated smart home audio solution.

Overall, the soundbar's connectivity options are robust enough for most users, but the absence of Wi-Fi might be a slight letdown for those who are heavily invested in smart home ecosystems. Nevertheless, the existing wired and wireless options are likely to cover the needs of most setups seamlessly.

When you unbox the Denon DHT-S517, you’ll find everything you need to get started with your new soundbar. Here's what's included:

• The Soundbar Itself: The main unit is sleek and well-built, ready to enhance your audio experience.
• Wireless Powered Subwoofer: This compact sub is designed to deliver deep bass without the hassle of cables.
• HDMI Cable: A standard HDMI cable is included to connect the soundbar to your TV or other devices. It's nice that Denon thought to include this, saving you an extra trip to the store.
• Optical Digital Cable: For those who prefer or need an optical connection, Denon provides an optical cable as well.
• Remote Control: A handy remote is included to easily control your soundbar from the comfort of your couch. It's user-friendly but could have been a bit more intuitive.
• Power Cords: Two 58" AC power cords for the soundbar and subwoofer ensure that both components are powered up and ready to go.
• Wall Mounting Spacers and Template: If you’re planning to wall-mount the soundbar, Denon includes wall-mount spacers and a template to make the process easier.
• User Manual and Other Documents: A comprehensive manual, Quick Start Guide, Safety Instructions, and Warranty Sheet are provided, offering step-by-step instructions for setup and troubleshooting.

Overall, the package is well-rounded, providing the essentials to get the soundbar up and running without additional purchases. However, if you're a tech newbie, you might find the setup instructions a bit overwhelming. But no worries, there's always YouTube 😊

Setting up a soundbar can often feel like a hassle, but with the Denon DHT-S517, the process is surprisingly straightforward. Ease of setup is one of its strong points, making it a great choice for those who want to enjoy enhanced audio without the headache.

Simple Installation

The soundbar comes with a clear and concise instruction manual, which guides you through the setup process step-by-step. Most users will find that they can get the system up and running in less than 30 minutes. The package includes all the necessary cables, such as an HDMI cable and an optical digital cable, so you won’t need to run out and buy any extras.

User-Friendly Interface

Once connected, the soundbar’s interface is intuitive. The remote control is well-designed, with clearly labeled buttons that make it easy to switch between modes and adjust settings. The soundbar also features LED indicators, which help you understand the current status and settings at a glance.

Wall Mounting

For those who prefer to mount their soundbar, the Denon DHT-S517 supports wall mounting with the included wall mount spacers. The process is simple, though you’ll need your own tools as they aren’t included in the box. This option is ideal for those looking to save space or achieve a cleaner look in their living room.

Automatic Features

A nifty feature is the automatic power on/off function. When you turn on your TV, the soundbar powers up automatically if the auto on control function is enabled, which is a small but very convenient touch. However, some users have noted that the soundbar doesn't always power down when the TV does, which can be a minor inconvenience.

Bluetooth Pairing

Pairing devices via Bluetooth is a breeze. Simply enable Bluetooth on your device, switch the soundbar to Bluetooth mode, and select the soundbar from the list of available devices. This makes it easy to play music directly from your phone or tablet. Overall, the Denon DHT-S517 scores high on ease of use, with a few minor quirks. For most users, setting it up and using it daily will be a stress-free experience.

The Denon DHT-S517 is packed with features that make it a modern addition to your home entertainment system. However, it does not include compatibility with voice assistants like Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant.

Additionally, the soundbar integrates seamlessly with smart TVs, offering a cohesive and streamlined experience. If you've got a TV that supports HDMI eARC (Enhanced Audio Return Channel), you can control the soundbar and your TV with a single remote, reducing clutter and confusion. Non-HDMI ARC TVs can connect via the digital optical input.

It's worth noting that the Denon DHT-S517 doesn't support Apple AirPlay or Chromecast built-in. If you're an Apple user or a fan of casting content directly from your phone, this might be a slight letdown. However, the soundbar still offers other ways to connect and stream your favorite tunes or shows, such as Bluetooth audio streaming.

For those who enjoy multi-room audio setups, the Denon soundbar can be a bit limited as it doesn't natively support systems like Sonos. Nevertheless, its other capabilities make it a solid choice for most users looking to enhance their audio experience.

In the crowded arena of soundbars, the Denon DHT-S517 faces some stiff competition. Let's take a look at how it stacks up against a few popular options.

Sonos Beam (Gen 2)

The Sonos Beam is a well-loved option, particularly for its seamless integration with the Sonos ecosystem, allowing users to easily expand their audio setup. While the Denon DHT-S517 offers a more budget-friendly price, the Beam provides a slightly more immersive audio experience thanks to its additional smart features and compatibility with voice assistants like Alexa and Google Assistant. However, the Denon holds its own with its dedicated subwoofer, providing deeper bass compared to the Beam's all-in-one design.

Yamaha YAS-209

The Yamaha YAS-209 is another competitor worth mentioning. It comes with built-in Alexa, which gives it an edge in terms of voice control. The sound quality is comparable to the Denon, but Yamaha's inclusion of DTS Virtual:X can offer a more three-dimensional sound experience. On the downside, the Yamaha system might feel a bit more complex to set up for some users compared to the straightforward setup of the Denon DHT-S517.

Vizio M-Series M512a-H6

Vizio's M-Series soundbar is a strong contender in terms of bang for your buck. It includes rear speakers and a subwoofer, offering a true 5.1.2 surround sound setup. In terms of price, the Vizio is usually a bit more expensive, but it offers a more immersive audio experience. The Denon DHT-S517, however, is easier to install and might be more suitable for those looking for a quick and simple upgrade to their TV's audio without the fuss of multiple components.

When choosing between these soundbars, it often comes down to budget, desired features, and the level of audio immersion you're after. The Denon DHT-S517 offers a solid balance of performance and simplicity, making it a great choice for many users. However, if you're after more advanced features or a more complex setup, exploring other options might be worthwhile.

Video by: TotallydubbedHD

In conclusion, the Denon DHT-S517 soundbar is a solid choice for anyone looking to enhance their home audio experience. Its sleek design and robust build quality make it a stylish addition to any living room. With its impressive sound performance, this soundbar offers a rich and immersive audio experience, especially with its powerful bass output and clear dialogue enhancement.

Connectivity options are versatile, allowing for seamless integration with various devices, whether you're using HDMI, Bluetooth, or optical inputs. The inclusion of multiple connectivity choices ensures you can easily hook it up to your TV, phone, or other gadgets without a hitch.

Setting up the soundbar is straightforward, thanks to the user-friendly instructions and intuitive design. Even if you're not tech-savvy, you’ll find the process hassle-free and quick. However, the lack of a dedicated mobile app might be a minor inconvenience for those who prefer controlling everything from their smartphone.

The soundbar's smart features and compatibility are commendable, supporting control via HDMI CEC and integrating well with most TVs. This adds an extra layer of convenience for users who enjoy using their TV remote to control the soundbar.

When compared to its competitors, the Denon DHT-S517 holds its ground well, offering a balance of features and performance at a competitive price point. However, some users might find the integration issues between the soundbar and subwoofer, and the occasional audio format confusion, to be drawbacks.

Overall, the Denon DHT-S517 delivers on its promise of enhancing your audio experience without overwhelming you with unnecessary complexity. It supports Dolby Atmos for a more cinema-like experience and is a reliable option for those who value sound quality and ease of use, making it a worthwhile consideration in the soundbar market.

• Does the soundbar support Dolby Atmos?
  Yes, the Denon DHT-S517 supports Dolby Atmos, providing an immersive audio experience with overhead sound effects, which can really enhance your movie nights.
• Can I control the soundbar with my TV remote?
  Absolutely The soundbar is designed to work with most TV remotes through HDMI eARC/ARC and CEC, making it super convenient to control volume and power with just one remote.
• Is there a separate subwoofer included?
  Yes, the package includes a separate wireless subwoofer. This gives you deeper bass without the hassle of additional cables.
• What kind of connections does it offer?
  The soundbar offers a variety of connectivity options including HDMI (with eARC), Optical, 3.5mm mini jack, and Bluetooth. This flexibility makes it easy to connect to different devices.
• Does it support voice assistants?
  Unfortunately, the Denon DHT-S517 does not have built-in support for voice assistants like Alexa or Google Assistant. However, you can still connect it to smart devices using Bluetooth.
• How easy is it to set up?
  Setting up the soundbar is pretty straightforward. It comes with a quick start guide, and all the necessary cables are included, so you won't have any trouble getting it up and running.
• Can it be wall-mounted?
  Yes, the soundbar is wall-mountable. It includes wall mount templates and spacers, making it easy to integrate into your home theater setup.
• Is it compatible with older TVs?
  It can work with older TVs via the optical input, but for the best experience, a TV with HDMI eARC or ARC is recommended.

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