Which is better for TV sound?

The Denon. Its HDMI ARC/eARC input takes the TV's audio over one cable and passes 8K HDR video through. The Yamaha has no HDMI, so a TV would need an optical cable and you would lose HDMI switching.

Which sounds better for music?

Both are competent stereo designs, but they aim at different buyers. The Yamaha's short signal path and Pure Direct mode suit a turntable and CD player. The Denon's extra power helps with demanding speakers, but its streaming and video circuitry add complexity.

Do I need a separate phono preamp?

With the Yamaha, no. It has a built-in moving magnet phono stage. With the Denon, yes, unless your turntable has one built in.

Is the Denon worth the extra $369?

Only if you will use HDMI, streaming or the second subwoofer output. For a turntable-and-speakers music system, the Yamaha covers the basics for less.

Can either drive two subwoofers?

Only the Denon. It has two subwoofer outputs. The Yamaha has none, so you would run speakers full range or add a sub with its own high-level inputs.

Which has more power?

The Denon, at 100 W per channel against 60 W for the Yamaha. That matters most with low-sensitivity speakers or large rooms.

Yamaha A-S301 Stereo Integrated Amplifier vs Denon DRA-900H 100W 2.2-Ch. Bluetooth Capable with HEOS 8K Ultra HD HDR Compatible Stereo Receiver with Alexa

The Denon DRA-900H is the one to buy if this system will sit under a TV or you want streaming built in. It costs $799.00 at Adorama as of November 3, versus $429.95 at Best Buy for the Yamaha A-S301. The Yamaha is the better value for a pure two-channel music setup with a turntable or CD player.

Today the Yamaha A-S301 Stereo Integrated Amplifier costs $369.05 less at its best price.

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