What is better - Marantz NR1609 vs Denon AVR-S720W?
AV receivers under review have the same number of channels. In terms of power, there are differences, the NR1609 has such a ratio W/Ohm - 50/8, 70/6, while the AVR-S720W has a power of 75/8, 110/6. A common feature for devices is the same total harmonic distortion - 0.08%.
The manufacturer installed different DACs, the NR1609 received the model 192 KHz/24-bit, but the AVR-S720W is equipped with 192 KHz/32-bit. The Bi-amping function is implemented only in the Marantz NR1609. Both Marantz NR1609 and Denon AVR-S720W can transmit an audio signal directly to the amplifier and bypasses any DSP processing. Each of the receivers has a Bluetooth connector. The contenders have differences in the supported services from Apple - AirPlay, AirPlay 2 versus AirPlay respectively. Access to the Spotify service is on each of the competitors. The number of available streaming services varies for receivers, the Marantz NR1609 works with Deezer, Pandora, TuneIn Radio, but the Denon AVR-S720W works with Pandora, SiriusXM.
Support for the HDR function can only boast of each of the AV receivers. The quality of 4K/60Hz signal remains unchanged when transmitting from a source to a TV or projector via HDMI for both receivers. Signaling over HDMI in standby mode can provide the NR1609 and the AVR-S720W. Video scaling is only possible with the NR1609. Operation with the Dolby Vision is only possible with the NR1609.
The number of HDMI inputs/outputs varies depending on the receiver, the NR1609 has 8/1, and the AVR-S720W has 6/1. HDMI Audio Return Channel is implemented in both devices. HDMI eARC is not supported by the NR1609 and the AVR-S720W. When comparing receivers, it becomes clear that each of the rivals can work with HDMI CEC. NR1609 and AVR-S720W support the standard HDCP 2.2. In the presence of a built-in phono stage for connecting a vinyl player only at Marantz NR1609.
Ability to create 2 Multi zones inherent in both AV receivers. There is an ECO mode in either AV receiver. The Marantz NR1609 and the Denon AVR-S720W can be properly configured using the setup assistant.
A Dolby Atmos multichannel audio format is available both models. A DTS:X surround technology is supported by devices from our comparison.