Marantz CINEMA 40 vs Denon AVR-X1500H review

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It’s strongly recommended to compare different receivers if you want to choose the best one: Marantz CINEMA 40 vs Denon AVR-X1500H.

Amplifier

The number of channels for receivers is different - 9.2 versus 7.2, respectively, for devices. In terms of power, there are differences, the CINEMA 40 has such a ratio W/Ohm - 125/8, 165/6, while the AVR-X1500H has a power of 80/8, 120/6. A common feature for devices is the same total harmonic distortion - 0.08%.

Audio features

Competitive models use the same DAC. Each of the compared opponents supports Bi-amping. Both Marantz CINEMA 40 and Denon AVR-X1500H can transmit an audio signal directly to the amplifier and bypasses any DSP processing. Each of the receivers has a Bluetooth connector. Both devices can work with such Apple Music services: AirPlay, AirPlay 2. Access to the Spotify service is on each of the competitors. The number of available streaming services varies for receivers, the Marantz CINEMA 40 works with Deezer, TIDAL, Pandora, SiriusXM, Napster, SoundCloud, Amazon Music, Amazon Music HD, MOOD:Mix, but the Denon AVR-X1500H works with Deezer, TIDAL, Pandora, Napster, SiriusXM, TuneIn Radio, iHeart Radio, Sound Cloud.

Video features

Signaling over HDMI in standby mode can provide the CINEMA 40 and the AVR-X1500H. Video scaling is only possible with the CINEMA 40. Each of the participants of the comparison has a Dolby Vision.

Extensive connections

The number of HDMI inputs/outputs varies depending on the receiver, the CINEMA 40 has 7/3, and the AVR-X1500H has 6/1. HDMI Audio Return Channel is implemented in both devices. HDMI eARC is only supported by the CINEMA 40. When comparing receivers, it becomes clear that each of the rivals can work with HDMI CEC. The CINEMA 40 has support for the standard HDCP 2.3, compared to the AVR-X1500H, which supports the standard HDCP 2.2. Like most receivers, our models have a built-in phono stage for connecting a vinyl player.

Additional features

Unlike the CINEMA 40 where 3 Multi zones is provided, the AVR-X1500H works with 2 Multi zones. Voice control is performed using Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, Siri, Josh.AI in both models. There is an ECO mode in either AV receiver. The Marantz CINEMA 40 and the Denon AVR-X1500H can be properly configured using the setup assistant.

Multichannel surround

A Dolby Atmos multichannel audio format is available both models. A DTS:X surround technology is supported by devices from our comparison.