Having had an opportunity to test Marantz SR7013 vs Denon AVR-X2500H, I’d like to share my impression here to facilitate your choice of a new AV receiver.
The number of channels for receivers is different - 9.2 versus 7.2, respectively, for devices. In terms of power, there are differences, the SR7013 has such a ratio W/Ohm - 125/8, 165/6, while the AVR-X2500H has a power of 95/8, 125/6. The value of total harmonic distortion is also different, and for the SR7013 it is 0.05%, but for the AVR-X2500H it is 0.08%.
The manufacturer installed different DACs, the SR7013 received the model 384 KHz/32-bit, but the AVR-X2500H is equipped with AK4490 384 KHz/32-bit. Each of the compared opponents supports Bi-amping. Both Marantz SR7013 and Denon AVR-X2500H 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. Most popular streaming services are available for our models under consideration - Deezer, TIDAL, Pandora, Napster, SiriusXM, TuneIn Radio, iHeart Radio, Sound Cloud.
The HDR10 function is present in each of the rivals. 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 SR7013 and the AVR-X2500H. Video scaling is only possible with the SR7013. Each of the participants of the comparison has a Dolby Vision.
The number of HDMI inputs/outputs varies depending on the receiver, the SR7013 has 8/3, and the AVR-X2500H has 8/2. HDMI Audio Return Channel is implemented in both devices. HDMI eARC is only supported by the SR7013. When comparing receivers, it becomes clear that each of the rivals can work with HDMI CEC. SR7013 and AVR-X2500H support the standard HDCP 2.2. Like most receivers, our models have a built-in phono stage for connecting a vinyl player.
Unlike the SR7013 where 3 Multi zones is provided, the AVR-X2500H 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 SR7013 and the Denon AVR-X2500H 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.