Denon AVR-X8500H vs Marantz NR1200 review

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The Denon AVR-X8500H vs Marantz NR1200 comparison will be extremely helpful for people who want to get a great, powerful receiver with many functions.

Amplifier

The number of channels for receivers is different - 13.2 versus 2.0, respectively, for devices. In terms of power, there are differences, the AVR-X8500H has such a ratio W/Ohm - 150/8, 250/6, while the NR1200 has a power of 75/8, 100/6. The value of total harmonic distortion is also different, and for the AVR-X8500H it is 0.05%, but for the NR1200 it is 0.08%.

Audio features

The manufacturer installed different DACs, the AVR-X8500H received the model AK4490EQ 768 KHz/32-bit, but the NR1200 is equipped with 192 KHz/32-bit. The Bi-amping function is implemented only in the Denon AVR-X8500H. Both Denon AVR-X8500H and Marantz NR1200 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 Denon AVR-X8500H works with Deezer, TIDAL, Pandora, Napster, SiriusXM, TuneIn Radio, iHeart Radio, Sound Cloud, but the Marantz NR1200 works with Deezer, TIDAL, Pandora, Napster, SiriusXM, TuneIn Radio. 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 AVR-X8500H and the NR1200. Video scaling is only possible with the AVR-X8500H. Operation with the Dolby Vision is only possible with the AVR-X8500H.

Extensive connections

The number of HDMI inputs/outputs varies depending on the receiver, the AVR-X8500H has 8/3, and the NR1200 has 5/1. HDMI Audio Return Channel is implemented in both devices. HDMI eARC is only supported by the AVR-X8500H. When comparing receivers, it becomes clear that each of the rivals can work with HDMI CEC. The AVR-X8500H has support for the standard HDCP 2.2, compared to the NR1200, which supports the standard HDCP 2.3. Like most receivers, our models have a built-in phono stage for connecting a vinyl player. 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 Denon AVR-X8500H and the Marantz NR1200 can be properly configured using the setup assistant.

Multichannel surround

A Dolby Atmos multichannel audio format is available only in the AVR-X8500H. Only in the AVR-X8500H realized a DTS:X surround technology.