Marantz CINEMA 50 vs Sony STR-AZ1000ES review

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The Marantz CINEMA 50 vs Sony STR-AZ1000ES 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 - 9.4 versus 7.2, respectively, for devices. In terms of power, there are differences, the CINEMA 50 has such a ratio W/Ohm - 110/8, 150/6, while the STR-AZ1000ES has a power of 100/8. The value of total harmonic distortion is also different, and for the CINEMA 50 it is 0.08%, but for the STR-AZ1000ES it is 0.09%.

Audio features

Competitive models use the same DAC. Each of the compared opponents supports Bi-amping. Both Marantz CINEMA 50 and Sony STR-AZ1000ES 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, SiriusXM, Napster, SoundCloud, Amazon Music, Amazon Music HD, MOOD:Mix.

Video features

The quality of 4K/120Hz 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 CINEMA 50 and the STR-AZ1000ES. Each of the devices can increase the resolution of the incoming video signal. 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 50 has 6/3, and the STR-AZ1000ES has 6/2. HDMI Audio Return Channel is implemented in both devices. HDMI eARC is supported by the CINEMA 50 and the STR-AZ1000ES. When comparing receivers, it becomes clear that each of the rivals can work with HDMI CEC. CINEMA 50 and STR-AZ1000ES support the standard HDCP 2.3. In the presence of a built-in phono stage for connecting a vinyl player only at Marantz CINEMA 50.

Additional features

Unlike the CINEMA 50 where 2 Multi zones is provided, the STR-AZ1000ES works with 3 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 50 and the Sony STR-AZ1000ES 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.