Denon AVR-S540BT vs Marantz NR1504 review

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The Denon AVR-S540BT vs Marantz NR1504 comparison proves that these receivers have many common features.

Amplifier

A significant difference between the receivers in the number of channels, Denon AVR-S540BT has 5.2 versus 5.1 for Marantz NR1504. Regarding power, then AVR-S540BT has such a W/Ohm ratio - 70/8, 90/6 when NR1504 has a power of 50/8, 60/6. The THD is the same and is 0.08%.

Audio features

Characteristics of digital to analog converter (DAC) are different, 192 KHz/32-bit for AVR-S540BT and 192 KHz/24-bit for the NR1504. None of the models support Bi-amping. The Marantz NR1504 can transmit an audio signal directly to the amplifier and bypasses any DSP processing.

Connectivity

Both models do not have WI-FI support. Rivals from our review have Bluetooth support. Spotify can be used on each receiver. The AVR-S540BT can work with the audio stream from TIDAL, Pandora, and the NR1504 can receive a content from Pandora, SiriusXM.

Video features

Only the Denon AVR-S540BT has support for High dynamic range (HDR). HDMI signal transmission in standby mode is implemented in each of the devices. Both competitors are not able to scale the HDMI signal. Dolby Vision technology found support only on the AVR-S540BT.

Extensive connections

The Denon AVR-S540BT has 5/1 HDMI inputs/outputs versus 6/1 HDMI connectors of the Marantz NR1504. The HDMI Audio Return Channel (ARC) feature supports both devices. Unfortunately, HDMI eARC is not available on monitored devices. The Consumer Electronics Control (CEC) feature is present in most modern AV receivers and the models in our comparison are no exception. Both models support the standard HDCP 2.2. Receivers do not have a built-in phono stage for connecting a vinyl player. A voice control is not available. An ECO mode is only available for the AVR-S540BT. Both AVR-S540BT and NR1504 can be configured using the Setup assistant.

Multichannel surround

None of the rivals equipped with Dolby Atmos multichannel audio decoder. The receivers do not support the surround sound technology DTS:X.