It’s strongly recommended to compare different receivers if you want to choose the best one: Marantz NR1504 vs Yamaha RX-V481BL.
AV receivers under review have the same number of channels. In terms of power, there are differences, the NR1504 has such a ratio W/Ohm - 50/8, 60/6, while the RX-V481BL has a power of 80/6. The value of total harmonic distortion is also different, and for the NR1504 it is 0.08%, but for the RX-V481BL it is 0.09%.
The manufacturer installed different DACs, the NR1504 received the model 192 KHz/24-bit, but the RX-V481BL is equipped with Burr-Brown 192 KHz/24-bit. The Bi-amping function is implemented only in the Yamaha RX-V481BL. Both Marantz NR1504 and Yamaha RX-V481BL can transmit an audio signal directly to the amplifier and bypasses any DSP processing.
Wireless Internet connection via WIFI is only possible with RX-V481BL. Each of the receivers has a Bluetooth connector. Both devices can work with such Apple Music services: AirPlay. Access to the Spotify service is on each of the competitors. The number of available streaming services varies for receivers, the Marantz NR1504 works with Pandora, SiriusXM, but the Yamaha RX-V481BL works with Pandora, Qobuz, JUKE.
Support for the HDR function can only boast of the RX-V481BL. Signaling over HDMI in standby mode can provide the NR1504 and the RX-V481BL. None of the devices can increase the resolution of the incoming video signal. Review participants do not have the Dolby Vision feature.
The number of HDMI inputs/outputs varies depending on the receiver, the NR1504 has 6/1, and the RX-V481BL has 4/1. HDMI Audio Return Channel is implemented in both devices. HDMI eARC is not supported by the NR1504 and the RX-V481BL. When comparing receivers, it becomes clear that each of the rivals can work with HDMI CEC. NR1504 and RX-V481BL support the standard HDCP 2.2. Unlike most receivers, our models do not have a built-in phono stage for connecting a vinyl player. Voice control of the basic functions of the receiver is not realized in both models. There is an ECO mode in RX-V481BL. The Marantz NR1504 and the Yamaha RX-V481BL can be properly configured using the setup assistant.
Generally no support for a Dolby Atmos multichannel audio format. A DTS:X surround technology is not supported by devices from our comparison.