Marantz NR1504 vs Onkyo TX-SR494 – that is a question.
The number of channels for receivers is different - 5.1 versus 7.2, respectively, for devices. In terms of power, there are differences, the NR1504 has such a ratio W/Ohm - 50/8, 60/6, while the TX-SR494 has a power of 135/6. A common feature for devices is the same total harmonic distortion - 0.08%.
The manufacturer installed different DACs, the NR1504 received the model 192 KHz/24-bit, but the TX-SR494 is equipped with AKM 384 KHz/32-bit. The Bi-amping function is implemented only in the Onkyo TX-SR494. Both Marantz NR1504 and Onkyo TX-SR494 can transmit an audio signal directly to the amplifier and bypasses any DSP processing.
Wireless connection to the Internet via WIFI can not be performed on these receivers. Each of the receivers has a Bluetooth connector. The NR1504 has access to the Spotify service. Signaling over HDMI in standby mode can provide the NR1504 and the TX-SR494. 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 TX-SR494 has 4/1. HDMI Audio Return Channel is implemented in both devices. HDMI eARC is not supported by the NR1504 and the TX-SR494. When comparing receivers, it becomes clear that each of the rivals can work with HDMI CEC. NR1504 and TX-SR494 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 neither AV receiver. The Marantz NR1504 and the Onkyo TX-SR494 can be properly configured using the setup assistant.
A Dolby Atmos multichannel audio format is available only in the TX-SR494. Only in the TX-SR494 realized a DTS:X surround technology.