Marantz NR1508 vs Denon AVR-S720W review

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What is better - Marantz NR1508 vs Denon AVR-S720W?

Amplifier

The number of channels for receivers is different - 5.2 versus 7.2, respectively, for devices. In terms of power, there are differences, the NR1508 has such a ratio W/Ohm - 50/8, while the AVR-S720W has a power of 75/8, 110/6. A common feature for devices is the same total harmonic distortion - 0.08%.

Audio features

The manufacturer installed different DACs, the NR1508 received the model 192 KHz/24-bit, but the AVR-S720W is equipped with 192 KHz/32-bit. None of the compared opponents supports Bi-amping. Both Marantz NR1508 and Denon AVR-S720W can transmit an audio signal directly to the amplifier and bypasses any DSP processing. Each of the receivers has a Bluetooth connector. The contenders have differences in the supported services from Apple - AirPlay, AirPlay 2 versus AirPlay respectively. Access to the Spotify service is on each of the competitors. The number of available streaming services varies for receivers, the Marantz NR1508 works with Deezer, TIDAL, Pandora, but the Denon AVR-S720W works with Pandora, SiriusXM.

Video features

Support for the HDR function can only boast of each of the AV receivers. 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 NR1508 and the AVR-S720W. None of the devices can increase the resolution of the incoming video signal. Operation with the Dolby Vision is only possible with the NR1508.

Extensive connections

The number of HDMI inputs/outputs is the same - 6/1. HDMI Audio Return Channel is only available on Denon AVR-S720W. HDMI eARC is not supported by the NR1508 and the AVR-S720W. When comparing receivers, it becomes clear that each of the rivals can work with HDMI CEC. NR1508 and AVR-S720W support the standard HDCP 2.2. Unlike most receivers, our models do not have a built-in phono stage for connecting a vinyl player. There is an ECO mode in either AV receiver. The Marantz NR1508 and the Denon AVR-S720W can be properly configured using the setup assistant.

Multichannel surround

A Dolby Atmos multichannel audio format is available only in the AVR-S720W. Only in the AVR-S720W realized a DTS:X surround technology.