It’s strongly recommended to compare different receivers if you want to choose the best one: Yamaha RX-V685BL vs Marantz NR1508.
The number of channels for receivers is different - 7.2 versus 5.2, respectively, for devices. In terms of power, there are differences, the RX-V685BL has such a ratio W/Ohm - 90/8, 150/4, while the NR1508 has a power of 50/8. The value of total harmonic distortion is also different, and for the RX-V685BL it is 0.06%, but for the NR1508 it is 0.08%.
The manufacturer installed different DACs, the RX-V685BL received the model Burr-Brown 384 KHz/32-bit, but the NR1508 is equipped with 192 KHz/24-bit. The Bi-amping function is implemented only in the Yamaha RX-V685BL. Both Yamaha RX-V685BL and Marantz NR1508 can transmit an audio signal directly to the amplifier and bypasses any DSP processing.
These units have the same Wi-Fi modules. Each of the receivers has a Bluetooth connector. The contenders have differences in the supported services from Apple - AirPlay versus AirPlay, AirPlay 2 respectively. The NR1508 has access to the Spotify service. 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 RX-V685BL and the NR1508. Video scaling is only possible with the RX-V685BL. Each of the participants of the comparison has a Dolby Vision.
The number of HDMI inputs/outputs varies depending on the receiver, the RX-V685BL has 5/2, and the NR1508 has 6/1. HDMI Audio Return Channel is only available on Yamaha RX-V685BL. HDMI eARC is only supported by the RX-V685BL. When comparing receivers, it becomes clear that each of the rivals can work with HDMI CEC. RX-V685BL and NR1508 support the standard HDCP 2.2. In the presence of a built-in phono stage for connecting a vinyl player only at Yamaha RX-V685BL. There is an ECO mode in either AV receiver. The Yamaha RX-V685BL and the Marantz NR1508 can be properly configured using the setup assistant.
A Dolby Atmos multichannel audio format is available only in the RX-V685BL. Only in the RX-V685BL realized a DTS:X surround technology.