Marantz NR1508 vs Sony STR-ZA810ES review

vs

Marantz NR1508 vs Sony STR-ZA810ES – that is a question.

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 STR-ZA810ES has a power of 100/8. The value of total harmonic distortion is also different, and for the NR1508 it is 0.08%, but for the STR-ZA810ES it is 0.09%.

Audio features

The manufacturer installed different DACs, the NR1508 received the model 192 KHz/24-bit, but the STR-ZA810ES is equipped with 384 KHz/32-bit. The Bi-amping function is implemented only in the Sony STR-ZA810ES. Both Marantz NR1508 and Sony STR-ZA810ES 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 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 STR-ZA810ES. Video scaling is only possible with the STR-ZA810ES. Each of the participants of the comparison has a Dolby Vision.

Extensive connections

The number of HDMI inputs/outputs varies depending on the receiver, the NR1508 has 6/1, and the STR-ZA810ES has 6/2. HDMI Audio Return Channel is only available on Sony STR-ZA810ES. HDMI eARC is only supported by the STR-ZA810ES. When comparing receivers, it becomes clear that each of the rivals can work with HDMI CEC. NR1508 and STR-ZA810ES support the standard HDCP 2.2. Unlike most receivers, our models do not have a built-in phono stage for connecting a vinyl player. For voice control in the NR1508 is used Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, Siri, Josh.AI, but in the STR-ZA810ES is used Google Assistant. There is an ECO mode in NR1508. The Marantz NR1508 and the Sony STR-ZA810ES can be properly configured using the setup assistant.

Multichannel surround

A Dolby Atmos multichannel audio format is available only in the STR-ZA810ES. Only in the STR-ZA810ES realized a DTS:X surround technology.