Onkyo TX-RZ820 vs Marantz NR1508 review

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It’s strongly recommended to compare different receivers if you want to choose the best one: Onkyo TX-RZ820 vs Marantz NR1508.

Amplifier

The number of channels for receivers is different - 7.2 versus 5.2, respectively, for devices. In terms of power, there are differences, the TX-RZ820 has such a ratio W/Ohm - 160/8, while the NR1508 has a power of 50/8. A common feature for devices is the same total harmonic distortion - 0.08%.

Audio features

The manufacturer installed different DACs, the TX-RZ820 received the model AK4458 384 KHz/32-bit, but the NR1508 is equipped with 192 KHz/24-bit. The Bi-amping function is implemented only in the Onkyo TX-RZ820. Both Onkyo TX-RZ820 and Marantz NR1508 can transmit an audio signal directly to the amplifier and bypasses any DSP processing.

Connectivity

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. Access to the Spotify service is on each of the competitors. The number of available streaming services varies for receivers, the Onkyo TX-RZ820 works with Deezer, TIDAL, but the Marantz NR1508 works with Deezer, TIDAL, Pandora. 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 TX-RZ820 and the NR1508. None of the devices can increase the resolution of the incoming video signal. 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 TX-RZ820 has 7/2, and the NR1508 has 6/1. HDMI Audio Return Channel is only available on Onkyo TX-RZ820. HDMI eARC is not supported by the TX-RZ820 and the NR1508. When comparing receivers, it becomes clear that each of the rivals can work with HDMI CEC. TX-RZ820 and NR1508 support the standard HDCP 2.2. In the presence of a built-in phono stage for connecting a vinyl player only at Onkyo TX-RZ820. There is an ECO mode in either AV receiver. The Onkyo TX-RZ820 and the Marantz NR1508 can be properly configured using the setup assistant.

Multichannel surround

A Dolby Atmos multichannel audio format is available only in the TX-RZ820. Only in the TX-RZ820 realized a DTS:X surround technology.