Marantz NR1510 vs Onkyo TX-SR494 – that is a question.
The number of channels for receivers is different - 5.2 versus 7.2, respectively, for devices. In terms of power, there are differences, the NR1510 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 NR1510 received the model 192 KHz/32-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 NR1510 and Onkyo TX-SR494 can transmit an audio signal directly to the amplifier and bypasses any DSP processing. Each of the receivers has a Bluetooth connector. The NR1510 has access to the Spotify service.
The HDR10 function is present in each of the rivals. 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 NR1510 and the TX-SR494. None of the devices can increase the resolution of the incoming video signal. Operation with the Dolby Vision is only possible with the NR1510.
The number of HDMI inputs/outputs varies depending on the receiver, the NR1510 has 8/1, and the TX-SR494 has 4/1. HDMI Audio Return Channel is implemented in both devices. HDMI eARC is only supported by the NR1510. When comparing receivers, it becomes clear that each of the rivals can work with HDMI CEC. The NR1510 has support for the standard HDCP 2.3, compared to the TX-SR494, which supports the standard HDCP 2.2. In the presence of a built-in phono stage for connecting a vinyl player only at Marantz NR1510. There is an ECO mode in NR1510. The Marantz NR1510 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.