Marantz NR1710 vs Marantz NR1608 review

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Having had an opportunity to test Marantz NR1710 vs Marantz NR1608, I’d like to share my impression here to facilitate your choice of a new AV receiver.

Amplifier

AV receivers under review have the same number of channels. In terms of power, the receivers have the same performance - 50/8, 70/6. The value of total harmonic distortion is also different, and for the NR1710 it is 0.08%, but for the NR1608 it is 0.05%.

Audio features

The manufacturer installed different DACs, the NR1710 received the model 192 KHz/32-bit, but the NR1608 is equipped with AK4458 384 KHz/32-bit. Each of the compared opponents supports Bi-amping. Both Marantz NR1710 and Marantz NR1608 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. Both devices can work with such Apple Music services: AirPlay, AirPlay 2. Access to the Spotify service is on each of the competitors. The number of available streaming services varies for receivers, the Marantz NR1710 works with Deezer, TIDAL, Pandora, Napster, SiriusXM, TuneIn Radio, but the Marantz NR1608 works with Deezer, TIDAL, Pandora, Napster, SiriusXM, TuneIn Radio, iHeart Radio, Sound Cloud. 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 NR1710 and the NR1608. Each 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 is the same - 8/1. HDMI Audio Return Channel is implemented in both devices. HDMI eARC is only supported by the NR1710. When comparing receivers, it becomes clear that each of the rivals can work with HDMI CEC. The NR1710 has support for the standard HDCP 2.3, compared to the NR1608, which supports the standard HDCP 2.2. In the presence of a built-in phono stage for connecting a vinyl player only at Marantz NR1710.

Additional features

Ability to create 2 Multi zones inherent in both AV receivers. Voice control is performed using Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, Siri, Josh.AI in both models. There is an ECO mode in either AV receiver. The Marantz NR1710 and the Marantz NR1608 can be properly configured using the setup assistant.

Multichannel surround

A Dolby Atmos multichannel audio format is available both models. A DTS:X surround technology is supported by devices from our comparison.