Marantz NR1609 vs Yamaha CX-A5200 – that is a question.
The number of channels for receivers is different - 7.2 versus 11.2, respectively, for devices. The value of total harmonic distortion is also different, and for the NR1609 it is 0.08%, but for the CX-A5200 it is 0.06%.
The manufacturer installed different DACs, the NR1609 received the model 192 KHz/24-bit, but the CX-A5200 is equipped with ESS SABRE PRO (ES9026) 384 KHz/32-bit. The Bi-amping function is implemented only in the Marantz NR1609. Both Marantz NR1609 and Yamaha CX-A5200 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. 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 NR1609 works with Deezer, Pandora, TuneIn Radio, but the Yamaha CX-A5200 works with Deezer, TIDAL, Pandora, Napster, SiriusXM, Qobuz. 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 NR1609 and the CX-A5200. Each of the devices can increase the resolution of the incoming video signal. Each of the participants of the comparison has a Dolby Vision.
The number of HDMI inputs/outputs varies depending on the receiver, the NR1609 has 8/1, and the CX-A5200 has 7/3. HDMI Audio Return Channel is implemented in both devices. HDMI eARC is not supported by the NR1609 and the CX-A5200. When comparing receivers, it becomes clear that each of the rivals can work with HDMI CEC. NR1609 and CX-A5200 support the standard HDCP 2.2. Like most receivers, our models have a built-in phono stage for connecting a vinyl player.
Unlike the NR1609 where 2 Multi zones is provided, the CX-A5200 works with 3 Multi zones. For voice control in the NR1609 is used Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, Siri, Josh.AI, but in the CX-A5200 is used Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant. There is an ECO mode in either AV receiver. The Marantz NR1609 and the Yamaha CX-A5200 can be properly configured using the setup assistant.
A Dolby Atmos multichannel audio format is available both models. A DTS:X surround technology is supported by devices from our comparison.