What is better - Marantz NR1609 vs Denon DRA-800H?
The number of channels for receivers is different - 7.2 versus 2.0, respectively, for devices. In terms of power, there are differences, the NR1609 has such a ratio W/Ohm - 50/8, 70/6, while the DRA-800H has a power of 100/8, 120/6. A common feature for devices is the same total harmonic distortion - 0.08%.
Competitive models use the same DAC. The Bi-amping function is implemented only in the Marantz NR1609. Both Marantz NR1609 and Denon DRA-800H can transmit an audio signal directly to the amplifier and bypasses any DSP processing. 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 Denon DRA-800H 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 NR1609 and the DRA-800H. Video scaling is only possible with the NR1609. 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 DRA-800H has 5/1. HDMI Audio Return Channel is implemented in both devices. HDMI eARC is not supported by the NR1609 and the DRA-800H. When comparing receivers, it becomes clear that each of the rivals can work with HDMI CEC. The NR1609 has support for the standard HDCP 2.2, compared to the DRA-800H, which supports the standard HDCP 2.3. Like most receivers, our models have a built-in phono stage for connecting a vinyl player.
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 NR1609 and the Denon DRA-800H can be properly configured using the setup assistant.
A Dolby Atmos multichannel audio format is available only in the NR1609. Only in the NR1609 realized a DTS:X surround technology.