What is better - Marantz NR1609 vs Pioneer Elite VSX-LX304?
The number of channels for receivers is different - 7.2 versus 9.2, respectively, for devices. In terms of power, there are differences, the NR1609 has such a ratio W/Ohm - 50/8, 70/6, while the Elite VSX-LX304 has a power of 100/8, 225/6. A common feature for devices is the same total harmonic distortion - 0.08%.
The manufacturer installed different DACs, the NR1609 received the model 192 KHz/24-bit, but the Elite VSX-LX304 is equipped with AK4458 384 KHz/32-bit. Each of the compared opponents supports Bi-amping. Both Marantz NR1609 and Pioneer Elite VSX-LX304 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 Pioneer Elite VSX-LX304 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 NR1609 and the Elite VSX-LX304. 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 Elite VSX-LX304 has 7/2. HDMI Audio Return Channel is implemented in both devices. HDMI eARC is not supported by the NR1609 and the Elite VSX-LX304. When comparing receivers, it becomes clear that each of the rivals can work with HDMI CEC. NR1609 and Elite VSX-LX304 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 Elite VSX-LX304 works with 3 Multi zones. For voice control in the NR1609 is used Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, Siri, Josh.AI, but in the Elite VSX-LX304 is used Amazon Alexa. There is an ECO mode in NR1609. The Marantz NR1609 and the Pioneer Elite VSX-LX304 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.