What is better - Marantz NR1609 vs Denon HEOS AVR?
The number of channels for receivers is different - 7.2 versus 5.1, respectively, for devices. In terms of power, there are differences, the NR1609 has such a ratio W/Ohm - 50/8, 70/6, while the HEOS AVR has a power of 50/8, 65/6. The value of total harmonic distortion is also different, and for the NR1609 it is 0.08%, but for the HEOS AVR it is 0.05%. The Bi-amping function is implemented only in the Marantz NR1609. Both Marantz NR1609 and Denon HEOS AVR can transmit an audio signal directly to the amplifier and bypasses any DSP processing. Each of the receivers has a Bluetooth connector. 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 HEOS AVR works with Deezer, TIDAL, Pandora, Napster, SiriusXM, TuneIn Radio, iHeart Radio, Sound Cloud.
Support for the HDR function can only boast of the NR1609. 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 HEOS AVR. Video scaling is only possible with the NR1609. Operation with the Dolby Vision is only possible with the NR1609.
The number of HDMI inputs/outputs varies depending on the receiver, the NR1609 has 8/1, and the HEOS AVR has 4/1. HDMI Audio Return Channel is implemented in both devices. HDMI eARC is not supported by the NR1609 and the HEOS AVR. When comparing receivers, it becomes clear that each of the rivals can work with HDMI CEC. NR1609 and HEOS AVR support the standard HDCP 2.2. In the presence of a built-in phono stage for connecting a vinyl player only at Marantz NR1609. For voice control in the NR1609 is used Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, Siri, Josh.AI, but in the HEOS AVR is used Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant. There is an ECO mode in NR1609. The Marantz NR1609 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.