It’s strongly recommended to compare different receivers if you want to choose the best one: Marantz NR1609 vs Yamaha RX-V481BL.
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 RX-V481BL has a power of 80/6. The value of total harmonic distortion is also different, and for the NR1609 it is 0.08%, but for the RX-V481BL it is 0.09%.
The manufacturer installed different DACs, the NR1609 received the model 192 KHz/24-bit, but the RX-V481BL is equipped with Burr-Brown 192 KHz/24-bit. Each of the compared opponents supports Bi-amping. Both Marantz NR1609 and Yamaha RX-V481BL can transmit an audio signal directly to the amplifier and bypasses any DSP processing. Each of the receivers has a Bluetooth connector. The contenders have differences in the supported services from Apple - AirPlay, AirPlay 2 versus AirPlay respectively. 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 RX-V481BL works with Pandora, Qobuz, JUKE.
Support for the HDR function can only boast of each of the AV receivers. 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 RX-V481BL. 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 RX-V481BL has 4/1. HDMI Audio Return Channel is implemented in both devices. HDMI eARC is not supported by the NR1609 and the RX-V481BL. When comparing receivers, it becomes clear that each of the rivals can work with HDMI CEC. NR1609 and RX-V481BL support the standard HDCP 2.2. In the presence of a built-in phono stage for connecting a vinyl player only at Marantz NR1609. There is an ECO mode in either AV receiver. The Marantz NR1609 and the Yamaha RX-V481BL 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.