What is better - Marantz NR1609 vs Pioneer VSX-934?
AV receivers under review have the same number of channels. In terms of power, there are differences, the NR1609 has such a ratio W/Ohm - 50/8, 70/6, while the VSX-934 has a power of 80/8, 165/6. 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 VSX-934 is equipped with AK4458 384 KHz/32-bit. Each of the compared opponents supports Bi-amping. Both Marantz NR1609 and Pioneer VSX-934 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 Pioneer VSX-934 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 VSX-934. 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 VSX-934 has 6/2. HDMI Audio Return Channel is implemented in both devices. HDMI eARC is not supported by the NR1609 and the VSX-934. When comparing receivers, it becomes clear that each of the rivals can work with HDMI CEC. NR1609 and VSX-934 support the standard HDCP 2.2. 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. There is an ECO mode in NR1609. The Marantz NR1609 and the Pioneer VSX-934 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.