Yamaha RX-A4A vs Marantz STEREO 70s review

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Having had an opportunity to test Yamaha RX-A4A vs Marantz STEREO 70s, I’d like to share my impression here to facilitate your choice of a new AV receiver.

Amplifier

The number of channels for receivers is different - 7.2 versus 2.2, respectively, for devices. In terms of power, there are differences, the RX-A4A has such a ratio W/Ohm - 110/8, while the STEREO 70s has a power of 75/8, 100/6. The value of total harmonic distortion is also different, and for the RX-A4A it is 0.06%, but for the STEREO 70s it is 0.08%.

Audio features

The manufacturer installed different DACs, the RX-A4A received the model 384 KHz/32-bit, but the STEREO 70s is equipped with 192 KHz/32-bit. Each of the compared opponents supports Bi-amping. Both Yamaha RX-A4A and Marantz STEREO 70s can transmit an audio signal directly to the amplifier and bypasses any DSP processing.

Connectivity

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 Yamaha RX-A4A works with Deezer, TIDAL, Pandora, SiriusXM, Napster, SoundCloud, but the Marantz STEREO 70s works with Deezer, TIDAL, Pandora, SiriusXM, Napster, SoundCloud, Amazon Music, Amazon Music HD, MOOD:Mix.

Video features

The HDR10+ function is present in each of the rivals. The quality of 4K/120Hz 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 RX-A4A and the STEREO 70s. Each of the devices can increase the resolution of the incoming video signal. Each of the participants of the comparison has a Dolby Vision.

Extensive connections

The number of HDMI inputs/outputs varies depending on the receiver, the RX-A4A has 7/3, and the STEREO 70s has 6/3. HDMI Audio Return Channel is implemented in both devices. HDMI eARC is only supported by the RX-A4A. When comparing receivers, it becomes clear that each of the rivals can work with HDMI CEC. RX-A4A and STEREO 70s support the standard HDCP 2.3. Like most receivers, our models have a built-in phono stage for connecting a vinyl player.

Additional features

Unlike the RX-A4A where 2 Multi zones is provided, the STEREO 70s works with 1 Multi zones. 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 Yamaha RX-A4A and the Marantz STEREO 70s can be properly configured using the setup assistant.

Multichannel surround

A Dolby Atmos multichannel audio format is available only in the RX-A4A. Only in the RX-A4A realized a DTS:X surround technology.