Marantz NR1609 vs Pioneer SC-LX901 – that is a question.
The number of channels for receivers is different - 7.2 versus 11.2, respectively, for devices. In terms of power, there are differences, the NR1609 has such a ratio W/Ohm - 50/8, 70/6, while the SC-LX901 has a power of 140/8, 200/6. 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 SC-LX901 is equipped with ESS SABRE32 Ultra 192 KHz/32-bit. Each of the compared opponents supports Bi-amping. Both Marantz NR1609 and Pioneer SC-LX901 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. 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 Pioneer SC-LX901 works with Deezer, TIDAL, Pandora, TuneIn Radio.
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 SC-LX901. 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 SC-LX901 has 8/2. HDMI Audio Return Channel is implemented in both devices. HDMI eARC is not supported by the NR1609 and the SC-LX901. When comparing receivers, it becomes clear that each of the rivals can work with HDMI CEC. NR1609 and SC-LX901 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 SC-LX901 works with 3 Multi zones. There is an ECO mode in NR1609. The Marantz NR1609 and the Pioneer SC-LX901 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.