Having had an opportunity to test Denon AVR-X3600H vs Marantz SR5012, I’d like to share my impression here to facilitate your choice of a new AV receiver.
The number of channels for receivers is different - 9.2 versus 7.2, respectively, for devices. In terms of power, there are differences, the AVR-X3600H has such a ratio W/Ohm - 105/8, 135/6, while the SR5012 has a power of 100/8. A common feature for devices is the same total harmonic distortion - 0.08%.
The manufacturer installed different DACs, the AVR-X3600H received the model 192 KHz/32-bit, but the SR5012 is equipped with 192 KHz/24-bit. Each of the compared opponents supports Bi-amping. Both Denon AVR-X3600H and Marantz SR5012 can transmit an audio signal directly to the amplifier and bypasses any DSP processing. 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. Most popular streaming services are available for our models under consideration - Deezer, TIDAL, Pandora, Napster, SiriusXM, TuneIn Radio, iHeart Radio, Sound Cloud. 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 AVR-X3600H and the SR5012. 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 AVR-X3600H has 8/3, and the SR5012 has 8/2. HDMI Audio Return Channel is implemented in both devices. HDMI eARC is only supported by the AVR-X3600H. When comparing receivers, it becomes clear that each of the rivals can work with HDMI CEC. The AVR-X3600H has support for the standard HDCP 2.3, compared to the SR5012, which supports the standard HDCP 2.2. In the presence of a built-in phono stage for connecting a vinyl player only at Denon AVR-X3600H.
Ability to create 2 Multi zones inherent in both AV receivers. 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 Denon AVR-X3600H and the Marantz SR5012 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.