What is better - Marantz SR5012 vs Marantz NR1609?
AV receivers under review have the same number of channels. In terms of power, there are differences, the SR5012 has such a ratio W/Ohm - 100/8, while the NR1609 has a power of 50/8, 70/6. A common feature for devices is the same total harmonic distortion - 0.08%.
Competitive models use the same DAC. Each of the compared opponents supports Bi-amping. Both Marantz SR5012 and Marantz NR1609 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 SR5012 works with Deezer, TIDAL, Pandora, Napster, SiriusXM, TuneIn Radio, iHeart Radio, Sound Cloud, but the Marantz NR1609 works with Deezer, 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 SR5012 and the NR1609. 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 SR5012 has 8/2, and the NR1609 has 8/1. HDMI Audio Return Channel is implemented in both devices. HDMI eARC is not supported by the SR5012 and the NR1609. When comparing receivers, it becomes clear that each of the rivals can work with HDMI CEC. SR5012 and NR1609 support the standard HDCP 2.2. In the presence of a built-in phono stage for connecting a vinyl player only at Marantz NR1609.
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 Marantz SR5012 and the Marantz NR1609 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.