What is better - Marantz SR6012 vs Denon HEOS AVR?
The number of channels for receivers is different - 9.2 versus 5.1, respectively, for devices. In terms of power, there are differences, the SR6012 has such a ratio W/Ohm - 110/8, 150/6, while the HEOS AVR has a power of 50/8, 65/6. The value of total harmonic distortion is also different, and for the SR6012 it is 0.08%, but for the HEOS AVR it is 0.05%. The Bi-amping function is implemented only in the Marantz SR6012. Both Marantz SR6012 and Denon HEOS AVR can transmit an audio signal directly to the amplifier and bypasses any DSP processing. Each of the receivers has a Bluetooth connector. 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.
Support for the HDR function can only boast of the SR6012. 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 SR6012 and the HEOS AVR. Video scaling is only possible with the SR6012. Operation with the Dolby Vision is only possible with the SR6012.
The number of HDMI inputs/outputs varies depending on the receiver, the SR6012 has 8/3, and the HEOS AVR has 4/1. HDMI Audio Return Channel is implemented in both devices. HDMI eARC is only supported by the SR6012. When comparing receivers, it becomes clear that each of the rivals can work with HDMI CEC. SR6012 and HEOS AVR support the standard HDCP 2.2. In the presence of a built-in phono stage for connecting a vinyl player only at Marantz SR6012. For voice control in the SR6012 is used Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, Siri, Josh.AI, but in the HEOS AVR is used Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant. There is an ECO mode in SR6012. The Marantz SR6012 can be properly configured using the setup assistant.
A Dolby Atmos multichannel audio format is available only in the SR6012. Only in the SR6012 realized a DTS:X surround technology.