Marantz SR7012 vs Denon HEOS AVR review

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What is better - Marantz SR7012 vs Denon HEOS AVR?

Amplifier

The number of channels for receivers is different - 11.2 versus 5.1, respectively, for devices. In terms of power, there are differences, the SR7012 has such a ratio W/Ohm - 125/8, 165/6, while the HEOS AVR has a power of 50/8, 65/6. A common feature for devices is the same total harmonic distortion - 0.05%. The Bi-amping function is implemented only in the Marantz SR7012. Both Marantz SR7012 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. The number of available streaming services varies for receivers, the Marantz SR7012 works with Deezer, TIDAL, Pandora, but the Denon HEOS AVR works with Deezer, TIDAL, Pandora, Napster, SiriusXM, TuneIn Radio, iHeart Radio, Sound Cloud.

Video features

Support for the HDR function can only boast of the SR7012. 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 SR7012 and the HEOS AVR. Video scaling is only possible with the SR7012. Operation with the Dolby Vision is only possible with the SR7012.

Extensive connections

The number of HDMI inputs/outputs varies depending on the receiver, the SR7012 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 SR7012. When comparing receivers, it becomes clear that each of the rivals can work with HDMI CEC. SR7012 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 SR7012. For voice control in the SR7012 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 SR7012. The Marantz SR7012 can be properly configured using the setup assistant.

Multichannel surround

A Dolby Atmos multichannel audio format is available only in the SR7012. Only in the SR7012 realized a DTS:X surround technology.