It makes sense comparing Sony STR-DH590 vs Marantz NR1509 because they both are able to give some premium features.
Considered AV receivers have the same number of channels 5.2. Regarding power, then STR-DH590 has such a W/Ohm ratio - 145/6 when NR1509 has a power of 50/8, 60/6. The THD is 0.09% for the STR-DH590 but 0.08% for the NR1509.
Characteristics of digital to analog converter (DAC) are different, 192 KHz/32-bit for STR-DH590 and 192 KHz/24-bit for the NR1509. None of the models support Bi-amping. Each of the AV receivers can transmit an audio signal directly to the amplifier and bypasses any DSP processing. Rivals from our review have Bluetooth support. Only the NR1509 supports Spotify. Compared AV receivers retain the quality of 4K/60Hz signal when transmitting from a source to a TV or projector. HDMI signal transmission in standby mode is implemented in each of the devices. Both competitors are not able to scale the HDMI signal. The HDR standard - Dolby Vision is supported by these receivers.
The Sony STR-DH590 has 4/1 HDMI inputs/outputs versus 7/1 HDMI connectors of the Marantz NR1509. The HDMI Audio Return Channel (ARC) feature supports both devices. Unfortunately, HDMI eARC is not available on monitored devices. The Consumer Electronics Control (CEC) feature is present in most modern AV receivers and the models in our comparison are no exception. Both models support the standard HDCP 2.2. The NR1509 has a built-in phono stage for connecting a vinyl player. An ECO mode is only available for the NR1509. The setup assistant will help you configure Marantz NR1509.
None of the rivals equipped with Dolby Atmos multichannel audio decoder. The receivers do not support the surround sound technology DTS:X.