Sony STR-DN1080 vs Marantz NR1508 review

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It’s strongly recommended to compare different receivers if you want to choose the best one: Sony STR-DN1080 vs Marantz NR1508.

Amplifier

The number of channels for receivers is different - 7.2 versus 5.2, respectively, for devices. In terms of power, there are differences, the STR-DN1080 has such a ratio W/Ohm - 120/6, while the NR1508 has a power of 50/8. The value of total harmonic distortion is also different, and for the STR-DN1080 it is 0.09%, but for the NR1508 it is 0.08%.

Audio features

The manufacturer installed different DACs, the STR-DN1080 received the model 96 KHz/24-bit, but the NR1508 is equipped with 192 KHz/24-bit. The Bi-amping function is implemented only in the Sony STR-DN1080. Both Sony STR-DN1080 and Marantz NR1508 can transmit an audio signal directly to the amplifier and bypasses any DSP processing. Each of the receivers has a Bluetooth connector. The contenders have differences in the supported services from Apple - AirPlay versus AirPlay, AirPlay 2 respectively. Access to the Spotify service is on each of the competitors. The number of available streaming services varies for receivers, the Sony STR-DN1080 works with TIDAL, Pandora, but the Marantz NR1508 works with Deezer, TIDAL, Pandora.

Video features

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 STR-DN1080 and the NR1508. None of the devices can increase the resolution of the incoming video signal. Operation with the Dolby Vision is only possible with the NR1508.

Extensive connections

The number of HDMI inputs/outputs varies depending on the receiver, the STR-DN1080 has 6/2, and the NR1508 has 6/1. HDMI Audio Return Channel is only available on Sony STR-DN1080. HDMI eARC is only supported by the STR-DN1080. When comparing receivers, it becomes clear that each of the rivals can work with HDMI CEC. STR-DN1080 and NR1508 support the standard HDCP 2.2. Unlike most receivers, our models do not have a built-in phono stage for connecting a vinyl player. For voice control in the STR-DN1080 is used Google assistant, but in the NR1508 is used Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, Siri, Josh.AI. There is an ECO mode in NR1508. The Sony STR-DN1080 and the Marantz NR1508 can be properly configured using the setup assistant.

Multichannel surround

A Dolby Atmos multichannel audio format is available only in the STR-DN1080. Only in the STR-DN1080 realized a DTS:X surround technology.