Sony STR-DN1080 vs Marantz NR1609 review

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What is better - Sony STR-DN1080 vs Marantz NR1609?

Amplifier

AV receivers under review have the same number of channels. In terms of power, there are differences, the STR-DN1080 has such a ratio W/Ohm - 120/6, while the NR1609 has a power of 50/8, 70/6. The value of total harmonic distortion is also different, and for the STR-DN1080 it is 0.09%, but for the NR1609 it is 0.08%.

Audio features

The manufacturer installed different DACs, the STR-DN1080 received the model 96 KHz/24-bit, but the NR1609 is equipped with 192 KHz/24-bit. Each of the compared opponents supports Bi-amping. Both Sony STR-DN1080 and Marantz NR1609 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 NR1609 works with Deezer, Pandora, TuneIn Radio.

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 NR1609. Video scaling is only possible with the NR1609. Operation with the Dolby Vision is only possible with the NR1609.

Extensive connections

The number of HDMI inputs/outputs varies depending on the receiver, the STR-DN1080 has 6/2, and the NR1609 has 8/1. HDMI Audio Return Channel is implemented in both devices. 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 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.

Additional features

Ability to create 2 Multi zones inherent in both AV receivers. For voice control in the STR-DN1080 is used Google assistant, but in the NR1609 is used Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, Siri, Josh.AI. There is an ECO mode in NR1609. The Sony STR-DN1080 and the Marantz NR1609 can be properly configured using the setup assistant.

Multichannel surround

A Dolby Atmos multichannel audio format is available both models. A DTS:X surround technology is supported by devices from our comparison.