Sony STR-ZA810ES vs Marantz NR1200 review

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The Sony STR-ZA810ES vs Marantz NR1200 comparison will be extremely helpful for people who want to get a great, powerful receiver with many functions.

Amplifier

The number of channels for receivers is different - 7.2 versus 2.0, respectively, for devices. In terms of power, there are differences, the STR-ZA810ES has such a ratio W/Ohm - 100/8, while the NR1200 has a power of 75/8, 100/6. The value of total harmonic distortion is also different, and for the STR-ZA810ES it is 0.09%, but for the NR1200 it is 0.08%.

Audio features

The manufacturer installed different DACs, the STR-ZA810ES received the model 384 KHz/32-bit, but the NR1200 is equipped with 192 KHz/32-bit. The Bi-amping function is implemented only in the Sony STR-ZA810ES. Both Sony STR-ZA810ES and Marantz NR1200 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.

Video features

The HDR10 function is present in each of the rivals. 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-ZA810ES and the NR1200. Video scaling is only possible with the STR-ZA810ES. Operation with the Dolby Vision is only possible with the STR-ZA810ES.

Extensive connections

The number of HDMI inputs/outputs varies depending on the receiver, the STR-ZA810ES has 6/2, and the NR1200 has 5/1. HDMI Audio Return Channel is implemented in both devices. HDMI eARC is only supported by the STR-ZA810ES. When comparing receivers, it becomes clear that each of the rivals can work with HDMI CEC. The STR-ZA810ES has support for the standard HDCP 2.2, compared to the NR1200, which supports the standard HDCP 2.3. In the presence of a built-in phono stage for connecting a vinyl player only at Marantz NR1200. For voice control in the STR-ZA810ES is used Google Assistant, but in the NR1200 is used Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, Siri, Josh.AI. There is an ECO mode in NR1200. The Sony STR-ZA810ES and the Marantz NR1200 can be properly configured using the setup assistant.

Multichannel surround

A Dolby Atmos multichannel audio format is available only in the STR-ZA810ES. Only in the STR-ZA810ES realized a DTS:X surround technology.