Marantz SR7012 vs Onkyo TX-NR545 review

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Having had an opportunity to test Marantz SR7012 vs Onkyo TX-NR545, I’d like to share my impression here to facilitate your choice of a new AV receiver.

Amplifier

The number of channels for receivers is different - 11.2 versus 7.2, respectively, for devices. In terms of power, there are differences, the SR7012 has such a ratio W/Ohm - 125/8, 165/6, while the TX-NR545 has a power of 100/6. The value of total harmonic distortion is also different, and for the SR7012 it is 0.05%, but for the TX-NR545 it is 0.08%.

Audio features

The manufacturer installed different DACs, the SR7012 received the model 192 KHz/24-bit, but the TX-NR545 is equipped with Hi-Grade 384 KHz/32-bit. Each of the compared opponents supports Bi-amping. Both Marantz SR7012 and Onkyo TX-NR545 can transmit an audio signal directly to the amplifier and bypasses any DSP processing.

Connectivity

These units have the same Wi-Fi modules. Each of the receivers has a Bluetooth connector. The contenders have differences in the supported services from Apple - AirPlay, AirPlay 2 versus AirPlay respectively. 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 Onkyo TX-NR545 works with 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 SR7012 and the TX-NR545. 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 TX-NR545 has 6/1. 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 TX-NR545 support the standard HDCP 2.2. In the presence of a built-in phono stage for connecting a vinyl player only at Marantz SR7012.

Additional features

Unlike the SR7012 where 3 Multi zones is provided, the TX-NR545 works with 2 Multi zones. There is an ECO mode in SR7012. The Marantz SR7012 and the Onkyo TX-NR545 can be properly configured using the setup assistant.

Multichannel surround

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