What is better - Onkyo TX-NR555 vs Marantz NR1609?
AV receivers under review have the same number of channels. In terms of power, there are differences, the TX-NR555 has such a ratio W/Ohm - 130/6, while the NR1609 has a power of 50/8, 70/6. A common feature for devices is the same total harmonic distortion - 0.08%.
The manufacturer installed different DACs, the TX-NR555 received the model Hi-Grade 384 KHz/32-bit, but the NR1609 is equipped with 192 KHz/24-bit. Each of the compared opponents supports Bi-amping. Both Onkyo TX-NR555 and Marantz NR1609 can transmit an audio signal directly to the amplifier and bypasses any DSP processing.
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 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 Onkyo TX-NR555 works with Deezer, TIDAL, Pandora, but the Marantz NR1609 works with Deezer, Pandora, TuneIn Radio.
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 TX-NR555 and the NR1609. Video scaling is only possible with the NR1609. Operation with the Dolby Vision is only possible with the NR1609.
The number of HDMI inputs/outputs varies depending on the receiver, the TX-NR555 has 6/1, and the NR1609 has 8/1. HDMI Audio Return Channel is implemented in both devices. HDMI eARC is not supported by the TX-NR555 and the NR1609. When comparing receivers, it becomes clear that each of the rivals can work with HDMI CEC. TX-NR555 and NR1609 support the standard HDCP 2.2. Like most receivers, our models have a built-in phono stage for connecting a vinyl player.
Ability to create 2 Multi zones inherent in both AV receivers. There is an ECO mode in either AV receiver. The Marantz NR1609 can be properly configured using the setup assistant.
A Dolby Atmos multichannel audio format is available both models. A DTS:X surround technology is supported by devices from our comparison.