Onkyo TX-NR676 vs Marantz NR1504 review

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The Onkyo TX-NR676 vs Marantz NR1504 comparison proves that these receivers have many common features.

Amplifier

A significant difference between the receivers in the number of channels, Onkyo TX-NR676 has 7.2 versus 5.1 for Marantz NR1504. Regarding power, then TX-NR676 has such a W/Ohm ratio - 165/6 when NR1504 has a power of 50/8, 60/6. The THD is the same and is 0.08%.

Audio features

Characteristics of digital to analog converter (DAC) are different, AK4458 384 KHz/32-bit for TX-NR676 and 192 KHz/24-bit for the NR1504. Only the TX-NR676 supports Bi-amping feature. Each of the AV receivers can transmit an audio signal directly to the amplifier and bypasses any DSP processing. Rivals from our review have Bluetooth support. The Apple Music service is implemented on considered devices: AirPlay. Spotify can be used on each receiver. The TX-NR676 can work with the audio stream from Deezer, TIDAL, Pandora, TuneIn Radio, and the NR1504 can receive a content from Pandora, SiriusXM. HDMI signal transmission in standby mode is implemented in each of the devices. Both competitors are not able to scale the HDMI signal. Dolby Vision technology found support only on the TX-NR676.

Extensive connections

The Onkyo TX-NR676 has 7/2 HDMI inputs/outputs versus 6/1 HDMI connectors of the Marantz NR1504. The HDMI Audio Return Channel (ARC) feature supports both devices. Unfortunately, HDMI eARC is not available on monitored devices. The Consumer Electronics Control (CEC) feature is present in most modern AV receivers and the models in our comparison are no exception. Both models support the standard HDCP 2.2. The TX-NR676 has a built-in phono stage for connecting a vinyl player. A voice control is not available. An ECO mode is only available for the TX-NR676. Both TX-NR676 and NR1504 can be configured using the Setup assistant.

Multichannel surround

Only the TX-NR676 has a Dolby Atmos multichannel audio format support. A surround technology DTS:X is supported only by the TX-NR676.