It’s strongly recommended to compare different receivers if you want to choose the best one: Marantz NR1504 vs Pioneer VSX-832.
AV receivers under review have the same number of channels. In terms of power, there are differences, the NR1504 has such a ratio W/Ohm - 50/8, 60/6, while the VSX-832 has a power of 80/8, 165/6. A common feature for devices is the same total harmonic distortion - 0.08%.
The manufacturer installed different DACs, the NR1504 received the model 192 KHz/24-bit, but the VSX-832 is equipped with AK4438 384 KHz/32-bit. None of the compared opponents supports Bi-amping. Both Marantz NR1504 and Pioneer VSX-832 can transmit an audio signal directly to the amplifier and bypasses any DSP processing.
Wireless Internet connection via WIFI is only possible with VSX-832. Each of the receivers has a Bluetooth connector. Both devices can work with such Apple Music services: AirPlay. Access to the Spotify service is on each of the competitors. The number of available streaming services varies for receivers, the Marantz NR1504 works with Pandora, SiriusXM, but the Pioneer VSX-832 works with Deezer, TIDAL, Pandora, TuneIn Radio. Signaling over HDMI in standby mode can provide the NR1504 and the VSX-832. Video scaling is only possible with the VSX-832. Operation with the Dolby Vision is only possible with the VSX-832.
The number of HDMI inputs/outputs varies depending on the receiver, the NR1504 has 6/1, and the VSX-832 has 4/1. HDMI Audio Return Channel is implemented in both devices. HDMI eARC is not supported by the NR1504 and the VSX-832. When comparing receivers, it becomes clear that each of the rivals can work with HDMI CEC. NR1504 and VSX-832 support the standard HDCP 2.2. Unlike most receivers, our models do not have a built-in phono stage for connecting a vinyl player. Voice control of the basic functions of the receiver is not realized in both models. There is an ECO mode in neither AV receiver. The Marantz NR1504 and the Pioneer VSX-832 can be properly configured using the setup assistant.
A Dolby Atmos multichannel audio format is available only in the VSX-832. Only in the VSX-832 realized a DTS:X surround technology.