It’s strongly recommended to compare different receivers if you want to choose the best one: Marantz NR1609 vs Pioneer VSX-832.
The number of channels for receivers is different - 7.2 versus 5.1, respectively, for devices. In terms of power, there are differences, the NR1609 has such a ratio W/Ohm - 50/8, 70/6, 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 NR1609 received the model 192 KHz/24-bit, but the VSX-832 is equipped with AK4438 384 KHz/32-bit. The Bi-amping function is implemented only in the Marantz NR1609. Both Marantz NR1609 and Pioneer VSX-832 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, 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 NR1609 works with Deezer, Pandora, TuneIn Radio, but the Pioneer VSX-832 works with Deezer, TIDAL, Pandora, TuneIn Radio. 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 NR1609 and the VSX-832. Each of the devices can increase the resolution of the incoming video signal. Each of the participants of the comparison has a Dolby Vision.
The number of HDMI inputs/outputs varies depending on the receiver, the NR1609 has 8/1, and the VSX-832 has 4/1. HDMI Audio Return Channel is implemented in both devices. HDMI eARC is not supported by the NR1609 and the VSX-832. When comparing receivers, it becomes clear that each of the rivals can work with HDMI CEC. NR1609 and VSX-832 support the standard HDCP 2.2. In the presence of a built-in phono stage for connecting a vinyl player only at Marantz NR1609. There is an ECO mode in NR1609. The Marantz NR1609 and the Pioneer VSX-832 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.