Marantz™ AV Receivers Experience High Quality Home Audio Marantz

Marantz 8K Ultra HDTurntable ConnectivityDolby AtmosVoice ControlHand Tuned ComponentsWireless Streaming

Denon Vs Marantz AV Receivers 2023 - A Comprehensive Guide — ProHiFi India When it comes to high-fidelity sound choosing the right AV receiver can make or break your listening experience. The two most popular and respected brands in Home Cinema and Stereo space are Denon and Marantz. In this blog post we will compare and contrast these two brands examining their design sound quality user

When it comes to high-fidelity sound, choosing the right AV receiver can make or break your listening experience. The two most popular and respected brands in Home Cinema and Stereo space are Denon and Marantz. In this blog post, we will compare and contrast these two brands, examining their design, sound quality, user

When it comes to high-fidelity sound, choosing the right AV receiver can make or break your listening experience. The two most popular and respected brands in Home Cinema and Stereo space are Denon and Marantz. In this blog post, we will compare and contrast these two brands, examining their design, sound quality, user interface, price points, and overall value for money. By the end of this post, you should have a clearer understanding of which brand might be best suited to your needs.

What are the Differences Between Denon and Marantz AV Receivers?

The main difference between Denon and Marantz AV receivers is their sound signatures and design philosophies. Denon AV receivers are more detailed, precise, and dynamic, with a focus on accuracy and clarity recommended for the Movie enthusiast. While Marantz AVRs produce warm, natural-sounding audio that is suited for music listening as well as home theater use. Marantz emphasizes audio quality and musicality in their receivers.

Before we dive into each brand in more detail, let’s take a moment to highlight some more key differences between Denon and Marantz AV receivers.

Design and aesthetics:

Denon AV receiver and Amplifiers tend to have a more modern and sleek appearance, with a focus on minimalism and functionality whereas Marantz AVRs, often have a more vintage or classic look, with a focus on aesthetics and premium built quality chipsets/materials.

Sound quality and features:

Both brands are known for their high-quality sound, but some audiophiles may prefer the sound signature of one brand over the other. Denon receivers are often praised for their extensive feature sets, including advanced room correction technology and support for high-resolution audio formats. Marantz receivers, on the other hand, may focus more on delivering a “pure” and unadulterated sound, with a simpler feature set.

User interface and ease of use:

Denon receivers generally have a more intuitive and user-friendly interface, with a focus on ease of use.Marantz AV Receiver may be more complex to set up and operate but offer more customization options and flexibility.

Price points and value for money:

Denon receivers tend to be priced lower than Marantz receivers, making them a more accessible option for many consumers.Marantz receivers may be more expensive as the components used inside are of a premium build quality which enhances sound quality and the life of the product.

Denon AV Receivers:

Denon is a Japanese brand that has been producing high-quality audio equipment since 1910. Today, the company is known for its extensive range of AV receivers, Amplifiers, Wireless speakers and more which offer a wide range of features and capabilities.

Key Features of Denon AV receivers:

• Advanced room correction technology, which helps optimize sound quality in any listening environment.
• Support for a wide range of audio formats, including high-resolution formats like FLAC and DSD.
• Compatibility with popular streaming services like Spotify and Pandora.
• User-friendly interfaces and mobile apps for easy control.

Some Popular models and their specs are:

21. Denon AVR-X4800H: A 9.2 channel receiver with 8 HDMI inputs, support for Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, and advanced room correction technology.
22. Denon AVR-X2800H: A 7.2 channel receiver with 6 HDMI inputs, support for Alexa voice control, and compatibility with the Denon HEOS wireless multi-room audio system.
23. Denon AVR-X1800H: A 7.2 channel receiver with 6 HDMI inputs, support for Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, and compatibility with the Denon HEOS wireless multi-room audio system. Advantages and disadvantages of Denon AV receivers:

• Advantages: Extensive feature set, advanced room correction technology, user-friendly interfaces and mobile apps.
• Disadvantages: Some audiophiles may find the sound signature to be less “pure” or natural than other brands, such as Marantz.

Marantz AV Receivers:

Marantz is a US-based brand that has been producing high-end audio equipment since the 1950s. The company is known for its focus on delivering pure and unadulterated sound, with a focus on high-end materials and build quality.

Key Features of Marantz AV receivers:

• High-quality amplifiers and DACs for superior sound quality.
• Minimalist design and high-end materials, such as copper-plated chassis and solid aluminum front panels.
• Advanced customizability options, including the ability to adjust individual speaker levels and EQ settings.
• Support for high-resolution audio formats, such as DSD and FLAC.

Popular models and their specs:

• Marantz SR8015: A 11.2 channel receiver with 140W RMS, 8 HDMI inputs, support for Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, and advanced room correction technology.

• Marantz Cinema 40: Premium 9.4 channel 125-watts-per-channel amplification, Dolby Atmos, DTS:X Auro 3D, and 8K Ultra HD plus HEOS® Built-in streaming. CINEMA 40 is a statement piece and reference-level AV Receiver.

• Marantz NR1711: A slimline 7.2 channel receiver with 6 HDMI inputs, support for Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, and compatibility with popular streaming services.

Marantz has recently launched their new line of high-end AV receivers. Read here for the difference between Marantz Cinema 40 vs Cinema 50

Advantages and disadvantages of Marantz AV receivers:

• Advantages: High-end materials and build quality, superior sound quality and customizability, and support for high-resolution audio formats.
• Disadvantages: May be more expensive than other brands, complex interface and setup process.

Also read:Denon vs Onkyo Av Receiver Guide

In conclusion, choosing between Denon and Marantz AV receivers ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and needs. Denon receivers may be a better choice if you prioritize a feature-rich experience and ease of use on a budget, while Marantz receivers may be a better choice if you prioritize superior sound quality and build quality. Regardless of which brand you choose, both Denon and Marantz are respected and well-established brands that offer high-quality AV receivers, Stereo amplifiers, and speakers for all kinds of listening environments.

FAQs:

1. Who owns Denon and Marantz?

Ans: Denon & Marantz are part of the same group company i:e Sound United (which is now owned by Masimo). Masimo also owns several more Hi-Fi Audio brands like Bowers & Wilkins, Polk Audio, Definitive Technology, Boston Acoustic, and more…

2. Is Denon as Good as Marantz?

Yes, Denon is as good as Marantz both brands are often considered to be of comparable quality in terms of their home theater electronics. Both brands are owned by the same parent company Mosimo. If you prioritize modern features and dynamic sound, Denon might be your choice. If you prefer a more music-focused, warm sound signature, Marantz could be your preference.

Ans: Denon & Marantz are part of the same group company i:e Sound United (which is now owned by Masimo). Masimo also owns several more Hi-Fi Audio brands like Bowers & Wilkins, Polk Audio, Definitive Technology, Boston Acoustic, and more…

2. Is Denon as Good as Marantz?

Yes, Denon is as good as Marantz both brands are often considered to be of comparable quality in terms of their home theater electronics. Both brands are owned by the same parent company Mosimo. If you prioritize modern features and dynamic sound, Denon might be your choice. If you prefer a more music-focused, warm sound signature, Marantz could be your preference.

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Comments

Nat Han - October 31, 2023 I have the Marantz SR6015 and she is an absolute beast. Movies have presence, but aren’t too “in your face” when watching action scenes or anything with a lot going on. I am thinking of getting some Power Amps just to squeeze that little bit of extra juice out of it when I connect Atmos speakers. But at moment with just the 5.2 I have, it absolutely delivers and doesn’t struggle in any way

Leave a comment

Nat Han - October 31, 2023 I have the Marantz SR6015 and she is an absolute beast. Movies have presence, but aren’t too “in your face” when watching action scenes or anything with a lot going on. I am thinking of getting some Power Amps just to squeeze that little bit of extra juice out of it when I connect Atmos speakers. But at moment with just the 5.2 I have, it absolutely delivers and doesn’t struggle in any way

Leave a comment

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Yamaha AV Receivers for Home Theatre Systems (Singapore)

AVENTAGE is a dramatic, inspired leap forward in audio/video component design.

AVENTAGE brings studio grade sound and sophisticated video enhancements to your home with unparalleled attention to detail in design, engineering, and fabrication.

Offering full enjoyment of HD audio and video, great operating convenience with Yamaha’s superior sound quality.

The Best Gear for a Home Theater System in 2024 Reviews by Wirecutter We researched and tested to find the best-looking and best-sounding home theater equipment that will take your personal setup from functional to fantastic.

We researched and tested to find the best-looking and best-sounding home theater equipment that will take your personal setup from functional to fantastic. Updated July 2, 2024 Save

Epson Home Cinema LS11000

The best 4K projector

This laser 4K projector delivers a big, bright, beautiful image and has almost all the features you need—except 3D support.

Buying Options

$3,990 from Amazon$4,000 from Best Buy$4,000 from Dell

The best 4K projector

$3,990 from Amazon$4,000 from Best Buy$4,000 from Dell

BenQ HT2060

The best budget projector around $1,000

This projector produces a bright, rich-looking image with more accurate color than most competitors can offer. It’s easy to set up and quiet in operation, but it lacks features like Wi-Fi and Bluetooth support.

Buying Options

$900 from Amazon$899 from WalmartMay be out of stock

$900 from Best Buy

The best budget projector around $1,000

$900 from Amazon$899 from WalmartMay be out of stock

$900 from Best Buy

Silver Ticket STR Series (White Material, 100-Inch)

Our favorite screen

This screen is comparable in performance to those costing seven times as much, plus it’s easy to set up and install. It’s a huge bargain for what it offers.

Buying Options

$230 from Amazon

Our favorite screen

$230 from Amazon

Denon AVR-X1800H

The best all-purpose AV receiver

This is a great-sounding, easy-to-use, 7.1-channel receiver that has all the necessary features to satisfy movie fans, music lovers, and gamers alike.

Buying Options

$635 from Amazon$639 from Best Buy$749 from Walmart

The best all-purpose AV receiver

$635 from Amazon$639 from Best Buy$749 from Walmart

Polk Signature Elite ES15

Great performer, great value

The ES15 bookshelf speaker pair sounds great, looks cool, and is surprisingly affordable.

Buying Options

$209 from Amazon

Great performer, great value

$209 from Amazon

Polk Signature Elite ES10

A compact surround speaker

The small ES10 is easy to fit or install just about anywhere, so it’s ideal as a surround speaker.

Buying Options

$249 from Amazon

A compact surround speaker

$249 from Amazon

Polk Signature Elite ES30

An easy-to-place center speaker

The ES30 is a good, affordable center-channel match for the ES15 and ES10 speakers in a surround-sound system.

Buying Options

$260 from Amazon

An easy-to-place center speaker

$260 from Amazon

Rogersound Labs Speedwoofer 10S MKII

A great subwoofer

This 10-inch subwoofer offers an ideal blend of bass power and finesse in a compact package, but you can buy it only directly from the manufacturer.

Buying Options

$449 from Rogersound Labs

A great subwoofer

$449 from Rogersound Labs

Samsung S90C Series

The best OLED TV for the money

This TV delivers stunning picture quality and great features for a relatively reasonable price. But it does not support Dolby Vision HDR.

Buying Options

$1,298 from Amazon(65-inch)$1,575 from Walmart(65-inch)$1,600 from Best Buy(65-inch)

The best OLED TV for the money

$1,298 from Amazon(65-inch)$1,575 from Walmart(65-inch)$1,600 from Best Buy(65-inch)

TCL QM8 Series

The best 4K LCD TV for the money

Capable of dazzling brightness and vibrant colors, this TV is a standout performer amongst LCD/LED TVs, but it’s available only in larger screen sizes.

Buying Options

$998 from Amazon(65-inch)$900 from Best Buy(65-inch)

The best 4K LCD TV for the money

$998 from Amazon(65-inch)$900 from Best Buy(65-inch)

Polk MagniFi Mini AX

The best all-around soundbar

Despite being simple, small, and affordable, this soundbar outperforms many larger, more complicated competitors.

Buying Options

$499 from Amazon$499 from Walmart$500 from Best Buy

The best all-around soundbar

$499 from Amazon$499 from Walmart$500 from Best Buy

LG S95QR

For the most theaterlike audio experience

The S95QR includes a powerful subwoofer, surround speakers, five upward-firing Atmos speakers, and lots of inputs and audio streaming options.

Buying Options

$797 from Amazon$999 from Best Buy

For the most theaterlike audio experience

$797 from Amazon$999 from Best Buy

Panasonic DP-UB820

The best 4K player under $500

This player supports all the major HDR formats, including Dolby Vision, and provides the best image quality with 4K Ultra HD discs, thanks to custom tone mapping that optimizes HDR video for your display.

Buying Options

$425 from Amazon$425 from Walmart$500 from Best Buy

The best 4K player under $500

$425 from Amazon$425 from Walmart$500 from Best Buy

Panasonic DP-UB420

If your TV doesn’t support Dolby Vision

This player delivers most of the benefits of the pricier DP-UB820, but it lacks support for the Dolby Vision HDR format.

Buying Options

$248 from Amazon$250 from Best Buy

If your TV doesn’t support Dolby Vision

$248 from Amazon$250 from Best Buy

Google Chromecast with Google TV

The best media streaming device

The Chromecast player offers an intuitive interface, intelligent search, a useful remote, and support for 4K HDR video, including Dolby Vision.

Buying Options

$50 from Amazon$50 from Walmart$50 from Best Buy

The best media streaming device

$50 from Amazon$50 from Walmart$50 from Best Buy

Sony PlayStation 5 Slim

The best PlayStation console

This game console has a disc drive so you can watch UHD Blu-ray movies, as well as play new or used PS5 and PS4 game discs.

Buying Options

$500 from Amazon$490 from Walmart$450 from Best Buy

The best PlayStation console

$500 from Amazon$490 from Walmart$450 from Best Buy

Microsoft Xbox Series X

The best Xbox console

Get the Series X if you want Dolby Vision support and the absolute best in graphics like raytraced lighting effects, plus a disc drive for games and movies.

Buying Options

$479 from Amazon$499 from Walmart$500 from Best Buy

The best Xbox console

$479 from Amazon$499 from Walmart$500 from Best Buy

Sofabaton U2 Universal Remote Control

Good features and performance for the price

This remote can control 15 AV components, including Bluetooth-based devices, and the button layout is intuitive. But it lacks backlighting and activity buttons, and programming advanced tasks can be challenging.

Buying Options

$180$144 from AmazonWith clipped on-page coupon

Good features and performance for the price

$180$144 from AmazonWith clipped on-page coupon

Channel Master FLATenna

The best passive indoor antenna

Of all the antennas we tested, this passive, non-amplified antenna gave us the best results on average, and it’s affordable and easy to install. The detachable cable is stiff, however.

Buying Options

$29 from Amazon

The best passive indoor antenna

$29 from Amazon

Channel Master FLATenna+

The best amplified indoor antenna

The amplified version of the FLATenna may work better if you live more than 20 miles from TV transmitters. But at closer distances, the amp can reduce performance.

Buying Options

$49 from Channel MasterMay be out of stock

The best amplified indoor antenna

$49 from Channel MasterMay be out of stock

Monoprice 4K Certified Premium High Speed HDMI Cable

A sturdy cable from a well-known cable brand

This inexpensive but well-built HDMI cable is available in many lengths, and in our tests it handled 4K HDR video with no issues.

Buying Options

$6 from Amazon(6 feet)$9 from Walmart$4 from Monoprice(3 feet)

A sturdy cable from a well-known cable brand

$6 from Amazon(6 feet)$9 from Walmart$4 from Monoprice(3 feet)

Monoprice 8K Ultra High Speed HDMI Cable

For gamers and 8K TV owners

Most people don’t need Ultra High Speed HDMI cables, but if you own the latest gaming consoles or you plan to buy an 8K TV, we recommend this Monoprice 8K cable.

Buying Options

$8 from Amazon(6 feet)$8 from Monoprice(6 feet)

For gamers and 8K TV owners

$8 from Amazon(6 feet)$8 from Monoprice(6 feet)

Monoprice Speaker Wire 2747

Best for the money

This well-made, affordable speaker wire, in a gauge that’s suited to a wide range of speaker binding posts, will satisfy casual and critical listeners alike.

Buying Options

$39 from Amazon(50 feet)

Best for the money

$39 from Amazon(50 feet)

Peerless-AV PRGS-UNV Projector Mount

An easily adjustable mount

Among those we’ve used, this model comes the closest to being the perfect projector mount.

Buying Options

$199 from Amazon$169 from Walmart

An easily adjustable mount

$199 from Amazon$169 from Walmart

Sanus VMPL50A-B1

The best tilt-only TV wall mount

A sturdy build and helpful post-installation adjustments make this model our favorite tilting TV wall mount.

Buying Options

$150 from Amazon$150 from Walmart

The best tilt-only TV wall mount

$150 from Amazon$150 from Walmart

Sanus VLF728-B2

The best full-motion mount

This model offers a long extension, easy adjustments, and smooth motion. Its long mounting bars provide a lot of flexibility for you to center the TV on a wall.

Buying Options

$300$250 from WalmartYou save $50 (17%)

$300$250 from AbtYou save $50 (17%)

$300$250 from AmazonYou save $50 (17%)

$300 from Best Buy

The best full-motion mount

$300$250 from WalmartYou save $50 (17%)

$300$250 from AbtYou save $50 (17%)

$300$250 from AmazonYou save $50 (17%)

$300 from Best BuyGrant Clauser

Senior Editor

What I CoverI’m an editor whose coverage areas encompass audio, video, and smart-home devices, including headphones, TVs, and security cameras.

Kathryn Rath

What I CoverI’m a writer based in New York whose coverage areas include audio and video gear such as headphones, speakers, TVs, and projectors. I also cover smart devices for the home.

• The Epson LS11000 4K laser projector delivers a big, beautiful image, works well in a variety of lighting conditions, and has most of the features you need.The Best 4K Projector

• The BenQ HT2060’s good contrast, bright output, and impressive color accuracy make it our pick for the best budget home theater projector.The Best Budget Projector for a Home Theater

• A good projector screen is an essential complement to a home projector. We have recommendations for value-oriented fixed-frame, pull-down, and DIY screens.The Best Projector Screen on a Budget

• The Denon AVR-X1800H is an easy-to-use AV receiver that sounds great and has the necessary features to meet most people’s movie, music, and video-gaming needs.The Best AV Receivers for Most People

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• Video game consoles are more popular than ever, but it can be hard to figure out the right one to buy. We’re here to help—assuming you can find one.The Best Game Consoles

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Best AV Receivers for 2023 - ecoustics.com The backbone of a home theater or surround sound system todays best AVRs are packed with features and performance.

The backbone of a home theater or surround sound system, today’s best AVRs are packed with features and performance.

Best AV Receivers for 2023

The backbone of a home theater or surround sound system, today’s best AVRs are packed with features and performance.

By

Chris BoylanUpdated

June 3, 2023-

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• Denon AVR-S760H – Excellent budget performer with Dolby Atmos 5.1.2

• Sony STR-AZ1000ES/STR-AN1000 – Upgraded 5.1.2 choice with support for Sony 360 Reality Audio and IMAX Enhanced

• Onkyo TX-NR7100 – Most Affordable 9-channel receiver (5.1.4, 7.2.2) – Includes DIRAC Live room correction

• Denon AVR-X3800H – Most Versatile, Future-Proof Option with 9 channels (upgradeable to 11 channels), support for Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, AURO 3d, IMAX Enhanced and 360 Reality Audio, DIRAC Live calibration (optional)

The Case for AVRs

While soundbars have come a long way lately, nothing beats a good Audio/Video receiver (AVR) with a discrete set of surround sound speakers for a truly immersive surround sound system. You’ll get more of everything: more inputs, more features, more flexibility and usually better sound to boot. Yes, it will take you a bit more time (and a roll of speaker wire) to set up, compared to a soundbar, but the sonic reward you’ll get is well worth the effort.

The A/V receiver market has undergone a bit of a rebirth lately, starting with a flurry of new receiver announcements including models from Denon and Marantz at CEDIA Expo 2022. Sony released a new batch of receivers in February after a five year absence and Premium Audio Group announced new models from its Onkyo, Integra and Pioneer brands as well as evidence of continued support for these brands via regular firmware updates.

All of the models we’re recommending support video displays up to 8K in resolution, include HDMI 2.1 and HDCP 2.3 support and are compatible with the latest source components including next generation gaming consoles. Also, all recommended receivers support DTS:X and Dolby Atmos – not just the “virtual” kind but the discrete kind with real height speakers for the most immersive surround sound effects.

Solid Performance on a Budget: Denon AVR-S760H ($599)

The Denon AVR-S760H (available on Amazon and reviewed here) includes all of the features a burgeoning or budget-minded audiophile might crave including Dolby Atmos (5.1.2), DTS:X, six HDMI ports, network streaming and even a turntable input. It includes a reasonably powerful seven channel amplifier (75 Watts/Channel) which can power a Dolby Atmos 5.1.2 speaker system or do a standard 5.1-channel surround system in the main room plus provide power to second zone.

The receiver also includes support for Denon’s multi-room music platform and app (HEOS) so if you’re thinking about putting speakers in multiple rooms (and don’t already have a Sonos system), this is something to consider.

The Denon AVR-S760H covers all the bases for a solid entry-level home theater receiver. I tested the 760H in my home theater system for several weeks and found that it worked reliably, was easy to set up and customize, and was capable of reaching impressively loud reference levels in our 14 x 16 foot space. It’s equally well suited to movies and music, with great dynamics and detail. It locks onto a Dolby Atmos signal from Blu-ray Disc or streaming apps on an Apple TV 4K box or Amazon FireTV stick reliably and quickly. The receiver was first released in 2021 but it is still current in Denon’s lineup as of May, 2023.

The receiver is compatible with the top three voice assistant/home control platforms: Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant and Apple Siri. You’ll find Audyssey MultEQ on board for automated speaker level calibration.

The MSRP is $599 but I’ve seen it on sale regularly at Amazon and Costco (in stores and online) for under $500. If you’re looking for a solid entry-level receiver with all of the essential features, it’s worth seeking out. If you’re willing to take a chance on a refurbished/renewed model, you may have better luck finding one at an even lower price.

Pros: low price, true Dolby Atmos and DTS:X support, turntable input, six HDMI ports, HDMI 2.1 with HDCP 2.3

Cons: lacks support for Reality 360 Audio or IMAX Enhanced

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Who Should Buy the Denon AVR-S760H?

Those looking for a budget-priced performance AVR from an established name brand who want to deploy a basic 5.1.2 channel Dolby Atmos/DTS:X system can’t go wrong with this receiver.

Where to Buy the Denon AVR-S760H:

• Denon AVR-S760H (New Stock) – Amazon, Costco
• Denon AVR-S760H (Renewed) – Amazon

Add 360 Reality Audio Support with Sony STR-AZ1000ES (STR-AN1000)

Comparable in many ways with the Denon AVR-S760H, Sony’s STR-AZ1000ES ($1099) is Sony’s latest entry into the AVR world, having been unveiled in February 2023. It began shipping shortly after that announcement. It’s available on Crutchfield.com and is reviewed here. Like the Denon AVR-S760H, the Sony receiver has seven channels of built-in amplification for a 5.1.2-channel immersive surround system. What the Sony has that the Denon lacks is support for IMAX:Enhanced video and audio, Sony’s own 360 Reality Audio immersive sound, Chromecast Built-in functionality as well as “Works with Sonos” certification.

The STR-AZ1000ES model is part of the company’s “Elevated Standard” line with a longer warranty and more CI-friendly features like an RS232 port for integration with legacy home automation systems. The STR-AN1000 model ($799) offers similar performance and features, but without the RS232 port at a lower price.

As for Sony’s 360 Reality Audio codec, this is a fairly new object-based immersive sound format that has begun to appear in music releases on streaming services such as Amazon Music, TIDAL, deezer and nugs.net. Similar to Dolby Atmos, 360 Reality Audio allows music producers and engineers to create an immersive, three dimensional representation of new and classic songs adding a level of involvement and immersion beyond what is possible with regular stereo or even traditional surround sound.

Who Should Buy the Sony STR-AZ1000ES or STR-AN1000?

Those who favor the Sony brand and want support for the latest immersive sound formats will appreciate this receiver. Also, support for third party products like Chromecast Built-in and Works with Sonos means this receiver plays nicely with other products and systems.

Where to Buy:

Sony STR-AZ1000ES on Crutchfield; Sony STR-AN1000 on Amazon

More Channels and More Power: Onkyo TX-NR7100 (MSRP $899 – reduced from $1299)

With a recent price drop to $899, the Onkyo TX-NR7100 just became the most affordable nine channel AV receiver from an established name brand. This is a great option if you have a larger home theater space or living room and you want to deploy a 5.1.4 or 7.1.2 channel Dolby Atmos speaker system.

Onkyo got a bit of a bad rap several years ago with a notorious issue with a bad batch of HDMI boards that caused premature failure. This caused some fans to abandon the brand, even though the problem has been resolved now for many years. Also, the parent company of both Onkyo and Pioneer recently declared bankruptcy but a new company has stepped in to take over production and distribution of Onkyo gear. The new owner is PAC (Premium Audio Company), a joint venture between VOXX International and Sharp. PAC has promised continued support for current products as well as development of new Onkyo products moving forward. The company has continued releasing firmware updates for its receivers so we feel confident recommending the brand.

With nine channels of on-board amplification (100 Watts/Channel), the TX-NR7100 can fill a large room with immersive surround. You can choose between a 5.1.4 or 7.1.2-channel immersive surround system, depending on your room size, layout and preferences. Or you can go with a 5.1.2 or traditional 7.1 channel system and use the extra two amplifier channels to power a pair of speakers in another room.

What makes the TX-NR7100 receiver special is that it’s one of the first A/V receivers to include Dirac’s best of breed room correction software “Dirac Live” on-board at no extra cost. It even comes with a calibration microphone certified for use with Dirac in the box. The room correction routine itself is handled via a dedicated Onkyo app for Android or Apple devices. Seasoned Dirac professionals can also use Dirac software for Windows. Beyond what you can do with standard speaker calibration routines, Dirac Live makes adjustments in both the amplitude and time domain, compensating and correcting for anomalies in your listening room that may impact sound quality.

On the audio codec side, in addition to Dolby Atmos, Dolby TrueHD, DTS:HD Master Audio and DTS:X, the Onkyo TX-NR7100 includes “IMAX:Enhanced” support as well. With bi-directional Bluetooth, you can either stream music to the receiver using your phone or you can stream sound from the receiver to a pair of Bluetooth headphones or earbuds for late night listening.

Because Onkyo doesn’t have its own multi-room wireless music platform, it plays particularly nicely with third parties. The 7100 is “Works with Sonos” certified, which means your living room or home theater system can become its own Sonos room (zone) by adding a Sonos Port. The receiver also supports multiple streaming music services including Spotify, TIDAL, Amazon Music HD, Deezer, TuneIn, and Pandora. It is also compatible with the three most popular smart home ecosystems: Apple HomeKit, Google Home and Amazon Alexa. The receiver can be voice-controlled on any of these platforms using a compatible device. The Onkyo receiver supports DTS PlayFi for playback of your local digital music files, compatible apps and synchronization across multiple rooms. Finally, the TX-NR7100 has Google Chromecast on-board and Apple AirPlay 2 support built in.

Advertisement. Scroll to continue reading.Pros: Dolby Atmos, DTS:X and IMAX Enhanced Support, Dirac Live room correction, plenty of channels (up to 5.1.4 or 7.1.2 channel immersive sound), plays nicely with 3rd party products, most affordable 9-channel AVR from a name brand

Cons: Dirac Live version lacks independent subwoofer support, lacks preamp outputs for channel expansion, lacks support for 360 Reality Audio

Who Should Buy the Onkyo TX-NR7100?

The Onkyo TX-NR7100 is an excellent choice for those looking for a 5.1.4 or 7.1.2 channel immersive surround sound set-up at a fairly affordable price (currently under $900). With support for IMAX Enhanced, Works with Sonos, and DIRAC Live room correction, this receiver offers high end sound, optimization and flexibility without a high price tag.

Where to Buy the Onkyo TX-NR7100:

• Onkyo TX-NR7100 on Amazon

One with Everything: Denon AVR-X3800H ($1699)

Similar in some respects to the Onkyo model above, Denon’s brand new AVR-X3800H receiver offers nine channels of on-board amplification with 105 Watts/channel. But unlike the Onkyo, the Denon AVR-X3800H can be upgraded to an eleven channel system by simply adding a two-channel power amp. This receiver was announced at last year’s CEDIA Expo and began shipping in late 2022. It includes the latest features and technology for future compatibility and covers all the bases for audio and video format support. I’ve been testing it for a few weeks (review coming soon) and have found it to offer excellent sound and simple intuitive operation.

You’ll find Audyssey’s advanced MultEQ XT32 calibration software on board as well as an optional upgrade for Dirac Live room correction. But unlike the Onkyo receiver (and most other A/V receivers on the market today), the Denon AVR-X3800H supports connection of up to four subwoofers, with independent controls for each. Most receivers have only a single subwoofer output (or at most two, which are not independently adjustable). By having four independent subwoofer outputs, you can install two, three or even four subwoofers in your listening room and adjust them so they complement each other instead of working against each other. And no, this is NOT to annoy your neighbors (well not ONLY that) but it will allow you to get truly uniform deep bass response anywhere in your room.

The tricky part about bass frequencies is that they tend to interact with the room and with each other, creating areas where the bass is too strong (room modes) and areas where the bass disappears (bass nodes). With proper placement of multiple subwoofers – and proper calibration or correction – you can get deep, solid low frequency response no matter where you sit. With both Audyssey MultEQ XT32 built-in and a DIRAC Live option, hobbyists and professional calibrators alike have numerous options to dial in the best possible sound for your specific room.

With its nine on-board amps and four sub outputs, the AVR-X3800H can be configured right out of the box for a 5.4.4 or 7.4.2-channel immersive Dolby Atmos surround system. If you need even more channels, the 3800 actually has 11 channels of processing, so you can add a 2-channel power amp for a 7.4.4 channel system. Eleven speakers plus four subwoofers. That’s a lot of speakers. This makes the AVR-X3800H an excellent choice for a large home theater room or living room where you’ve got a lot of space to fill with sound.

The AVR-X3800H also has Denon’s HEOS whole home music and streaming platform on-board so it will easily integrate in a multi-room speaker system along with other HEOS devices. Install the HEOS app on your Apple or Android phone, link it up with the receiver, add your music streaming apps and you’re ready to rock.

For immersive surround, the 3800 supports pretty much every 3D audio format known to man (and woman): Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, IMAX:Enhanced, Auro 3D, 360 Reality Audio and MPEG H. For legacy stereo and surround sound content, the receiver includes Dolby Surround, DTS Neural:X and Auro-Matic processing to enhance the immersiveness of the sound. If you’re into 3D audio, in virtually any format, on virtually any streaming service, the Denon AVR-X3800H has got you covered. And the receiver has only gotten better since launch with Dirac Live room correction now available as an optional software update.

Pros: Comprehensive immersive audio support, nine channels upgradeable to eleven channels, Audyssey MultEQ XT 32 calibration, upgradeable to Dirac Live, up to four independently controlled subwoofers

Cons: A bit pricey, no built-in Sonos compatibility or Chromecast built-in support

Who Should Buy the Denon AVR-X3800H?

The Denon AVR-X3800H is a superb option for those looking for the immersive sound in a large room with wide format support for the best future-proofing. It has nine channels of amplification, but can be upgraded to 11 channels with a 2-channel amp (for 7.1.4, or even 7.4.4 channel system). It is the most affordable receiver to support four independently controlled subwoofer outputs. It supports Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, AURO 3D, Sony 360 Reality Audio, IMAX Enhanced and MPEG-H immersive sound as well as DIRAC Live room correction via an optional upgrade. Truly “One with Everything.”

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Where to Buy Denon AVR-X3800H:

• Denon AVR-X3800H on Amazon

Receivers Recommended in this Article:

• Denon AVR-S760H (New Stock) – Amazon, Costco
• Denon AVR-S760H (Renewed) – Amazon
• Sony STR-AZ1000ES on Crutchfield; Sony STR-AN1000 on Amazon
• Onkyo TX-NR7100 on Amazon
• Denon AVR-X3800H on Amazon

Related Reading:

• Yes, You CAN Get a Dolby Atmos Home Theater System for Under $1,000
• Denon Reveals New Batch of 8K Receivers for 2022
• Dirac is Bringing Its Groundbreaking Room Correction to Denon and Marantz Receivers
• Denon AVR-S760H A/V Receiver Review
• Sony STR-AZ1000ES A/V Receiver Review

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