Denon vs Marantz AV Receivers Comparison

When comparing Denon vs Marantz AV receivers, there are a lot of factors that need to be taken into account. This article will compare the two brands in design, audio quality, features, connectivity options, and value for money. To help you find the best product for your budget, we have carefully selected two models in each price range from budget to premium.

Basic information about Marantz and Denon

Marantz and Denon are the industry’s most respected and well-known audio/video brands. Both brands have decades of history, having been founded in Japan during the early 20th century. Marantz has been producing high-end audio equipment since 1953, while Denon has been producing premium AV components since 1910.

Marantz and Denon are both known for their design philosophy of delivering high-quality sound without unnecessary features or gimmicks. Marantz is considered the more audiophile-oriented brand, focusing on providing a neutral and natural sound reproduction. On the other hand, Denon is the more home-theater-oriented brand, providing a wide range of features for creating an immersive home theater experience.

Marantz and Denon produce a wide range of products, from budget-friendly receivers to separate high-end components. In addition, both brands offer various levels of performance and feature sets within their product lines, allowing consumers to find the perfect option to fit their needs and budget.

Mid-price Marantz and Denon receivers comparison

Marantz Cinema 60

As the home cinema experience continues to expand and grow, so too do the range of options available to choose from when picking out audio-visual gear. With this in mind, Marantz has now released their new CINEMA 60 7.2 channel AVR – a receiver pitched as the ultimate solution for managing your home entertainment system and delivering powerful multichannel sound.

Build and design

Marantz CINEMA 60 offers a sophisticated, luxury-level experience with its stunning architecture - perfect for making an eye-catching statement or blending seamlessly into any setting. In addition, the high-end construction of its sophisticated metal chassis provides solid protection for the unit’s internal components while providing a cleaner sound free from interference.

The CINEMA 60's design is aesthetically pleasing and incredibly easy to use. All inputs and outputs are clearly labeled on the back panel and can be easily accessed via the intuitive front panel interface.

The Front Display is a port hole OLED with maximum dimensions of 17.4 inches in length, 13.9 inches in width, and 9.3 inches in depth, weighing 24 lbs total.

Features and specs

The Marantz CINEMA 60, a multichannel surround sound receiverб features the latest in surround sound technologies from DTS and Dolby, such as DTS HD Master, DTS:X, DTS Neural:X, DTS Virtual:X, Dolby TrueHD, Dolby Atmos, Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization and Dolby Atmos Music. It also features 6 HDMI inputs and 2 HDMI outputs for easy connection to various devices. Additionally, the receiver has a built-in phono preamp to use with turntables, four analog audio inputs, and HDCP2.3 support. It also offers 8K/60Hz and 4K/120Hz maximum resolution framerate and HEOS Multi-room and Streaming capabilities.

The receiver is equipped with built-in Wi-Fi certified for 802.11 a/b/g/n networks, so you can stream music from your favorite services like Pandora and Spotify. Bluetooth technology allows for easy wireless streaming from compatible devices.

It has dual-zone audio and video capabilities, allowing you to watch a movie in one room while someone else listens to music in another. Advanced Audyssey room calibration technology also ensures optimal sound performance for your space.

Sound quality

The CINEMA 60’s audio performance is outstanding, delivering a nuanced and dynamic soundstage with excellent resolution across all frequencies.

This product has a clear and crisp sound quality, even HDMI, no matter what input you use. Some might think optical would be better, but this product proves otherwise.

The Marantz CINEMA 60 provides a fantastic sound experience. You will feel like you are right in the middle of your favorite movies and shows with its surround sound system. The Cinema 60 also provides a wide range of sound modes to customize your listening experiences, such as Movie Mode for optimizing the surround sound experience or Music Mode, designed to bring out the best in your favorite music. As the Cinema 60 is equipped with Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, you can experience the latest and most advanced sound technology. The AVR also includes a state-of-the-art amplifier that will bring out powerful yet nuanced sound.

Verdict about Marantz CINEMA 60

Denon AVR-X3800H

The Denon AVR-X3800H is a good option for people who want a potent AV receiver with many features. It does very well in everything, with excellent audio and video quality. And it has many features that make it perfect for a home theater setup. So if you want an AV receiver that can do everything, the Denon AVR-X3800H is the one you want.

Build and design

The receiver's front panel also has four Quick Select buttons that allow you to save and retrieve your favorite audio settings. The display is big and easy to see. You can use the status button to change it or the dimmer button to make the light softer. The headphone jack lets you connect headphones to the device or use the Bluetooth transmitter to connect wireless Bluetooth headphones.

There are banana plugs on the back panel for the speakers, an FM antenna input, and a spot to plug in the AC power adapter.

Among the cons of the design is there are no leveling feet on the bottom of the receiver. Getting the receiver perfectly level can be challenging, especially if you're placing it on a shelf.

Features and specs

This product supports various audio formats, including DTS HD Master, DTS:X, DTS Neural:X DTS, Virtual:X, and IMAX Enhanced. It also supports Dolby TrueHD, Dolby Atmos, Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization, and Dolby Atmos Music. Additionally, it features Audyssey Dynamic EQ and Dynamic Volume for an optimized listening experience.

The Denon AVR can be upgraded to Dirac Live for even better sound quality. You can control the device with voice assistants like Alexa or Google Voice Assistant and the HEOS app on your smartphone.

It has six HDMI inputs and two multi-room zones. This product is compatible with the Remote APP for Smart Phones Denon 2016 AVR Remote.

The Denon AVR-X3800H has nine power amps and can output 105W of power at 8 ohms and 20 Hz - 20 kHz with 0.08% 2ch drive. It can also output 135W of power at 6 ohms and 1 kHz with 0.7% 2ch drive or 215W of power at 6 ohms and 1 kHz with 10% 1ch drive.

Sound quality

The receiver is doing a great job of bringing life to the sound. The overall tone and volume level are complete, and the receiver allows me to hear things in a mix I've never heard before.

The sound is both fuller and warmer than I had expected. Moreover, it packs quite a punch for its size and boasts several features that are usually only available on more expensive models.

It had excellent sound quality and was easy to use, but it couldn't play loudly without overheating. At 50 volume or higher, the heat became too much for the product.

The sound emitted by this unit is fantastic anywhere between volumes 40-45. However, once it gets to 50, the noise becomes too overwhelming, and at 60+, the music begins to distort because of my input settings, particularly for the bass. Although, if I'm using it for home theater, 62.5 on that specific input sounds best even though it's much louder than what's comfortable for listening to music.

This product provides stunning sound quality. However, it can be complicated to set up, so if you're looking for a basic stereo system, this is not the right choice. On the other hand, if you want an immersive listening experience, buy this product and enjoy sounds you've never heard before!

Verdict about Denon AVR-X3800H

Both receivers offer great features and sound quality. Still, Marantz vs Denon AVR-X3800H offers more features at an equivalent cost – making it a great value!

Budget Marantz and Denon receivers comparison

Marantz NR1510

The Marantz NR1510 is a powerful home theater receiver sure to please even the most discerning audiophiles. It offers an array of features and connections that elevate your entertainment experience in any room, delivering accurate sound with warmth and clarity.

Build and design

The Marantz NR1510 is a slimline AV receiver that offers a sleek and sophisticated design without compromising performance. Sitting at just 4” tall, it offers an impressive array of features in a compact chassis. The front panel of the Marantz NR1510 features two knobs for power, source selection, and volume control, as well as a USB port that can be used for playing MP3 files. Additionally, the front panel has many buttons to control various aspects of the receiver, such as display mode, surround sound mode, and more.

The NR1510 also features two line-level inputs and one subwoofer output on the rear panel, allowing users to connect external sources and subwoofers easily. In addition, a headphone jack is conveniently located on the front panel, making it easy to plug in your headphones for private listening sessions.

Measuring 17.3 x 14.9 x 6.9 inches, the Marantz NR1510 is compact enough to fit anywhere in the home or office. In addition, it weighs only 18.1 pounds, making it incredibly lightweight - a perfect combination of size and weight; this item is sure to fit right into your daily lifestyle!

Whether you’re looking for something small to spruce up a shelf or countertop or bring a unique bit of flair to any space in the home or office, this item has all the features you need.

Features and specs

The Marantz NR1510 is a 5.1 multi-channel stereo receiver that provides Hi-Fi sound with modern connectivity and advanced features. It has 50W per channel of 8-ohm power for amplified sound at 20Hz – 20kHz and 0.08% THD in a two-channel drive. In addition, the NR1510 comes with Dolby Atmos and DTS HD Master Audio for immersive sound and built-in Audyssey Dynamic EQ for room calibration. It also offers 4K 60Hz 4:4:4 resolution with HDCP 2.3, HDR10 support, and eARC for optimal audio performance.

For easy access to music, the NR1510 features Bluetooth, AirPlay 2, and HEOS Multi-room and Streaming with support for Spotify Connect, Deezer, TIDAL, Napster, Pandora, and SiriusXM. To round out its features, the NR1510 has three composite video inputs, one output, and a phono input for a turntable connection.

The Marantz NR1510 also includes a Compressed Audio Enhancer (MDAX2) to improve the sound quality of compressed audio files such as MP3 or WMA. The MDAX2 technology helps to restore the original dynamics of audio files so you can enjoy your music with greater depth and clarity.

Sound quality

The Marantz NR1510 is an audiophile-grade receiver that delivers crystal-clear sound quality for a 5.2 system. Featuring an ultra-wide dynamic range for seamless signal transfer and Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, and Auro 3D Audio decoding capabilities, the NR1510 brings movies to life with amazing clarity and detail. From subtle details like background sounds to explosive sound effects, the Marantz NR1510 provides an incredibly lifelike and detailed audio performance that impresses even the most discerning audiophile.

The stunningly clear and defined highs of the Marantz NR1510 are sure to astound, providing a powerful and crisp sound. For music lovers and movie buffs alike, its expansive dynamic range ensures that all delicate audio nuances can be heard perfectly! The mids and lows of the NR1510 are also exceptionally clear and natural to give an enveloping soundstage experience.

The Marantz NR1510 is a truly remarkable receiver that packs a lot of power into its compact size. Its stunning clarity, ultra-wide dynamic range, and advanced audio decoding capabilities offer a fantastic audio performance sure to please even the most demanding audio enthusiasts.

Verdict about Marantz NR1510

Denon AVR-S660H

The Denon AVR-S660H is an excellent unit for the price. It has nice sound quality and integrates well with other devices. In this Denon AVR-S660H review, we'll go over some of the main features and why it's a great choice for anyone looking for a good quality sound system.

Build and design

The front panel of the Denon AVR-S660H is designed with a sleek, black finish and a clear display. The buttons are easy to use, allowing you to control all the AVR features quickly. The front panel also includes a USB port, which allows you to connect a USB drive and play your music or videos directly on your TV. Additionally, the front panel includes an IR sensor, which allows you to control the AVR with your Denon remote.

The back panel of the AV receiver is designed with a variety of ports, which allow you to connect your devices. The ports on the back panel include multiple HDMI ports, that allow you to connect your TV and AV receiver; digital audio ports, which allow you to connect your Blu-ray player and other digital audio devices; an Ethernet port, which allows you to connect the AVR to your home network; and a power input.

Additionally, the back panel includes an antenna connector and four screw terminals, which allow you to easily install your speakers.

The size of the receiver is 17.08 x 13.34 x 8.46 inches with an antenna and it weighs 17.2 pounds, making it a compact receiver that can easily fit into any home theater setup.

Features and specs

The Denon AVR-S660H is a high-performance 8K ready 5.2 channel AVR. It supports the latest 3D audio formats like Dolby TrueHD, Dolby Surround, DTS-HD Master Audio, and DTS Neo:6 and delivers the classic Denon sound for movies, games, and music.

In addition, it features three dedicated 8K inputs that support 8K/60Hz and 4K/120Hz video pass-through, along with HDR10, HDR10+, Dolby Vision & HLG for exceptional color and clarity.

The Denon AVR-S660H also features an advanced 8K HDMI section that allows you to enjoy your favorite movies, shows, and games with the best picture quality available. Additionally, it has versatile connection options, including 6 HDMI in / 1 out, 2 digital, 2 analog, 1 coaxial, and 1 phono Input.

The AVR also has 2 pre-outs to connect subwoofers for additional bass. Lastly, it features the award-winning On-Screen Setup Guide that provides simple, intuitive instructions to connect your TV, specify EQ settings, and tune the AVR for an optimal listening experience.

You can use this receiver to stream music to different speakers in your house because of HEOS Multiroom integrated feature. The speakers don't have to be in the same room. You just need to connect them to the same wireless network.

Also, the Denon AVR-S660H product can be controlled by voice commands. It works with Amazon Alexa, Google Assist, and Apple Siri.

Sound quality

The receiver can handle high-resolution audio formats, so you'll be able to enjoy your music or movies in perfect clarity! In addition, the Denon has an immaculate sound throughout the hearing range and at high volumes. It will make even cheap speakers sound good!

The Denon AVR-S660H is a great choice for home theater systems because it produces clear and crisp sound with excellent bass response.

The high frequencies or the receiver are very detailed and accurate. You will be able to hear sounds that you never noticed before when watching movies or listening to music.

The midrange frequencies are well-balanced and provide a clear and natural sound. However, it is where most of the dialog in movies comes through, so these frequencies must be reproduced accurately.

The low frequencies are where the Denon AVR-S660H shines. The bass response is excellent, and you will be able to feel the power of your movie's soundtrack or enjoy your music with tight and accurate bass. The subwoofer output is also powerful, so you'll be able to add some severe thump to your system if you want.

The overall sound quality of the receiver is pretty well, and it will make any home theater system sound great. If you're looking for a receiver that can produce clear and powerful sound, the Denon AVR-S660H is a good option.

Verdict about Denon AVR-S660H

When deciding between the Marantz NR1510 or Denon AVR-S660H, it is important to consider your needs and budget. If you’re looking to get the most bang for your buck, then The Denon AVR-S660H is our top pick. It has a full suite of features, including eARC, 8K upscaling capabilities, and HDMI scaling, giving you an all-in-one streaming solution with more advanced options than its competitors.

Premium Marantz and Denon receivers comparison

Marantz SR8015

Marantz is a known and respected brand in the audio industry. They offer superb sound quality and plenty of features, and the SR8015 is no exception.

The same as all Marantz receivers, the SR8015 is built with quality in mind. In this Marantz SR8015 review, I will show why this receiver punches well above its weight class with features that rival models that are twice as expensive. Read on to find out more!

Build and design

The Marantz SR8015 is a well-designed receiver, measuring 17.3 inches wide, 14.8 inches deep, and 6.5 inches tall. It weighs a hefty 33 pounds, so you will need a sturdy shelf or cabinet to place it on.

The front panel has a minimalist look with the Marantz logo in the middle and brushed aluminum finish around the edges. It is uncluttered and contains only the essentials: a power button, input selector, and volume knob. The display is easy to read, even from a distance.

The back panel is equally as simple, with all of the connections neatly arranged. It is just as well organized, with color-coded binding post terminals for the speakers and clearly labeled input and output ports. The build quality is excellent, as you would expect from a Marantz product. Everything feels solid and well put together.

Features and specs

This receiver is a powerhouse that has 9 channels of amplification, making it ideal for creating a gaming room or a true home theater. Actually, it means you can accommodate the receiver to any speaker setup. For example, I have 4 speakers and 2 subwoofers set up around my room and SR8015 was absolutely able to power even more. Multi-room functionality is also included, so you can enjoy your music in other parts of your house without quality loss.

Marantz SR8015's specifications include 8 HDMI inputs and 3 outputs.There are also component and composite video inputs for legacy devices. In case you prefer wireless technologies, you can easily connect your gadgets by using WiFi and Bluetooth. As a vinyl lover, I appreciate the possibility to listen to my vinyl collection with a phono input. Also, don't forget about streaming services and Apple AirPlay 2.

The SR8015 is also loaded with the latest audio technologies. You will get the best possible picture quality because Dolby Atmos and DTS:X are both supported, as well as IMAX Enhanced and Auro-3D. All of the HDMI ports are 4K/60p and HDR10, BT.2020, and Dolby Vision compatible, with support for HLG coming via a future firmware update. Besides, the receiver features auto-calibration that allows you to quickly and easily set up your speakers, so you don't have to be an audio expert to get the most out of this receiver.

Sound

Thanks to Marantz SR8015 features, the sound quality is simply amazing, never sounding muddy or overwhelming. My favorite Tarantino's soundtracks were truly atmospheric, I felt like I was transported into the movie. The surround sound effects, like motorbikes, wind, or breaking glass were placed accurately and with excellent depth, even at low volumes.

The music I listened to also sounded fantastic. The receiver handled all the genres with ease, from classical to heavy metal. I was able to push my speakers to loud volumes without any distortion or clipping. When listening to music at low volumes, you can activate the Marantz SR8015's eco mode to reduce power consumption by up to 30%.

Verdict about Marantz SR8015

Denon AVR-X6700H

If you can't decide if this receiver model is worth buying and there are some problems in making a choice, look through our Denon AVR-X6700H review. This model is really powerful and advanced. People choose it, because it includes many features that they cannot notice on other such devices.

You obviously should pay a lot of attention to its potent amplifier section. With its comprehensive range of connectors and ports, the model can accommodate virtually any type of both video and audio equipment. Moreover, the device is provided with different variants of connectivity. These features make it easier for connecting to a wide variety of the most popular streaming services. If you really want to buy a good Denon AV receiver, which is practical and powerful, the AVR-X6700H model is an ideal option to consider.

Design and built

I think most users will like this sleek and at the same time practical design. Its weight is 32 lbs. and its measures are 17.1 x 15.3 x 6.6 inches. First of all, let’s look at the front panel. It has a clean, minimalist interface that contains only a few regulation buttons and indicator lights. It includes the volume control, power and input selection buttons, etc. Besides, there you will find the display screen. It gives users a possibility to control the receiver's settings. As for other controls, they are located on remote control. You will find it also very sleek and straightforward. It’s easy to use because all buttons and controls are clearly labeled. Different color-coded connections make the rear side well-organized.

The Denon receiver isn’t difficult to set up. This model comes with a detailed instruction manual. It describes how to set up step-by-step. So even if you've never set up any devices for a home theater system, you will be able to do it with AVR-X6700H without any obstacles.

Features

Considering Denon AVR-X6700H specifications, let’s begin with the information that it is a popular 11.2 channel AV Receiver. People like its power output140 W(8 ohms, 20 Hz - 20 kHz, 0.05% 2ch Drive). The model supports bi-amping. Here we speak about one of the needed features, especially if you are looking for high and better sound quality. When using a bi-amping, you are able to send different frequencies to each of your home speakers. It results in a more accurate and well balanced sound. In any case you should keep in mind that it requires access not only to one, but two speakers.

This device model supports even multi-room features. It means, you have a chance to enjoy listening to different sources in every, including the farthest room in your house. While someone is watching a movie in, for example, the living room, you will be able to listen to music in the bedroom or kitchen. The AVR-X6700H model can provide you with such a possibility because, as we have mentioned, it features enough for powering several rooms, 11 channels.

Looking at AVR-X6700H you can notice a lot of important ports, such as eight HDMI inputs and three outputs. Users will find three digital audio and component ports, composite one, and many other ports. All of them can be used for connecting your devices to a particular receiver. Besides, this receiver model has access to various popular streaming services, such as Pandora, Spotify, Tidal, and some others. Moreover, if you are a radio fan, it’s also for you.

There is a possibility to listen to any internet radio stations directly through your chosen receiver. In the case, if you are subscribed to some streaming services, you have a chance to use this model for listening to your favorite songs. Additionally, this device supports wide-spread AirPlay and, of course, Bluetooth. It’s not needed to explain that it’s a way how you can stream all music from a smartphone or other devices. Besides, it includes Wi-Fi. Here we speak about a popular and useful way that people use for streaming music, partfrom online music services just connecting to your home network.

The Denon AVR-X6700H includes a wide range of video features, including 4K Ultra HD60 Hz Pass-Through and 4:4:4 Pure Color sub-sampling. Besides, the model supports High Dynamic Range, known as HDR and BT.2020 pass-through, providing stunning video quality that provides enhanced details and all colors. Furthermore, the AVR-X6700H model has a 12V trigger output. It is useful for powering a motorized projector screen.

Sound

The AVR-X6700H model of Denon is a pacesetting model for most home theaters that provides high and clear sound quality. It supports wide-spread Dolby Atmos and DTS:X object-based and other popular audio formats. It also offers high-resolution audio support for lossless audio files, like FLAC. Additionally, it has modern HEOS wireless technology, which allows users to stream music from your favorite streaming services directly.

The Denon AVR-X6700H is a beautiful choice for anyone who wants to be the owner of a really powerful receiver for home theater. Whether you are watching your favorite films or listening to any kinds of music, the Denon model will deliver a top-notch audio experience.

There cannot be any doubt that the Denon AVR-X6700H will provide you with clear sound, whether it's during a favorite movie or music listening experience. This Denon model packs a lot of power and also built-in features which is evident in its ability to deliver crisp and distortion-free audio.

Verdict about Denon AVR-X6700H

From my perspective, the audio quality of the Marantz SR8015 surpasses that of its Denon counterpart. Nonetheless, both receivers are top-of-the-line models with comparable features and specifications; it’s just a matter of preference regarding sound.

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