Yamaha vs Marantz AV Receivers Comparison

From sound quality to user-friendliness, Yamaha and Marantz AV receivers offer music lovers a range of choices. But which one will provide the ultimate audio experience? Compare Marantz vs Yamaha receivers side by side as we explore their features and capabilities – plus discover who takes the crown!

Basic information about Marantz and Yamaha

The audio-visual receiver market is filled with competition, and two of the biggest players are Marantz and Yamaha. Their brands have become synonymous with quality sound systems for decades – offering a perfect combination of cutting-edge technology and unbeatable performance.

Marantz is known for its wide selection of receivers that range from entry-level to professional-grade products. They offer a variety of features, including advanced DSP processing, video upscaling, streaming services support, and multi-room playback. In addition, Marantz receivers are designed to be easy to use and provide a rich sound experience that is perfect for home theater systems or 2-channel audio setups.

Yamaha is a Japanese company that specializes in making high-performance AV receivers. They are known for their wide range of features and sound quality, making them an excellent choice for a home theater setup or multichannel audio system. Yamaha’s receivers feature advanced DSP processing and support for streaming services and 4K video upscaling. They also offer connectivity options such as HDMI ARC and multiple speaker configurations.

Both Marantz and Yamaha’s receivers offer features and performance that will satisfy the needs of most consumers. Whether it’s a basic 2-channel system or a complex home theater setup, these brands have something for everyone. In addition, both companies offer various models with different specs and price points, so it’s easy to find the right receiver for your needs.

Mid-price Yamaha and Marantz receivers comparison

Marantz SR6015

Maintain your creative freedom to produce superior sound with the Marantz SR6015 receiver. It is the perfect choice for any home theater system. It's equipped with Dolby Atmos and DTS:X decoding, which will let you enjoy your favorite movies and music in stunning detail.

Plus, this receiver also supports 4K Ultra HD video with HDR and Dolby Vision. You'll be able to enjoy your favorite movies and shows in crystal-clear detail. And that’s just the tip of the iceberg.

Build and design

Let’s get started with the specifications of Marantz SR6015. This receiver is a little over 18 inches wide, almost 8 inches tall, and just over 15 inches deep. It’s made of high-quality materials and feels solid and sturdy. The design is sleek and modern with a black finish and silver accents.

Marantz SR6015 only has a few basic buttons on the front, so I find all of the controls to be intuitive. All of the ports and connectors are in easy-to-reach places. The receiver also comes with an on-screen display and handy remote control. The only thing that takes a little getting used to is the location of the power button, which is on the left side of the receiver instead of the front.

Features and specs

The Marantz SR6015 is a great choice looking for a high-quality receiver with all the features you need to enjoy your favorite movies and music. It has Dolby Atmos and DTS:X decoding, which lets you experience surround sound in a whole new way. It also supports 4K Ultra HD video with HDR and Dolby Vision for crystal-clear visuals. Plus, it has 8 HDMI inputs and 2 outputs so you can easily connect all of your devices. The receiver also has built-in Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and Apple AirPlay 2 support for easy streaming. Plus, the intuitive setup and operation make it easy to get started.

One of the top features of the Marantz SR6015, in my opinion, is its multi-room capability. In case you want to explore Hi-Res Audio, the SR6015 has you also covered with built-in HEOS technology, support for FLAC, ALAC, and DSD files. With HEOS built-in, you can easily stream music to any room in your house. And with Amazon Alexa, you can control your receiver with your voice. But the SR6015's real strength lies in its ability to produce reference-level sound. Thanks to Marantz's proprietary HDAM circuits, you'll enjoy exceptionally detailed and musical audio reproduction.

Sound

The features of Marantz SR6015 are a powerhouse when it comes to sound. You'll never have to wish you could listen to what the actors are saying again. Every line is crystal clear and the visceral enjoyment coming from the sound effects is movie studio worthy. The sound is such a relief because every other receiver I had was too bright and would give me headaches. I can watch for hours with no fatigue.

The sound quality is amazing from vinyl to streaming digital. It has a warm, natural sound that is detailed and precise. I also tried MultEQ X to provide a sound configuration for the acoustics of my room. It was stunning to hear nuances in my music that I never knew existed.

Verdict about Marantz SR6015

Yamaha RX-A6A

Are you in the market for an amplifier that can handle all your audio and video needs? If so, Yamaha has a model that may interest you – the RX-A6A. So far, I've been very impressed with its quality, whether I was watching movies, listening to music, or gaming. Keep reading this Yamaha RX-A6A review to find out why.

Build and design

The Yamaha RX-A6A is a beautiful amplifier. It has a sleek, modern design with a black finish. It's also quite large, measuring in at 17-1/8 x 7-1/2 x 17-3/8 inches and 41.2 lbs, so you'll need some space for it.

But it's not just about looks – the RX-A6A is also built to last. It has a robust construction with a metal chassis and thick, heavy-duty speaker terminals that will last for years and can handle even the most strenuous listening sessions.

The front panel of the RX-A6A is quite simple, with just a few buttons and an LCD display. The buttons allow you to control basic functions such as power, volume, input selection, and sound mode. The LCD display provides information about the current settings and status of the amplifier. The back panel features more HDMI inputs and outputs, as well as a variety of other audio and video connections.

Features and specs

The Yamaha RX-A6A is a comprehensive amplifier, with plenty of features to satisfy even the most demanding user. It's a 9.2 channel receiver that can handle up to 150 watts per channel. The RX-A6A also features Yamaha's Compressed Music Enhancer, which restores lost detail and dynamic range in compressed music files. Multi-room listening is available here, so you can listen to music in 4 different rooms of your house or even in the backyard.

Bi-amp capability is included too, which allows you to use two amplifiers to drive your front speaker set. If you're concerned about expensive power bills, there's an ECO mode that cuts electricity use by up to 20%.

RX-A6A has a wide range of inputs and outputs, like 7 Inputs and 3 Outputs for HDMI. As an example, you can use them to connect with a Blu-ray player, cable box, gaming console, and other devices. I like that this model supports probably all current connecting options, including wireless: analog and digital, coaxial, USB connections, composite video inputs/outputs, network port, front AV input, a headphone output, WiFi, Bluetooth, and more. In fact, you can connect just about anything to it. If you are a fan of radio, here is a built-in FM-tuner quality too.

Some other specifications of Yamaha RX-A6A in terms of video quality include 4K Ultra HD pass-through, HDR support, and Dolby Vision, near-4K quality. You are able to get the most out of your current video collection. It also supports 3D audio formats such as Dolby Atmos and DTS:X. And if you're a gamer, the RX-A6A has you covered with its low latency mode and various gaming modes that optimize the sound for different types of games.

Sound

My experience with the sound quality of the Yamaha RX-A6A has been overwhelmingly positive. The amplifier is able to deliver clear, crisp audio with excellent dynamics. Whether I was watching a movie or listening to music, I was always impressed by the powerful sound that this receiver produces and particularly with how well it handled gaming audio – gunshots and explosions sounded realistic and immersive. And its low latency mode ensures that there is no delay between what you see on the screen and what you hear, so you won't miss a single beat.

A listening mode selector that allows you to choose from three different listening modes: music, movie, or game. These modes optimize the sound for different types of content. A custom mode that you can use to create your own personal listening settings. For films, the cinema DSP mode creates a truly cinematic experience. There's also a dialogue lift mode that raises the level of dialogue in movies and TV shows to make it easier to hear. For music, the stereo mode creates a wide, spacious soundstage. And for games, the game mode provides an extra level of immersion.

Verdict about Yamaha RX-A6A

The Marantz SR6015 and Yamaha RX-A6A are two of the most popular mid-price receivers on the market, but which offers the best overall performance? When comparing these two devices, there are a few important factors to consider. Both have great sound quality, but I think the Marantz has slightly better clarity and depth. The Yamaha has a more powerful amplifier, which could benefit larger home theater systems. Furthermore, both models have cutting-edge features like Dolby Atmos and DTS:X support; however, the Yamaha has no DTS Virtual:X.

Overall, both the Yamaha RX-A6A and Marantz SR6015 are excellent mid-price receivers. However, I think the Marantz offers slightly better sound quality. So if you are looking for a great all-around receiver with excellent performance and features, then the Marantz SR6015 is the way to go.

Marantz SR5015

The Marantz SR5015 is one of the company's more affordable receivers, yet it still manages to pack in a healthy selection of features. On contrary to previous models in the SR series, this one comes with an 8-channel amplifier which provides plenty of power for a 7.2 system. I've put it to the test, and I am ready to share opinions with you. Keep reading the Marantz SR5015 review to see if it's the right receiver for your needs.

Build and design

Marantz SR5015 looks very similar to its predecessor, the SR5009. The only real difference is that the new model is a tiny bit wider in order to accommodate the extra amplifier channels. It's still a slim receiver at just under 4 inches tall, so it should fit nicely into most home theater setups. The front panel features the same clean and simple design that Marantz is known for. All the inputs and outputs are located on the back, which makes for a neater installation.

One thing to note is that the SR5015 only comes in black. If you're looking for a receiver with a little more style, you might want to check out one of Marantz's higher-end models.

Features and specs

The Marantz SR5015 is a 7.2-channel receiver with an 8-channel amplifier. That means it can power a full surround sound system with no problem. It has a total output of 105 watts per channel, which is plenty for most applications. With seven amplifier channels on board, you can connect a 5.1.2 or 7.1.2 speaker setup and no external amplifier is needed.

The receiver has eight HDMI inputs and two outputs, as well as built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth. You can also use the receiver as a central hub for your home theater system thanks to Apple AirPlay 2 support. There's a USB port on the front for quick access and an input for a personal audio player. The Marantz app may be downloaded to your smartphone or tablet and used to control the receiver, which is a nice touch.

Marantz SR5015 also features Dolby Atmos and DTS:X decoding, making it ideal for movie lovers. Dolby Surround and DTS Neural:X mixing modes are also effective, and they can be used with non-Atmos content. Among Marantz SR5015's specifications is support for 4K Ultra HD video and HDR. If you have a compatible TV, you can take advantage of the receiver's 4K passthrough feature without losing any quality. The SR5015 also provides HDR10 and Dolby Vision support.

Sound

One of the main things about the SR5015 is its sound quality. Thanks to its discrete amplifier design and Marantz's HDAM technology, the receiver remains clear and distortion-free. It did a great job of reproducing both 2-channel and multichannel music, delivering the performance that had me hooked for hours on end.

The SR5015 had no problem driving my Klipsch Reference Premiere speaker system to loud volumes. Even when pushed to high volumes, the receiver never sounded harsh or strained. Since it didn't have any trouble filling the whole room with the sound of music or film, I think the receiver's amplifiers do their part very well.

The only thing I could nitpick about is that the receiver didn't quite have the same impact as some of the higher-end models I've tested. During action-packed scenes, I felt like the sound could have been a little more explosive. But overall, I thought the SR5015 did a great job with movies.

Verdict about Marantz SR5015

YAMAHA RX-A4A

This Yamaha RX-A4A review will take an in-depth look at one of the best AV receivers available on the market today. Previous models in the RX-A series have been very popular, and this one is sure to continue that trend. We'll go over the features, specs, design, and performance of this AV receiver to help you determine if it's the right model for your home theater setup.

Build and design

The Yamaha RX-A4A measures 17.1 x 6.8 x 14.6 inches and weighs just over 20 pounds, so it's not too big or too heavy to be inconvenient to move around. It's made to be placed in a standard AV rack and has plenty of ventilation to keep it cool during operation.

The front panel is fairly straightforward, with the power button, volume control, and input selection buttons located near the top. There are also indicator lights for power, input, and surround mode. The receiver has a clear glass finish and houses all the buttons and controls, while the back panel is packed with ports and connections.

Features and specs

The Yamaha RX-A4A's specifications are next. It is a 7.2-channel AV receiver with a maximum power output of 100 watts per channel. The receiver has 2 Multi-room zones and ESS SABRE DACs for superior sound quality. There is also a Music Enhancer included to improve the frequency response of compressed audio files.

The RX-A4A has a total of 7 HDMI inputs and 3 outputs, which is more than enough for most home theater setups. It also features advanced voice recognition and control with Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and Siri. You can use your voice to control various functions of the receiver, such as power, volume, input selection, and surround mode.

Also, this AV receiver comes with a remote control and an iOS/Android app for controlling it remotely. So you can stream music from Pandora, Spotify, and other streaming services using the built-in app.

The only drawback that happened to me while using the receiver was that it can take a few seconds for the audio signal to adjust and actually play.

This model is able to decode high-resolution audio files up to 24-bit/192kHz and has a frequency response of 20Hz-20kHz. Also, the receiver supports 4K Ultra HD, 3D, and Dolby Atmos and also includes Yamaha's Cinema DSP 3D technology, which creates a virtual surround sound environment that is faithful to the original soundtrack. This is a fantastic feature for action and sound-based movies or TV shows.

Another characteristic I find very special is Surround:AI that automatically adjusts the sound field to match the content you're watching. When I was watching a concert, the sound was focused on the center of the room, but after I switched it to a football game, the sound was more evenly distributed around the room.

Sound quality

I do video games, music, movies, and TV as well as my 4k HDR Blu-rays and MKV files on my computer hooked up to the receiver. The YAMAHA RX-A4A's features have so far handled everything just fine. The highs are crisp and detailed, the mids are well-balanced, and the lows are deep and authoritative. Besides, the receiver does a great job with all the different audio formats. I don't have Atmos speakers, but even without them, the receiver still creates a realistic soundscape.

Also, I think passthrough mode is worth mentioning here. Shortly, this feature enables you to route the video signal through the receiver while it's on standby. I found it useful for playing a game late at night with headphones through your controller; no need for the amp to be on and muted, or have headphones through the amp. Overall, I'm very pleased with this receiver.

Verdict about Yamaha RX-A4A

Both receivers offer exceptional sound quality, features, and easy setup options.

The Marantz SR5015 is a 7.2-channel receiver with Dolby Atmos and DTS:X support for immersive surround sound. Unlike Yamaha RX-A4A, it also offers DTS Virtual:X support and multichannel stereo.

The Marantz SR5015 offers various video features, such as analog to HDMI scaling and 3D signal pass-through. Furthermore, what truly sets this model apart from the YAMAHA RX-A4A is its competitive price tag!

After some thorough thought, I firmly recommend selecting the Marantz SR5015 AVR.

Budget Yamaha and Marantz 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

Yamaha RX-V4A

We have prepared a Yamaha RX-V4A review for you to make your choice easier. The most obvious thing differentiating it from others is the support of 8K HDMI and 4K Ultra HD video with full 60p resolution, allowing receiving and processing 4K content without compression.

The new RX-V4A is a universal receiver that supports almost any existing surround sound format. It provides a possibility to work with network sources or external speakers through its proprietary Yamaha system. It supports Dolby Atmos and DTS:X – two new surround sound formats. What is more, this model offers a possibility to work with network sources and external speakers through a proprietary Yamaha system.

Build and design

The Yamaha RX-V4A receiver has a sleek and modern look. It has a black finish and a brushed aluminum front panel. The Yamaha RX-V4A receiver weighs about 19.4 lbs and measures 17-1/8” x 6-3/4” x 14-7/8” inches.

The front panel includes a power button, volume and channel knobs, and buttons for managing the audio input and output. The receiver also includes an on-screen display that allows you to control all of its functions.

On the rear side of the Yamaha RX-V4A receiver, you can find all inputs and outputs. They allow you to connect the receiver to other devices, such as a TV or a computer. The ports are also used to power the receiver and to transfer audio and video signals.

The remote control for the Yamaha RX-V4A receiver is easy to use. It gives you complete control over the receiver’s settings and has more than enough buttons to make it easy to set up.

Features and specs

As for Yamaha RX-V4A specifications, it is a 5.2 channel AV receiver. This receiver has 80 W (6 ohms, 0.06% THD) per output channel when two speakers are driven. In addition, this receiver is equipped with bi-amp ability. Therefore, you can connect your speakers directly to it and use the receiver as a power amplifier for high-quality sound reproduction without losing the dynamics that often accompany passive loudspeakers.

Yamaha RX-V4A is an excellent home theater receiver for the newer AV formats. The Yamaha RX-V4A also has a variety of input jacks that allow for many different options for connecting external devices. In addition, this receiver comes with many features such as 4 HDMI inputs, network capabilities through RJ45 input, USB input and outputs, two digital optical audio output ports, and analog audio out port. It also has built-in Bluetooth and Wi-Fi so that you can connect it in different ways.

The video quality of the Yamaha RX-V4A receiver is not bad. The picture is clear and with ample color depth. This receiver is equipped with HDR10+. A new standard for high dynamic range video offers improved contrast, excellent brightness, and enhanced color. In addition, Yamaha RX-V4A supports a 4K Ultra HD video passthrough, allowing you to watch your favorite movies and TV shows in stunning detail. The Yamaha RX-V4A receiver is also an 8K (up to 60p) capable device that delivers excellent video quality.

Sound

When it comes to sound quality, the receiver is clear and sounds great. In addition, the Yamaha is not distorted when you turn the volume up to its maximum setting.

The Yamaha RX-V4A is an excellent receiver for listening to music. The sound quality is excellent, and the surround sound effects are powerful. Additionally, it supports Dolby Digital Plus decoding. It provides an immersive opportunity for watching videos, TV shows, and games.

However, some people argue that it has a little bit of bad sound quality when watching movies, compared to the sound quality in music. The problem is that it does not have any preset modes for watching movies, so when you choose “Movie” mode, the only thing that would change is that dialog will be louder. Sometimes, that’s not enough.

Verdict about Yamaha RX-V4A receiver

When deciding which receiver in a budget segment is better for an ultimate home theater experience, the Marantz NR1510 and Yamaha RX-V4A are both great options. Both offer superb sound quality and a range of features to accommodate all your audio needs. Though, I can vouch that the Yamaha RX-V4A is superior because it provides more features and advantages at a more affordable cost. It offers 8K/60Hz signal pass-through and other audio files formats, such as AIFF and DSD.

Premium Marantz and Yamaha 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

Yamaha RX-A8A

If you're looking for a high-quality A/V receiver that will deliver the amazing audio experience you deserve? Well, Yamaha RX-A8A is worth considering.

With its comprehensive feature set and stellar sound quality, it is certain to exceed your expectations. In this Yamaha RX-A8A review, I'll explore some of the key features I personally tested and discuss how they can benefit you.

Build and design

First and foremost, Yamaha RX-A8A is a beautifully designed piece of hardware. It features a sleek and modern look that will complement any home theater setup. But looks aren't everything. It's also important that the receiver is solidly built and durable and made with high-quality components.

The front panel is packed with buttons and controls, so you'll have easy access to all the features. There's also a large display that provides information about the current status of the receiver. This is a great feature, especially for those who are new to A/V receivers. The back panel is loaded with ports and jacks, so you'll be able to connect all of your audio and video components.

Features and specs

In terms of specifications, Yamaha RX-A8A is one of the most powerful receivers on the market. It has 11 channels of amplification which means that you'll be able to connect up to 11 speakers all over your house. The receiver delivers 150 watts per channel, so it can easily handle even the most demanding home theater setups without any sound distortions or problems. In addition, High Slew Rate Amplifier, combined with Yamaha's own DSP processing, allows hearing every nuance of your favorite music tracks.

Yamaha RX-A8A is equipped with a wide range of connectivity options. It has 7 HDMI inputs and 3 outputs, so you'll be able to connect all of your high-definition devices. There is also built-in Wi-Fi and a network port, so you can easily stream content from the internet or from your local network. RX-A8A is also a great choice for those who are looking for a receiver that can be used for home automation. I managed to download apps for iPhone, iPad, Android phone, and tablet. Actually, you are able to control your receiver with just a simple tap on your smartphone.

One of Yamaha RX-A8A's features is support for different video formats and high resolution. It can decode and playback videos in 4K Ultra HD resolution, so you'll be able to enjoy the latest blockbuster movies in stunning detail. There are also HDR10 and Dolby Vision formats included for the best possible viewing experience. Video Adjustment lets you automatically tune the image to match your specific preferences, for example, adjusting the contrast, brightness, and color saturation. VRR/ALLM/QMS/QFT support lets you enjoy smooth and lag-free gaming experiences, with no annoying image stuttering or tearing.

Sound quality

Of course, the most important thing about any A/V receiver is the sound quality. And the Yamaha RX-A8A doesn't disappoint. It has been designed with audiophiles in mind and delivers an amazing listening experience that will truly envelop you.

The receiver supports a wide range of audio formats, including Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, and Yamaha's own CINEMA DSP 3D technology. It creates truly immersive and realistic sound both for movies and for music. Even if you have just a pair of speakers, MusicCast Surround mode will produce 3D sound. As for me, it feels like you are in a movie theater or a professional music studio. Moreover, with a calibration system set up, performance will be perfectly optimized for your room.

Verdict about Yamaha RX-A8A

Both models are high-quality, premium AV receivers. They are loaded with features like 4K/UHD video pass-through, built-in Dolby Atmos and DTS:X decoding, plus plenty of streaming options from multiple services.

For the highest possible sound quality, I recommend Marantz SR8015, as its amplifier offers a more sophisticated audio experience. However, for those looking for something with a sparkle in their listening pleasure, Yamaha RX-A8A is an excellent choice as it provides a brighter tonal timbre.

While there is not much difference between both receivers in terms of features, Marantz has a few bonus luxuries such as “Speaker A/B switching”, more HDMI input and output options, and the ability to pass 3D signals. I wouldn’t recommend delving too deep into their specifications – know that with Marantz, you get some extra touches!

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