It doesn’t take long to settle on a Denon or a Marantz product when you start looking at receivers. You’ll find several similarities between the two across each price point.
Whether you need an entry-level receiver or a premium model, comparing and contrasting the different models can help you find what you need.
Denon started building audio-visual products in 1910, creating the first vinyl recorders and stereos for the Japanese market. This brand is also responsible for the first commercially viable PCM recorder.
Marantz began making equipment in 1951. From its first day of operations, this brand has been known for creating a straightforward receiver with excellent reliability and a broad range of features. They’ve focused primarily on home theaters, but they also specialize in Hi-Fi products.
Denon vs. Marantz Sound Quality
When comparing Denon vs. Marantz sound quality, the differences come pre-and post-merger for the brands. Denon merged with Marantz in 2002. In 2017, Sound United bought Boom, Polk Audio, Definitive Technology, Denon, and Marantz together under one umbrella. Today’s receivers sound remarkably similar to this structure.
Product comparisons are only viable when you’re looking at two items of similar quality. When you look at Denon vs. Marantz, that typically means you’re looking at home theater receivers and equipment.
If you compare an entry-level Denon receiver with a premium Marantz product (especially from before 2002), you’ll go with the latter option almost every time. The opposite would also be true.
That’s why I’ll begin the comparison process by looking at two products from the mid-range: the Denon AVR-X3700H and the Marantz SR6015.
| Specifications: | Denon AVR-X3700H | Marantz SR6015 |
| Channels | 9.2 | 9.2 |
| Power Output | 105 W/8 Ohm; 135 W/6 Ohm | 110 W/8 Ohm; 150 W/6 Ohm |
| HDMI | 7/3 (8K/60 Hz and 4K/120 Hz pass-through) | 7/3 (8K/60 Hz and 4K/120 Hz pass-through) |
| Bluetooth / Wi-Fi | Included / Included | Included / Included |
| Video Functions | HDMI to HDMI Scaling | Video Conversion Analog to HDMI; Analog to HDMI Scaling; HDMI to HDMI Scaling |
| Supports | HDMI ARC, HDMI e-ARC, HDMI CEC, HDCP 2.3, HDR 10, HDR 10+, and Dolby Vision | HDMI ARC, HDMI e-ARC, HDMI CEC, HDCP 2.3, HDR 10, HDR 10+, and Dolby Vision |
| Streaming Services | AirPlay2, Spotify, and Pandora | AirPlay2, Spotify, and Pandora |
| Surround Sound | DTS:X and Dolby Atmos | DTS:X and Dolby Atmos |
Both mid-range receivers do an excellent job of audio processing. They have nine power amps that deliver 11.2 processing. It’s where the power supply to the channel creates a significant difference for the Marantz model.
You’ll find both options have support for streaming services and wireless, including Bluetooth and Wi-Fi.
As for video support, 8K resolution content is supported by both. The performance is relatively equal, although the Marantz receiver uses room measurements and signal processing to create a commercialized theater experience at home.
The Marantz receiver shines even if you just want to listen to music from a Hi-Fi perspective.
When video processing is your preference, the Denon receiver is slightly better. You won’t hear any equipment interference when watching a scene of critical dialogue or relaxing while watching the epic chase scenes from the original Gone in 60 Seconds.
Both receivers are valuable additions to a home theater system, but I’ve found the Marantz to be slightly better. It keeps up with the video processing benefits from the Denon alternative while delivering an improved sound profile.
You’ll just need to be careful where you place the Marantz receiver because it does tend to get hot.
Entry-Level Comparison: Denon vs. Marantz
Denon and Marantz both produce an excellent 5.1 channel solution for those who want an entry-level receiver for their home needs.
The key difference here is in the number of inputs, with Denon offering five HDMI inputs and an output. Marantz counters that by being compatible with Dolby Atmos and other audio formats that you won’t find in the other receiver.
Here is a closer look at the specs for comparison purposes.
| Specifications: | Denon AVR-S650H | Marantz NR1510 |
| Channels | 5.2 | 5.2 |
| Power Output | 75 W/8 Ohm; 100 W/6 Ohm | 50 W/8 Ohm; 60 W/6 Ohm |
| HDMI | 5/1 (4K/60 Hz pass-through) | 6/1 (4K/60 Hz pass-through) |
| Bluetooth / Wi-Fi | Included / Included | Included / Included |
| Video Functions | 4K / 60 Hz in Standby Mode | 4K / 60 Hz in Standby Mode |
| Supports | HDMI ARC, HDMI e-ARC, HDMI CEC, HDCP 2.2, HDR 10, and Dolby Vision | HDMI ARC, HDMI e-ARC, HDMI CEC, HDCP 2.3, HDR 10, HDR 10+, and Dolby Vision |
| Streaming Services | AirPlay2, Spotify, and Pandora | AirPlay2, Spotify, and Pandora |
| Surround Sound | DTS HD Master, Dolby TrueHD | DTS HD Master, Dolby TrueHD |
The Denon receiver provides a dynamic presence in large spaces, especially for an entry-level product. It also comes lacking in analog connectivity for those who have a wide range of audio options they want to enjoy.
If you roll with the Marantz receiver in this category, you’ll find it works better in a smaller space. When it’s happy, you’ll get detailed sound and warmth while enjoying your home theater system.
Marantz does give you access to digital assistants, including Siri and Alexa, with the modern design.
Stereo Receiver Comparison: Denon vs. Marantz
The stereo receiver configuration for today’s Denon and Marantz receivers is almost identical. You’ll see that the primary difference between the two is the power to the amplifying unit.
As with other Denon products, you’ll get slightly more power per channel when compared to Marantz designs in the same price category.
What I like about the Marantz approach is the width and depth of the audio output. Everything feels natural, including dialogue and vocals, to deliver a dynamic listening experience that matches or exceeds almost every expectation.
When you play the same tracks through the Denon receiver, you’ll hear a harder punch in the lower frequencies. There’s a lack of an EQ mode to use, but the equipment still gets the job done adequately.
Here’s a closer look at the specs of these audio receivers to consider.
| Specifications: | Denon DRA-800H | Marantz NR1200 |
| Channels | 2.0 | 2.0 |
| Power Output | 100 W/8 Ohm | 75 W/8 Ohm |
| HDMI | None | 5/1 |
| Bluetooth / Wi-Fi | Included / Included (Lack of Bluetooth support for aptX) | Included / Included |
| Phono Input | Yes | Yes |
| Calibration System | Yes | No |
| Streaming Services | AirPlay2, Spotify, and Pandora | AirPlay2, Spotify, and Pandora |
| Surround Sound | DTS HD Master, Dolby TrueHD | DTS HD Master, Dolby TrueHD |
When deciding on a stereo receiver between these two units, you’ll discover that you can choose something with more detail and precision or an experience that stays heavy in the lower register.
If you love listening to a lot of bass in your music mix, even with a Hi-Fi preference, you’ll find that Denon does an excellent job of meeting your needs.
When authenticity is your priority, Marantz gives you something more realistic. The harmonic depth you’ll detect with the individual instruments and sounds is surprisingly good, whether you’re watching a movie or listening to independent audio.
High Midrange Comparison: Denon vs. Marantz
When you’re not quite ready to buy the best from either brand, but you also don’t want an entry-level product, you still have a fantastic option in the middle to consider.
At the high midrange price point, we can compare the Denon AVR-X4700H with the Marantz SR7015.
The audio components on both speakers are excellent. You’ll receive plenty of support, including two rear channels, with both designs.
These units also come with a similar video path, with scaling ports that let you upgrade the video experience.
Here are the specs to review if you’re interested in looking at these two receivers more closely.
| Specifications: | Denon AVR-X4700H | Marantz SR7015 |
| Channels | 9.2 | 9.2 |
| Power Output | 125 W/8 Ohm; 165 W/6 Ohm | 125 W/8 Ohm; 165 W/6 Ohm |
| HDMI | 8/3 (8K/60 Hz and 4K/120 Hz pass-through) | 7/3 (8K/60 Hz and 4K/120 Hz pass-through) |
| Bluetooth / Wi-Fi | Included / Included | Included / Included |
| Video Functions | Video Conversion Analog to HDMI; Analog to HDMI Scaling; HDMI to HDMI Scaling | Video Conversion Analog to HDMI; Analog to HDMI Scaling; HDMI to HDMI Scaling |
| Supports | HDMI ARC, HDMI e-ARC, HDMI CEC, HDCP 2.3, HDR 10, HDR 10+, and Dolby Vision | HDMI ARC, HDMI e-ARC, HDMI CEC, HDCP 2.3, HDR 10, HDR 10+, and Dolby Vision |
| Streaming Services | AirPlay2, Spotify, and Pandora | AirPlay2, Spotify, and Pandora |
| Surround Sound | DTS:X and Dolby Atmos | DTS:X and Dolby Atmos |
I’ve found that these two receivers are pound-for-pound the best options from the two brands today. You’ll get a very similar listening experience to the flagship products without the added expense of extra channels.
If you need those extra channels, Denon and Marantz give you that top-tier experience with a final upgrade. I’ve gotten by without them just fine myself with my setup.
I will say that the Denon receiver in this category tends to prefer the lower frequencies. The bass can overwhelm the mix a little at times.
Of course, when we pull out an old THX audio track for move night, that causes the windows to rattle – and that’s a great time with the family.
The Denon receiver also upscales to 8K wonderfully while delivering an above-average surround sound experience.
With the Marantz receiver, I’ve found that it takes a little extra time to manage the equalization needs of the audio stream.
The amp is so powerful that you need to focus on what you want to enjoy to make it happen. You can also control the receiver by using a companion help, which is great since we’re always losing remotes in our home.
Flagship Comparison: Denon vs. Marantz
When looking at the flagship products between Denon and Marantz, a fundamental difference is immediately apparent.
If you choose the Denon AVR-X6700H, you’ll receive a 13.2 channel amplifier. The Marantz SR8015 only comes with an 11.2 channel amp unit.
Both models support the same power handling capabilities and similar video paths. Here’s a closer look at the specs for comparison.
| Specifications: | Denon AVR-X6700H | Marantz SR8015 |
| Channels | 13.2 | 11.2 |
| Power Output | 140 W/8 Ohm; 175 W/6 Ohm | 140 W/8 Ohm; 175 W/6 Ohm |
| HDMI | 8/3 (8K/60 Hz and 4K/120 Hz pass-through) | 7/3 (8K/60 Hz and 4K/120 Hz pass-through) |
| Bluetooth / Wi-Fi | Included / Included | Included / Included |
| Video Functions | Video Conversion Analog to HDMI; Analog to HDMI Scaling; HDMI to HDMI Scaling | Video Conversion Analog to HDMI; Analog to HDMI Scaling; HDMI to HDMI Scaling |
| Supports | HDMI ARC, HDMI e-ARC, HDMI CEC, HDCP 2.3, HDR 10, HDR 10+, and Dolby Vision | HDMI ARC, HDMI e-ARC, HDMI CEC, HDCP 2.3, HDR 10, HDR 10+, and Dolby Vision |
| Streaming Services | AirPlay2, Spotify, and Pandora | AirPlay2, Spotify, and Pandora |
| Surround Sound | DTS:X and Dolby Atmos | DTS:X and Dolby Atmos |
Beyond the 11.2 channel issue with the Marantz receiver, you’ll find that it only comes with a single HDMI 2.1 port. Although that isn’t super problematic for the average household, it could be an issue with some setups.
The Denon AVR-X3700H might provide a spatially dense sound, but its HEOS module is incompatible with MQA. I also found the remote to be almost useless with its outdated design.
Which Is Better: Denon vs. Marantz?
Denon receivers provide an excellent foundation for any home theater system. Each model provides different video and audio attributes that could be worth considering. Marantz has slightly better specs, with the exception of the flagship model.
I find that Marantz works slightly better for my home theater. I use Denon for my audio system in a separate room.
With the Marantz equipment, I feel some extra audio depth. It’s like that experience you get in the movie theater when the sound drop hits during a critical moment. You get the sensation that you’re right there in the middle of the action.
I like the overall density of the Denon experience. If I want to play games, I hook up my TV and console in the entertainment room for a great time.
When I need to lean back and relax, the music production makes it feel like I’m right there in the recording studio with the artist.
Everyone will have different tastes and preferences based on room design, equipment quality, and other variables.
Modern Denon vs. Marantz equipment is relatively similar. If you are shopping for something more vintage, you’ll want to choose Marantz every time for your home theater needs.
