The audio world is full of competition. And I suggest you consider comparing two rather popular brands – Marantz vs Yamaha.
I compare receivers because both brands compete in several price segments at once, and their models are pretty close. And the primary goal of opposing receivers was to determine which model is the best in its category.
Marantz company history and overview
Today, Marantz is considered one of the most reputable companies in the video and audio equipment market. The American Saul Marantz founded the company in 1953. He was a musician, and he thought about creating high-quality sound-reproducing equipment because none of the devices existing at that time satisfied him.
And from such aspirations, audio equipment appeared, distinguished by high sound quality, flexible change of all necessary sound parameters, reliability, and debugging throughout the entire service life.
Today the name of the company itself – Marantz – has become a mark of quality: a CD player, AV receiver, sound amplifier, and any other device with such a label inspires confidence in the consumer audience. And, it is not surprising that many people want to buy a device from Marantz.
Yamaha company history and overview
Almost everyone has heard the name “Yamaha” at least once. And this is not surprising. Throughout its long history, the company has won the hearts and minds of fans with its unprecedented quality.
It all started from the day when a young entrepreneur Thorakusu Yamaha, a master of the manufacture of reed organs, made a high-quality reed organ for the first time. Shortly after that, a company was founded in 1887, which specialized in the production of pianos.
And in the same year, she received a large order from Southeast Asia to assemble 80 organs. Thus, in the first half of the 20th century, the company successfully mastered the technique of producing various musical instruments.
And already by our time the company has rightfully become one of the best manufacturers of musical instruments in the world. Moreover, the Yamaha has received the recognition and respect of the musicians of the planet for the highest sound quality.
How I tested receivers by Marantz and Yamaha
Comprehensive AV receiver comparisons are essential to understand the strengths and weaknesses of each model in comparison. And that is why, as part of my testing, I pay attention to both the musical side and the surround sound. I chose The Dark Knight movie for my surround sound experience.
But for the music test, I picked up a playlist from my library:
- Bob Marley & The Wailers – Turn Your Lights Down Low – (CD player)
- Mahler – Symphony No.2 (CD player)
- Arctic Monkeys – Do I Wanna Know – (CD player)
- Mark Nauseef – With Space in Mind (CD player)
- The Weeknd – The Hills – (CD player)
I carried each test out on the following equipment:
- CD player SACD 30n
- Blu-ray player Sony UBP-X700
- Speaker wire – AudioQuest Type-9
- Speakers for movie – Klipsch RP-8060FA
- Stereo speakers:
- Klipsch RP-8060FA
- KEF Q350
- DALI OBERON 5
Mid-price Marantz and Yamaha Receivers Comparison
Marantz SR6015 vs Yamaha RX-A2080
I want to start my Yamaha vs Marantz comparison with mid-budget models. Let’s get started.
The Marantz SR6015 has nine power amplifiers with an output power of 110 W/8 Ohm and 150 W/6 Ohm. Besides this, the SR6015 is equipped with Dolby Atmos and DTS: X, but unfortunately without Auro 3D, so it offers a lot of flexibility for 3D sound in today’s home theater. The Yamaha RX-A2080 also provides ample power on its nine channels – 140 W/8 Ohm. Moreover, the RX-A2080 works with the same 3D sound decoders. The significant difference from the competition is the particularly powerful CINEMA DSP HD3, which delivers impressive yet accurate DSP sound.
Marantz uses the latest generation of video processing in the SR6015. This means it is ready to handle ultra-high-definition 8K video sources. It can view content at such a high resolution and generate it from other materials by scaling. So it makes sense that Marantz also has HDMI 2.1.
In the movie test, the Marantz SR6015 performed well. It combines precise signal processing. Clean, accurate, and powerful subwoofer calibration of the Audyssey SR6015 made the sound as close as possible to the room and what is happening on the screen. In addition, even in the most significant noise, dialogues are always clearly understood and ideally positioned.
The situation is like the competing model. The Yamaha sounded excellent – very clear, dynamic, accurate, with deep and precise spaciousness. The sound field was well separated from all the speakers and floated naturally in the room. Effects are localized above our heads, with ambient noise spreading widely and believably throughout the listening room.
The Marantz SR6015 is extensively equipped and would be an excellent choice for ambitious home theater systems like its competitor. However, by choosing a receiver from Yamaha, you can count on excellent performance. Therefore, the RX-A2080 should be a better choice for the living room and the dedicated home theater room.
Key specs | Marantz SR6015 | Yamaha RX-A2080 |
Channels | 9.2 | 9.2 |
Power output | 110 W/8 Ohm, 150 W/6 Ohm | 140 W/8 Ohm |
HDMI inputs/outputs | 7/3 (8K/60Hz and 4K/120Hz pass-through) | 7/3 (4K/60Hz pass-through) |
Bluetooth/Wi-Fi | yes/yes | yes/yes |
Video functions | video conversion analog to HDMI, analog to HDMI scaling, HDMI to HDMI scaling | analog to HDMI scaling, HDMI to HDMI scaling |
Supports | HDMI ARC, HDMI eARC, HDMI CEC, HDCP2.3, HDR10, HDR10+, Dolby Vision | HDMI ARC, HDMI eARC, HDMI CEC, HDCP2.3, HDR10, Dolby Vision |
Streaming services | AirPlay2, Spotify, Pandora, Tidal | AirPlay2, Spotify, Pandora, Tidal |
Surround sound | DTS:X, Dolby Atmos | DTS:X, Dolby Atmos |
Marantz SR6015 pros and cons
Pros
- Wide functionality and high-quality sound
- The ability to biamp in “stereo” mode
Cons
- No front wide channel Support
Yamaha RX-A2080 pros and cons
Pros
- Dynamic, powerful, and clear sound
- Many DSP programs, including “Surround: Al”
Cons
- No decoder for Auro-3D sound
Yamaha RX-A1080 vs Marantz SR5014
And another pair of mid-range Marantz vs Yamaha receivers. I started with audio specs, as always.
Yamaha is equipped with an amplifier with 110 W/8 Ohm, which allows you to drive 5.1, 7.1, Dolby Atmos configurations. It also has its Presence system onboard and numerous DSP modes (including the Cinema DSP HD3, which requires the installation of seven physical devices).
Alternatively, Marantz SR5014 is equipped with discrete, more powerful amplifiers capable of delivering 100 W/8 Ohm and 140 W/6 Ohm per channel, plus high currents on all nine channels. Plus, I want to highlight, the device is equipped with HDAM modules, which provide high quality without the slightest distortion and a wide dynamic range during high-resolution audio playback.
Yamaha perfectly processes a 4K video stream. In addition, all analog video signals input to the receiver are converted to digital and output to the monitor via HDMI. As a result, there are upscale images up to the 4K standard. And so is the competitor. The Marantz receiver supports Dolby Vision and the new HLG technology, which is currently the most advanced option for transmitting HDR images. In terms of video capabilities, the devices have parity.
It’s time to test. And I started, as always, by watching a movie. And as I expected, the SR5014 sounded pretty soft. The sound was tonal with a slight warm undertone. The bass was played quite soft and not very clear or explosive. I haven’t missed a single detail in uppercase. Marantz has an excellent high-frequency resolution.
Yamaha’s sound is closer to the Marantz profile, and does not noticeably change the style when switching from stereo to multichannel. In music, this is expressed in naturalness, which should have freedom and dynamics. Paying attention, balance, and harmony prevail in the general perception – in this style, it is difficult to significantly improve anything to not spoil the whole composition. The music flows in a clean, unobstructed flow, has its tempo, turns, strokes, and flashes, but above all, it is connected.
And according to the results, the Marantz is distinguished by a good sound, advanced music features, and a wide variety of connections. However, the tested Yamaha RX-A1080 impresses with its detail and sensational musicality, especially when playing music in multichannel formats. And each of these models will be a valuable purchase for those who choose between Marantz or Yamaha.
Key specs | Marantz SR5014 | Yamaha RX-A1080 |
Channels | 9.2 | 9.2 |
Power output | 100 W/8 Ohm, 140 W/6 Ohm | 110 W/8 Ohm |
HDMI inputs/outputs | 8/2 (4K/60Hz pass-through) | 7/3 (4K/60Hz pass-through) |
Bluetooth/Wi-Fi | yes/yes | yes/yes |
Video functions | video conversion analog to HDMI, analog to HDMI scaling, HDMI to HDMI scaling | analog to HDMI scaling, HDMI to HDMI scaling |
Supports | HDMI ARC, HDMI eARC, HDMI CEC, HDCP2.3, HDR10, HDR10+, Dolby Vision | HDMI ARC, HDMI eARC, HDMI CEC, HDCP2.3, HDR10, Dolby Vision |
Streaming services | AirPlay2, Spotify, Pandora, Tidal | AirPlay2, Spotify, Pandora, Tidal |
Surround sound | DTS:X, Dolby Atmos | DTS:X, Dolby Atmos |
Yamaha RX-A1080 pros and cons
Pros
- Excellent sound, especially in multichannel mode
- Many DSP programs, including “Surround: Al”
Cons
- No decoder for Auro-3D audio
Marantz SR5014 pros and cons
Pros
- Outstanding performance
- Excellent build quality
Cons
- No HDR 10+ support
Premium Marantz and Yamaha Receivers
Marantz SR7015 vs Yamaha RX-A3080
And the first of the pair is a 9-channel AV amplifier with 125 W/ Ohm and 165W /6 Ohm. The SR7015 supports Dolby Atmos, DTS: X, and Auro-3D (up to 11.2ch) and is IMAX Enhanced certified. The Yamaha RX-A3080 differs from the competitor in its more balanced approach to the design of both digital and analog parts. Moreover, the device has sufficient power. The amplifiers deliver 150 watts (into 8 ohms) for each channel at full load.
The SR7015 can handle 8K video, but only on one input and two outputs. All other inputs process signals in accordance with the HDMI 2.0 standard but also master modern video functions. Besides Dolby Vision and HLG, Marantz also understands HDR10 + and the new Dynamic HDR.
And the receiver from Yamaha loses to its competitor in video processing. Its video subsystem can work only with UltraHD video streams. However, I have to say that in addition to the ability to pass 4K video through itself, there is support for HDR10 and the Dolby Vision standard.
I tested the receivers as usual with the film. Again, the Yamaha`s receiver has managed to create a natural home theater feel. The rich sound and wide soundstage put me in the very center of the film. In stereo, the RX-A3080 impressed with its lively sound that never got harsh, even at high volume levels.
The Marantz SR7015, on the other hand, delivers impressive sound whether it operates in dual or multi-channel modes or plays 3D audio. What impressed me immediately about it was its substantial headroom, which ensures confident-sounding even when all channels are actively used. The result is a wide dynamic range and rich, sweeping sound which is better as in the competitor’s test. And for all that power, the receiver’s sound is fast and agile, with the accurate transient response and complete acoustics control.
And according to the results of testing, I can say that both receivers reviewed above sound very close. However, the SR7015 seems to be more versatile because of its unchanged dynamism. Alternatively, the RX-3080 is an excellent choice for vinyl due to its soft and warm sound.
Key specs | Marantz SR7015 | Yamaha RX-A3080 |
Channels | 9.2 | 9.2 |
Power output | 125 W/8 Ohm, 165 W/6 Ohm | 150 W/8 Ohm |
HDMI inputs/outputs | 8/3 (8K/60Hz and 4K/120Hz pass-through) | 7/3 (4K/60Hz pass-through) |
Bluetooth/Wi-Fi | yes/yes | yes/yes |
Video functions | video conversion analog to HDMI, analog to HDMI scaling, HDMI to HDMI scaling | analog to HDMI scaling, HDMI to HDMI scaling |
Supports | HDMI ARC, HDMI eARC, HDMI CEC, HDCP2.3, HDR10, HDR10+, Dolby Vision | HDMI ARC, HDMI eARC, HDMI CEC, HDCP2.3, HDR10, Dolby Vision |
Streaming services | AirPlay2, Spotify, Pandora, Tidal | AirPlay2, Spotify, Pandora, Tidal |
Surround sound | DTS:X, Dolby Atmos | DTS:X, Dolby Atmos |
Marantz SR7015 pros and cons
Pros
- Dolby Atmos, DTS: X, Auro-3D, and IMAX Enhanced decoders
- EARC support
Cons
- Only one 8K / 60Hz input
Yamaha RX-A3080 pros and cons
Pros
- Innovative audio processing with select components, Dolby Atmos compatible
- Intelligent network / multi-room functions, superior equipment quality
Cons
- No decoder for Auro 3D
Budget Marantz and Yamaha AV Receivers
Yamaha RX-V6A vs Marantz NR1510
And now the budget segment is next in line. Here I have a Yamaha RX-V6A with 100 W / 8 Ohm per channel and a less powerful Marantz NR1510 with 50 W / 8 Ohm or 60 W / 6 Ohm. In the RX-V6A, I immediately want to note support for Dolby Atmos with the function of synthesis of virtual high channels, as well as Cinema DSP 3D. About the NR1510, I can only say that it does not have Dolby Atmos or DTS: X surround sound decoders. It is based only on Dolby TrueHD and DTS HD Master Audio.
The Yamaha RX-V6A has a good HDR10 + video path for more realistic images and 4K / 120Hz. Furthermore, music Enhancer enhances compressed audio. In addition, the device supports MusicCast multi-room technology and voice control. The Marantz NR1510 can be praised for having the latest version of the eARC system on the video path. There is also 4K, Dolby Vision, or HLG, but without scaling.
Having started my testing, I was pleasantly surprised. Yamaha conveyed the sound of the film impressively. The 3D effects seemed tangible and accurate, but the pitch effects played a little ahead.
In the music compilation test, the V6A played as clean and airy as it was dynamic. The music was even believably spatial in some moments. Bass was reproduced cleanly, albeit a little underrepresented with the calibration settings.
The Marantz NR1510 is excellent for stereo. The receiver broadcasts smooth and detailed sound. I could even call it soft, but here the damping is limiting the effect of the resolution. Even so, the sounds are rich and light, sonorous and gentle. It is less harsh than the competitor. The tonal balance is impeccable, although the sound is far from dry and dispassionate versions of neutrality.
I can conclude that the Marantz NR1510 will be a good preference for a home audio system. Still, its competitor, the Yamaha RX-V6A, is already a full-fledged multimedia combine that can work with 3D sound and will be a good purchase for an entry-level home theater.
Marantz NR1510 | Yamaha RX-V6A | |
Channels | 5.2 | 7.2 |
Power output | 100 W/8 Ohm | 50 W/8 Ohm, 60 W/6 Ohm |
HDMI inputs/outputs | 6/1 (4K/60Hz pass-through) | 7/1 (8K/60Hz, 4K/120Hz pass-through) |
Bluetooth/Wi-Fi | yes/yes | yes/yes |
Video functions | 4K/60Hz pass-through in standby mode | 8K/60Hz, 4K/120Hz pass-throughh in standby mode, HDMI upscaling (up to 4K) |
Multi-room zones | no | 2 |
Supports | HDMI ARC, HDMI eARC, HDCP2.3, HDR10, Dolby Vision | HDMI ARC, HDMI eARC, HDCP2.3, HDR10, Dolby Vision |
Streaming services | AirPlay2, Spotify, Pandora | AirPlay2, Spotify, Pandora |
Surround sound | DTS HD Master, Dolby TrueHD | DTS:X, Dolby Atmos |
Yamaha RX-V6A pros and cons
Pros
- Сlear, airy and surround sound
- Dolby Atmos, DTS: X, many sound programs
Cons
- No 11.2 channel processing
- The low productivity in multichannel work
Marantz NR1510 pros and cons
Pros
- Detailed reproduction
- Modern features such as 4K and HDCP 2.3
Cons
- Low power reserves in multichannel operation
- No 3D sound formats
Stereo Marantz and Yamaha Receivers
Marantz NR1200 vs Yamaha R-N602
And at the end of the series of reviews, I propose to compare two models of stereo receivers. I’ll start with a model from Yamaha. This compact receiver is equipped with a suitable power transformer that delivers a maximum power of 80 W/8 Ohm or 120 W/6 Ohm. That kind of power seems impressive compared to the competition. The Marantz NR1200 has only 75 watts per channel.
Alternatively, the NR1200 has its advantages. It connects five HDMI inputs, each supporting HDCP 2.3, 4K / 60Hz video, HLG, and more. In contrast, Yamaha has no video capabilities at all.
It is also worth noting that the Yamaha model has WLAN or LAN connections to the local network. Support is declared for TIDAL, Deezer, Qobuz, Napster, vTuner, Sirius XM, etc. And also, of the features – the model is equipped with a Bluetooth module, capable of receiving and broadcasting an audio stream to mobile devices, incl, on Bluetooth headphones.
The networking capabilities of the Marantz NR1200 are pretty good too. In addition to standard Bluetooth and Wi-Fi, the presence of HEOS and support for Airplay 2 allow the model to be integrated into a multi-room installation.
And in the end, I see it this way: the NR1200 model has everything you need to be the center of a home multimedia system – excellent sound and picture and confident work with different speakers. Not only is the R-N602 the center of a stereo system, but it’s also ideal for integrating existing and favorite passive speakers into a multi-room system, thanks to MusicCast.
Key specs | Marantz NR1200 | Yamaha R-N602 |
Channels | 2.0 | 2.0 |
Power output | 75 W/8 Ohm | 80 W/8 Ohm, 160 W/6 Ohm |
HDMI inputs/outputs | 5/1 | 0/0 |
Phono Input | yes | yes |
Bluetooth/Wi-Fi | yes/yes | yes/yes |
Streaming services | AirPlay2, Spotify, Pandora | AirPlay2, Spotify, Pandora |
Marantz NR1200 pros and cons
Pros
- 4K and eARC support
- The ability to create HEOS multi room
Cons
- Low power output
Yamaha R-N602 pros and cons
Pros
- Powerful and dynamic sound
- Multi-room MusicCast system
Cons
- Lack of video section
Explore other our AV receivers comparisons and ratings
Our newsletter
* We will never send you spam or share your email with third parties