Marantz NR1608 7.2-Channel Network A/V Receiver Review
High-quality audio delivered in a compact body is what makes the Marantz NR1608 unique. Designed for people who appreciate great music without requiring heavy equipment, this receiver is ideal for compact living areas. Personal entertainment areas will find the rich and deep audio experience to be perfect.
Our Verdict
The Marantz NR1608 is a potent and small AV receiver that provides excellent sound quality. With so many capabilities and support for the newest audio formats, individuals with bigger rooms or more complicated setup requirements might find the single HDMI output and 50W per channel power insufficient. For those who value space-saving design without compromising sound quality, it's an excellent option for compact rooms.
PROS
- Multiple 4K inputs
- Dynamic sonic presentation
- Heos multiroom support
- Compact half-height design
- Dolby Atmos, DTS:X
- Wi-Fi and Bluetooth
- 8 HDMI inputs
- Second zone support
CONS
- Single HDMI output
- Best for smaller rooms
- Audyssey app not free
GENERAL
| Receiver Type | |
|---|---|
| Number Of Channel | Channel |
| Number Channel Processing | |
| Audio Feature | |
| Video Feature | |
| Watts Per Channel | |
| Zones | |
| Radio | |
| Amplifier |
CONNECTIVITY
| Ethernet | |
|---|---|
| Wi-Fi | |
| Bluetooth | |
| USB | |
| RCA LIne Input: | |
| RCA LIne Output: | |
| RCA Pre-Outs: | |
| XLR Line Inputs: | |
| XLR Pre-Outs: | |
| Phono Input: | |
| Optical Inputs: | |
| Optical Output: | |
| Coaxial Inputs: | |
| Multi-Channel Input: | |
| Headphone Out: | |
| HDMI Inputs: | |
| HDMI Outputs: | |
| 8K Inputs: | |
| Composite Video Input | |
| Composite Video Output: | |
| Component Video Input: | |
| Component Video Output: | |
| Front A/V Inputs: | |
| Speaker A/B: |
AUDIO FEATURES:
| Maximum Channel Processing | |
|---|---|
| Dolby Atmos | |
| Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization | |
| Dolby Atmos Music | |
| Dolby TrueHD | |
| Dolby Digital Plus | |
| Dolby Surround Upmixer | |
| Dolby Pro Logic | |
| Dolby Digital EX | |
| Surround EX | |
| DTS:X | |
| DTS Neural:X | |
| DTS Virtual:X | |
| DTS Neo | |
| DTS-HD Master Audio | |
| DTS-HD High Resolution Audio | |
| DTS 96/24 | |
| DTS Express | |
| DTS-ES | |
| IMAX Enhanced | |
| PCM | |
| Music Playback via USB | |
| High Resolution Music Playback via USB and/or Network | |
| High Resolution Audio Formats via USB | |
| Gapless Playback | |
| DSD via HDMI | |
| DSD via USB | |
| DSD to PCM Converter | |
| USB DAC | |
| Jitter Reduction | |
| DTS Dialog Control | |
| Dialog Enhancement | |
| Dialog Level Adjustment | |
| Dialog Normalization | |
| Dialogue Lift | |
| Compressed Music Enhancer | |
| High-resolution Music Enhancer | |
| Audyssey Dynamic EQ | |
| Audyssey Dynamic Volume | |
| Audyssey LFC | |
| Audyssey Sub EQ HT | |
| Audyssey DSX | |
| Direct Mode | |
| Pure Direct Mode | |
| Independent Subwoofer Outputs | |
| Auto Speaker Calibration System with Mic. | |
| Audyssey App Support | |
| Bass Sync | |
| Optimized Bass Redirection |
VIDEO FEATURES:
| HDMI Version | |
|---|---|
| Enhanced ARC | |
| HDCP Version | |
| HDR10+ | |
| Dynamic HDR | |
| Dolby Vision | |
| HLG (Hybrid Log Gamma) | |
| QMS (Quick Media Switching) | |
| 3-D Ready | |
| Video Signal Passthrough | |
| Video Signal Upscaling | |
| Analog To HDMI Upconversion | |
| Component Video Upscaling | |
| isf Certified Calibration Control |
AMPLIFIERS
| Channels | |
|---|---|
| Front Wide Channel Support | |
| Current Feedback Topology | |
| Discrete Amplification | |
| HDAM | |
| THX™ Certification | |
| Continuous 6 Ω Rated | |
| Certified 4 Ω Performance | |
| Bi-amp Capability |
GAMING FEATURES
| Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM) | |
|---|---|
| Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) | |
| Quick Frame Transport (QFT) |
ZONES
| Zones | |
|---|---|
| Powered Zones | |
| Zone 2 Outs | |
| Zone 3 Outs | |
| RS-232C Interface | |
| +12V Trigger Output |
RADIO
| Analog Tuner | |
|---|---|
| Digital Radio | |
| Internet Radio | |
| Pandora | |
| Spotify | |
| Tidal | |
| Deezer | |
| SiriusXM Internet Radio | |
| Napster |
ADDITIONAL FEATURES
| On-Screen Display | |
|---|---|
| GUI Languages | |
| Web Browser Control | |
| IP Control for CI | |
| Control4 SDDP | |
| PreAmp Mode | |
| Display | |
| Remote Controller | |
| Remote Control In/Out | |
| LCD Display | |
| Detachable Power Cord | |
| Setup Assistant |
POWER
| Power Output (6 Ω, 1 kHz, 2 | |
|---|---|
| Rated Power Output (6 Ω, 1 kHz, 1 channel driven, IEC) | |
| Dynamic Power per Channel (3 Ω, Front) | |
| Dynamic Power per Channel (4 Ω, Front) | |
| Dynamic Power per Channel (8 Ω, Front) | |
| Power Output (8 Ω, 20 Hz - 20 kHz, 2 | |
| Maximum Effective Power Output (6 Ω, 1 kHz, 1 channel driven, JEITA) | |
| Power Supply | |
| Toroidal Transformer | |
| Power Consumption | |
| No Sound Power | |
| Standby Power |
BUILD
| Dimensions (W x H x D) | |
|---|---|
| Weight | |
| Chassis | |
| Front Panel | |
| Speaker Terminals | |
| Large Speaker Terminals | |
| Color-Coded Speaker Terminals | |
| Transparent High-Grade Speaker Terminals | |
| High Grade Audio Components | |
| ECO Mode / Hybrid Standby Function | |
| Auto Power off | |
| Warranty |
SPECIFICATIONS
| THD digital | |
|---|---|
| Analog Distortion | |
| Phono Distortion | |
| Input Sensitivity and Impedance (Line) | |
| Input Sensitivity and Impedance (Phono MM) | |
| Rated Lineout Level and Impedance | |
| Rated Output digital | |
| S/N Ratio (Line, IHF-A) | |
| S/N Ratio (Phono MM, IHF-A) | |
| S/N Ratio (digital) | |
| Phono RIAA Deviation | |
| Frequency Response (Analog In) | |
| DSD Sampling Rates via HDMI | |
| DSD Sampling Rates via USB | |
| Video Input Sensitivity/Output Level and Impedance | |
| Video Frequency Response | |
| Ethernet Standard | |
| Wi-Fi Standard | |
| Wi-Fi Terminal Frequency | |
| Bluetooth Version | |
| Bluetooth Frequency | |
| USB Terminal | |
| FM Frequency | |
| FM 50 dB Quiet Sensitivity (IHF, 1 kHz, 100% MOD.) | |
| FM S/N Ratio | |
| FM Harmonic Distortion (IHF, 1 kHz) | |
| AM Effective Sensitivity | |
| AM Frequency |
Design
The Marantz NR1608 sports a sleek, slim profile that is a breath of fresh air in bulky AV receivers. Its compact size does not compromise the quality Marantz is known for. Users appreciate its low height, making it a perfect fit for tight spaces or minimalist setups. However, some users have noted that the smaller size might limit the heat dissipation capabilities compared to larger units.
Connectivity
The Marantz NR1609’s connectivity is a true highlight, offering a seamless integration for many devices. The eight HDMI inputs, including the convenient front-panel access, make connecting everything from your favorite gaming console to your trusty old DVD player a breeze. It’s like having a digital butler at your service, ready to link up all your tech without a fuss.
But it’s not just about plugging in cables; the NR1609 understands the modern need for wireless connections. Its Bluetooth capability, while sticking to the basics with the SBC codec, still provides a reliable and straightforward way to stream audio from your devices. Sure, it might not be the high-end audiophile’s dream, but it gets the job done for everyday listening.
And let’s not forget the HEOS technology, which is like a magic wand for your music, allowing it to flow from room to room, creating a harmonious sound environment throughout your home. This feature is especially loved by those who enjoy hosting parties or simply relish having their music follow them no matter where they are in the house.
On the flip side, some users have expressed their wish for a more robust Bluetooth codec to satisfy their high-fidelity cravings. While the NR1609’s Bluetooth does the trick for casual listening, those with a keen ear for quality might find themselves longing for more. It’s a small hiccup in an otherwise smooth experience, reminding us that even in a world of advanced technology, there’s always room for improvement.
Performance-wise, the NR1608, even at its 50W per channel rating, produces the same crisp, strong sound that Marantz receivers are renowned for. Immersion audio is provided by its support of DTS:X and Dolby ATMOS. Some consumers, meanwhile, believe it works best in smaller rooms because the power output might not be enough for bigger ones.
High frequency delivery by the NR1609 is precise and clear, which makes it perfect for genres like acoustic or classical music where subtlety in the higher registers matters. Its powerful bass response is up to the punchy demands of hip-hop and techno music and the explosive sound effects in action films. Because of their clear and detailed midrange, pop music, rock, TV shows, and podcasts may all have their voices and conversations presented warmly and with presence. Providing the speakers are of respectable efficiency, the NR1609's 50W per channel output allows it to drive most standard speakers to acceptable levels even in a big room. Its flexibility is increased by its compatibility with the newest surround sound codecs, such as DTS:X and Dolby Atmos in a 5.1.2 setup, which enables an immersive listening experience across a range of media formats.
Pairing the NR1609 with speakers that match its power output is crucial, though. This receiver might not be able to fully drive very demanding speakers. The NR1609 will perform more than well for TV shows and podcasts, which often don't need a vast dynamic range, guaranteeing clear and understandable audio reproduction.
Where and When to Use
The NR1608 is versatile and can be used in various settings, from small apartments to medium-sized living rooms. It’s ideal for those who want a high-quality home theater experience without the bulk of traditional receivers. Its slim design makes it suitable for use in media cabinets with limited space.
Compatible Devices
It works seamlessly with a range of devices, including 4K TVs, smartphones, tablets, and computers. The receiver is also Apple AirPlay 2 compatible, allowing for easy streaming from iOS devices.
Ease of Use
Users find the on-screen setup assistant and the Marantz AVR Remote App to be user-friendly, making the initial setup and daily operation straightforward. The Audyssey MultEQ calibration system is a hit for optimizing sound in any room. However, the Audyssey app is not free, which is a minor gripe among users.
Cost
The NR1608 is priced competitively, offering a good balance between features and price. While it’s not the cheapest on the market, users feel that the quality and features justify the cost. It’s seen as a solid investment for those looking to upgrade their home theater system without going overboard on spending.
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