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Marantz AV Receivers
Marantz – the world leader in the field of advanced solutions for home entertainment systems
Among the companies that can boast products that for many years have determined the development of Hi-Fi technology, there is the name Marantz. It is very important to choose a good receiver from this brand. And I'd like to write about Marantz comparison in this article to help you with the choice.
Marantz announced the release of the latest models of the recognized line of receivers for home cinema series SR. Thanks to the improved performance and significant upgrades of the SR5008, the SR6008 and SR7008 raise the bar for sound quality, design and ease of use. Equipped with proprietary Marantz HDAM® modules and feedback circuits, the new SR-series guarantees sound quality that can satisfy the needs of the most demanding audiophiles.
Marantz receivers comparison
Models line Melody Media, equipped with a built-in CD player and network functions, for the past few years were considered reference among compact receivers. Thanks to carefully thought-out components, the Marantz MCR receivers (Marantz MCR-603, Marantz MCR-610 and 611) feature excellent musicality and functionality. In addition to CD-Audio discs, the receiver can play files stored on a USB flash drive, USB-HDD, iPhone, iPod or iPad (with their own cable) or stream wirelessly via Bluetooth, AirPlay or DLNA.
Exclusive hyperdynamic amplifier modules with current feedback, which were previously only equipped with flagship products and models of the Reference series, are now available in all three AV receivers of the SR series. New receivers of the SR series are an opportunity to enjoy excellent sound quality, which is now available for different categories of customers who want to have a home theater of excellent quality, without going beyond their budget.
Versus the previous lines, the line of AV-receivers of the SR series from Marantz as always shows an excellent design, characterized by the famous round display with a proprietary "star" on the front panel. Unmatched quality of assembly of new models is confirmed by a three-year guarantee of quality. All models support AirPlay technology, which allows streaming music from iPhone, iPod touch and iPad devices, or from iTunes to a Mac or PC. * In addition, you gain access to online streaming services such as Pandora, SiriusXM, and Spotify **
Receiver comparison can be seen in the comparative chart.
Marantz – brand history
The first audio product under the Marantz brand was designed and produced by Sol Maranets in his own home in Kew Gardens, New York. The history of the company begins in 1948, when a lover of music by Sol Bernard Maranz, like many people of that time, had an interest in high-quality sound reproduction.
The word "Maranz" is associated with the concept of high-quality, "lush" sound, compare to which the characteristics of any equipment, even very good, produced by famous Japanese, German or Korean firms, as they say, "rest" and "nervously smoke on the sidelines." It is interesting that this company was founded by a man who initially did not have professional knowledge. His achievements earned the respect of all audiophiles in the world.
Today Marantz is part of D & M Holdings, a holding company established in 2002, in order to unite Marantz and Denon, manufacturers of high-quality hi-fi equipment, in a strategic alliance. Marantz is a premium-class technology for the discerning buyer. It is a company employing more than 1600 employees in 50 countries.
Pioneer AV Receivers
Pioneer Corporation, a Japanese multinational corporation, has a rich history in the television industry. The company was established in 1938 in Tokyo, Japan, by Nozomu Matsumoto - a man with a passion for music that he hoped to share with the world through high-quality audio speakers. The brand later expanded into various electronics including television sets. Pioneer is particularly renowned for its plasma televisions and was one of the first brands to introduce this technology to the market. In 2006, Pioneer launched the Kuro line of plasma displays, which were lauded for their superior black levels and color accuracy compared to other brands on the market at the time. However, with the advent of LCD and LED technologies, Pioneer faced stiff competition and eventually decided to withdraw from the television market in 2010. Despite this, the brand's legacy in the television industry is still recognized today. Pioneer televisions, particularly their plasma models, are often compared favorably to other brands for their exceptional picture quality and color accuracy. However, the brand's televisions were often more expensive than their competitors, which may have contributed to their decision to exit the market.
What we appriciate?
Resolution
Pioneer, a renowned brand in the television industry, offers high-resolution displays that significantly enhance the viewer's experience. The brand's televisions are equipped with the latest 4K Ultra HD technology, providing four times the resolution of Full HD. This results in a sharper, more detailed picture quality that brings a cinematic experience right into your living room. The high dynamic range (HDR) support further enhances the image quality by delivering brighter, more realistic colors and greater detail. Compared to other brands, Pioneer holds its ground in terms of resolution. While brands like Samsung and LG also offer 4K Ultra HD TVs, Pioneer's implementation of the technology is commendable. However, it's worth noting that Pioneer TVs may fall short when compared to brands like Sony and LG that have moved a step further to offer 8K resolution TVs. Overall, while Pioneer offers excellent resolution quality, it may not be the top choice for consumers seeking the highest resolution available in the market.
Smart Features (Streaming apps, voice control)
Pioneer, in the television category, has made significant strides in incorporating smart features into their models. Their televisions come equipped with various streaming apps like Netflix, Amazon Prime, Hulu, and YouTube, which offer a wide range of content to the users. Furthermore, Pioneer TVs are also compatible with voice control technologies such as Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa, which allow users to control their television with simple voice commands, enhancing the overall user experience. However, while Pioneer has made commendable efforts in integrating these smart features, it does fall short when compared to some other brands like Samsung or LG. These brands offer a more extensive range of pre-installed apps and more sophisticated voice control features. Additionally, some users have reported a slightly more complex user interface on Pioneer's smart TVs compared to its competitors. Despite these drawbacks, Pioneer TVs still offer a robust range of smart features that cater to the needs of most users and provide a seamless streaming and control experience.
Screen size
Pioneer is well-known for its wide range of television sizes, catering to various customer needs. They offer smaller sizes perfect for bedrooms or kitchens, and larger models that are ideal for living rooms or home theaters. One of their latest offerings is the Pioneer Kuro KRP-500A, which boasts a size of 50 inches. This model features full HD 1080p resolution, providing viewers with a detailed and immersive viewing experience. However, when compared to other brands such as Samsung or Sony, Pioneer's size range might be considered somewhat limited. These competitors offer TVs that go up to 85 inches or more, catering to a market that desires a cinema-like experience at home. Despite this, Pioneer's focus on quality over quantity is evident in their products. Their televisions, regardless of size, are known for their excellent picture quality and durability. The brand may not offer the largest TVs on the market, but they certainly hold their own in terms of performance and reliability.
Price
Pioneer, a renowned brand in the television industry, is known for its high-end products that come with a premium price tag. The brand's televisions are equipped with the latest technologies such as 4K Ultra HD resolution, HDR10+ support, Dolby Vision, and advanced sound systems, which justify their high cost. However, the price of Pioneer televisions can be a significant drawback for budget-conscious consumers. When compared to other brands in the market, Pioneer's pricing strategy is on the higher end. Brands like Samsung, LG, and Sony offer televisions with similar features and technologies at a more affordable price range. While Pioneer's high price point is reflective of its superior quality and cutting-edge technology, it could potentially deter a segment of consumers who are looking for more cost-effective options. Therefore, while Pioneer televisions offer an excellent viewing experience, their high cost could be a limiting factor for some consumers.
Brand reputation
Denon, as a brand, has a strong reputation in the consumer electronics industry, particularly in the audio and home theater sectors. However, it is important to note that Denon does not manufacture televisions. They are renowned for their high-quality audio equipment, including AV receivers, soundbars, and Hi-Fi components, which are often used in conjunction with televisions from other brands to enhance the audio-visual experience. Denon's reputation is built on its commitment to delivering premium sound quality, innovative features, and durable construction. Their products are often compared favorably to those of other leading brands in the audio industry, such as Yamaha and Sony. The brand's latest technologies, such as the Denon AVR-X3700H 9.2 channel 8K AV receiver, are lauded for their support for the latest video formats, including 8K and 4K, and advanced audio formats like Dolby Atmos. However, the brand's high-end positioning may not appeal to budget-conscious consumers, and their focus on audio equipment means they do not offer a complete home theater solution, unlike brands such as Samsung or LG that produce both televisions and audio equipment.
Sound Quality
Pioneer is a well-known brand in the television industry, particularly recognized for its exceptional sound quality. The brand's televisions come equipped with advanced sound technologies, such as Dolby Atmos, that provide a more immersive audio experience to the users. The sound system of Pioneer televisions delivers clear and powerful audio that enhances the overall viewing experience. The brand's focus on sound quality is evident in its use of multiple speakers that ensure balanced and well-distributed sound. However, while the sound quality of Pioneer televisions is generally impressive, it might not always match up to the high standards set by some other brands in the market, such as Sony or Samsung. Some users have reported that the bass could be more robust, and the sound may sometimes appear less dynamic compared to the competitors. Despite these minor drawbacks, Pioneer televisions still offer superior sound quality than most brands and stand out for their consistent performance in this aspect.
Marantz vs Pioneer AV Receivers
Marantz vs Pioneer – a battle of histories
Pioneer vs Marantz comparison deals with two brands deeply rooted into history, so both of them have improved their merchandise to the remarkable quality e.g. Marantz has five slim and light NR series under $700 with the wireless network (which was done at the first time with the models at such a price). Meanwhile, Pioneer has produced a receiver SX-1980 with dazzling 270W more than 30 years ago even now viable on the market. A Blu-ray player's HDMI output can be easily hooked to it. So, it seems that Pioneer has won in this opposition Marantz vs Pioneer when it launched that powerful receiver.
Marantz – the road to success through improvements
In 1953, a not professional musician Saul Marantz started the company in New York, named after himself, with the preamp device the ‘Consolette’. He immediately launched the Model 1 preamplifier that would be improved through the decades after always remaining an innovative device. The Model 2 already had 20W in triode mode and 40W. The following one, Model 3, had an improved power supply. The Model 7 had innovative for that time preamplifier. The Model 8 produced 2x30W stereo power amp. The improved version 8B had 5Wpc power increase from a circuit base. The Model 9 had 70W and was the first one with a front panel. The Model 10 included the FM.
Due to this desire to improve not only amplifiers but also video quality, the company faced unmitigated success in the 1970s.
No longer after it, Marantz was taken up by Philips for the next 30 years until 2001, when Marantz Japan Inc. became an independent company and united its overseas subsidiaries. In 2017, Denon and Marantz were sold to Sound United Company from America. Despite no longer being an independent company, it still preserves its uniqueness. The factories were left in Japan.
Marantz produced SR Series Home Theater Receiver series that had noticeable higher sound quality with Hyper Dynamic Amplifier Module, the AirPlay that can stream audio directly from iTunes and Spotify or videos from PC. For example, NR1605 from this series has two extra component video inputs, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, the analog video conversion to HDMI, and a discrete Zone 2 that can be powered through the Surround Back amps in the 7.1 system.
Pioneer – Japanese leadership and the spirit of innovation
In 1938, a predecessor of a future Pioneer Corporation was founded in Tokyo by Nozomu Matsumoto who managed to create the first Japanese Hi-Fi dynamic speaker. Back in times, Pioneer was innovative with its world’s first LD combination player apt to CDs and LDs and the DVD player for professional DJs and VJs. The company produces car audio, automotive navigation systems, televisions, PCs, DVD drives, Misc. DJ equipment. All these merchandises are manufactured in Osaka.
A VSX line has receivers with 80W and 110W per channel. The SC-37 receiver is twice more expensive but with 140W. The new line of in-dash multimedia receivers includes AVH-201EX and AVH-200EX double-DIN 6.2” (the first ones with Bluetooth HFP 1.6 and wideband speech for better sound); a revised panel layout that’s easier to read and a new icon-based GUI and wireless application, dual-band 2.4 and 5.8 GHz WiFi; HDCP 2.2 compatibility and Dolby Atmos.
The Sharp Corporation (9%) and Honda Motor own the dominant shares of the company. In 2014, Onkyo bought Pioneer Home Electronics.
If you’re more into in a comparison chart and would like to compare certain models versus ones from other brands, click on other my receiver comparison.
