Denon AVR-S540BT vs Marantz SR8015

      Denon AVR-S540BT

      Marantz SR8015
      70
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      96
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      UK
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      UK
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      Highlights

      • 5.2 Channels
      • 5.1 Channel Processing
      • 70 W (8 Ω, 20 Hz - 20 kHz, 2 channel driven)
      • HDR10, Dolby Vision
      • 4K/60Hz Passthrough
      • Bluetooth

      Highlights

      • 11.2 Channels
      • 13.2 Channel Processing
      • 140 W (8 Ω, 20 Hz - 20 kHz, 2 channel driven)
      • HDMI 2.1
      • Dolby Atmos, DTS:X Pro, Auro 3D
      • HDR10, HDR10+, Dolby Vision
      • 8K Passthrough, 8K Upscaling
      • Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Ethernet
      • Phono Input

      Disclosure: We earn money from the affiliate links to products associated with content in this article.

      Table of Contents
      1. Overview
      2. Pros and Cons
      3. Advantage of Denon AVR-S540BT
      4. Advantage of Marantz SR8015
      5. Common Strengths and Weaknesses
      6. Amplifier
      7. Speaker Configurations
      8. Immersive Audio Formats
      9. HDMI
      10. Inputs and Outputs
      11. Evaluations
      12. Specifications

      1. Overview

      Here we are comparing Denon AVR-S540BT to Marantz SR8015 to reveal their common strengths and weaknesses as well as the differences between them which will help you in making a correct decision before the purchase. The Denon AVR-S540BT has 5 channel and the Marantz SR8015 has 11 channel amplifiers with Denon AVR-S540BT's being less powerful.


      Denon AVR-S540BT Marantz SR8015

      Denon AVR-S540BT was introduced in 2018. It is equipped with 5 channel amplifier with 70 W (8 Ω, 20 Hz - 20 kHz and 2 channel driven) power per channel and is capable of 5.1 maximum channel processing. It , passes 4K/60Hz video signal.

      Marantz SR8015 was introduced in 2020 and represented a flagship model of a manufacturer. It is equipped with 11 channel amplifier with 140 W (8 Ω, 20 Hz - 20 kHz, 2 channel driven) power per channel and is capable of 13.2 maximum channel processing. It supports Dolby Atmos, DTS:X Pro and Auro-3D, passes 8K/60Hz and 4K/120Hz and upscales up to 8K 50/60Hz and 4K 100/120Hz 4:4:4 video signal.

      We evaluated Denon AVR-S540BT and Marantz SR8015 and gave them scores of 70 and 96 out of 100 recpectively. Our ranking system is based on the amplifier specifications, audio and video features, connectivity, multizone capabilities, radio and many other details.

      Denon AVR-S540BT

      Marantz SR8015

      Amplifier
      71
      Amplifier
      94
      Audio Features
      58
      Audio Features
      97
      Video Features
      94
      Video Features
      99
      Connectivity
      64
      Connectivity
      93
      Zones
      55
      Zones
      93
      Radio
      61
      Radio
      96
      OVERALL
      70
      OVERALL
      96

      For more details about the ranking please go to    Evaluations section.

      2. Pros and Cons

      In this section we present pros and cons of Denon AVR-S540BT and Marantz SR8015.

      PROS

      Denon AVR-S540BT

      Marantz SR8015

      •   Auto Speaker Calibration System with Mic.
      •   HDR10
      •   Dolby Vision
      •   New HDCP Version
      •   Bluetooth
      •   USB Input
      •   Composite Video Inputs
      •   Analog Tuner
      •   Many Channels - 11.2
      •   High Power Output - 140 W
      •   Front Wide Channel Support
      •   13.2 Channel Processing
      •   Dolby Atmos
      •   Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization
      •   DTS:X
      •   IMAX Enhanced
      •   Auro 3D with Auro-Matic Upmixer
      •   DSD via HDMI
      •   Auto Speaker Calibration System with Mic.
      •   HDR10
      •   HDR10+
      •   Dolby Vision
      •   HDMI 2.1
      •   eARC
      •   New HDCP Version
      •   Auto Low Latency Mode Pass-through
      •   VRR
      •   QFT
      •   8K Passthrough
      •   8K Upscaling
      •   Analog To HDMI Upconversion
      •   Wi-Fi
      •   Bluetooth
      •   Works with Amazon Alexa
      •   Google Assistant
      •   HEOS
      •   8 HDMI Inputs
      •   4 HDMI Outputs
      •   USB Input
      •   Many RCA Line Inputs
      •   Phono Input
      •   Multi-Channel Input
      •   RCA Pre-Outs
      •   Composite Video Inputs
      •   Component Video Inputs
      •   Ethernet
      •   3 Zones
      •   Analog Tuner
      •   Pandora
      •   Spotify
      •   Tidal
      •   Toroidal Transformer

      CONS

      Denon AVR-S540BT

      Marantz SR8015

      •   Few Channels - 5.2
      •   Low Power Output - 70 W
      •   5.1 Channel Processing
      •   No Dolby Atmos
      •   No Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization
      •   No DTS:X
      •   No IMAX Enhanced
      •   No Auro 3D with Auro-Matic Upmixer
      •   No DSD via HDMI
      •   No HDR10+
      •   No eARC
      •   No 8K Passthrough
      •   No Wi-Fi
      •   Does not Work with Amazon Alexa
      •   1 HDMI Outputs
      •   0 8K Input
      •   Few RCA Line Inputs
      •   No Phono Input
      •   No RCA Pre-Outs
      •   No Ethernet
      •   No Zones
      •   No Digital Radio
      •   No Pandora
      •   No Spotify
      •   No Tidal
      •   Bluetooth 3․0 + EDR
      •   1 8K Input
      •   No Digital Radio


      And here are some specifications which fall into average criteria and are neither in PROs nor in CONs category:

      AVERAGE

      Denon AVR-S540BT

      Marantz SR8015

      •   5 HDMI Inputs
      •   Bluetooth 4․2

      3. Advantage of Denon AVR-S540BT

      This section shows those features and specifications which are the reason to choose Denon AVR-S540BT over Marantz SR8015.

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      Denon AVR-S540BT
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      Denon AVR-S540BT vs Marantz SR8015
      Dolby Pro Logic PLII vs
      DTS Neo Neo:6 vs

      4. Advantage of Marantz SR8015

      This section shows those features and specifications which are the reason to choose Marantz SR8015 over Denon AVR-S540BT.

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      Marantz SR8015
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      Denon AVR-S540BT vs Marantz SR8015
      More Channels 5.2 vs 11.2
      Higher Power Output 70 W (8 Ω, 20 Hz - 20 kHz, 2 channel driven) vs 140 W (8 Ω, 20 Hz - 20 kHz, 2 channel driven)
      Certified 4 Ω Performance vs
      Bi-amp capability vs 5-ch (assignable)
      More Channel Processing 5.1 vs 13.2
      Dolby Atmos vs up to 7.1.6 or 9.1.4 with external amp
      Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization vs
      Dolby Surround Upmixer vs
      Dolby Digital EX vs
      DTS:X vs Pro up to 7.1.6 or 9.1.4 with external amp
      DTS Neural:X vs
      DTS Virtual:X vs
      DTS-ES vs Discrete 6.1, Matrix 6.1
      IMAX Enhanced vs
      Auro 3D with Auro-Matic Upmixer vs 13.1-ch (Built-In)
      Higher Resolution Music Playback via USB up to 96 kHz vs up to 192 kHz
      High Resolution Audio Formats via USB FLAC vs Apple Lossless, WAV, FLAC, DSD
      Gapless Playback vs
      DSD via HDMI vs 2-ch/Multi-ch Input
      DSD via USB vs 2-ch Input
      Jitter Reduction vs
      DTS Dialog Control vs
      Dialog Level Adjustment vs
      Audyssey Dynamic EQ vs
      Audyssey Dynamic Volume vs
      Audyssey LFC vs
      Audyssey Sub EQ HT vs
      Pure Direct Mode vs
      Independent Subwoofer Outputs vs
      More Advanced Auto Speaker Calibration System vs Audyssey MultEQ XT32
      Audyssey App Support vs
      Optimized Bass Redirection vs
      Bass Sync vs
      HDR10+ vs
      Dynamic HDR vs
      Enhanced Audio Return Channel (eARC) vs
      Newer HDCP Version 2.2 vs 2.3
      Auto Low Latency Mode Pass-through vs
      VRR vs
      QFT vs
      Video Signal Passthrough up to 4K 50/60Hz 4:4:4 vs up to 8K 50/60Hz and 4K 100/120Hz 4:4:4
      Video Signal Upscaling vs up to 8K 50/60Hz and 4K 100/120Hz 4:4:4
      Analog To HDMI Upconversion vs Component**, Composite
      isf Certified Calibration Control vs
      Wi-Fi vs
      Bluetooth Headphone Transmission vs
      Works with Amazon Alexa vs
      HEOS vs
      AirPlay vs AirPlay 2
      More HDMI Inputs 5 vs 8
      More HDMI Outputs 1 vs 3 (2 x 8K for MAIN, 1 x 4K for ZONE2)
      More 8K Inputs vs 1
      More Coaxial Inputs/Outputs 1 vs 2
      More RCA Line Inputs 2 vs 7 (1 front)
      Phono Input vs
      Multi-Channel Input vs 7.1
      More RCA Pre-Outs 0.2 vs 13.2
      More Composite Video Inputs 2 vs 5 (1 front)
      More Component Video Inputs vs 3
      More Component Video Outputs vs 1
      Ethernet vs
      Front A/V Inputs USB vs HDMI, USB, Composite, L/R Audio
      Speaker A/B vs assignable
      Detachable Power Cord vs
      More Zones 1 vs 3
      RS-232C Interface vs
      +12V Trigger Output vs 2
      On-Screen Display vs Advanced Graphic User Interface
      Control4 SDDP vs
      Display 1 line vs 2 lines + port hole
      Pre-programmed / Learnable / LCD Display / / vs / /
      Internet Radio vs TuneIn
      Pandora vs
      Spotify vs
      Tidal vs
      Deezer vs
      Napster vs
      SiriusXM vs
      More Speaker Terminals 5 vs 13
      More Large Speaker Terminals vs 13
      Transparent High-Grade Speaker Terminals vs
      High Grade Audio Components vs
      Gold plated RCA terminals vs
      Bigger Power Supply 310 W vs 780 W
      Higher Power Output (8 Ω, 20 Hz - 20 kHz, 2 channel driven, FTC) 70 W (0.08% THD) vs 140 W (0.05% THD)
      Higher Power Output (6 Ω, 1 kHz, 2 channel driven, FTC) 90 W (0.7% THD) vs 175 W (0.7% THD)
      Higher Power Output (6 Ω, 1 kHz, 1 channel driven, JEITA) 140 W (10% THD) vs 250 W (10% THD)
      Higher Power Output (6 Ω, 1 kHz, 1 channel driven, IEC) 130 W (1% THD) vs 205 W (1% THD)
      Higher S/N Ratio (Line, IHF-A) 98 dB vs 102 dB
      Newer Bluetooth Version 3․0 + EDR vs 4․2
      Check out other receivers which are frequently compared to Marantz SR8015.
      Marantz Cinema 30
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      11.4 channel

      140 W

      Yamaha RX-A8A
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      11.2 channel

      150 W

      Onkyo TX-RZ70
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      11.2 channel

      140 W

      Marantz Cinema 40
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      9.4 channel

      125 W

      Marantz SR7015
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      9.2 channel

      125 W

      Denon AVR-X6700H
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      11.2 channel

      140 W

      Marantz Cinema 50
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      9.4 channel

      110 W

      Denon AVR-X4800H
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      9.4 channel

      125 W

      Yamaha RX-A6A
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      9.2 channel

      150 W

      Denon AVC-X8500HA
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      13.2 channel

      150 W

      Pioneer VSX-LX805
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      11.4 channel

      150 W

      Onkyo TX-RZ50
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      9.2 channel

      120 W

      5. Common Strengths and Weaknesses

      We already listed pros and cons of each model. However, you may also find useful to look at their common strengths and weaknesses shown side-by-side.

      STRENGTHS Denon AVR-S540BT Marantz SR8015
        Auto Speaker Calibration System with Mic. Audyssey MultEQ XT32
        HDR10
        Dolby Vision
        New HDCP Version2.22.3
        Bluetooth SBC, AAC SBC
        USB Input1 (Front) for USB memory1 Front for USB memory
        Composite Video Inputs25 (1 front)
        Analog Tuner FM/AM FM/AM
      WEAKNESSES Denon AVR-S540BT Marantz SR8015
        Few 8K Inputs1
        No Digital Radio

      6. Amplifier

      Denon AVR-S540BT Marantz SR8015

      5 channel Amplifier: Denon AVR-S540BT features 5 channel power amplifier. It is rated at 70 W (8 Ω, 20 Hz - 20 kHz, 2 channel driven).

      11 channel Amplifier: Marantz SR8015 features 11 channel power amplifier. It is rated at 140 W (8 Ω, 20 Hz - 20 kHz, 2 channel driven) and is able to drive 4 ohm speakers.
      • Current Feedback Topology: Marantz SR8015 features Current Feedback Topology which is a well known, Marantz’ original circuit technology. The Current Feedback amplifier technology fits perfectly with the high requirements set for Super Audio software providing wide-bandwidth, high-speed reproduction. The impedance at the Current Feedback point is limited resulting in a very low phase shift. Marantz receivers and amplifiers equipped with Current Feedback can keep the phase compensation via Negative FeedBack (NFB) to a minimum, resulting in high through-rate, excellent transient response and superb sonic transparency for the full bandwidth. Unlike conventional Voltage Feedback amplification, the Current Feedback amplification makes the power amplifier in-sensitive to difficult loudspeaker loads.
      • HDAM (Hyper Dynamic Amplifier Module): Marantz SR8015 features exclusive Marantz HDAM (Hyper Dynamic Amplifier Module) technology found on their Reference Series components. Marantz developed its own discrete circuit boards to replace standard IC's. These HDAM's consist of discrete surface mount components with short mirror image L/R signal paths. Those devices are doing exactly the same thing as the Op-Amps, but outperform the regular IC Op-amps dramatically in terms of the Slew Rate and reduced noise level, resulting in a much more dynamic, accurate and detailed sound. Over the years Marantz developed different types of the HDAM to improve quality and to fit to the special requirements of a product category like CD or amplifier.
      • Toroidal Transformer: Marantz SR8015 has a toroidal transformer which in general costs several times more than a regular C-core transformer and radiates less electromagnetic noise outside its donut shaped core.


      AMPLIFIER Denon AVR-S540BT Marantz SR8015
      Channels5.211.2
      Power Output70 W (8 Ω, 20 Hz - 20 kHz, 2 channel driven)140 W (8 Ω, 20 Hz - 20 kHz, 2 channel driven)
      Discrete Amplification
      THX™ Certification
      Continuous 6 Ω Rated
      Certified 4 Ω Performance
      Bi-amp Capability 5-ch (assignable)

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      Denon AVR-S540BT
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      7. Speaker Configurations

      Denon AVR-S540BT's and Marantz SR8015's amplifiers can be assigned for different speaker configurations.

      • Dolby Atmos Configurations: The following speaker configurations are supported for Dolby Atmos:
      • Denon AVR-S540BT: Not supported.
      • Marantz SR8015: 5.2.2, 5.2.4, 5.2.6, 7.2.2, 7.2.4, 9.2.2 with internal amplifier and 7.2.6, 9.2.4 with addition of external 2 channel amplifier.
      • DTS:X Configurations: The following speaker configurations are supported for DTS:X:
      • Denon AVR-S540BT: Not supported.
      • Marantz SR8015: The speaker configurations for DTS:X are the same as for Dolby Atmos - 5.2.2, 5.2.4, 5.2.6, 7.2.2, 7.2.4, 9.2.2 with internal amplifier and 7.2.6, 9.2.4 with addition of external 2 channel amplifier.
      • Configurations without height channels: There are also other speaker configurations available which do not include height channels:
      • Denon AVR-S540BT: 5.2 with internal amplifier.
      • Marantz SR8015: 5.2, 7.2, 9.2 with internal amplifier.
      • Front Wide Channel support: With the presence of two front wide speakers you can enhance the front surround stage. The following speaker configurations are available for front wide channels:
      • Denon AVR-S540BT: Does not support.
      • Marantz SR8015: 9.2, 9.2.2, 9.2.4.
      • Bi-Amp: Marantz SR8015 is able to bi-amp up to 5 main channels simultaneously. During bi-amplification two amplifiers are used for one speaker. One amplifier powers the midrange and tweeter section of the speaker and another amplifier powers the low frequency woofers. Each amplifier is less loaded and performs better. In order to use this feature speakers must have 2 pairs of connectors.

      8. Immersive Audio Formats

      Dolby Atmos

      Marantz SR8015 supports Dolby Atmos.

      • Dolby Surround Upmixer: Marantz SR8015 supports Dolby Surround Upmixer. If the content is not mixed in Dolby Atmos then the Dolby surround upmixer will expand the audio to all channels including ceiling speakers. The upmixer has replaced the Dolby Pro Logic II family with improved upmixing algorithms.
      • Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization: Marantz SR8015 supports Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization which is a digital signal processing solution that leverages Dolby's deep understanding of human audio perception to create the sensation of overhead sound from the listener-level speakers.

      DTS:X

      Marantz SR8015 supports DTS:X.

      • DTS:X Pro: Marantz SR8015 supports DTS:X Pro which is an upgraded version of DTS:X and is no longer limited with 11 channel processing.
      • DTS Neural:X: Marantz SR8015 features DTS Neural:X which is an advanced upmixer that can take non DTS:X content and upmix it to the DTS:X speaker layout. It has replaced the DTS Neo family with improved flexibility.
      • DTS Virtual:X: Marantz SR8015 features DTS Virtual:X which bridges the gap between DTS:X codec and the reality of so many consumers' homes, allowing you to enjoy multi-dimensional sound regardless of room size, layout, or speaker configuration. If you have a limited speaker setup you will miss a full immersive potential of your entertainment system. DTS Virtual:X adds height and surround audio effect to your system without adding height speakers. It works with multiple configurations and delivers immersive sound experience out of 5.1 or even 2.1 speaker layouts.
      • DTS Dialog Control: Marantz SR8015 has DTS Dialog Control. This function adjusts the dialog levels during playback of the DTS:X stream. It allows you to separately increase the dialog levels in contrast with the background sound and hear dialog easily even under noisy circumstances.

      Auro-3D

      Marantz SR8015 supports Auro-3D.

      • Auro-Matic upmixer: Auro-Matic upmixer takes non Auro-3D sound and upmixes to the current speaker configuration.

      IMAX Enhanced

      Marantz SR8015 is IMAX Enhanced certified. To qualify for IMAX Enhanced certification, 4K HDR televisions, projectors, sound bars, a/v receivers, loudspeakers, powered subwoofers and other premium home entertainment devices must meet carefully prescribed performance requirements established by IMAX, DTS and Hollywood's leading experts.

      • What makes an IMAX Enhanced A/V receiver different from an A/V receiver with DTS:X technology? DTS:X technology is commonly found in most multi-channel A/V receivers on the market today. All IMAX Enhanced A/V receivers include DTS:X technology and deliver additional features, such as auto-sensing of IMAX Enhanced content, via IMAX Mode. IMAX Mode indicates that your A/V receiver supports fully immersive IMAX signature sound.
      AUDIO DECODING Denon AVR-S540BT Marantz SR8015
      Dolby Atmos up to 7.1.6 or 9.1.4 with external amp
      Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization
      Dolby Atmos Music
      Dolby TrueHD
      Dolby Digital Plus
      Dolby Surround Upmixer
      Dolby Pro Logic PLII
      Dolby Digital EX
      Surround EX
      DTS:X Pro up to 7.1.6 or 9.1.4 with external amp
      DTS Neural:X
      DTS Virtual:X
      DTS Neo Neo:6
      DTS-HD Master Audio
      DTS-HD High Resolution Audio
      DTS 96/24
      DTS Express
      DTS-ES Discrete 6.1, Matrix 6.1
      IMAX Enhanced
      Auro 3D with Auro-Matic Upmixer 13.1-ch (Built-In)

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      Marantz SR8015
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      9. HDMI

      Denon AVR-S540BT comes with 5 HDMI inputs. It has 1 output.

      Marantz SR8015 comes with 1 HDMI 2.1 input with 8K support and 7 inputs with 4K support. It has 3 outputs - 2 x 8K for MAIN and 1 x 4K for ZONE2.

      • 4K/60Hz Passthrough on Denon AVR-S540BT: All inputs pass up to 4K 50/60Hz 4:4:4 video signal.
        8K/60Hz and 4K/120Hz Passthrough on Marantz SR8015: 1 out of 8 inputs passes up to 8K 50/60Hz and 4K 100/120Hz 4:4:4 and the rest of the inputs pass up to 4K 50/60Hz 4:4:4 video signal.
      • 8K Upscaling on Marantz SR8015: It can upscale up to 8K 50/60Hz and 4K 100/120Hz 4:4:4 from HDMI and analog sources.
      • Analog To HDMI Upconversion: Marantz SR8015 supports analog to HDMI Upconversion, so you can input your analog video sources and output them digitally via HDMI. This means that you will need only one HDMI cable to connect to your TV.
      • BT.2020 Color Space: BT.2020 or Rec. 2020 is a color standard which delivers a wider color gamut compared to Rec. 709. It covers approximately 75% of the total visual spectrum while the Rec. 709 covers only 35% (available on both models).
      • HDCP Copy Protection: Denon AVR-S540BT is HDCP 2.2 and Marantz SR8015 is HDCP 2.3 compliant which is a requirement for 4K/HDR copy-protected content transmission.
      • 3D Ready: Both receivers are able to pass 3D video through HDMI.

      HDR (High Dynamic Range)

      Denon AVR-S540BT supports HDR10, Dolby Vision and Hybrid Log-Gamma.

      Marantz SR8015 supports HDR10, HDR10+, Dolby Vision, Dynamic HDR and Hybrid Log-Gamma. High dynamic range video has greater dynamic range than standard dynamic range (SDR) video with brighter whites and deeper blacks. The result is greater contrast and more details in dark and bright areas, better color and depth.


      Enhanced Audio Return Channel (eARC)

      Marantz SR8015 supports Audio Return Channel (ARC) which allows the compatible TV to send audio signal to the a/v receiver through the same HDMI cable which is used to send audio and video signals to the TV. So one HDMI cable is used to transfer audio signal in both directions. New Enhanced ARC will support uncompressed audio formats such as Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, Dolby TrueHD and DTS HD Master Audio whereas the previous ARC could support only Dolby Digital, Dolby Digital Plus, DTS, DTS HD, and PCM.


      Gaming Features

      Marantz SR8015 supports Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM), Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) and Quick Frame Transport (QFT) for lag-free and smooth gaming.



      VIDEO FEATURES Denon AVR-S540BT Marantz SR8015
      HDR10
      HDR10+
      Dynamic HDR
      BT.2020 color space
      Dolby Vision
      HLG (Hybrid Log Gamma)
      HDBaseT Compatible
      Enhanced Audio Return Channel (eARC)
      HDCP Version2.22.3
      QMS (Quick Media Switching)
      ALLM (Auto Low Latency Mode)
      VRR (Variable Refresh Rate)
      QFT (Quick Frame transport)
      3-D Ready
      Video Signal Passthroughup to 4K 50/60Hz 4:4:4up to 8K 50/60Hz and 4K 100/120Hz 4:4:4
      Video Signal Upscaling up to 8K 50/60Hz and 4K 100/120Hz 4:4:4

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      Denon AVR-S540BT
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      10. Inputs and Outputs

      Audio

      • Phono Input: There is an MM phono input on Marantz SR8015 with built-in phono stage for connecting the moving magnet cartridge output of the turntable directly to the receiver.
      • 7.1 Multichannel Input: In case you have a high quality Blu-Ray or a DVD player with multichannel analog outputs you may connect it to a 7.1 multichannel analog inputs of Marantz SR8015 and use high quality DACs of the player instead of the ones in the receiver.
      • Analog Pre-Outs: Marantz SR8015 has 13.2 preamplifier outputs which allows you to connect the receiver to the external power amplifier. You may want to use a high quality external amplifier for certain channels, usually for front L/R and center, and use the receiver to power the rest. Also, Marantz SR8015 has 13 channel processing but has only 5 channel amplifier, so it needs external amplifier connected to the analog pre-outs in order to reach its maximum speaker configuration.
      • Analog Line Inputs: There are 2 pair of line inputs on Denon AVR-S540BT and 7 pair of line inputs on Marantz SR8015 for connecting sources with analog outputs.
      • Digital Inputs: 2 optical inputs and 1 coaxial input are available on Denon AVR-S540BT and 2 optical inputs and 2 coaxial inputs are available on Marantz SR8015 for digital audio connections.
      • Headphone Output: There is a 6.3 mm (1/4") headphone output jack on the front panel of each receiver.

      Video

      • HDMI:
      • Denon AVR-S540BT
        Inputs:         5   Outputs: 1
        8K Inputs: 0.
      • Marantz SR8015
        Inputs:         8   Outputs: 3 (2 x 8K for MAIN, 1 x 4K for ZONE2)
        8K Inputs: 1.
      • Composite Video: Connect you VCR, Laserdisc player and other old video equipment with composite video cables.
      • Denon AVR-S540BT
        Inputs:         2   Outputs: 1.
      • Marantz SR8015
        Inputs:         5   Outputs: 1.
      • Component Video: Component video connection gives you the higher quality video compared to the composite video connection. So in case your old DVD player and other equipment do not have an HDMI output but have Component video output use this connection over the composite one. resolution on Component video connectors. resolution on Component video connectors.
      • Denon AVR-S540BT
        Inputs:         0   Outputs: 0.
      • Marantz SR8015
        Inputs:         3   Outputs: 1.

      Front A/V Inputs

      • Denon AVR-S540BT: USB
      • Marantz SR8015: HDMI, USB, Composite, L/R Audio

      Denon AVR-S540BT

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      Marantz SR8015

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      TERMINALS Denon AVR-S540BT Marantz SR8015
      HDMI Inputs58
      HDMI Outputs13 (2 x 8K for MAIN, 1 x 4K for ZONE2)
      8K Inputs1
      USB Input1 (Front) for USB memory1 Front for USB memory
      USB DC Out Port
      Optical Inputs22
      Optical Outputs
      Coaxial Inputs12
      RCA Line Inputs27 (1 front)
      RCA Line Outputs
      XLR Line Inputs
      Phono Input
      Multi-Channel Input 7.1
      RCA Pre-Outs0.213.2
      XLR Pre-outs
      Composite Video Inputs25 (1 front)
      Composite Video Outputs11
      S-Video Inputs
      S-Video Outputs
      Component Video Inputs3
      Component Video Outputs1

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      Marantz SR8015
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      11. Evaluations

      We evaluated Denon AVR-S540BT and Marantz SR8015 and gave them scores of 70 and 96 out of 100 recpectively. We also gave separate scores for 7 different categories according to the available features and specifications some of which are listed below. These evaluations are relative and may change each time a new receiver is added to the database.


      Denon AVR-S540BT

      Marantz SR8015

      OVERALL
      70
      OVERALL
      96

      Amplifier

      GOOD
      71
      •   Few Channels - 5.2
      •   Low Power Output - 70 W
      EXCELLENT
      94
      •   Many Channels - 11.2
      •   High Power Output - 140 W
      •   Toroidal Transformer

      Audio Features

      AVERAGE
      58
      •   Few Channels - 5.2
      •   5.1 Channel Processing
      •   No Dolby Atmos
      •   No Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization
      •   No DTS:X
      •   No IMAX Enhanced
      •   No Auro 3D with Auro-Matic Upmixer
      •   No DSD via HDMI
      EXCELLENT
      97
      •   Many Channels - 11.2
      •   Front Wide Channel Support
      •   13.2 Channel Processing
      •   Dolby Atmos
      •   Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization
      •   DTS:X
      •   IMAX Enhanced
      •   Auro 3D with Auro-Matic Upmixer
      •   DSD via HDMI

      Video Features

      EXCELLENT
      94
      •   HDR10
      •   No HDR10+
      •   Dolby Vision
      •   No 8K Passthrough
      EXCELLENT
      99
      •   HDR10
      •   HDR10+
      •   Dolby Vision
      •   HDMI 2.1
      •   Auto Low Latency Mode Pass-through
      •   VRR
      •   QFT
      •   8K Passthrough
      •   8K Upscaling
      •   Analog To HDMI Upconversion

      Connectivity

      AVERAGE
      64
      •   No eARC
      •   New HDCP Version
      •   No Wi-Fi
      •   Bluetooth
      •   Does not Work with Amazon Alexa
      •   5 HDMI Inputs
      •   1 HDMI Outputs
      •   0 8K Input
      •   USB Input
      •   Few RCA Line Inputs
      •   No Phono Input
      •   No RCA Pre-Outs
      •   Composite Video Inputs
      •   No Ethernet
      •   Bluetooth 3․0 + EDR
      EXCELLENT
      93
      •   eARC
      •   New HDCP Version
      •   Wi-Fi
      •   Bluetooth
      •   Works with Amazon Alexa
      •   Google Assistant
      •   HEOS
      •   8 HDMI Inputs
      •   4 HDMI Outputs
      •   1 8K Input
      •   USB Input
      •   Many RCA Line Inputs
      •   Phono Input
      •   Multi-Channel Input
      •   RCA Pre-Outs
      •   Composite Video Inputs
      •   Component Video Inputs
      •   Ethernet
      •   Bluetooth 4․2

      Zones

      AVERAGE
      55
      •   No Zones
      EXCELLENT
      93
      •   3 Zones

      Radio

      AVERAGE
      61
      •   Analog Tuner
      •   No Pandora
      •   No Spotify
      •   No Tidal
      EXCELLENT
      96
      •   Analog Tuner
      •   Pandora
      •   Spotify
      •   Tidal

      12. Specifications

      GENERAL Denon AVR-S540BT Marantz SR8015
      BrandDenonMarantz
      ModelAVR-S540BTSR8015
      TypeA/V ReceiverA/V Receiver
      CountryUSAUSA
      Release Year20182020
      PredecessorDenon AVR-S530BT Marantz SR8012
      SuccessorDenon AVR-S570BT Marantz Cinema 30
      AMPLIFIER Denon AVR-S540BT Marantz SR8015
      Channels5.211.2
      Power Output70 W (8 Ω, 20 Hz - 20 kHz, 2 channel driven)140 W (8 Ω, 20 Hz - 20 kHz, 2 channel driven)
      Front Wide Channel Support
      Current Feedback Topology
      Discrete Amplification
      HDAM
      THX™ Certification
      Continuous 6 Ω Rated
      Certified 4 Ω Performance
      Mono Block Power Amplifier Construction
      Bi-amp Capability 5-ch (assignable)
      AUDIO FEATURES Denon AVR-S540BT Marantz SR8015
      DAC Specs192 kHz/24 Bit
      Maximum Channel Processing5.113.2
      D.D.S.C. HD Digital
      Alpha Processing
      Air Studios Monitor Certification
      Dolby Atmos up to 7.1.6 or 9.1.4 with external amp
      Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization
      Dolby Atmos Music
      Dolby TrueHD
      Dolby Digital Plus
      Dolby Surround Upmixer
      Dolby Pro Logic PLII
      Dolby Digital EX
      Surround EX
      DTS:X Pro up to 7.1.6 or 9.1.4 with external amp
      DTS Neural:X
      DTS Virtual:X
      DTS Neo Neo:6
      DTS-HD Master Audio
      DTS-HD High Resolution Audio
      DTS 96/24
      DTS Express
      DTS-ES Discrete 6.1, Matrix 6.1
      IMAX Enhanced
      Auro 3D with Auro-Matic Upmixer 13.1-ch (Built-In)
      PCM 2-ch/Multi-ch Input 2-ch/Multi-ch Input
      Network Audio FormatsMP3, WMA, MPEG-4 AAC, Apple Lossless, WAV, FLAC, DSD
      Music Playback via USBMP3, WMA, AAC, WAV, FLACMP3, WMA, MPEG-4 AAC, Apple Lossless, WAV, FLAC, DSD
      High Resolution Music Playback via USB and/or Network up to 96 kHz up to 192 kHz
      High Resolution Audio Formats via USBFLACApple Lossless, WAV, FLAC, DSD
      Gapless Playback
      DSD via HDMI 2-ch/Multi-ch Input
      DSD via USB 2-ch Input
      DSD to PCM Converter
      USB DAC
      Jitter Reduction
      DTS Dialogue Control
      Dialog Enhancement
      Dialog Level Adjustment
      Dialog normalization
      Dialogue Lift
      Compressed Music Enhancer MDAX2
      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
      CALIBRATION Denon AVR-S540BT Marantz SR8015
      Auto Speaker Calibration System with Mic. Audyssey MultEQ XT32
      Audyssey App Support
      Optimized Bass Redirection
      Bass Sync
      VIDEO FEATURES Denon AVR-S540BT Marantz SR8015
      HDR10
      HDR10+
      Dynamic HDR
      BT.2020 color space
      Dolby Vision
      HLG (Hybrid Log Gamma)
      HDMI Version2.1
      HDBaseT Compatible
      Enhanced Audio Return Channel (eARC)
      HDCP Version2.22.3
      QMS (Quick Media Switching)
      ALLM (Auto Low Latency Mode)
      VRR (Variable Refresh Rate)
      QFT (Quick Frame transport)
      3-D Ready
      Video Signal Passthroughup to 4K 50/60Hz 4:4:4up to 8K 50/60Hz and 4K 100/120Hz 4:4:4
      Video Signal Upscaling up to 8K 50/60Hz and 4K 100/120Hz 4:4:4
      Analog To HDMI Upconversion Component**, Composite
      Component Video Upscaling
      Analog to Analog Video conversion
      isf Certified Calibration Control
      CONNECTIVITY Denon AVR-S540BT Marantz SR8015
      Wi-Fi
      Bluetooth SBC, AAC SBC
      Bluetooth Headphone Transmission
      Works with Amazon Alexa
      Google Assistant
      Chromecast Built-In
      Apple Siri
      Works with SonoS
      HEOS
      DTS Play-Fi
      MHL Input
      DLNA 1.5
      Domotz Pro Compatible
      OvrC Compatible
      AirPlay AirPlay 2
      Apple Product Connection iPod, iPhone and iPad iPod, iPhone and iPad
      Remote App Denon 500 Series Bluetooth Remote App for iOS and Android devices and Amazon Kindle Marantz 2016 AVR Remote App for iOS and Android devices
      InstaPrevue Input Source Prevue
      TERMINALS Denon AVR-S540BT Marantz SR8015
      HDMI Inputs58
      HDMI Outputs13 (2 x 8K for MAIN, 1 x 4K for ZONE2)
      8K Inputs1
      USB Input1 (Front) for USB memory1 Front for USB memory
      USB DC Out Port
      Optical Inputs22
      Optical Outputs
      Coaxial Inputs12
      RCA Line Inputs27 (1 front)
      RCA Line Outputs
      XLR Line Inputs
      Phono Input
      Multi-Channel Input 7.1
      RCA Pre-Outs0.213.2
      XLR Pre-outs
      Composite Video Inputs25 (1 front)
      Composite Video Outputs11
      S-Video Inputs
      S-Video Outputs
      Component Video Inputs3
      Component Video Outputs1
      Ethernet
      Ethernet Switch
      PC In
      Front A/V InputsUSBHDMI, USB, Composite, L/R Audio
      Speaker A/B assignable
      Headphone Out6.3 mm (1/4")6.3 mm (1/4")
      Detachable Power Cord
      Flasher In
      Remote Control In/Out1 / 1
      ZONES Denon AVR-S540BT Marantz SR8015
      Number of Zones13
      Powered Zones 2 and 3
      Zone 2 OutsHDMI, Component, Composite, Pre Out
      Zone 3 OutsPre Out
      RS-232C Interface
      +12V Trigger Output2
      Remote (IR) Input/Output0 / 0
      MISCELLANEOUS Denon AVR-S540BT Marantz SR8015
      On-Screen Display Advanced Graphic User Interface
      GUI Languages33
      Web Control
      IP Control
      Control4 SDDP
      PreAmp Mode
      Display 1 line 2 lines + port hole
      Remote ControllerRC-1216RC043SR
      Pre-programmed / Learnable / LCD Display / / / /
      Denon Link HD
      Setup Assistant
      Quick Select plus / Quick Select /
      RADIO Denon AVR-S540BT Marantz SR8015
      Analog Tuner FM/AM FM/AM
      Digital Radio
      Internet Radio TuneIn
      Pandora
      Spotify
      Tidal
      Deezer
      Napster
      SiriusXM
      CONSTRUCTION Denon AVR-S540BT Marantz SR8015
      ChassisCopper Platted
      Front Panelnot MetalMetal
      Speaker Terminals513
      Large Speaker Terminals13
      Color-Coded Speaker Terminals
      Transparent High-Grade Speaker Terminals
      High Grade Audio Components
      Gold plated RCA terminals
      POWER Denon AVR-S540BT Marantz SR8015
      Power SupplyAC 120 V, 60 HzAC 120 V, 60 Hz
      Toroidal Transformer
      Power Consumption310 W780 W
      No Sound PowerECO On/Off: 26 W/35 WECO On/Off: 65 W/110 W
      Standby Power0.1 W0.2 W
      ECO Mode / Hybrid Standby Function
      Auto Power off
      PHYSICAL Denon AVR-S540BT Marantz SR8015
      Dimensions (W x H x D)434 mm x 151 mm x 319mm
      17 1/8" x 6" x 12 5/8"      		440 mm x 185 mm x 460 mm (with antenna: 440 mm x 248 mm x 460 mm)
      17-3/8" x 7-3/8" x 18-1/8" (with antenna: 17-3/8" x 9-7/8" x 18-1/8")
      Dimensions of Package (W x H x D)541 mm x 304 mm x 537 mm
      Weight7.6 kg (16 lbs 12 oz)17.6 kg (38.8 lbs)
      Weight of Package20.9 kg
      SPECIFICATIONS Denon AVR-S540BT Marantz SR8015
      Power Output (8 Ω, 20 Hz - 20 kHz, 2 channel driven, FTC)70 W (0.08% THD)140 W (0.05% THD)
      Power Output (6 Ω, 1 kHz, 2 channel driven, FTC)90 W (0.7% THD)175 W (0.7% THD)
      Maximum Effective Power Output (6 Ω, 1 kHz, 1 channel driven, JEITA or IEC)140 W (10% THD)250 W (10% THD)
      Rated Power Output (6 Ω, 1 kHz, 1 channel driven, IEC)130 W (1% THD)205 W (1% THD)
      THD (Digital)0.008% (1 kHz, at 0 dB)
      Analog Distortion0.005% (20 Hz-20 kHz, Direct mode)
      Phono Distortion0.03% (1 kHz, 3 V)
      Input Sensitivity and Impedance (Line)200 mV/47 kΩ200 mV/47 kΩ
      Input Sensitivity and Impedance (Phono MM)2.5 mV
      Rated Lineout Level and Impedance1.2 V
      Rated Output digital2 V (at 0 dB playback)
      S/N Ratio (Line, IHF-A)98 dB102 dB
      S/N Ratio (Phono MM, IHF-A)74 dB
      S/N Ratio (digital)102 dB
      Dynamic Range (digital)100 dB
      Phono RIAA Deviation±1 dB (20 Hz to 20 kHz)
      Frequency Response (Analog In)+1/-3 dB (10 Hz to 100 kHz, Direct mode)+1/-3 dB (10 Hz to 100 kHz, Direct mode)
      DSD Sampling Rates via HDMI2.8 MHz
      DSD Sampling Rates via USB5.6 MHz, 2.8 MHz
      Video Input Sensitivity/Output Level and Impedance 1 Vp-p/75 Ω (Component Y)
      0.7 Vp-p/75 Ω (Component PB/CB, PR/CR)
      1 Vp-p/75 Ω (Composite)
      Video Frequency Response5 Hz - 60 MHz, 0, -3 dB (Component)
      5 Hz - 10 MHz, 0, -3 dB (Composite)
      Ethernet Standard100BASE-TX
      Wi-Fi StandardIEEE 802.11 a/b/g/n
      Wi-Fi Terminal Frequency5 GHz, 2.4 GHz
      Bluetooth Version3․0 + EDR4․2
      Bluetooth Frequency2.4 GHz2.4 GHz
      USB TerminalUSB2.0 5V, 1 AUSB2.0 5V, 1 A
      FM Frequency87.5 MHz - 107.9 MHz87.5 MHz - 107.9 MHz
      FM 50 dB Quiet Sensitivity (IHF, 1 kHz, 100% MOD.)Mono: 2.8 µV (20.2 dBf)Mono: 2.8 µV (20.2 dBf)
      FM Effective Sensitivity1.2 µV (12.8 dBf)1.2 µV (12.8 dBf)
      FM S/N RatioMono/Stereo: 70 dB/67 dBMono/Stereo: 70 dB/67 dB
      FM Harmonic Distortion (IHF, 1 kHz)Mono/Stereo: 0.7%/1.0%Mono/Stereo: 0.7%/1.0%
      AM Frequency520 kHz - 1710 kHz520 kHz - 1710 kHz
      AM Effective Sensitivity18 µV18 µV
      Warranty3 Years3 Years

      * - 480i/576i and 480p/576p only
      ** - 480i/576i only
      *** - no 1080p/24 upconversion
      **** - 1080p signal is not converted

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