Marantz NR1608 vs Pioneer SC-97

      Marantz NR1608

      Pioneer SC-97
      84
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      89
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      UK
      North America
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      Highlights

      • 7.2 Channels
      • 7.1 Channel Processing
      • 50 W (8 Ω, 20 Hz - 20 kHz, 2 channel driven)
      • Dolby Atmos, DTS:X
      • HDR10, Dolby Vision
      • 4K/60Hz Passthrough, 4K/30Hz Upscaling
      • Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Ethernet

      Highlights

      • 9.2 Channels
      • 11.2 Channel Processing
      • 140 W (8 Ω, 1 kHz, 2 channel driven)
      • Dolby Atmos, DTS:X
      • HDR10
      • 4K/60Hz Passthrough, 4K/60Hz 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 Marantz NR1608
      4. Advantage of Pioneer SC-97
      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 Marantz NR1608 to Pioneer SC-97 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 Marantz NR1608 has 7 channel and the Pioneer SC-97 has 9 channel amplifiers with Marantz NR1608's being less powerful.


      Marantz NR1608 Pioneer SC-97

      Marantz NR1608 was introduced in 2017. It is equipped with 7 channel amplifier with 50 W (8 Ω, 20 Hz - 20 kHz, 2 channel driven) power per channel and is capable of 7.1 maximum channel processing. It supports Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, passes 4K/60Hz and upscales up to 4K 30/25/24p 4:4:4 video signal.

      Pioneer SC-97 was introduced in 2015. It is equipped with 9 channel amplifier with 140 W (8 Ω, 1 kHz, 2 channel driven) power per channel and is capable of 11.2 maximum channel processing. It supports Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, passes 4K/60Hz and upscales up to 4K/60p (4:4:4) video signal.

      We evaluated Marantz NR1608 and Pioneer SC-97 and gave them scores of 84 and 89 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.

      Marantz NR1608

      Pioneer SC-97

      Amplifier
      78
      Amplifier
      92
      Audio Features
      84
      Audio Features
      90
      Video Features
      95
      Video Features
      83
      Connectivity
      83
      Connectivity
      89
      Zones
      79
      Zones
      97
      Radio
      92
      Radio
      85
      OVERALL
      84
      OVERALL
      89

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

      2. Pros and Cons

      In this section we present pros and cons of Marantz NR1608 and Pioneer SC-97.

      PROS

      Marantz NR1608

      Pioneer SC-97

      •   Dolby Atmos
      •   DTS:X
      •   Auto Speaker Calibration System with Mic.
      •   HDR10
      •   Dolby Vision
      •   New HDCP Version
      •   Analog To HDMI Upconversion
      •   Wi-Fi
      •   Bluetooth
      •   Works with Amazon Alexa
      •   HEOS
      •   8 HDMI Inputs
      •   USB Input
      •   RCA Pre-Outs
      •   Composite Video Inputs
      •   Component Video Inputs
      •   Ethernet
      •   Analog Tuner
      •   Spotify
      •   Tidal
      •   High Power Output - 140 W
      •   Front Wide Channel Support
      •   11.2 Channel Processing
      •   Dolby Atmos
      •   DTS:X
      •   DSD via HDMI
      •   Auto Speaker Calibration System with Mic.
      •   HDR10
      •   New HDCP Version
      •   Analog To HDMI Upconversion
      •   Wi-Fi
      •   Bluetooth
      •   8 HDMI Inputs
      •   4 HDMI Outputs
      •   USB Input
      •   Phono Input
      •   RCA Pre-Outs
      •   Composite Video Inputs
      •   Component Video Inputs
      •   Ethernet
      •   4 Zones
      •   Analog Tuner
      •   Pandora
      •   Spotify

      CONS

      Marantz NR1608

      Pioneer SC-97

      •   Low Power Output - 50 W
      •   No Front Wide Channel Support
      •   No Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization
      •   No IMAX Enhanced
      •   No Auro 3D with Auro-Matic Upmixer
      •   No DSD via HDMI
      •   No HDR10+
      •   No eARC
      •   No 8K Passthrough
      •   1 HDMI Outputs
      •   0 8K Input
      •   Few RCA Line Inputs
      •   No Phono Input
      •   No Digital Radio
      •   No Pandora
      •   Bluetooth 3․0 + EDR
      •   No Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization
      •   No IMAX Enhanced
      •   No Auro 3D with Auro-Matic Upmixer
      •   No HDR10+
      •   No Dolby Vision
      •   No eARC
      •   No 8K Passthrough
      •   Does not Work with Amazon Alexa
      •   0 8K Input
      •   Few RCA Line Inputs
      •   No Digital Radio
      •   No Tidal
      •   Bluetooth 2․1 + EDR


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

      AVERAGE

      Marantz NR1608

      Pioneer SC-97

      •   7.2 Channels
      •   7.1 Channel Processing
      •   2 Zones
      •   9.2 Channels

      3. Advantage of Marantz NR1608

      This section shows those features and specifications which are the reason to choose Marantz NR1608 over Pioneer SC-97.

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      Marantz NR1608
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      Marantz NR1608 vs Pioneer SC-97
      DTS Virtual:X vs
      Audyssey Dynamic EQ vs
      Audyssey Dynamic Volume vs
      BT.2020 color space vs
      Dolby Vision vs
      HLG vs
      isf Certified Calibration Control vs
      Works with Amazon Alexa vs
      AirPlay AirPlay 2 vs AirPlay
      More Composite Video Inputs 3 vs 2
      More Component Video Outputs 1 vs
      Analog Tuner FM/AM with RDS vs FM/AM
      Tidal vs
      Deezer vs
      Napster vs
      Color-Coded Speaker Terminals vs
      Newer Bluetooth Version 3․0 + EDR vs 2․1 + EDR
      Longer Warranty 3 Years vs 2 Years Parts & Labor

      4. Advantage of Pioneer SC-97

      This section shows those features and specifications which are the reason to choose Pioneer SC-97 over Marantz NR1608.

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      Pioneer SC-97
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      Marantz NR1608 vs Pioneer SC-97
      More Channels 7.2 vs 9.2
      Higher Power Output 50 W (8 Ω, 20 Hz - 20 kHz, 2 channel driven) vs 140 W (8 Ω, 1 kHz, 2 channel driven)
      Front Wide Channel Support vs
      Bi-amp capability assignable vs Front, Center, Surround, SP-B
      Higher DAC Specs [] vs 192 kHz/32 Bit
      More Channel Processing 7.1 vs 11.2
      Air Studios Monitor Certification vs
      DTS Neo vs Neo:X (before firmware update)
      Music Playback via USB MP3, WMA, AAC, Apple Lossless, WAV, FLAC, DSD vs MP3, WMA, AAC, Apple Lossless, WAV, FLAC, AIFF, DSD
      High Resolution Audio Formats via USB Apple Lossless, WAV, FLAC, DSD vs Apple Lossless, WAV, FLAC, AIFF, DSD
      DSD via HDMI vs 2-ch/Multi-ch Input
      DSD to PCM Converter vs
      Jitter Reduction vs plus PQLS (HDMI Bitstream/ Multi)
      Dialog Enhancement vs
      Dialogue Lift vs via Dialog Enhancement
      High-resolution Music Enhancer vs Hi-bit32 Audio Processing
      Independent Subwoofer Outputs vs
      Video Signal Upscaling up to 4K 30/25/24p 4:4:4 vs up to 4K/60p (4:4:4)
      MHL Input vs 1 Rear (Version 2.0)
      More HDMI Outputs 1 vs 3 (2 for MAIN, 1 for MAIN/HDZONE)
      More Optical Inputs 1 vs 2
      More Optical Outputs vs 1
      More Coaxial Inputs/Outputs 1 vs 2
      More RCA Line Outputs vs 1
      Phono Input vs
      More RCA Pre-Outs 2.2 vs 13.2
      More Composite Video Outputs 1 vs 2
      More Zones 2 vs 4
      More Powered Zones 2 vs 2, 3 and HDZone
      RS-232C Interface vs
      +12V Trigger Output 1 vs 2 (assignable)
      Pandora vs
      More Speaker Terminals 7 vs 11
      More Large Speaker Terminals 7 vs 11
      Bigger Power Supply 250 W vs 370 W
      Higher Power Output (6 Ω, 1 kHz, 2 channel driven, FTC) 70 W (0.7% THD) vs 190 W (1.0% THD)
      Higher S/N Ratio (Line, IHF-A) 98 dB vs 103 dB

      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 Marantz NR1608 Pioneer SC-97
        Dolby Atmos up to 5.1.2
        DTS:X up to 5.1.2 up to with firmware update
        Auto Speaker Calibration System with Mic. Audyssey MultEQ MCACC Pro
        HDR10
        New HDCP Version2.22.2
        Analog To HDMI Upconversion Component**, Composite Component****, Composite
        Wi-Fi
        Bluetooth SBC SBC, AAC
        Many HDMI Inputs8 (1 front)8 (1 front)
        USB Input1 (Front) for USB memory1 Front
        RCA Pre-Outs2.213.2
        Composite Video Inputs32
        Component Video Inputs22
        Ethernet
        Analog Tuner FM/AM with RDS FM/AM
        Spotify
      WEAKNESSES Marantz NR1608 Pioneer SC-97
        No Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization
        No IMAX Enhanced
        No Auro 3D with Auro-Matic Upmixer
        No HDR10+
        No eARC
        No 8K Passthroughup to 4K 50/60Hz 4:4:4up to 4K/60p (4:4:4)
        Few 8K Inputs
        Few RCA Line Inputs33
        No Digital Radio
        Old Bluetooth Version3․0 + EDR2․1 + EDR

      6. Amplifier

      Marantz NR1608 Pioneer SC-97

      7 channel Amplifier: Marantz NR1608 features 7 channel power amplifier. It is rated at 50 W (8 Ω, 20 Hz - 20 kHz, 2 channel driven) and is able to drive 4 ohm speakers.

      9 channel Class D3 Amplifier: Pioneer SC-97 features 9 channel power amplifier with Class D3 design. It is rated at 140 W (8 Ω, 1 kHz, 2 channel driven) and is able to drive 4 ohm speakers.


        AMPLIFIER Marantz NR1608 Pioneer SC-97
        Channels7.29.2
        Power Output50 W (8 Ω, 20 Hz - 20 kHz, 2 channel driven)140 W (8 Ω, 1 kHz, 2 channel driven)
        Front Wide Channel Support
        THX™ Certification
        Continuous 6 Ω Rated
        Certified 4 Ω Performance
        Bi-amp Capability assignable Front, Center, Surround, SP-B

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        Marantz NR1608
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        7. Speaker Configurations

        Marantz NR1608's and Pioneer SC-97's amplifiers can be assigned for different speaker configurations.

        • Dolby Atmos Configurations: The following speaker configurations are supported for Dolby Atmos:
        • Marantz NR1608: 5.2.2 with internal amplifier.
        • Pioneer SC-97: 5.2.2, 5.2.4, 7.2.2 with internal amplifier and 7.2.4, 9.2.2 with addition of external 2 channel amplifier.
        • DTS:X Configurations: The following speaker configurations are supported for DTS:X:
        • Marantz NR1608: The speaker configurations for DTS:X are the same as for Dolby Atmos - 5.2.2 with internal amplifier.
        • Pioneer SC-97: The speaker configurations for DTS:X are the same as for Dolby Atmos - 5.2.2, 5.2.4, 7.2.2 with internal amplifier and 7.2.4, 9.2.2 with addition of external 2 channel amplifier.
        • Configurations without height channels: There are also other speaker configurations available which do not include height channels:
        • Marantz NR1608: 5.2, 7.2 with internal amplifier.
        • Pioneer SC-97: 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:
        • Marantz NR1608: Does not support.
        • Pioneer SC-97: 9.2, 9.2.2.
        • Bi-Amp: Marantz NR1608 is able to bi-amp up to 2 and Pioneer SC-97 is able to bi-amp up to 4 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 NR1608 and Pioneer SC-97 support Dolby Atmos.

        • Dolby Surround Upmixer: Both models support 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.

        DTS:X

        Marantz NR1608 and Pioneer SC-97 support DTS:X.

        • DTS Neural:X: Both models feature 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 NR1608 supports 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 NR1608 supports 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.
        AUDIO DECODING Marantz NR1608 Pioneer SC-97
        Dolby Atmos up to 5.1.2
        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 up to 5.1.2 up to with firmware update
        DTS Neural:X with firmware update
        DTS Virtual:X
        DTS Neo Neo:X (before firmware update)
        DTS-HD Master Audio
        DTS-HD High Resolution Audio
        DTS 96/24
        DTS Express
        DTS-ES Discrete 6.1, Matrix 6.1 Discrete 6.1, Matrix 6.1
        IMAX Enhanced
        Auro 3D with Auro-Matic Upmixer

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        Pioneer SC-97
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        9. HDMI

        Marantz NR1608 comes with 8 HDMI inputs. It has 1 output.

        Pioneer SC-97 comes with 8 HDMI inputs. It has 3 outputs - 2 for MAIN and 1 for MAIN/HDZONE.

        • 4K/60Hz Passthrough: On both receivers all inputs pass up to 4K 50/60Hz 4:4:4 video signal.
        • 4K Upscaling on Marantz NR1608: It can upscale up to 4K 30/25/24p 4:4:4 from HDMI and analog sources.
          4K Upscaling on Pioneer SC-97: It can upscale up to 4K/60p (4:4:4) from HDMI and analog sources.
        • Analog To HDMI Upconversion: Both receivers support 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 Marantz NR1608 only).
        • HDCP 2.2 Copy Protection: Both receivers are HDCP 2.2 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)

        Marantz NR1608 supports HDR10, Dolby Vision and Hybrid Log-Gamma.

        Pioneer SC-97 supports HDR10 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.



        VIDEO FEATURES Marantz NR1608 Pioneer SC-97
        HDR10
        HDR10+
        Dynamic HDR
        BT.2020 color space
        Dolby Vision
        HLG (Hybrid Log Gamma)
        HDBaseT Compatible
        Enhanced Audio Return Channel (eARC)
        HDCP Version2.22.2
        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 4K/60p (4:4:4)
        Video Signal Upscaling up to 4K 30/25/24p 4:4:4 up to 4K/60p (4:4:4)

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        Marantz NR1608
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        10. Inputs and Outputs

        Audio

        • Phono Input: There is an MM phono input on Pioneer SC-97 with built-in phono stage for connecting the moving magnet cartridge output of the turntable directly to the receiver.
        • Analog Pre-Outs: Marantz NR1608 has 2.2 and Pioneer SC-97 has 13.2 preamplifier outputs which allow you to connect the receivers to the external power amplifiers. 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, Pioneer SC-97 has 11 channel processing but has only 7 channel amplifier, so it needs external amplifier connected to the analog pre-outs in order to reach its maximum speaker configuration.
        • Analog Line Inputs and Outputs: There are 3 pair of line inputs on both receivers for connecting sources with analog outputs. There is also 1 pair of line outputs on Pioneer SC-97.
        • Digital Inputs: 1 optical input and 1 coaxial input are available on Marantz NR1608 and 2 optical inputs, 1 optical output and 2 coaxial inputs are available on Pioneer SC-97 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:
        • Marantz NR1608
          Inputs:           8 (1 front)   Outputs: 1
          8K Inputs: 0.
        • Pioneer SC-97
          Inputs:           8 (1 front)   Outputs: 3 (2 for MAIN, 1 for MAIN/HDZONE)
          8K Inputs: 0.
        • Composite Video: Connect you VCR, Laserdisc player and other old video equipment with composite video cables.
        • Marantz NR1608
          Inputs:           3   Outputs: 1.
        • Pioneer SC-97
          Inputs:           2   Outputs: 2.
        • 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.
        • Pioneer SC-97 supports up to 1080i (1125i) resolution on Component video connectors.
        • Marantz NR1608
          Inputs:           2   Outputs: 1.
        • Pioneer SC-97
          Inputs:           2   Outputs: 0.

        Front A/V Inputs

        • Marantz NR1608: HDMI, USB
        • Pioneer SC-97: HDMI, USB

        Marantz NR1608

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        Pioneer SC-97

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        TERMINALS Marantz NR1608 Pioneer SC-97
        HDMI Inputs8 (1 front)8 (1 front)
        HDMI Outputs13 (2 for MAIN, 1 for MAIN/HDZONE)
        8K Inputs
        USB Input1 (Front) for USB memory1 Front
        USB DC Out Port
        Optical Inputs12
        Optical Outputs1
        Coaxial Inputs12
        RCA Line Inputs33
        RCA Line Outputs1
        XLR Line Inputs
        Phono Input
        Multi-Channel Input
        RCA Pre-Outs2.213.2
        XLR Pre-outs
        Composite Video Inputs32
        Composite Video Outputs12
        S-Video Inputs
        S-Video Outputs
        Component Video Inputs22
        Component Video Outputs1

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        Pioneer SC-97
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        11. Evaluations

        We evaluated Marantz NR1608 and Pioneer SC-97 and gave them scores of 84 and 89 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.


        Marantz NR1608

        Pioneer SC-97

        OVERALL
        84
        OVERALL
        89

        Amplifier

        GOOD
        78
        •   7.2 Channels
        •   Low Power Output - 50 W
        EXCELLENT
        92
        •   9.2 Channels
        •   High Power Output - 140 W

        Audio Features

        GOOD
        84
        •   7.2 Channels
        •   No Front Wide Channel Support
        •   7.1 Channel Processing
        •   Dolby Atmos
        •   No Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization
        •   DTS:X
        •   No IMAX Enhanced
        •   No Auro 3D with Auro-Matic Upmixer
        •   No DSD via HDMI
        EXCELLENT
        90
        •   9.2 Channels
        •   Front Wide Channel Support
        •   11.2 Channel Processing
        •   Dolby Atmos
        •   No Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization
        •   DTS:X
        •   No IMAX Enhanced
        •   No Auro 3D with Auro-Matic Upmixer
        •   DSD via HDMI

        Video Features

        EXCELLENT
        95
        •   HDR10
        •   No HDR10+
        •   Dolby Vision
        •   No 8K Passthrough
        •   Analog To HDMI Upconversion
        GOOD
        83
        •   HDR10
        •   No HDR10+
        •   No Dolby Vision
        •   No 8K Passthrough
        •   Analog To HDMI Upconversion

        Connectivity

        GOOD
        83
        •   No eARC
        •   New HDCP Version
        •   Wi-Fi
        •   Bluetooth
        •   Works with Amazon Alexa
        •   HEOS
        •   8 HDMI Inputs
        •   1 HDMI Outputs
        •   0 8K Input
        •   USB Input
        •   Few RCA Line Inputs
        •   No Phono Input
        •   RCA Pre-Outs
        •   Composite Video Inputs
        •   Component Video Inputs
        •   Ethernet
        •   Bluetooth 3․0 + EDR
        EXCELLENT
        89
        •   No eARC
        •   New HDCP Version
        •   Wi-Fi
        •   Bluetooth
        •   Does not Work with Amazon Alexa
        •   8 HDMI Inputs
        •   4 HDMI Outputs
        •   0 8K Input
        •   USB Input
        •   Few RCA Line Inputs
        •   Phono Input
        •   RCA Pre-Outs
        •   Composite Video Inputs
        •   Component Video Inputs
        •   Ethernet
        •   Bluetooth 2․1 + EDR

        Zones

        GOOD
        79
        •   2 Zones
        EXCELLENT
        97
        •   4 Zones

        Radio

        EXCELLENT
        92
        •   Analog Tuner
        •   No Pandora
        •   Spotify
        •   Tidal
        EXCELLENT
        85
        •   Analog Tuner
        •   Pandora
        •   Spotify
        •   No Tidal

        12. Specifications

        GENERAL Marantz NR1608 Pioneer SC-97
        BrandMarantzPioneer
        SeriesSlimlineElite
        ModelNR1608SC-97
        TypeA/V ReceiverA/V Receiver
        CountryUKNorth America
        Release Year20172015
        PredecessorMarantz NR1607 Pioneer SC-87
        SuccessorMarantz NR1609 Pioneer SC-LX801
        AMPLIFIER Marantz NR1608 Pioneer SC-97
        Channels7.29.2
        Power Output50 W (8 Ω, 20 Hz - 20 kHz, 2 channel driven)140 W (8 Ω, 1 kHz, 2 channel driven)
        Front Wide Channel Support
        Amplifier DesignClass D3 (Direct Energy HD)
        Current Feedback Topology
        Discrete Amplification
        HDAM
        THX™ Certification
        Continuous 6 Ω Rated
        Certified 4 Ω Performance
        Bi-amp Capability assignable Front, Center, Surround, SP-B
        AUDIO FEATURES Marantz NR1608 Pioneer SC-97
        Digital Signal Processing (DSP) EngineTexas Instruments Aureus
        DACESS SABRE32 Ultra (ES9016S)
        DAC Specs192 kHz/32 Bit
        Maximum Channel Processing7.111.2
        Air Studios Monitor Certification
        Dolby Atmos up to 5.1.2
        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 up to 5.1.2 up to with firmware update
        DTS Neural:X with firmware update
        DTS Virtual:X
        DTS Neo Neo:X (before firmware update)
        DTS-HD Master Audio
        DTS-HD High Resolution Audio
        DTS 96/24
        DTS Express
        DTS-ES Discrete 6.1, Matrix 6.1 Discrete 6.1, Matrix 6.1
        IMAX Enhanced
        Auro 3D with Auro-Matic Upmixer
        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, Apple Lossless, WAV, FLAC, DSDMP3, WMA, AAC, Apple Lossless, WAV, FLAC, AIFF, DSD
        High Resolution Music Playback via USB and/or Network up to 192 kHz 88.2, 96, 176.4, 192 kHz/24 bit
        High Resolution Audio Formats via USBApple Lossless, WAV, FLAC, DSDApple Lossless, WAV, FLAC, AIFF, DSD
        Gapless Playback
        DSD via HDMI 2-ch/Multi-ch Input
        DSD via USB 2-ch Input 2-ch Input
        DSD to PCM Converter
        USB DAC
        Jitter Reduction plus PQLS (HDMI Bitstream/ Multi)
        Auto Level ControlMulti-Channel
        DTS Dialogue Control
        Dialog Enhancement
        Dialog Level Adjustment
        Dialog normalization
        Dialogue Lift via Dialog Enhancement
        Sound Retriever Advanced (Multi-Channel / Auto with ARC)
        Sound Retriever AIR
        Digital noise Reduction
        Tone Control All Channels
        Compressed Music Enhancer MDAX2 Advanced Sound Retriever
        High-resolution Music Enhancer Hi-bit32 Audio Processing
        Audyssey Dynamic EQ
        Audyssey Dynamic Volume
        Audyssey LFC
        Audyssey Sub EQ HT
        Audyssey DSX
        Direct Mode
        Pure Direct Mode
        Auto Surround
        Optimum Surround
        Advanced Surround11 + 1
        Wide Surround
        Front Stage Surround Advance (Focus/Wide)
        Headphone Surround
        Virtual Speakers (Surround Back/Height/Wide)
        Virtual Depth
        Independent Subwoofer Outputs
        CALIBRATION Marantz NR1608 Pioneer SC-97
        Auto Speaker Calibration System with Mic. Audyssey MultEQ MCACC Pro
        Audyssey App Support
        Manual MCACC
        MCACC Memory6
        Reflex Optimizer
        Phase Control
        Auto Phase Control Plus
        Full Band Phase Control
        Standing Wave Control
        EQ Bands9-Band (Advanced)
        Symmetric EQ
        X-Curve
        Distance Adjustment1/2 Inch
        Precision Distance
        Polarity Check
        Auto Subwoofer Crossover
        Optimized Bass Redirection
        Bass Sync
        VIDEO FEATURES Marantz NR1608 Pioneer SC-97
        HDR10
        HDR10+
        Dynamic HDR
        BT.2020 color space
        Dolby Vision
        HLG (Hybrid Log Gamma)
        HDBaseT Compatible
        Enhanced Audio Return Channel (eARC)
        HDCP Version2.22.2
        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 4K/60p (4:4:4)
        Video Signal Upscaling up to 4K 30/25/24p 4:4:4 up to 4K/60p (4:4:4)
        Analog To HDMI Upconversion Component**, Composite Component****, Composite
        Component Video Upscaling
        Analog to Analog Video conversion
        Component Video Maximum Resolution1080i (1125i)
        Stream Smoother
        Pure Cinema
        Video Parameter AdjustmentsYNR, CNR, BNR, MNR, Detail, Brightness, Contrast, Hue, Chroma, Black Level
        Triple HD noise Reduction
        Super Resolution
        isf Certified Calibration Control
        CONNECTIVITY Marantz NR1608 Pioneer SC-97
        Wi-Fi
        Bluetooth SBC SBC, AAC
        Works with Amazon Alexa
        Chromecast Built-In
        Works with SonoS
        HEOS
        DTS Play-Fi
        MHL Input 1 Rear (Version 2.0)
        DLNA 1.5
        Domotz Pro Compatible
        Remote Monitoring with ihiji
        OvrC Compatible
        AirPlay AirPlay 2 AirPlay
        Apple Product Connection iPod, iPhone and iPad iPod and iPhone via front USB
        Remote App Marantz 2016 AVR Remote App for iOS and Android devices iControlAV5 (for iOS and Android)
        InstaPrevue Input Source Prevue
        TERMINALS Marantz NR1608 Pioneer SC-97
        HDMI Inputs8 (1 front)8 (1 front)
        HDMI Outputs13 (2 for MAIN, 1 for MAIN/HDZONE)
        8K Inputs
        USB Input1 (Front) for USB memory1 Front
        USB DC Out Port
        Optical Inputs12
        Optical Outputs1
        Coaxial Inputs12
        RCA Line Inputs33
        RCA Line Outputs1
        XLR Line Inputs
        Phono Input
        Multi-Channel Input
        RCA Pre-Outs2.213.2
        XLR Pre-outs
        Composite Video Inputs32
        Composite Video Outputs12
        S-Video Inputs
        S-Video Outputs
        Component Video Inputs22
        Component Video Outputs1
        Ethernet
        Ethernet Switch
        PC In
        Front A/V InputsHDMI, USBHDMI, USB
        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
        adapterport
        ZONES Marantz NR1608 Pioneer SC-97
        Number of Zones24
        Powered Zones 22, 3 and HDZone
        Zone 2 OutsPre OutRCA Pre/Line Out
        Zone 3 OutsRCA Pre/Line Out
        Zone 4 OutsHDMI
        RS-232C Interface
        +12V Trigger Output12 (assignable)
        Remote (IR) Input/Output2 / 1
        MISCELLANEOUS Marantz NR1608 Pioneer SC-97
        On-Screen Display Advanced Graphic User InterfaceGraphical User Interface (GUI) with Album Artwork (HDMI only)
        GUI Languages9
        Web Control
        HDMI Speaker B Link
        AV Navigator Built-in
        IP Control
        PreAmp Mode
        Versatile Speaker ConfigurationSurround Back/Front Height/Front Wide/Front Bi-Amp/Zone 2/B-Speaker/Powered HD Zone
        Display 1 line
        FL Dimmer
        Function Rename
        Remote ControllerRC034SRLearning Remote Control (Lumius)
        Pre-programmed / Learnable / LCD Display / /
        Setup Assistant
        RADIO Marantz NR1608 Pioneer SC-97
        Analog Tuner FM/AM with RDS FM/AM
        Presets63
        Digital Radio
        Internet Radio TuneIn vTuner
        Pandora
        Spotify
        Tidal
        Deezer
        Napster
        SiriusXM
        CONSTRUCTION Marantz NR1608 Pioneer SC-97
        Front PanelBrushed
        Solid Aluminum Front
        ConstructionAdvanced Direct Construction
        Speaker Terminals711
        Large Speaker Terminals711
        Color-Coded Speaker Terminals
        Transparent High-Grade Speaker Terminals
        3D Space Frame Construction
        High Grade Audio Components
        Gold plated RCA terminals
        POWER Marantz NR1608 Pioneer SC-97
        Power SupplyAC 230 V, 50/60 HzAC 120 V, 60 Hz
        Toroidal Transformer (EI)
        Low Leakage Flux Power Transformer
        Transformer Stabilizer
        Power Consumption250 W370 W
        No Sound PowerECO On/Off: 30 W/40 W
        Standby Power0.2 W0.1 W
        ECO Mode / Hybrid Standby Function
        Auto Power off
        PHYSICAL Marantz NR1608 Pioneer SC-97
        Dimensions (W x H x D)440 mm x 105 mm x 376 mm (with antenna: 440 mm x 173 mm x 376 mm)
        17-3/8" x 4-1/4" x 14-7/8" (with antenna up: 17-3/8" x 6-7/8" x 14-7/8")        		435 mm x 185 mm x 441 mm
        17-1/8" x 7-5/16" x 17-3/8"
        Weight8.3 kg (18 lbs 5 oz)17.5 kg (38.6 lbs)
        SPECIFICATIONS Marantz NR1608 Pioneer SC-97
        Power Output (8 Ω, 20 Hz - 20 kHz, 2 channel driven, FTC)50 W (0.08% THD)
        Power Output (8 Ω, 1 kHz, 2 channel Driven, FTC)140 W (0.08% THD)
        Power Output (6 Ω, 1 kHz, 2 channel driven, FTC)70 W (0.7% THD)190 W (1.0% THD)
        Maximum Effective Power Output (6 Ω, 1 kHz, 1 channel driven, JEITA or IEC)100 W (10% THD)
        Rated Power Output (6 Ω, 1 kHz, 1 channel driven, IEC)90 W (1% THD)
        Power Output (4 Ω, 1 kHz, 2 channel Driven)240 W (1.0% THD)
        Multi Channel Simultaneous Drive810 W (8 Ω, 1 kHz, 1.0%)
        THD0.04% (1 kHz, 130 W + 130 W, 8 Ω)
        Input Sensitivity and Impedance (Line)130 mV/47 kΩ400 mV/47 kΩ (Line)
        Input Sensitivity and Impedance (Phono MM)5 mV/47 kΩ
        Rated Lineout Level and Impedance400 mV/2.2 kΩ (REC OUT)
        S/N Ratio (Line, IHF-A)98 dB103 dB
        Frequency Response (Analog In)+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 MHz5.6 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)        		1 Vp-p/75 Ω (Component Y)
        0.7 Vp-p/75 Ω (Component PB/PR)
        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-TX10BASE-T/100BASE-TX
        Wi-Fi StandardIEEE 802.11 a/b/g/nIEEE 802.11 a/b/g/n
        Wi-Fi Terminal Frequency5 GHz, 2.4 GHz5 GHz, 2.4 GHz
        Bluetooth Version3․0 + EDR2․1 + EDR
        Bluetooth Frequency2.4 GHz2.4 GHz
        HDMI Terminal19-pin (not DVI)
        HDMI Output Type5 V, 55 mA
        HDMI Input/MHL Terminal5 V, 900 mA
        USB TerminalUSB2.0 5V, 1 AUSB2.0 High Speed (Type A) 5 V, 1 A
        FM Frequency87.5 MHz - 108.0 MHz87.5 MHz - 108.0 MHz
        FM 50 dB Quiet Sensitivity (IHF, 1 kHz, 100% MOD.)Mono: 2.8 µV (20.2 dBf)
        FM Effective Sensitivity1.2 µV (12.8 dBf)
        FM S/N RatioMono/Stereo: 70 dB/67 dB
        FM Harmonic Distortion (IHF, 1 kHz)Mono/Stereo: 0.7%/1.0%
        AM Frequency522 kHz - 1611 kHz530 kHz - 1700 kHz
        AM Effective Sensitivity18 µV
        Warranty3 Years2 Years Parts & Labor

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

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