Marantz Slimline NR1609

Marantz Slimline NR1609 was introduced in 2018. 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.

We evaluated the a/v receiver and gave 85 overall score out of 100. Our ranking system is based on the amplifier specifications, audio and video features, connectivity, multizone capabilities, radio and many other details.

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

Here is a history of the series, where you can view and compare the main specifications of the receivers.

You can view their side-by-side comparison here: Marantz NR1711 vs NR1710 vs NR1609 vs NR1608 vs NR1607 vs NR1606.

In this section we present pros and cons of Marantz Slimline NR1609.

In 2018 Marantz released 5 new receivers. Here is the lineup:

You can view their side-by-side comparison here: Marantz SR7013 vs SR6013 vs SR5013 vs NR1609 vs NR1509.

Marantz Slimline NR1609 has replaced NR1608. Here we present differences between these two models.

UPGRADES	Marantz Slimline NR1609	vs	Marantz NR1608
Phono Input		vs

DOWNGRADES	Marantz Slimline NR1609	vs	Marantz NR1608
Remote Control In/Out	0 / 0	vs	1 / 1

For more detailed comparison between the models please visit Marantz Slimline NR1609 vs NR1608.

Marantz Slimline NR1609's 7 channel amplifier can be assigned for different speaker configurations.

• Dolby Atmos Configurations: The following speaker configurations are supported for Dolby Atmos:
5.2.2 with internal amplifier.
• DTS:X Configurations: The speaker configurations for DTS:X are the same as for Dolby Atmos:
5.2.2 with internal amplifier.
• Configurations without height channels: There are also other speaker configurations available which do not include height channels:
5.2, 7.2 with internal amplifier.
• 2-ch Bi-Amp: Marantz Slimline NR1609 allows you to bi-amp up to 2 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.

Dolby Atmos

Marantz Slimline NR1609 supports Dolby Atmos with Surround Upmixer.

• 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 Slimline NR1609 supports DTS:X with Neural:X and Virtual:X.

• Neural:X 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.
• Virtual:X 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: 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.

DECODING
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
DTS Neural:X
DTS Virtual:X
DTS Neo
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

Marantz Slimline NR1609 features 8 HDMI inputs. It has 1 output.

• 4K/60Hz Passthrough: All inputs pass up to 4K 50/60Hz 4:4:4 video signal.
• 4K Upscaling: Marantz Slimline NR1609 can upscale up to 4K 30/25/24p 4:4:4 from HDMI and analog sources.
• Analog To HDMI Upconversion: The a/v receiver supports video upconversion, so you can connect your analog Component and Composite video sources and Marantz Slimline NR1609 will output them 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%.
• HDCP 2.2 Copy Protection: All inputs and outputs are HDCP 2.2 compliant which is a requirement for 4K/HDR copy-protected content transmission.
• 3D Ready: Marantz Slimline NR1609 is able to pass 3D video through HDMI.

HDR (High Dynamic Range)

Marantz Slimline NR1609 supports HDR (high dynamic range) video formats such as HDR10, Dolby Vision and Hybrid Log-Gamma via HDMI ports. 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
HDR10
HDR10+
Dynamic HDR
BT.2020 color space
Dolby Vision
HLG (Hybrid Log Gamma)
HDBaseT Compatible
Enhanced Audio Return Channel (eARC)
HDCP Version	2.2
QMS (Quick Media Switching)
ALLM (Auto Low Latency Mode)
VRR (Variable Refresh Rate)
QFT (Quick Frame transport)
3-D Ready
Video Signal Passthrough	up to 4K 50/60Hz 4:4:4
Video Signal Upscaling	up to 4K 30/25/24p 4:4:4

Marantz Slimline NR1609 comes with Audyssey MultEQ room correction system and includes the calibration microphone. It also supports Audyssey App.

• Audyssey Room Calibration: Audyssey is an acoustic measurement technology which automatically restores the acoustic distortion caused by the acoustic behaviour of a room with only a push on a button. Audyssey equalization provides an clear, accurate, natural sound with voices and dialog that become focused and intelligible, restoring the musical balance. Musical instruments and sound effects become precisely localized and the surround soundstage is made seamless and enveloping.

Marantz Slimline NR1609 offers multi-zone playback which allows you to play different input sources in 2 different rooms.

Zone 2

• Powered Zone 2: You can use the unit's 2 amplifier channels by connecting Zone 2 speakers directly to the speaker terminals. The remaining 5 channels will be left for main zone amplification.
• Audio Pre Output: If you have a dedicated power amplifier for Zone 2 you can connect it to the a/v receiver via pre outs and control volume from the a/v receiver.

Audio

• Phono Input: There is an MM phono input with built-in phono stage for connecting the moving magnet cartridge output of the turntable directly to the a/v receiver.
• Analog Pre-Outs: Marantz Slimline NR1609 has 2.2 preamplifier outputs which allow you to connect the a/v 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 a/v receiver to power the rest.
• Analog Line Inputs: There are 3 line inputs for analog audio connection.
• Digital Inputs: 1 optical input and 1 coaxial input are available for digital audio connection.
• Headphone Output: There is a 6.3 mm (1/4") headphone output jack on the front panel.

Video

• HDMI:
Inputs: 8 (1 front)   Outputs: 1
8K Inputs: 0
• Composite Video: Connect you VCR, Laserdisc player and other old video equipment with composite video cables.
Inputs: 3   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.
Inputs: 2   Outputs: 1

Front A/V Inputs

• HDMI, USB

In 2019 Marantz Slimline NR1609 was replaced by Marantz NR1710. Let us now have a look at some important differences between Marantz Slimline NR1609 and its successor.

UPGRADES	Marantz NR1710	vs	Marantz Slimline NR1609
Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization		vs
Enhanced Audio Return Channel (eARC)		vs
Newer HDCP Version	2.3	vs	2.2
Auto Low Latency Mode Pass-through		vs
Domotz Pro Compatible		vs
Remote Monitoring with ihiji		vs
Web Control		vs
Newer Bluetooth Version	4․1	vs	3․0 + EDR

DOWNGRADES	Marantz NR1710	vs	Marantz Slimline NR1609
Analog To HDMI Upconversion		vs	Component**, Composite

For more detailed comparison between the models please visit Marantz Slimline NR1609 vs NR1710.

GENERAL
Brand	Marantz
Series	Slimline
Model	NR1609
Type	A/V Receiver
Country	USA
Release Year	2018
Predecessor	Marantz NR1608
Successor	Marantz NR1710

AMPLIFIER
Channels	7.2
Power Output	50 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
Bi-amp Capability	assignable

AUDIO FEATURES
DAC Specs	192 kHz/24 Bit
Maximum Channel Processing	7.1
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
DTS Neural:X
DTS Virtual:X
DTS Neo
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
PCM	2-ch/Multi-ch Input
Network Audio Formats	MP3, WMA, MPEG-4 AAC, Apple Lossless, WAV, FLAC, DSD
Music Playback via USB	MP3, WMA, AAC, Apple Lossless, WAV, FLAC, DSD
High Resolution Music Playback via USB and/or Network	up to 192 kHz
High Resolution Audio Formats via USB	Apple Lossless, WAV, FLAC, DSD
Gapless Playback
DSD via HDMI
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
Auto Speaker Calibration System with Mic.	Audyssey MultEQ
Audyssey App Support
Optimized Bass Redirection
Bass Sync

VIDEO FEATURES
HDR10
HDR10+
Dynamic HDR
BT.2020 color space
Dolby Vision
HLG (Hybrid Log Gamma)
HDBaseT Compatible
Enhanced Audio Return Channel (eARC)
HDCP Version	2.2
QMS (Quick Media Switching)
ALLM (Auto Low Latency Mode)
VRR (Variable Refresh Rate)
QFT (Quick Frame transport)
3-D Ready
Video Signal Passthrough	up to 4K 50/60Hz 4:4:4
Video Signal Upscaling	up to 4K 30/25/24p 4:4:4
Analog To HDMI Upconversion	Component**, Composite
Component Video Upscaling
Analog to Analog Video conversion
isf Certified Calibration Control

CONNECTIVITY
Wi-Fi
Bluetooth	SBC
Works with Amazon Alexa
Chromecast Built-In
Works with SonoS
HEOS
DTS Play-Fi
MHL Input
DLNA 1.5
Domotz Pro Compatible
Remote Monitoring with ihiji
OvrC Compatible
AirPlay	AirPlay 2
Apple Product Connection	iPod, iPhone and iPad
Remote App	Marantz 2016 AVR Remote App for iOS and Android devices
InstaPrevue Input Source Prevue

TERMINALS
HDMI Inputs	8 (1 front)
HDMI Outputs	1
8K Inputs
USB Input	1 (Front) for USB memory
USB DC Out Port
Optical Inputs	1
Optical Outputs
Coaxial Inputs	1
RCA Line Inputs	3
RCA Line Outputs
XLR Line Inputs
Phono Input
Multi-Channel Input
RCA Pre-Outs	2.2
XLR Pre-outs
Composite Video Inputs	3
Composite Video Outputs	1
S-Video Inputs
S-Video Outputs
Component Video Inputs	2
Component Video Outputs	1
Ethernet
Ethernet Switch
PC In
Front A/V Inputs	HDMI, USB
Speaker A/B	assignable
Headphone Out	6.3 mm (1/4")
Detachable Power Cord
Flasher In
Remote Control In/Out	0 / 0

ZONES
Number of Zones	2
Powered Zones	2
Zone 2 Outs	Pre Out
RS-232C Interface
+12V Trigger Output	1

MISCELLANEOUS
On-Screen Display	Advanced Graphic User Interface
GUI Languages	3
Web Control
IP Control
Display	1 line
Remote Controller	RC033SR
Pre-programmed / Learnable / LCD Display	/ /
Setup Assistant

RADIO
Analog Tuner	FM/AM
Digital Radio
Internet Radio	TuneIn
Pandora
Spotify
Tidal
Deezer
Napster
SiriusXM

CONSTRUCTION
Solid Aluminum Front
Speaker Terminals	7
Large Speaker Terminals	7
Color-Coded Speaker Terminals
Transparent High-Grade Speaker Terminals
High Grade Audio Components
Gold plated RCA terminals

POWER
Power Supply	AC 120 V, 60 Hz
Toroidal Transformer	(EI)
Power Consumption	250 W
No Sound Power	ECO On/Off: 25 W/35 W
Standby Power	0.2 W
ECO Mode / Hybrid Standby Function
Auto Power off

PHYSICAL
Dimensions (W x H x D)	440 mm x 105 mm x 378 mm (with antenna: 440 mm x 177 mm x 378 mm) 17-3/8" x 4-1/4" x 15" (with antenna up: 17-3/8" x 7" x 15")
Weight	8.3 kg (18 lbs 5 oz)

SPECIFICATIONS
Power Output (8 Ω, 20 Hz - 20 kHz, 2 channel driven, FTC)	50 W (0.08% THD)
Power Output (6 Ω, 1 kHz, 2 channel driven, FTC)	70 W (0.7% 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)
Phono Distortion	0.03% (1 kHz, 3 V)
Input Sensitivity and Impedance (Line)	130 mV/47 kΩ
S/N Ratio (Line, IHF-A)	98 dB
S/N Ratio (Phono MM, IHF-A)	74 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)
DSD Sampling Rates via USB	5.6 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 Response	5 Hz - 60 MHz, 0, -3 dB (Component) 5 Hz - 10 MHz, 0, -3 dB (Composite)
Ethernet Standard	100BASE-TX
Wi-Fi Standard	IEEE 802.11 a/b/g/n
Wi-Fi Terminal Frequency	5 GHz, 2.4 GHz
Bluetooth Version	3․0 + EDR
Bluetooth Frequency	2.4 GHz
USB Terminal	USB2.0 5V, 1 A
FM Frequency	87.5 MHz - 107.9 MHz
FM 50 dB Quiet Sensitivity (IHF, 1 kHz, 100% MOD.)	Mono: 2.8 µV (20.2 dBf)
FM Effective Sensitivity	1.2 µV (12.8 dBf)
FM S/N Ratio	Mono/Stereo: 70 dB/67 dB
FM Harmonic Distortion (IHF, 1 kHz)	Mono/Stereo: 0.7%/1.0%
AM Frequency	520 kHz - 1710 kHz
AM Effective Sensitivity	18 µV
Warranty	3 Years

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