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Home ยป Marantz SR8015 Review: Luxury Performance for Audiophiles

Marantz SR8015 Review: Luxury Performance for Audiophiles

Marantz SR8015 Review
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The Marantz SR8015 is an 11.2 channel 8K AV Receiver priced at $3,299. It’s Marantz’s top model in the audio world. This high-end home cinema amplifier offers top-notch performance and sound quality for audiophiles.

It has advanced features and impressive SINAD measurements. The Marantz SR8015 also has many connectivity options. It’s set to change the high-end AV receiver market.

In This Article

Key Takeaways

  • The Marantz SR8015 is the brand’s flagship 11.2 channel 8K AV receiver, priced at $3,299.
  • This model offers benchmark performance, with 13CH processing and HDMI 2.1 support, including 8K video and advanced audio capabilities.
  • The receiver features an improved HDAM SA2 circuit design, dual speaker presets, and a preamp disconnect mode for enhanced audio quality.
  • Comprehensive connectivity options, including 8 HDMI inputs (one 8K) and 3 outputs, along with legacy connections, make the SR8015 a versatile hub for your home theater setup.
  • The Marantz SR8015 delivers exceptional surround sound performance, with limitless power, superb imaging, and advanced audio format support, including Dolby Atmos, DTS:X Pro, and Auro 3D.

Product Overview and First Impressions

The Marantz SR8015 is a top-notch Marantz AV Receiver. It shows Marantz’s dedication to top build quality and sound quality. Its unique design with a porthole display grabs your eye right away.

At 17.6 kg, the SR8015 feels solid and heavy. This is thanks to its copper-plated bottom and strong chassis. Every part of this receiver shows Marantz’s focus on build quality.

Package Contents and Documentation

When you open the box, you’ll find the SR8015 and lots of documents. There’s a detailed manual, a quick start guide, and info on Audyssey MultEQ XT32. This makes setting it up easy and clear.

Initial Setup Experience

  • The setup process is easy, thanks to a simple on-screen guide.
  • The Audyssey MultEQ XT32 system adjusts the sound to fit your room and speakers perfectly.
  • It has many ways to connect, like HDMI, USB, and analog inputs, for all your devices.

The Marantz SR8015 is ready to take your home theater to the next level. It combines great build quality with an easy setup process and advanced features. It’s a top pick for those who love great sound.

Key Features and Specifications

The Marantz SR8015 is a top-notch surround sound system. It’s perfect for those who love great sound and a home theater experience. It has an 11-channel amplification design, giving each channel 140 watts of power into 8 ohms.

This setup lets you enjoy 7.2.4 surround sound. You get to experience Dolby Atmos, DTS:X Pro, and Auro 3D. It’s like being in a movie theater at home.

The SR8015 also supports 8K video. It has a dedicated 8K HDMI input for 8K/60Hz or 4K/120Hz video. It’s IMAX Enhanced certified, giving you an unmatched cinematic feel.

Connectivity is key with the SR8015. It has 8 HDMI inputs and 3 HDMI outputs. It supports HDMI 2.1, including VRR, ALLM, and QFT. It’s great for gamers.

  • 11-channel amplification, delivering 140 watts per channel (8 ohms, 20Hz-20kHz, THD: 0.05%, 2 ch. driven)
  • Support for Dolby Atmos, DTS:X Pro, Auro 3D, and IMAX Enhanced
  • 8K/60Hz and 4K/120Hz video pass-through and upscaling
  • 8 HDMI inputs (1 dedicated 8K input) and 3 HDMI outputs
  • HDMI 2.1 support with VRR, ALLM, and QFT for exceptional gaming performance
  • Dual subwoofer outputs for precise bass control
  • Voice control compatibility with Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, Apple Siri, and Josh.ai

The Marantz SR8015 is a top-of-the-line surround sound system. It offers an unmatched audio and video experience. It’s a must-have for home theater enthusiasts.

HDMI 2.1 Connectivity and 8K Support

The Marantz SR8015 has advanced HDMI 2.1 connectivity. It offers many features to improve your home entertainment. It has one 8K HDMI input for 50/60p and 4K at 100/120p video pass-through. This ensures your high-definition content looks clear and detailed.

With 8 HDMI inputs and 4 HDMI outputs, including eARC support, the SR8015 is very flexible. It can connect your latest 4K and 8K devices easily.

Gaming Features and VRR Support

Gaming fans will love the Marantz SR8015’s game mode. It reduces input latency for a better gaming experience. The receiver also supports Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) for smooth visuals during fast games.

HDMI Port Configuration

  • 8 HDMI inputs
  • 4 HDMI outputs
  • eARC support for lossless audio transmission

Video Processing Capabilities

The Marantz SR8015 also has advanced video processing. It supports HDR formats like HDR10, HDR10+, and Dolby Vision. This ensures your content looks great with dynamic range and color.

It can also upscale 4K content to 8K. This gives you a more immersive viewing experience.

Audio Performance and Power Output

The Marantz SR8015 is designed to offer top-notch audio and power. It’s perfect for those who love great sound and home theater. With a high-current amplifier, it pumps out 140 watts per channel. This is even when it’s working at 8 ohms with just 0.05% total harmonic distortion (THD).

This receiver can handle different speaker loads well. It works with 8, 6, or even 4-ohm speakers across all channels. Even with tough 3-ohm speakers, it keeps the sound clean and clear at high volumes. Its design means it can power even the most challenging speaker setups, bringing out the best in your audio.

Whether you’re watching a movie in Dolby Atmos or listening to music, the SR8015’s sound is amazing. Its control and power output create a dynamic, precise, and engaging sound. You’ll be amazed by how real and authentic the audio sounds.

“The Marantz SR8015 is a powerhouse that delivers audio perfection, with a high-current amplifier design that never falters, even under the most demanding conditions.”

Marantz SR8015 Review: Comprehensive Bench Testing

The Marantz SR8015 AV receiver is put through tough tests to check its audio measurements, amplifier performance, and DAC quality. These detailed tests show what this top-notch audio device can really do.

Amplifier Performance Measurements

The amplifier part of the Marantz SR8015 shows great results. It has nine separate amplifiers that give 110 watts per channel (when two channels are used). This means it can power even the toughest speakers well.

DAC Performance Analysis

The digital-to-analog conversion (DAC) in the Marantz SR8015 has seen big improvements. The SINAD (Signal-to-Noise and Distortion Ratio) for the HDMI input is a high 98 dB. This shows it has great signal quality and low noise.

Looking at the receiver’s frequency response, it’s flat in the range we can hear. It also has a wide bandwidth for audiophiles. The dynamic range shows it can handle a broad range of audio signals well.

“The Marantz SR8015 sets a new benchmark in amplifier performance and DAC quality, delivering an exceptional level of audio fidelity for the discerning enthusiast.”

These detailed test results show the Marantz SR8015’s dedication to a top-notch audio experience. It meets the needs of today’s audiophiles and home theater fans.

Advanced Room Correction with Audyssey MultEQ XT32

The Marantz SR8015 comes with Audyssey MultEQ XT32 room calibration. This system optimizes your audio experience. It uses advanced acoustic calibration to adjust speaker levels and Audyssey Room Correction for a balanced soundstage.

Audyssey MultEQ XT32 in the SR8015 does a great job in calibrating speakers. You might need to tweak some settings for your perfect sound. The system gives you a good starting point, and you can fine-tune the EQ settings further.

This system is flexible with speaker setups. It supports 5.1 to 7.1.4 and 9.1.2 configurations. This means you can set up the perfect surround sound for your home theater.

“The Audyssey MultEQ XT32 room correction system in the Marantz SR8015 is a game-changer, providing precise acoustic calibration and exceptional flexibility to tailor the audio experience to your unique listening environment.”

The Audyssey MultEQ XT32 in the Marantz SR8015 is a powerful tool. It unlocks your home theater’s full audio experience, tailored to your space.

Audyssey Room Correction

Multi-Channel Processing and Speaker Configuration

The Marantz SR8015 is very flexible with multi-channel audio and speaker setup. It can handle up to 13.1 channels, making your home theater experience immersive.

Channel Assignment Flexibility

You can adjust the channel assignment with the SR8015 to fit your needs. It supports setups like 13-channel, 11-channel, and 7-channel bi-amp. This lets you tailor the setup to your speakers and room.

Bi-amp and Zone Configuration Options

The SR8015 boosts multi-channel audio with its bi-amp and zone options. You can bi-amp the main channels for more power. It also has HDMI and composite video outputs for secondary zones. This lets you play music or video in other rooms at the same time.

The Marantz SR8015 lets you create a custom multi-channel audio and speaker setup for your perfect Home Theater Setup.

Network Features and Streaming Capabilities

The Marantz SR8015 is a top choice for your home audio setup. It has both Wi-Fi and Bluetooth for easy streaming of network audio. You can access many streaming services right from your receiver.

It supports high-quality audio formats like FLAC, WAV, AIFF, and DSD up to 24-bit/192kHz. This means you get amazing sound quality from your digital music. Plus, it works with the HEOS multi-room audio system. This lets you play music all over your home easily.

Streaming from Spotify, Amazon Music, or Tidal is a breeze. You can also play your own music. The SR8015’s network features make it a great choice for your Wi-Fi connectivity needs.

network audio

“The Marantz SR8015’s robust network features and streaming capabilities make it a powerhouse for audiophiles seeking seamless integration with their digital music ecosystem.”

The Marantz SR8015 is a great choice for modern home entertainment systems. It has advanced network features and supports high-resolution audio.

HEOS Integration and Multi-room Audio

The Marantz SR8015 uses HEOS technology for easy multi-room audio. You can stream music all over your home with HEOS. The HEOS app makes it simple to control and share your favorite music across rooms.

Streaming Service Compatibility

The SR8015 works with popular streaming services like Spotify, TIDAL, and Pandora. It’s perfect for high-quality music, playlists, or internet radio. But, it doesn’t support MQA decoding for TIDAL Masters, so you won’t get lossless audio from TIDAL.

Wireless Connection Options

  • The Marantz SR8015 makes setting up a multi-room audio system easy with wireless connections. It connects to your home’s Wi-Fi for a stable audio experience.
  • It also has Bluetooth for streaming music from your mobile devices. This adds more ways to enjoy wireless audio.

With HEOS and wireless options, the Marantz SR8015 lets you enjoy a connected multi-room audio experience. It takes your home entertainment to the next level.

Home Theater Performance Analysis

The Marantz SR8015 takes your home theater to new levels. It offers an immersive audio experience like no other. Whether it’s Dolby Atmos or DTS:X, the SR8015 makes you feel right in the action.

It has powerful amplification, with 140W per channel at 8 ohms and 175W at 6 ohms. This means it can handle even the most complex speaker setups with ease. The Audyssey MultEQ XT32 room correction technology also enhances the sound, making it balanced and cohesive for your space.

“The Marantz SR8015 is a true powerhouse, delivering an exceptional home theater experience that immerses you in the heart of the action.”

The SR8015 supports the latest video technologies, including HDMI 2.1. This means it can handle 8K video at 60Hz, making your content look amazing. It also supports HDR formats like HDR10, HLG, and Dolby Vision, adding to the visual impact of your movies and TV shows.

It has seven HDMI inputs and three outputs, giving you lots of options for connecting devices. Whether it’s a 4K Blu-ray player, gaming console, or streaming device, the SR8015 ensures everything works seamlessly.

Surround Sound Performance

In short, the Marantz SR8015 is a top-notch home theater receiver. It offers surround sound performance, Dolby Atmos Audio, and immersive audio like no other. Its strong amplification, advanced video processing, and wide range of connectivity options make it a favorite among audiophiles and home theater fans.

Music Playback Quality Assessment

The Marantz SR8015 offers top-notch audio quality, whether you’re using analog or digital sources. It has a built-in phono input for easy connection with your turntable. This lets you enjoy the rich sound of analog audio playback. Plus, the “Pure” mode gives you a clean, high-fidelity stereo performance that enhances your music.

The SR8015 also shines in digital audio playback. Its advanced digital-to-analog conversion and signal processing make your digital music sound clear and precise. This is true for streaming services and high-resolution files alike.

Stereo Imaging and Soundstage

The Marantz SR8015 is known for its amazing soundstage. It’s designed to create a deep, wide, and immersive sound. This lets you feel like you’re right in the middle of the music.

Feature Description
Speaker Configuration Optimized for both 2-channel music and multi-channel movie playback
Soundstage Reproduction Excellent stereo imaging and expansive, lifelike soundstage
Audio Quality Exceptional clarity and detail retrieval from both analog and digital sources

Whether you love music or are a serious audiophile, the Marantz SR8015 will take you on an amazing listening journey. It’s a true audio adventure.

Setup and Configuration Interface

The Marantz SR8015 makes setting it up easy, even for beginners. Its on-screen setup wizard walks you through the key steps. This ensures a smooth start. Plus, you can configure it remotely using the web interface from your computer or laptop.

The front panel display and remote control give you easy access to the SR8015’s main features. You can adjust settings and manage the receiver without getting lost in menus. This makes it simple to customize the receiver for your audio and video needs.

“The setup process for the Marantz SR8015 is a breeze, thanks to the intuitive on-screen wizard and the robust web-based configuration interface.”

Whether you’re an expert in sound or just love home theater, the SR8015 is easy to use. Its setup wizard and web interface let you fine-tune the receiver for your preferences. This way, you can enjoy the full capabilities of this powerful audio device.

Marantz SR8015 setup interface

Comparison with Previous Models

The Marantz SR8015 amplifier brings big improvements over the SR8012. It has better DAC performance, more processing channels, and HDMI 2.1 support. These changes fix some issues from the previous model.

The SR8015’s preamp output is now stable at 2.0 V in Full Preamp Mode. This is a big step up from the SR8012. The SR8015 can output around 285 W with a 1.2 V input signal. This is plenty of power for any home theater.

The SR7015 model, introduced in 2020, has a 9-channel amplifier with 125 W of power per channel. This is less than the SR8015’s 11-channel 140 W setup. The SR8015 also supports 13.2-channel surround sound, while the SR7015 only supports 11.2 channels.

Feature Marantz SR8015 Marantz SR7015
Channels 11.2 9.2
Power Output (per channel) 140 W 125 W
Processing Channels 13.2 11.2
HDMI 2.1 Support Yes No
DTS:X Pro Support Yes No
Front Wide Channels Yes No

Both the Marantz SR8015 and SR7015 have many strengths. They both have high power output, Dolby Atmos support, and advanced features like HDMI 2.1 and HDR10+. But the SR8015 has more processing channels, HDMI 2.1 support, and DTS:X Pro compatibility. This makes it the better choice for home theater enthusiasts.

Value Proposition and Price Analysis

The Marantz SR8015 is priced at $3,299. It offers great value for a top-notch AV receiver. It competes with separate systems in performance and features. This makes it a great choice for those who want the best sound and features without spending too much.

The SR8015 has a strong feature set that matches more expensive systems. It has advanced HDMI 2.1 connectivity and 8K support. It also has top-notch video processing, making the home theater experience better for today’s fans.

It has powerful amplification and advanced room correction technology. This makes it perfect for both music and movie lovers. Compared to the $3,600 Marantz AV8801, the SR8015 is a better deal. It offers a big performance boost at a lower price.

It’s built to last and has Marantz’s famous sound quality. The SR8015 has the best price-performance ratio in the high-end AV receiver market.

“The Marantz SR8015 is a true flagship receiver that punches above its weight, providing audiophile-grade performance and cutting-edge features at a highly accessible price point.”

If you’re looking for a top high-end AV receiver that’s affordable, the Marantz SR8015 is a great choice. It offers great value and an amazing listening experience.

Conclusion

The Marantz SR8015 is a true gem in the world of premium AV receivers. It offers a mix of exceptional audio and video, advanced features, and solid build quality. It’s perfect for both audiophiles and home cinema fans, promising an immersive and captivating experience.

This receiver has 11.2-channel amplification, giving it the power to drive demanding speaker setups. It ensures a powerful and dynamic sound that will grab your attention. It also supports Dolby Atmos, DTS:X Pro, and Auro-3D, taking your home theater experience to new heights.

The Marantz SR8015 shines in video too, with HDMI 2.1 connectivity and support for 8K/60Hz and 4K/120Hz pass-through. It’s a future-proof choice for your home entertainment. With features like multi-zone capabilities, HEOS integration, and customization options, it’s a top pick for those seeking the best in home entertainment.

FAQ

What are the key features and specifications of the Marantz SR8015 AV receiver?

The Marantz SR8015 is a top-of-the-line 11.2 channel 8K AV receiver priced at ,299. It boasts benchmark performance and 13CH processing. It also supports HDMI 2.1.

The unit has improved HDAM SA2 circuitry and dual speaker presets. It also has a preamp disconnect mode for better audio quality.

What are the design and build quality features of the Marantz SR8015?

The SR8015 has Marantz’s signature look with a porthole display. It weighs 17.6kg, showing its premium build quality. The bottom panel and screws are copper plated.

Setting it up includes a guided wizard and Audyssey MultEQ XT32 calibration system. This ensures optimal audio performance.

What are the audio and video capabilities of the Marantz SR8015?

The SR8015 has 11 amplifier channels, each rated at 140W into 8 ohms. It supports 7.2.4 speaker configurations and 8K video at 50/60p.

It also supports 4K at 100/120p and all current advanced audio standards. The unit is IMAX Enhanced certified and has flexible amplifier channel arrangements.

What are the HDMI connectivity and video processing features of the Marantz SR8015?

The SR8015 has one 8K HDMI input supporting 50/60p and 4K at 100/120p. It offers 8 HDMI inputs and 3 outputs, with eARC support for lossless audio transmission.

The unit includes various picture modes and a game mode for low latency. It also provides an HDMI diagnostic mode for cable testing.

How does the Marantz SR8015 perform in terms of audio quality and power delivery?

The SR8015 delivers 140W per channel into 8 ohms with 0.05% THD. It can handle 8, 6, or 4-ohm loads across all channels.

The amplifier showed excellent control and power delivery, even with demanding 3-ohm speakers. It provides clean, distortion-free sound at high volumes.

What are the benchmark test results for the Marantz SR8015’s audio performance?

Bench tests show improved DAC performance compared to previous Marantz models, with a SINAD of 98 dB for HDMI input. The amplifier section showed above-average performance with analog input.

Dynamic range is good for an AV product, and frequency response is flat in the audible band with extended range.

How does the Audyssey MultEQ XT32 room correction system perform on the Marantz SR8015?

The SR8015 features Audyssey MultEQ XT32 room correction system. It performed well in calibrating speaker sizes and distances, though manual adjustments may be necessary for some setups.

The system allows for customization of EQ settings and provides flexibility in speaker configuration.

What are the multi-channel and speaker configuration options on the Marantz SR8015?

The SR8015 offers flexible speaker and amplifier assignments, supporting up to 13.1 channels with an external amplifier. It allows for bi-amping of all 5 main channels and provides options for dual speaker presets.

The unit supports multiple zone configurations, including dedicated HDMI and composite video outputs for secondary zones.

What are the network and streaming capabilities of the Marantz SR8015?

The SR8015 offers extensive network capabilities, including Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity. It supports high-resolution audio playback up to 24-bit/192kHz and DSD.

The unit is compatible with various streaming services and can function as part of a HEOS multi-room audio system.

How does the HEOS integration and multi-room audio functionality work on the Marantz SR8015?

The SR8015 incorporates HEOS technology for multi-room audio capabilities. It supports popular streaming services like Spotify and TIDAL, though it doesn’t support MQA for TIDAL Masters.

The HEOS app provides easy control and music management across compatible devices.

How does the Marantz SR8015 perform in home theater and music playback scenarios?

The SR8015 delivers exceptional home theater performance with seamless surround imaging. It excels in processing Dolby Atmos and DTS:X content, providing immersive audio experiences.

The amplifier demonstrated ample power for driving complex speaker setups without strain. The unit also performs admirably with both analog and digital sources, including a phono input for moving-magnet cartridges.

How user-friendly is the setup and configuration process for the Marantz SR8015?

The SR8015 offers a user-friendly setup process with an on-screen wizard. It features a web interface for remote configuration, allowing full access to all settings from a PC or laptop.

The front panel display and remote control provide easy access to essential functions.

How does the Marantz SR8015 compare to its predecessor, the SR8012?

The SR8015 improves upon its predecessor, the SR8012, with enhanced DAC performance, additional processing channels, and HDMI 2.1 support. It addresses previous issues like preamp output distortion and adds new features such as DTS:X Pro support and front wide channel capabilities.

Is the Marantz SR8015 a good value proposition for a high-end AV receiver?

Priced at ,299, the Marantz SR8015 offers exceptional value for a high-end AV receiver. It competes with separates systems in terms of performance and features, providing a compelling option for audiophiles and home theater enthusiasts seeking top-tier performance without stepping into ultra-premium price brackets.