Marantz has introduced its new NR1504 AV Receiver (SRP: $499.99) and NR1604 AV Receiver (SRP: $649.99).
These versatile home theater receivers offer advanced networking capabilities in attractive slim-line units. The NR1604 features Apple’s AirPlay, allowing users to stream their iTunes music whether from Mac or PC, as well as music stored on their iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch. The NR1504 features 5-channel surround sound, while the NR1604 offers 7 channels.
For maximum connectivity, Marantz’s new receivers feature multiple rear panel HDMI inputs. Both also include an additional HDMI input on their front panels that lets users easily access their home entertainment system by connecting a variety of HDMI-equipped portable devices like HD camcorders, smartphones or video game consoles.
To ensure total “future-readiness,” the NR1604 receiver offer 3D pass-through and supports next-generation displays capable of reproducing 4K Ultra HD video.
Paul Belanger, technical product manager, D+M Group noted: “Home theater lovers have never before had so many great options available to them for listening to music and enjoying movies, TV and games, and all from multiple sources and digital devices. But, with such a flood of content available, it can sometimes seem like you need a degree in engineering just to figure out how to navigate through it all to suit your personal entertainment needs and preferences. With our NR1504 and NR1604 units, Marantz has taken all the hassle out of setting up a premium quality home theater system—and with a price that’s significantly lower than comparable units on the market, fans now have an excellent solution to seriously step up their home entertainment components without breaking the bank.”
Both the NR1504 and the NR1604 feature advanced networking capabilities that allow users to enjoy thousands of Internet radio stations as well as music streaming services, such as Pandora, SiriusXM and Spotify. Connecting portable devices, including an iPhone, iPod or iPad, is a quick and easy process thanks to the units’ front panel USB port. Users may also connect other devices such as a USB thumb drive or a portable USB hard disk drive to play their favorite music tracks. The optional RX-101 Bluetooth wireless adapter permits music streaming from portable Bluetooth devices to the NR1504 and NR1604. Providing even more versatility, both models can also be controlled via the Marantz Remote App.
In addition, the NR1604 features multi-zone functionality, which allows music to be enjoyed in the main entertainment room, or sent to a different room such as a kitchen or bedroom using an additional pair of speakers. In keeping with its status as a leading-edge home theater receiver, the NR1604 features multiple configuration possibilities, including a full 7-channel surround sound setup, or the option to power a 5.1 channel home theater system in the main room, while using an additional pair of speakers in another room. The independent source selection function even allows users to enjoy their favorite Hollywood blockbusters where the system is setup, while others can simultaneously listen to music from a separate source in another room.
To ensure the very best quality video images at all times, the NR1604 features a sophisticated video processor that’s fully compatible with next-generation 4K Ultra HD displays, features 4K upconversion from HD sources, and also provides 3D pass-through. The video processor features upconversion from standard definition to high definition, breathing new life into legacy video source components, while providing a single HDMI cable connection to the HDTV to eliminate connection hassles and save on cable costs.
