Marantz AV7706 and AV8805 are both high-end AV preamp processors that offer advanced features and top-of-the-line audio quality. However, when it comes to choosing between the two, it can be challenging to decide which one is the right fit for your needs.
In this article, we will compare the Marantz AV7706 and AV8805 in terms of audio quality, smart features, and connectivity options to help you make an informed decision and understand the differences between both devices (>>> Find on Amazon).
Marantz AV7706 vs AV8805 Side by Side:
| Marantz AV7706 | Marantz AV8805 | |
|---|---|---|
 |  |
|
| Sound | 7.1.6 Dolby Atmos | 7.1.6 or 9.1.4 Dolby Atmos |
| Amplifier | 11.2 Channel | 13.2 Channel |
| Video | 8K/60Hz, 4K/120Hz | 8K/60Hz, 4K/120Hz |
| Wi-Fi | Yes | Yes |
| Bluetooth | Yes | Yes |
| Dimensions (W x H x D) | 20" x 11" x 21" | 17.1" x 7.3" x 16.1" |
| Weight | 28.5 lbs | 30.2 lbs |
| Price | Check on Amazon Projectorscreen.com | Check on Amazon |
Design
Both devices have a sleek and professional look, with a black metal front panel and a silver-colored aluminum chassis. The front panels have a similar layout, with a power button, a volume knob, and a display screen.
The AV7706 and AV8805 also have a similar number of buttons, knobs, and inputs/outputs on the front panel, making it easy to navigate and control the devices.
Both the AV7706 and AV8805 are large and heavy, with dimensions of 17.3 x 16.5 x 7.5 inches and weights of 34.2 pounds and 38.1 pounds respectively. They are not designed to be moved around easily, and will require dedicated space to be placed and connected.
Audio quality
The AV7706 has 11.2 channels of processing, meaning it can support up to 7.2.4 surround sound setup, which is 7 speakers around the room, 2 subwoofers and 4 height speakers.
The AV8805 has 13.2 channels of processing, meaning it can support up to 7.2.6 surround sound setup, which is 7 speakers around the room, 2 subwoofers and 6 height speakers. This means the AV8805 is capable of handling more speakers than the AV7706.
One of the main differences between the AV7706 and AV8805 is their processing power. The AV8805 is a more powerful unit, with a 32-bit Hyper Dynamic Amplifier Module (HDAM) and a 32-bit DSP engine. >>> Our more in-depth Marantz AV7706 review.
This allows the AV8805 to handle more complex audio and video processing tasks, and it also allows for more precise adjustments to the audio and video settings. It also has a higher-end 32-bit/192kHz digital-to-analog converter (DAC) for improved audio clarity and detail.
The AV8805 also has more extensive bass management and room correction options, allowing for more precise tuning of the audio to the specific acoustics of the listening room.
Winner: Marantz AV8805
Smart features
The AV8805 has built-in HEOS technology, which allows for streaming music from popular services such as Spotify, Pandora, and Tidal, as well as connecting to other HEOS-enabled devices for multi-room audio.
It also has built-in Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant voice control compatibility, allowing for easy control of the device with voice commands.
The AV7706 also has built-in HEOS technology and voice control compatibility, but it does not have built-in Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant support. Instead, it relies on external devices such as Amazon Echo or Google Home to control the device through voice commands.
Winner: Marantz AV8805
Connectivity
The AV8805 has more HDMI inputs and outputs than the AV7706. It has 8 HDMI inputs and 3 HDMI outputs, while the AV7706 has 6 HDMI inputs and 2 HDMI outputs.
This allows for more flexibility in connecting and switching between different video and audio sources for the AV8805.
The AV8805 also has built-in WiFi and Bluetooth connectivity, while the AV7706 only has built-in WiFi. This allows the AV8805 to easily connect to other wireless devices, such as smartphones and tablets, for streaming music and other content.
The AV8805 also has a USB input and an Ethernet port, which can be used to connect to a network or a computer for streaming audio and video content. The AV7706 also has a USB input, but it does not have an Ethernet port.
Winner: Marantz AV8805
Marantz AV7706
Pros
- Great audio quality
- Built-in HEOS technology
- Many inputs and outputs
- Solid build quality
Cons
- No Ethernet port
- Doesn’t have built-in support for Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant
>>> Check the comparison vs. Yamaha CX-A5200
Marantz AV8805
Pros
- Advanced audio processing:
- Built-in WiFi and Bluetooth connectivity
- Ethernet port
Cons
- Higher price tag
Conclusion
Both the Marantz AV7706 and AV8805 are excellent AV receivers that offer a wide range of features for home theater enthusiasts.
The AV8805 is a more powerful and feature-rich option, with more HDMI inputs and outputs, balanced audio outputs, built-in phono stage, multi-room audio options and network streaming and voice control.
The AV7706 is a more affordable option, but still offers many of the same features as the AV8805. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on your specific needs and budget.
The AV8805 is a better fit for larger and more demanding speaker setups, while the AV7706 is a more budget-friendly option that still provides excellent performance (>>> Check on Amazon).