The Denon DRA-800H and Marantz NR1200 are both high-end stereo receivers that offer a range of features and superior audio performance. These receivers provide a versatile range of options for home theater and multi-room audio systems, both with built-in streaming services, room correction, and high-resolution audio format support.
The DRA-800H provides more power, more HDMI inputs (>>> Find on Amazon), and more advanced room correction capabilities, whereas the NR1200 has a more elegant design, support for 3D audio, and voice control. This comparison will provide an in-depth look at the similarities and differences between these two receivers to help you decide which one is best for your specific needs and preferences.
Denon DRA-800H vs Marantz NR1200 Side by Side:
| Denon DRA-800H | Marantz NR1200 | |
|---|---|---|
 |  |
|
| Sound | No Dolby Atmos | 2.1 Dolby Atmos |
| Amplifier | 2.1 Channel (100W per channel) | 2.1 Channel (75W per channel) |
| Video | 4K/60Hz | 4K/60Hz |
| Wi-Fi | Yes | Yes |
| Bluetooth | Yes | Yes |
| Dimensions (W x H x D) | 17.1" x 5.9" x 13.7" | 17.3" x 6.9" x 14.9" |
| Weight | 18.3 lbs | 18.1 lbs |
| Price | Check on Amazon | Check on Amazon BHPhotoVideo.com |
Audio Quality
The Denon DRA-800H has a powerful amplifier and advanced digital processing technology that ensures that your music sounds as clear and detailed as possible. It supports a wide range of high-resolution audio formats, including DSD, FLAC, and ALAC, which makes it an excellent option for audiophiles who want to enjoy their music in the highest quality possible. Additionally, the DRA-800H has a 192 kHz/24-bit D/A converter which can provide a high-quality signal.
Similarly, the Marantz NR1200 also has a high-quality digital-to-analog converter and advanced digital processing technology which ensures that your music sounds as clear and detailed as possible. It supports a wide range of high-resolution audio formats, like DSD, FLAC, and ALAC, which makes it an excellent option for audiophiles who want to enjoy their music at the highest quality. Additionally, the NR1200 has a 32-bit digital-to-analog converter that can provide a high-quality signal.
Both the DRA-800H and the NR1200 offer high-quality audio reproduction, but the DRA-800H has a higher resolution D/A converter which might give it an edge over the NR1200 in terms of audio quality. However, both receivers are very capable in terms of audio quality and are ideal for those who value high-fidelity sound in their audio systems.
Winner: Denon DRA-800H
Smart Features
The Denon DRA-800H has built-in Bluetooth, AirPlay 2, and HEOS technology which allow you to stream music from your phone, tablet or computer, as well as control the receiver using voice commands through Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant. Additionally, the DRA-800H can be easily controlled by the HEOS app, which gives you the ability to access your music library, streaming services, and internet radio stations.
Similarly, the Marantz NR1200 also has built-in Bluetooth, AirPlay 2, and HEOS technology which allow you to stream music from your phone, tablet or computer, as well as control the receiver using voice commands through Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant. It also can be easily controlled by the HEOS app, with the same access to content as the DRA-800H. Related comparison: Denon DRA-800H vs Marantz PM7000N
Winner: Tie
Connectivity
The Denon DRA-800H has a variety of inputs and outputs, including:
- 6 HDMI inputs and 1 HDMI output
- 2 Optical digital inputs
- 1 Coaxial digital input
- 1 USB input
- 3 Analog audio inputs
- 1 Phono input
- 1 Subwoofer preout
- 1 Headphone jack
The Marantz NR1200 also has a variety of inputs and outputs, including:
- 2 HDMI inputs and 1 HDMI output
- 1 Optical digital input
- 1 Coaxial digital input
- 1 USB input
- 3 Analog audio inputs
- 1 Subwoofer preout
- 1 Headphone jack
In summary, both the DRA-800H and the NR1200 have a wide range of inputs and outputs, and both of them have wireless streaming capabilities. The DRA-800H has more HDMI inputs and a Phono input which is specifically used for playing vinyl records, while the NR1200 does not have this feature.
Winner: Denon DRA-800H
Denon DRA-800H
Pros
- High-quality audio reproduction with support for high-resolution audio formats
- Versatile connectivity options, including Bluetooth, AirPlay 2, and HEOS built-in
- Simple setup and easy-to-use interface
- Support for Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant voice control
- Zone 2 capability allowing you to play audio in different rooms
Cons
- More expensive than some other models in the same category
- Limited power output compared to some larger receivers
- No built-in phono preamp for vinyl playback
Marantz NR1200
Pros
- Compact design that takes up minimal space
- High-quality audio reproduction
- Wide range of connectivity options, including Bluetooth, AirPlay 2, and HEOS built-in
- Support for high-resolution audio formats
- Easy-to-use interface with a clear, intuitive on-screen display
Cons
- Limited power output compared to some larger receivers
- No built-in phono preamp for playing vinyl records
- Some users might miss advanced features such as zone 2 capability
- Higher end of the price range for this type of receiver
Conclusion
Overall, Both the Denon DRA-800H and Marantz NR1200 are excellent high-end stereo receivers that offer a wide range of features and high-fidelity audio performance. The choice between the two ultimately comes down to your specific needs and preferences. The DRA-800H is slightly more powerful and has more HDMI inputs (>>> Check on Amazon), while the NR1200 has a sleek design and support for 3D audio.