Want big sound, but don't exactly have the space for it? Marantz is packing some pretty big audio options into the compact NR1607.
The NR1607 is the latest in Marantz's lineup of Slim Design Receivers. The 7.2-channel AVR is listed with the ability to crank 50 watts per channel at 8ohms (20-20kHz, 0.08%THD). However, the hook on this super-slim component is that it packs in tons of state-of-the-art audio perks, including Dolby Atmos and DTS:X.
Out of the box, the NR1607 has support for Dolby Atmos, so you can experience sound from almost every direction -- including above. It can also decode Dolby TrueHD lossless content and other Dolby Digital technologies, whether you have a 5.1- or 7.1-channel setup. Additional 3D-style sound is expected later this year, when Marantz makes a DTS:X firmware update available. That's expected sometime in September 2016.
The NR1607 also features support for high-resolution audio files like FLAC, AIFF, and WAV.
If you like to stream music, the NR1607 does have built-in Bluetooth. Of course, it also supports Wi-Fi, with dual antennas and dual band, which boasts error-free, reliable connectivity. Other networking features include AirPlay, options to connect to network attached storage devices (NAS) and web radio, as well as instant streaming from Pandora, SiriusXM, and Spotify Connect. (Just know that subscriptions and/or fees may apply.)
On the video side, the NR1607 is perfect for the 4K (and non-4K) home theater. It has eight HDMI 2.0a inputs with full HDCP 2.2 compatibility. It even supports 4K 60Hz video, 4:4:4 Pure Color sub-sampling, High Dynamic Range (HDR), Wide Color Gamut compatibility, 21:9 video, 3D, and BT.2020 pass-through on every input. It also has upscaling features, which boast the ability to boost analog and digital content to near-4K quality. It's important to note that this AVR is certified by the Imaging Science Foundation for video quality, which means it also has a full suite of video calibration controls along with ISF Day/Night video modes.
Other features include high-current discrete power amplifiers on all seven channels, Audyssey MultEQ room calibration, and the power-saving ECO mode. The NR1607 also works with the Marantz 2016 AVR Remote app, which is available now for iOS, Android, and Kindle Fire devices.
Marantz will start selling the NR1607 in May, with an MSRP of $699.
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