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The NR1200 is an all-in-one solution, while the DRA-800H separates the radio receiver and amplifier into two devices. They both do the same things, but they are built very differently.
The NR1200 is a receiver, considered a “sonic hub.” It can turn on and off other devices such as televisions, CD players, DVD players, and speakers.
This means that there is no need for those extra components to clutter up your room. The NR1200 is also relatively small, making it easy to transport from room to room or even out of doors. The Marantz NR1200 Receiver weighs only 9 pounds.
2. Pricing and Budget
At $299US MSRP, this product fits almost any budget. It also allows users to have high-quality sound without overpaying. Most products in this price range are not nearly as powerful or versatile, although there are some exceptions.
3. Sound Quality
Because of the many features and speed the NR1200 offers, it has become very convenient for users. It also helps that it is small enough to transport around. This means users can set up their home entertainment system in almost any room.
This product provides access to different types of connectivity, including digital audio inputs with optical/coaxial connections, 3 HDMI ports, NFC, Bluetooth, WiFi, and Airplay.
5. Space Considerations
This product is so compact that it can fit in almost any room. The slim design allows users to mount the receiver on a wall or be placed it under a tv so that no cords or cables are visible.
Also, since it has different types of ports/connections, there are many ways for this receiver to be connected to devices.
The Denon DRA-800H is an ideal product for those looking to buy a receiver with the same features as expensive units but without a high cost. The sleek design of this unit makes it easy to place almost anywhere in your home entertainment system.
By making sure your purchase comes with all the necessary cables, you can have everything set up in no time, allowing you to enjoy all of its depth within seconds of powering on.
2. Pricing and Budget
The price range for this model is affordable considering how well it performs compared to other receivers out there.
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It may not have all the bells and whistles as higher-priced models, but the model still gives you great sound quality and many entertainment options for a low price.
3. Sound Quality
This model has excellent sound quality and range, which is surprising considering the price point of this unit.
It makes it a perfect choice for those looking to upgrade their system but doesn’t have enough money to buy a top-of-the-line product.
If you invest the time into this receiver, you will be surprised how much depth and detail comes out of your speakers.
4. Connectivity
The model connects to any smartphone or device with ease, allowing you to stream the content you want anytime without hassle or worry about incompatible formats.
5. Space Considerations
A standout feature of the Denon DRA-800H is its portability. Because of its compact size, many people have been able to find space for this unit in their entertainment centers.
It is so portable that you can even pick up your entire home theater system and take it with you as needed.
Pros of Marantz NR1200
Compact design makes it easy to place anywhere in your house
Plenty of connectivity options
Line level pre-outs make it easy to upgrade
Incredible sound quality
You can use it as a preamp or an amplifier
It’s very affordable
Cons of Marantz NR1200
It is not an entry-level receiver
No iPhone/iPad control support
There are no preouts that can be configured as Subwooferetter
Quality – The most crucial part about this receiver is that it offers quality audio through each channel. The audio that comes out of the speakers is crisp and clear.
Technology – This receiver uses Audyssey technology which gives more power to the low frequencies, so you always have bass driving your sound regardless of where you are in your room.
Connectivity – Another great thing about this receiver is that it can connect to just about any device. From Apple TV to Bluetooth, digital optical and coaxial connections so you can enjoy your favorite music from nearly any source.
Presets – No matter what kind of entertainment device you have plugged in, this receiver will save up to 8 custom presets. This means that all of your settings for movies, music, etc., are saved on the DRA-800H, so you don’t have to spend time changing them every time you change what you’re listening to.
Remote Control – The remote control that comes with this model also has backlights, making it easy to use at night or in low lighting. You can control the volume, switch inputs and even turn the unit on or off with a single button.
Cons of Denon DRA-800H
This receiver is expensive, compared to most other receivers in its class.
It is not simple enough for a beginner, but probably suitable for an intermediate user who would be willing to spend time learning more about this device.
It lacks some standard modern features such as HDMI input, Bluetooth connectivity, etc.
Denon DRA-800H and Marantz NR1200: How Do They Differ?
The differences between the Denon DRA-800H and Marantz NR1200 receivers are:
The Denon DRA-800H has a built-in iPod dock, while the Marantz NR1200 doesn’t have an iPod dock.
The Marantz NR1200 has a USB port, while the Denon DRA-800H doesn’t have a USB port.
The Marantz NR1200 includes Apple AirPlay connectivity, while the Denon DRA-800H doesn’t have Apple AirPlay connectivity.
The Marantz NR1200 weighs 17 lbs. The Denon DRA-800H weighs 7 lbs.
The price for the Denon DRA-800H is $399.00, while the Marantz NR1200 is $299.99.
Conclusion
The Denon DRA-800H receiver is a powerful receiver with some great features. It also has a highly steep price tag at the moment. The Marantz NR1200 is much cheaper and higher in specification than the 800H.
If you are conscious of your budget, this will be a huge factor in getting one of these receivers for your home entertainment system.
Norvan Martin is the founder of BoomSpeaker.com. He is a professional Electronics Engineer and is passionate about home theater systems and AV electronics. BoomSpeaker was created as an online hub to share his knowledge and experiences as it relates to home theaters and home audio electronics.
