Home theater technology has evolved dramatically in recent years, and modern AV receivers are at the heart of this transformation. Today, we're comparing two popular options: the JBL MA710 ($679) and the Marantz NR1510 ($599), which represent different approaches to home theater management.
Think of an AV receiver as the command center of your entertainment system. It processes video signals, decodes audio formats, and powers your speakers – all while coordinating multiple devices like gaming consoles, streaming boxes, and Blu-ray players.
The home theater landscape has changed significantly since the Marantz NR1510's release in 2019. The newer JBL MA710 (released in 2022) reflects these changes, particularly in video standards and gaming features.
The biggest shifts have been:
The MA710's 7.2 channels mean you can set up a more immersive surround sound system than the NR1510's 5.2 configuration. Here's what these numbers mean:
Power output is notably different:
This power difference matters most in larger rooms or when using less efficient speakers. For a typical living room setup (12x15 feet), either unit provides adequate power. However, the MA710's extra headroom helps prevent distortion during dynamic movie scenes.
The MA710's 8K support and HDMI 2.1 features make it significantly more future-proof. While 8K content is still rare, the HDMI 2.1 gaming features are immediately useful:
The NR1510's 4K/60Hz support is sufficient for current content but may feel limiting as gaming and video standards advance.
Both receivers handle music and movies well, but there are noticeable differences:
The MA710 excels with:
The NR1510 offers:
For modern gaming setups, the MA710's HDMI 2.1 features make it the clear choice. When watching movies, both units handle standard content well, but the MA710's additional channels and power provide more setup flexibility.
The $80 price difference between these units needs context:
The MA710 offers:
The NR1510 provides:
Room size and layout significantly impact which receiver makes more sense:
Small to Medium Rooms (up to 300 sq ft):
Large Rooms (300+ sq ft):
Both receivers offer modern connectivity, but with different emphases:
MA710:
NR1510:
Consider these key factors when choosing:
The JBL MA710 makes more sense if you:
The Marantz NR1510 is better when:
Both receivers serve their intended purposes well, but they target different users. The MA710 represents current technology and future-proofing, while the NR1510 offers proven performance in a compact package. Your choice should align with your space, usage, and future plans rather than just the price difference.
Remember, the best receiver is the one that fits your specific needs and space. Consider your five-year plan for your entertainment system when making this decision, as it's typically a longer-term investment.
| JBL MA710 7.2 Channel 8K AV Receiver | Marantz NR1510 5.2 Channel AV Receiver |
|---|---|
| Channel Configuration - Determines maximum speaker setup and room coverage | |
| 7.2 channels (supports full surround with height speakers) | 5.2 channels (basic surround without height options) |
| Power Per Channel - Impacts maximum volume and audio clarity, especially in larger rooms | |
| 110W (excellent for larger rooms and dynamic content) | 50W (adequate for small/medium rooms) |
| Video Resolution - Future-proofing for upcoming display technology | |
| 8K/60Hz (future-proof but currently limited content) | 4K/60Hz (current standard but may age sooner) |
| HDMI Version - Critical for latest gaming features and bandwidth | |
| HDMI 2.1 (supports VRR, ALLM, 4K/120Hz gaming) | HDMI 2.0 (lacks latest gaming features) |
| Price - Consider value vs. features needed | |
| $679 (premium for future-proofing and power) | $599 (better value for basic needs) |
| Form Factor - Important for space-constrained setups | |
| Standard height receiver | Slim design (half-height) |
| Room Size Suitability - Match to your space | |
| Large rooms up to 400 sq ft | Small to medium rooms up to 250 sq ft |
| Gaming Features - Essential for next-gen consoles | |
| Full support (VRR, ALLM, 4K/120Hz) | Basic support (no advanced features) |
| Multi-room Audio - Flexibility for whole-home audio | |
| Zone 2 with dedicated amp | Basic zone support |
| HDR Support - Important for video quality | |
| HDR10+, Dolby Vision, HLG | HDR10, Dolby Vision |
The JBL MA710 is generally better for home theater use due to its 7.2 channels, higher power output (110W), and 8K support. The Marantz NR1510 is suitable for smaller home theaters but lacks the advanced features and power of the MA710.
The JBL MA710 costs $679, while the Marantz NR1510 is priced at $599, making it $80 less expensive. The price difference reflects the MA710's additional features and future-proofing capabilities.
The JBL MA710 fully supports Dolby Atmos with 7.2 channels, allowing for overhead speakers. The Marantz NR1510 has limited Atmos support due to its 5.2 channel configuration.
The JBL MA710 is significantly better for gaming, offering HDMI 2.1 features like VRR and ALLM, plus 4K/120Hz support. The Marantz NR1510 lacks these gaming-specific features.
While 8K content is limited now, the JBL MA710's 8K support provides future-proofing. The Marantz NR1510's 4K support is sufficient for current needs but may become dated sooner.
The Marantz NR1510 is ideal for small rooms due to its slim design and 50W power output. The JBL MA710 offers more power than needed for small spaces.
Yes, both receivers support streaming. The JBL MA710 offers more modern streaming options with better connectivity, while the Marantz NR1510 provides basic streaming capabilities.
The JBL MA710 has 6 HDMI inputs and 1 output. The Marantz NR1510 also has 6 HDMI inputs, but they're older HDMI 2.0 specification.
The JBL MA710 is more future-proof with 8K support, HDMI 2.1, and 7.2 channels. The Marantz NR1510 uses older technology that may need upgrading sooner.
Both can power most speakers, but the JBL MA710 has more power (110W) for demanding speakers. The Marantz NR1510 (50W) is better suited for efficient speakers.
For a full surround sound experience with height channels, the 7.2 channel JBL MA710 is recommended. The 5.2 channel Marantz NR1510 is sufficient for basic surround sound.
The Marantz NR1510 offers simpler operation with fewer features to configure. The JBL MA710 has more features but requires more setup time to optimize all functions.
We've done our best to create useful and informative comparisons to help you decide what product to buy. Our research uses advanced automated methods to create this comparison and perfection is not possible - please contact us for corrections or questions. These are the sites we've researched in the creation of this article: bestbuy.com - musicdirect.com - safeandsoundhq.com - bestbuy.com - bestbuy.com - puretheatre.com - crutchfield.com - mm.jbl.com - av-connection.com - electronics.woot.com - worldwidestereo.com - th.jbl.com - skybygramophone.com - bestbuy.com - upscaleaudio.com - youtube.com - hometheatreexperts.in - audiolab.com - crutchfield.com - flanners.com - manuals.marantz.com - marantz.com - youtube.com
