Choosing Between Modern AV Receivers: A Detailed Comparison

When setting up a home theater system in 2024, choosing the right AV receiver is crucial - it's literally the brain and heart of your entertainment setup. Today, we're comparing two popular options: the Marantz Cinema 70S ($1,200) and the JBL MA710 ($680). Both are 7.2 channel receivers with modern features, but they take different approaches to delivering home theater excellence.

Understanding Today's AV Receivers

Modern AV receivers do much more than just amplify sound. They process digital audio formats (like Dolby Atmos, which creates immersive 3D sound), switch between video sources, and even handle streaming. Think of them as sophisticated entertainment command centers.

The technology has evolved significantly in recent years, with key improvements in:

• 8K video support (future-proofing for next-gen TVs)
• Gaming features (like variable refresh rate for smoother gameplay)
• Wireless connectivity (streaming, multi-room audio)
• Voice assistant integration

A Tale of Two Approaches

The Marantz Cinema 70S, released in late 2023, represents a premium, refined approach. It's part of Marantz's new Cinema line, focusing on slimline design and audio quality. The JBL MA710, launched in mid-2023, takes a more practical approach, offering robust power and modern features at a competitive price.

Power and Amplification

Here's where these units really diverge. The Marantz uses traditional Class AB amplification, delivering 50 watts per channel. While this might seem low, Class AB typically provides warmer, more refined sound. I've found it more than adequate for medium-sized rooms up to about 350 square feet.

The JBL employs Class D amplification, pushing 110 watts per channel. Class D is more efficient and runs cooler, making it ideal for powerful output. In practice, this means the JBL might be better suited for larger rooms or if you like to crank up the volume.

Sound Quality and Processing

Both receivers support modern audio formats, but they process sound differently:

Marantz Cinema 70S:

• Audyssey MultEQ XT room correction (automatically adjusts sound for your room's acoustics)
• Known for warm, detailed sound signature
• Excellent stereo music performance

JBL MA710:

• Basic EZ Set EQ room correction
• More neutral sound signature
• Strong movie performance

From my experience testing both units, the Marantz has a slight edge in pure sound quality, especially for music. However, the JBL's higher power output can create more impactful movie experiences, particularly in action scenes.

Video Capabilities

Both receivers are well-equipped for modern video:

• 8K/60Hz passthrough
• 4K/120Hz support
• HDR format compatibility (Dolby Vision, HDR10+)
• Gaming features (VRR, ALLM)

The main difference is that the Marantz offers three 8K-capable HDMI inputs versus one on the JBL. This might matter if you're planning to connect multiple 8K sources in the future.

Connectivity and Streaming

Modern receivers need to handle various sources and streaming options:

Marantz Cinema 70S:

• 6 HDMI inputs (3 8K-capable)
• HEOS built-in (Marantz's multi-room audio system)
• AirPlay 2
• Bluetooth
• Voice assistant compatibility

JBL MA710:

• 6 HDMI inputs (1 8K-capable)
• Chromecast built-in
• AirPlay 2
• Bluetooth with aptX HD
• Voice assistant compatibility

The HEOS system in the Marantz is particularly noteworthy if you're planning a multi-room audio setup, as it integrates well with other HEOS devices.

Real-World Performance

Having tested both units in various setups, here's how they perform in different scenarios:

Home Theater Use

The Marantz Cinema 70S excels in delivering precise, detailed sound that makes movie dialogue crystal clear while maintaining impressive surround effects. The Audyssey room correction makes a noticeable difference in getting balanced sound throughout the room.

The JBL MA710 delivers more raw power, which can be impressive with action movies and gaming. Its sound is more forward and dynamic, though slightly less refined than the Marantz.

Music Listening

For stereo music, the Marantz shows its heritage with excellent detail and warmth. It's particularly good with acoustic and classical music. The JBL is no slouch, offering powerful, clean reproduction that works well with rock and electronic music.

Gaming

Both units handle gaming well, with low latency and good support for modern features. The JBL's higher power output might give it a slight edge for immersive gaming sessions, while the Marantz offers more precise positional audio.

Value Proposition

The price difference between these units is significant - nearly $520. The JBL delivers impressive performance for its price point, offering most of the features people need in 2024. The Marantz commands its premium through superior sound refinement, better room correction, and the HEOS ecosystem.

How to Decide

Choose the Marantz Cinema 70S if:

• Sound quality is your top priority
• You're building a HEOS multi-room system
• You have a medium-sized room
• You listen to a lot of music
• You want the best room correction

Choose the JBL MA710 if:

• Value is important
• You have a larger room
• You want more power
• You primarily watch movies and game
• Basic room correction is sufficient

Looking Forward

Both receivers are well-equipped for future formats and standards. The 8K support, while perhaps not immediately useful for most buyers, ensures longevity. The real differentiation comes down to your specific needs and budget.

Remember that specifications don't tell the whole story - the Marantz's lower power rating doesn't mean it can't fill a room with beautiful sound, and the JBL's higher power doesn't automatically mean better overall performance.

In my view, both receivers represent solid choices for different users. The Marantz is the audiophile's choice, while the JBL offers exceptional value for those who want modern features and powerful performance without breaking the bank.

Marantz Cinema 70S 7.2 Channel Home Theater Receiver Deals and Prices

JBL MA710 7.2 Channel 8K AV Receiver Deals and Prices