Choosing Between Two Popular Home Theater Receivers: A Complete Guide

When building a home theater system, the receiver acts as the command center - processing audio, powering speakers, and managing video sources. Today we're comparing two popular options: the Marantz Cinema 70S ($1,200) and Yamaha Aventage RX-A2A ($949).

Understanding Home Theater Receivers in 2023

Home theater receivers have evolved significantly in recent years. The latest models support advanced features like 8K video passthrough, gaming-specific capabilities, and immersive audio formats that create a bubble of sound around you. They're also getting smarter, with voice control integration and wireless streaming becoming standard features.

The key is finding a receiver that matches your needs in terms of power, features, and room size - while staying within budget. Let's break down how these two receivers compare across the most important factors.

Power Output and Performance

Power output directly affects how loud your speakers can play and how well they handle dynamic sound effects. The Yamaha Aventage RX-A2A delivers 100 watts per channel, while the Marantz Cinema 70S provides 50 watts per channel.

In real-world use, this difference is noticeable in larger rooms or with power-hungry speakers. The Yamaha's extra headroom means it can handle explosive movie scenes without strain. I've tested both units in a 15x20 foot room, and the Yamaha maintained its composure even during demanding action sequences, while the Marantz occasionally felt like it was working harder.

However, for smaller rooms or efficient speakers, the Marantz's power output is completely adequate. It's worth noting that most people rarely use even 20 watts of power during normal listening.

Design and Build Quality

The Marantz takes a modern approach with its slim design - standing just 4.3 inches tall compared to the Yamaha's traditional 6.75-inch height. This makes it perfect for tight spaces or aesthetic-focused setups. Both units feature high-quality construction, but they take different approaches:

• Marantz emphasizes clean lines and minimalism
• Yamaha focuses on internal build quality with features like a strengthened chassis
• Both offer excellent heat management despite their different sizes

Audio Processing and Room Calibration

Both receivers support modern audio formats like Dolby Atmos (which adds height channels for more immersive sound) and DTS:X. However, their room calibration systems differ significantly:

The Yamaha uses YPAO (Yamaha Parametric Room Acoustic Optimizer), which measures your room's acoustics using a microphone and automatically adjusts various audio parameters. It's particularly good at handling problematic room acoustics.

The Marantz uses Audyssey MultEQ XT, which is also effective but takes a slightly different approach to room correction. In my experience, YPAO tends to produce more natural-sounding results out of the box, though both systems can be fine-tuned to preference.

Connectivity and Modern Features

Both receivers are well-equipped for modern home theaters:

HDMI Support

• Marantz: 6 inputs (3 8K-capable)
• Yamaha: 7 inputs (3 8K-capable)

Gaming Features

Both support:

• 4K/120Hz passthrough
• Variable Refresh Rate (VRR)
• Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM)
• Quick Frame Transport (QFT)

Streaming Capabilities

• Marantz uses HEOS for multi-room audio
• Yamaha employs MusicCast

Value Proposition

At $949, the Yamaha Aventage RX-A2A represents excellent value, offering more power and features than the $1,200 Marantz Cinema 70S. However, the Marantz's premium is justified if you:

• Need its compact form factor
• Prefer its aesthetic design
• Already use HEOS products
• Value its warmer sound signature

Real-World Performance

In practice, both receivers deliver excellent performance for movies and music. The Yamaha edges ahead in pure power and technical measurements, while the Marantz offers a slightly warmer, more musical sound that some prefer for music listening.

For home theater use, the Yamaha's extra power provides more headroom for dynamic movie soundtracks, especially in larger rooms. The Marantz still performs admirably but might reach its limits sooner in demanding situations.

Changes Since Release

Both receivers were released in late 2021/early 2022 and have received firmware updates to improve stability and add features. The most significant updates have addressed HDMI 2.1 functionality and gaming features, which were new technologies when these units launched.

How to Decide

Choose the Marantz Cinema 70S if:

• You need a slim receiver for space reasons
• You prefer a warmer sound signature
• Design aesthetics are a priority
• You're already invested in the HEOS ecosystem

Choose the Yamaha Aventage RX-A2A if:

• You want maximum power for your budget
• You have a larger room
• You prefer a more neutral sound signature
• Value is your primary concern
• You want slightly more advanced room correction

Final Thoughts

Both receivers represent solid choices for different users. The Yamaha offers better value for most buyers with its superior power output and slightly more advanced features at a lower price point. However, the Marantz's slim design and refined sound signature make it a compelling choice for specific situations.

For my personal home theater, I'd choose the Yamaha for its extra power and excellent room correction. However, if I were building a system in a space-constrained area or prioritizing music listening, the Marantz would be a serious contender despite its higher price.

Remember that both units will serve well as the heart of a home theater system - the choice ultimately comes down to your specific needs, space constraints, and budget considerations.

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

Yamaha Aventage RX-A2A 7.2 Channel AV Receiver Deals and Prices