Home theater can be confusing with all the formats, specs, and features flying around. Let's break down two popular receivers - the newer Onkyo TX-RZ50 ($1,199) and the compact Marantz NR1510 ($599) - to help you make the right choice for your setup.
Modern receivers do a lot more than just amplify sound. They're the command center of your home theater, handling everything from processing advanced audio formats like Dolby Atmos (which creates a 3D bubble of sound above and around you) to switching between your gaming console, streaming device, and cable box. They also manage video processing, room correction (which tunes the sound to your specific room), and even multi-room audio distribution.
The TX-RZ50 launched in 2021 during a significant transition period in home theater tech, bringing 8K video support and HDMI 2.1 features that gamers love. The NR1510 came out in 2019 and represents the previous generation of technology, but its slim design and focused feature set still make it relevant today.
The most obvious difference is in raw capability. The TX-RZ50 delivers 250 watts per channel across 9 channels, meaning it can power a full surround sound setup with height speakers for Dolby Atmos (those speakers that create sound above you). It can process up to 11.2 channels with an external amp.
The NR1510 offers 50 watts per channel across 5 channels, suitable for a traditional surround setup (front left/right, center, and two surrounds). While this might seem like a huge power gap, 50 watts is actually plenty for most living room setups. You'd mainly notice the difference in larger rooms or when playing at reference volume levels (think movie theater loudness).
Here's where things get interesting. The TX-RZ50 follows the traditional receiver design - it's big, heavy, and needs good ventilation. The NR1510 is half the height of normal receivers, making it perfect for tight spaces or when aesthetics are important. I've installed both types, and the slim design of the NR1510 opens up many more furniture options.
The TX-RZ50 supports all the latest video features:
The NR1510 handles 4K at 60Hz and basic HDR, which is still perfectly fine for most current content. Unless you're planning to game on the latest consoles or are eyeing an 8K TV, these differences might not impact you.
Both receivers handle high-resolution audio, but the TX-RZ50 goes further with:
The NR1510 uses Audyssey MultEQ for room correction and handles traditional surround formats well, but lacks height channel processing and some of the more advanced features.
Both receivers offer similar streaming capabilities:
The TX-RZ50 adds some nice extras like Chromecast built-in and DTS Play-Fi, plus it has more HDMI inputs with higher bandwidth.
The TX-RZ50 represents the high-end of mainstream receivers. At $1,199, it's not cheap, but it offers features usually found in more expensive models. If you're building a serious home theater or want to future-proof your setup, it's actually good value.
The NR1510 at $599 hits a sweet spot for many users. It handles the basics extremely well, and its slim design solves real-world installation problems. Unless you need specific advanced features, it could be the smarter choice.
Consider these scenarios:
Choose the TX-RZ50 if:
Choose the NR1510 if:
The home theater world continues to evolve. The TX-RZ50's 8K support and HDMI 2.1 features make it more future-proof, while the NR1510's focus on core features in a compact design represents a different kind of forward thinking.
For most users, I'd suggest starting with your room size and speaker plans. If you're setting up in a living room and want good sound without complexity, the NR1510 is perfect. If you're diving into serious home theater or want room to grow, the TX-RZ50 is worth the investment.
Remember, the best receiver is the one that fits your specific needs, space, and budget. Both of these options excel in their intended use cases - it's just a matter of matching them to your situation.
| Onkyo TX-RZ50 ($1,199) | Marantz NR1510 ($599) |
|---|---|
| Channel Configuration - Determines max speaker setup and immersion potential | |
| 9.2 channels (expandable to 11.2) | 5.2 channels |
| Power Output - Impacts max volume and ability to drive speakers effectively | |
| 250W per channel (handles any speaker/room) | 50W per channel (good for small/medium rooms) |
| Video Support - Critical for gaming and future-proofing | |
| 8K/60Hz, 4K/120Hz with VRR (latest gaming features) | 4K/60Hz (standard current-gen support) |
| Room Correction - Helps optimize sound for your specific space | |
| Dirac Live (premium calibration, excellent results) | Basic Audyssey (good but limited) |
| Physical Size - Important for installation flexibility | |
| Standard size (17.1" x 7.9" x 15.7") | Slim design (17.3" x 4.1" x 14.9") |
| Audio Format Support - Affects surround sound capabilities | |
| Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, all current formats | Standard surround, no height channels |
| Multi-room Capability - Enables whole-home audio | |
| Yes, powered Zone 2 + Zone 3 line out | No multi-zone support |
| Price Value Proposition - Consider long-term needs | |
| Higher cost but future-proof, expandable | Better value for basic home theater needs |
The Onkyo TX-RZ50 ($1,199) is significantly better for dedicated theater rooms due to its 9.2 channels and 250W power output. It supports Dolby Atmos and DTS:X for immersive surround sound, making it ideal for serious home theater enthusiasts.
The biggest difference is channel count and power. The TX-RZ50 offers 9.2 channels and 250W per channel, while the Marantz NR1510 ($599) provides 5.2 channels and 50W per channel. This affects both maximum speaker setup and room size compatibility.
The Marantz NR1510 is ideal for small spaces with its slim design at half the height of traditional receivers. It still delivers quality sound but takes up much less space in your entertainment center.
Only if you need advanced features like Dolby Atmos, gaming-focused HDMI 2.1 ports, or plan to use more than 5 speakers. The Marantz NR1510 is sufficient for standard 5.1 surround sound setups.
The TX-RZ50 is superior for gaming with HDMI 2.1 ports supporting 4K/120Hz and Variable Refresh Rate (VRR). It's the better choice for PS5 and Xbox Series X owners.
Both receivers support wireless streaming via WiFi and Bluetooth. They work with popular services like Spotify and Apple AirPlay 2, though the TX-RZ50 adds Chromecast built-in and DTS Play-Fi.
No, the Marantz NR1510's 5.2 channels provide excellent surround sound for most users. The extra channels of the TX-RZ50 mainly benefit larger rooms and Dolby Atmos setups.
The TX-RZ50 is more future-proof with 8K video support, HDMI 2.1 features, and expandability to 11.2 channels. It's better equipped for upcoming audio and video formats.
The Marantz NR1510 offers better value for typical living room setups where 5.1 surround sound is sufficient. Its slim design and lower price make it an excellent choice unless you specifically need the TX-RZ50's advanced features.
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 - audioadvice.com - bestbuy.com - youtube.com - 7review.com - assets.onkyo-av.com - avsforum.com - youtube.com - onkyo.com - support.onkyousa.com - avsforum.com - stereoindex.com - forums.audioholics.com - audioholics.com - bestbuy.com - upscaleaudio.com - youtube.com - hometheatreexperts.in - audiolab.com - crutchfield.com - flanners.com - manuals.marantz.com - marantz.com - youtube.com
