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The Marantz SR7011 is a 9.2 Channel 4K Ultra HD Networked AVR System and can deliver the highest quality 3D surround sound across your household. If you are looking for a decent yet powerful AVR to power up your home theatre setup across multiple rooms then Marantz AVR systems should be on your wishlist, especially their newly launched flagship model Marantz SR7011.
One of the pioneers of audio systems, Marantz is a true giant serving the markets in North America, Europe, and Asia. Their signature audio line is by Ken Ishiwata who also heads the research and product approval departments at the company.
More Than A Standard Receiver
The Marantz SR7011 is a state-of-the-art audio/video receiver that takes its predecessor’s success (SR7010) to newer heights.
The SR7011 features the latest 3D audio formats – Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, and Auro 3D. It also fully supports 4K Ultra HD, WCG, and HDR technologies. This means you can easily connect your set-top boxes, Blu-ray disc players, and other modern 4K Ultra HD sources.
In addition, the SR7011 has a built-in HEOS system. You can enjoy your favorite music, get the best surround sound quality around your house, all with this wireless multi-room music technology. Isn’t that exciting?
Let’s take a look into the features, pros, cons, and commonly asked questions about the Marantz SR7011 to help you decide if this is the best AVR you can buy today.
Related: Looking for an AVR system? Evaluate your options here and find in-depth reviews on one of the best AVR systems available.
Key Specifications of the Marantz SR7011
Before we get into the specifics of this speaker, let’s take a look at the specifications.
| Total Power output | 125W per channel ( 9.2 channel AVR) |
| Frequency Response | 20Hz-20KHz (THD: 0.5%) |
| Connections | Wifi, HEOS, HDMI, Bluetooth |
| Video Output | 3D and 4K Ultra HD/60Hz full rate pass-through with HDR, BT.2020, 4:4:4 Pure Color support |
| Remote App Control | YES; IOS, Android and Kindle Fire |
| Compatibility | Alexa; Google Assistant; Apple AirPlay |
| Dimensions | 15.79 x 17.32 x 7.28 inches |
| Warranty | According to industry standards (usually 2 Years) |
| Latest price | Click here for the latest price |
Core Features of the Marantz SR7011Â
Marantz SR7011 is a modern, feature-packed, and powerful home theatre system with the premium build quality. Let’s have a quick overview of its features.
Design and Inputs
The latest flagship AVR system, the Marantz SR7011 is equipped with the classic Marantz design; a two-tone color finish with curved matte sides and a brushed metal central piece. The display in the middle of the two dials has the input dial (left) and volume dial (right).
The SR7011 portrays a beautiful blend of design and functionality through a drop-down flap which offers a minimal frontal view without compromising functionality and features.
Behind the drop-down flap is a larger, more detailed display with a set of basic controls and additional input ports including HDMI 2.0a/HDCP 2.2 connector, USB port, headphone jack, composite video input, stereo analog input, and a microphone setup.
The SR7011 has an advanced DSP processing unit divided into two power blocks – 4 and 5 channels heatsinks installed with a power output of 125W of stable power into all nine channels and supports even the lower impedance speakers (up to 4 Ohms) safely.
The added Eco Mode manages power consumption according to signals and can be viewed on an on-screen display in real-time.
With all these features, SR7011 is an excellent AVR and among the best in the price range. It boasts high-grade components that make a powerful internal circuit that enhances the audio quality by delicately passing all signals through Marantz’s own HDAMs Current Feedback topology. This results in crisp and true high-definition, 3D surround sound quality.
Connections and Controls
Most of the inputs and connections are placed at the rear end of the SR7011. There you will find plenty of classic inputs including coaxial and optical digital inputs, analog audio inputs, as well as component and composite video input. There is also a signal ground terminal for those with a turntable.
It has 8 HDMI inputs and 3 HDMI outputs, one of which supports an Audio Return Channel (ARC). All the connections are HDMI 2.0a with support for HDCP 2.2, HDR, and WCG.
Other inputs in the SR7011 include a LAN port, sockets for the AM and FM tuners, two 12V triggers, an IR Flasher, and an RS232 port for serial control. The built-in WiFi and Bluetooth comes with an antenna to support its range and signal to receive strength.
There are eleven sets of color-coded binding posts in a single line for easier access and to accept bare-wires, spade connectors, or banana plugs. You can also use the pre-outs in all eleven channels to connect separate power amplifiers and use the dual subwoofer outputs available to add in extra subwoofers.
The SR7011 comes with a remote control which has well-spaced and large buttons, making it easier to use. It also has a small display at the top along with a handy backlight for ease of use in dark rooms.
It also comes with a customizable remote app that provides the users with complete command and control over the latest Marantz AV receivers and works in unison with the built-in HEOS app.
Other Features
The Marantz SR7011 comes with a 9 channel receiver and makes it possible for providing multiple room sound and video connections with the same or different outputs through all channels.
There are designated HDMI ports for multiple zone connections with multiple source outputs, allowing you to enjoy your movie in the living room while others enjoy their music in another room using the same system.
The HEOS App enables wireless, multi-room music streaming throughout your home. Command the SR7011 to play the same or different music across the rooms from any device with the free app. I found it really easy to connect my Spotify and other music streaming apps and it provided me with an immersive multimedia experience.
Related: Read our Marantz SR7012 review.
Marantz SR7011 Performance
Marantz has a rich history of producing universally acclaimed sound systems. The flagship SR7011 does well to meet the lofty standards of the brand with a powerful AVR.
The SR7011 has put all its features to great effect and the results were spectacular. Across the board, ranging from a 5.1 to a 7.2 4-channel speaker setup, the AVR delivered for me and produced high-quality audio and visual experience.
To test it out, I watched a documentary on Netflix. The surround sound quality of Dolby Atmos and DTS:X was just perfect. It filled the room with background sound while the vocal sounds were clear, crisp, and highlighted, as they should be.
It definitely lives up to its reputation as an ISF-certified receiver with its 4K Ultra HD, uninterrupted display thanks to the 60Hz refresh rate.
The multisource and multi-room options are a blessing. My family and I can now enjoy watching TV, listen to music, and more without compromising the sound quality anywhere in my home.
The HEOS app is definitely worth the hype. It makes it easy to connect music streaming apps and play music without a hassle.
The SR7011 does not disappoint even in a large gathering. You can harness the full power of the AVR across your house by multi-room channeling the same soundtrack. This enables all the speakers and woofers connected to all the channels in the SR7011 to play simultaneously across your property.
For even larger gatherings or parties, you can use a 7.1 or even a 7.2 4-speaker channel setup and add two powerful amps for an undeniably great audio experience.
The HDAM technology is the real deal. It produced great quality sound across all genres that I tested. It catches even the most subtle sound effects and creates a refined sound experience without having the need to blast the speakers on louder higher impedance sounds.
Pros of Marantz SR7001
There’s a lot of good that’s happening for the Marantz SR7001.
Great Sound Quality
With the use of good hardware and software like HDAM and Audyssey Premium tools, the SR7011 produces a clear, fine-tuned, and well-balanced sound in a stereo setup.
With the help of additional audio codes like DTS:X and Dolby Atmos, it produces a completely immersive 3D surround sound experience. The high-resolution audio produces lossless sound and quality in all available formats, FLAC, ALAC, WAV, DSD (SACD), and even MP3.
Setup and Connectivity
The gazillion inputs might look overwhelming, but Marantz SR7011’s upgraded setup assistant guides you through the basic to the most advanced settings. With this great update, anyone can easily set up their home theatre and multi-room setups in no time.
It boasts multi-source input and output options, the HEOS app, and connectivity to Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple Airplay 2. You can also connect other devices via Bluetooth and WiFi.
Designed for the future
The SR7011 comes with a 4K Ultra HD feature and HEOS integration. It supports all sorts of 4K Ultra HD sources such as Blu-ray disc players and set-top boxes. With increasing 4K-ready content, you will be wise to invest in an AVR that seamlessly processes 4K Ultra HD.
Cons of Marantz SR7001
Marantz hasn’t done much wrong with their flagship model in terms of functionality, performance, or connectivity. That said, it does fall short on the following.
Not Ideal for Smaller Homes
Not like you can’t use one. The Marantz SR7011 boasts a 9.2 channel design, so its use is in a space where you can truly play around with the features and connectivity options. So from a budget perspective, you could go for an entry-level AVR if you have a small space or family.
No PC-via-USB connection
For a receiver as good as this, it’s kind of a let down that it doesn’t have a USB to PC connection. That said, you can still access the music on your PC quite easily with the network connection, and the HEOS app more than makes up for this.
Alternatives to Consider
Despite being a feature-packed AVR, there are alternatives to the SR7011 that you should consider. Here are some of my suggestions.
Other Marantz AVR Series
SR6011
The SR6011 also comes with 9-amp channels and supports DOLBY ATMOS and DTS:X in the 5.1.4 configuration, but with lower power output.
If the lower power output is not something you are worried about then this is a pocket-friendly alternative to SR7011 with almost similar features.
SR7010
The SR7010 is the predecessor of SR7011. Both AVRs are similar but the SR7010 comes only with built-in DOLBY Atmos, though it is upgradeable to support DTS:X and can also be upgraded to run Auro 3D.
The SR7011, on the other hand, comes ready with all these features. If you are well informed about AVRs and how to upgrade them, then you won’t mind working on upgrading the SR7010 which comes with a lower price tag.
Denon X4500H
The Denon X4500H also has very similar features to the SR7011. This includes a 9.2 channel amp including Bluetooth, WiFi, as well as Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple Airplay2.
It also comes with the HEOS system which is almost on par with the SR7011, and 125W power output per channel. It’s more a matter of personal brand and aesthetics preference when it comes to choosing between the two.
Denon S750H
The S750H receiver boasts most of the functionality of the other alternatives mentioned above but differs in the number of amp channels and the power output.
Unlike the other receivers, the S750H has a 7 amp channel but backs them up with greater power, 165W per channel compared to the 125W of the SR7011 and X4500H.
They are capable of supporting a 5.1.4 configuration to run DOLBY ATMOS and DTS:X and compensate with a higher power through the channels to produce similar sound quality.
Frequently Asked Questions
Question: Is it Difficult to Set-Up the SR7011?
Answer: No, it’s not. The SR7011 guides you through the setup process by instructions on the screen display so you get the settings right on your first attempt.
The quick setup guide helps you get the best sound quality from your equipment. It takes you through various prerequisite settings such as speaker layout, inputs, outputs, and zones.
After checking the polarity of your speakers and a subwoofer output, it takes you through the Audyssey room correction tool. The MultEQ XT32 room equalization process is used to fine-tune the equipment using the included microphone.
Question: Can I Connect My Smart TV with SR7011?
Answer: Yes, you can connect your Smart TV via WiFi, Bluetooth, or HDMI. You can also control and navigate the SR7011’s options with the Smart TV remote control and an on-screen menu.
Question: Does It Really Have 3D Surround Sound Quality?
Answer: Yes, it produces immersive 3d surround quality but to fully justify the AVR, you need good quality speakers and woofers placed in the right spots. You can do that easily with the help of the Audyssey MultiEQ XT32 that lets you enjoy a real 3D surround sound experience.
Question: Why Can’t I Access My SR7011 Through Alexa Voice Commands?
Answer: Alexa voice command activation is currently only compatible in the UK region. If you’re using the AVR from North America, you need to check for updates when Alexa will be available.
Final Thoughts – Should You Buy Marantz SR7011?
If you’re looking for a smart receiver, the Marantz SR7011 is as good as it gets. While it could certainly benefit from having a USB to PC connection, there are many connectivity options and features to make up for it.
Overall, it’s a very good receiver to have and once you hook up the HEOS, you can pretty much do everything that a top-of-the-line receiver does.