Are you in the market for a stereo receiver? Have you been reading Marantz SR7013 reviews in hopes of discovering whether it’s worth the price?
Searching for a high-quality stereo can be an arduous process. There are tons of options out there, so it’s no wonder that so many people just give up and buy the most expensive or most famous one they know.
However, I’ve made it my business to review the top stereos on the market today. Today, this Marantz SR7013 review will give you a close look at this powerhouse of a stereo — the good and the bad.
Marantz SR7013 Review 2023 | Background Info
Luxury hi-fi stereo receivers like the Marantz SR7013 provide a surround sound experience like nothing else. Whether you’re watching TV or listening to music, if you’re interested in getting the highest-quality audio experience possible, a stereo receiver like this one might be right for you.
It’s important to note that most people are usually happy with standard speakers they can hook up to their TV or computer. However, this Marantz SR7013 review will show you that serious audiophiles will find that the intensely immersive quality of the SR7013 is worth the premium price.
There are a few important things to consider before taking the plunge on a high-end receiver like this one.
First, consider what you’ll be using it for. Will the receiver be part of a larger audio setup, or will it stand alone? Will you be playing primarily music or movies?
It’s just as important to note the compatibility of your receiver. This includes not just the number of HDMI and other inputs, but also whether it’s compatible with streaming services like Spotify or Netflix.
Lastly, looks can also be important for many people. Sleek stereos with large screens and premium materials are often preferred for home theaters. On the other hand, less flashy stereos that still have excellent audio quality are usually fine if all you’re interested in is listening to music.
The Marantz SR7013 has been reviewed many times, but this Marantz SR7013 review is written based on my personal preferences and setup, with a focus on audio quality and customizability. Take your preferences and needs into account when reading this, or any other, review.
Marantz SR7013 Review 2023
The Good
Elite Audio Quality
If you take anything away from this Marantz SR7013 review, it should be the SR7013’s truly excellent audio quality. With the ability to decode ALAC, FLAC, and WAV lossless files up to 24-bit/192-kHz and Marantz’s signature proprietary HDAM circuit boards, this stereo has the specs to back up its incredible output.
One of the things that stuck out to me about this stereo was the included phono input with an integrated HDAM EQ stage to connect my turntable to. I’ve been collecting vinyl for over 10 years, and it’s critical to me that any receiver I use regularly can play them at the highest quality possible. Other Marantz SR7013 reviews I’ve come across in my research also note how easy it is to hook up your turntable and play vinyl at the best possible quality. Vinyl junkies take note!
Powerful 9.2 Channel Audio
If you’re looking for a true surround sound experience, it doesn’t get any more immersive than this. With the ability to handle 9 speakers and 2 subwoofers at 110W a channel, the Marantz SR7013 produces balanced, stable sound across the entire spectrum.
This feature is most notable when watching movies or shows, especially those with dramatic soundtracks or lots of action. It truly feels like being in a movie theater. Even when you activate the built-in Eco Mode to reduce power consumption, sound output remains exceptional.
4k Video Playback
With 8 HDMI inputs, I was expecting a lot from the SR7013’s video capability. I’m happy to say that I got what I was hoping for — each port is capable of processing 4K, 60Hz video, and it shines. No matter what I was watching, I can confidently say that the SR7013 is more than capable of processing and playing even the highest definition video.
Voice Control
If you’re the type to lose the remote, you’ll love the Marantz SR7013’s compatibility with Apple Siri, Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and Josh.ai. All four voice services are well-equipped to easily change the volume, input source, currently playing track, and more.
These assistants are generally added and controlled through the HEOS app, which is where you’ll find a plethora of options to customize and control your receiver.
Video/Audio Streaming Apps
In addition to its compatibility with Siri, Alexa, and other voice control apps, the Marantz SR7013 is well-loved for its compatibility with popular streaming services, both audio and video.
Through the aforementioned HEOS app, you can play music through Spotify, Pandora, Tidal, and more. Netflix, Amazon Prime, and other video streaming apps are also compatible through the app, Bluetooth, or Airplay. I find that connecting and playing music through these apps is a breeze, and it’s one of the main ways I use the stereo.
The Bad
Expensive
With any premium brand stereo comes a premium price, and the Marantz SR7013 is no exception. At $1499, the SR7013’s price is nothing to sneeze at.
Again, it’s important to consider just how much you’re going to be using a high-powered stereo receiver like this, and what for. Most consumers are more than happy with a $200 receiver, so be sure you’ve checked out all the options before you spend almost $1500.
No Display
The Marantz SR7013 indeed has a tiny, three-line display on the front, but for all intents and purposes, the operation of this stereo is by remote or app. This is mostly just an inconvenience since both the remote and the app are easy to use.
Still, the lack of a display can make the SR7013 feel obscure, especially for those who are less tech-savvy. There’s enough room to display the input source in tiny letters and not much else.
Long Setup
I’m sure this will come as no surprise to some of you, but setting up an AV receiver, especially a premium one like the Marantz SR7013, can take a very long time. In some respects, this doesn’t bother me, and I even prefer it, since I like to customize my receiver in depth.
On the other hand, although the process is made fairly easy, with a detailed walkthrough every step of the way, it’s still going to take you at least 30 minutes. And if you take advantage of all 9 channels, plus subwoofers, it could take even longer.
The Bottom Line
Let’s face it — if you’re considering purchasing a $1500 receiver, you’re probably looking for the best of the best when it comes to audio quality. And, as I hope you’ve seen throughout this Marantz SR7013 review, the SR7013 is exactly that.
No matter how complicated your setup is, it’s got the input ports to spare. Whether you’re playing Taylor Swift on Spotify or The Beatles on vinyl, you’ll get truly excellent quality. And those who use Alexa, Siri, or other voice assistants in their home will welcome the inclusion of that compatibility through the HEOS app.
As always, though, there are drawbacks. From the minor — the remote isn’t backlit — to the major — $1500 is a hefty investment no matter how you look at it — no stereo is perfect. Other Marantz SR7013 reviews might have failed to mention that no matter how good a receiver is, the best stereo is one you can afford. Still, if you’ve been on the lookout for a premium receiver with the technology and performance to back it up, this Marantz SR7013 review has hopefully shown that it might be perfect for you.
Marantz SR7013 Review 2023 – Final Thoughts
Have you been reading Marantz SR7013 reviews? Are you ready to take the plunge, or are you skeptical? Whether you agree or disagree with this Marantz SR7013 review, leave a comment down below telling me what you think. Don’t forget to check out our other reviews for alternatives and other great options on the market.
