
( Brand: Marantz ), ( Manufacturer Part Number: DP-870K ), ( Model: MARANTZ DP-870K ), ( Type: A/v Receiver ), ( Features: Digital )
The **Marantz DP-870K** is a high-performance digital audio processor designed to elevate the listening experience for audiophiles and home theater enthusiasts alike, offering unparalleled precision, flexibility, and integration with modern audio technologies. At its core, this compact yet powerful device serves as a bridge between your sound system and the advanced audio formats of today, including Dolby Digital Live, DTS Neural:X, and other immersive surround sound formats, ensuring that every detail from the subtlest nuances in a classical recording to the dynamic impact of a blockbuster film is rendered with breathtaking clarity and depth. Engineered with Marantz s signature attention to detail, the DP-870K features a robust **AC-3 processing engine**, allowing it to decode and enhance Dolby Digital 5.1 audio streams with exceptional accuracy, whether you re streaming from a Blu-ray player, gaming console, or high-end AV receiver. Its **11.2-channel digital audio interface** accommodates a wide range of speaker configurations, from traditional 5.1 setups to more complex multi-channel systems, ensuring seamless compatibility with both traditional and modern audio setups.
One of the standout features of the DP-870K is its **versatile connectivity**, which includes **HDMI eARC (Enhanced Audio Return Channel) support**, enabling lossless audio transmission between devices like 4K TVs and AV receivers, while also preserving the integrity of high-resolution formats like Dolby Atmos and DTS:X. The processor also incorporates **Dolby Digital Live**, a real-time Dolby Digital encoder that converts your existing stereo or multi-channel audio into a high-quality Dolby Digital 5.1 stream, making it ideal for home theater enthusiasts who want to experience surround sound without the need for a dedicated Dolby Digital source. Additionally, the DP-870K supports **DTS Neural:X**, a groundbreaking technology that intelligently processes stereo or 5.1 audio to create a virtualized surround sound experience, further enhancing spatial immersion for films, music, and games.
Beyond its audio processing capabilities, the DP-870K is built with **high-quality construction and user-friendly controls**, featuring a **large, intuitive LCD display** that provides clear feedback on audio formats, speaker configurations, and system status. The front panel includes **physical controls for volume, input selection, and format switching**, making it easy to navigate settings without relying solely on a remote. The device also supports **HDMI-CEC (Consumer Electronics Control)**, allowing for simplified control of connected devices through a single remote, enhancing convenience without compromising functionality. Whether used as a standalone processor or integrated into a larger AV system, the DP-870K delivers a seamless, high-fidelity audio experience that adapts to the demands of modern entertainment.
For audiophiles and home theater purists, the DP-870K represents a **bridge between legacy and cutting-edge audio technologies**, ensuring that your system remains future-proof while delivering the rich, dynamic sound that Marantz is renowned for. Its **low-latency processing** and **minimal signal degradation** make it an excellent choice for both music and movie enthusiasts, while its **compact yet robust design** ensures it fits effortlessly into any home entertainment setup. Whether you're upgrading an existing system or building a new one from the ground up, the Marantz DP-870K stands as a reliable, high-performance workhorse that brings out the very best in your audio and video content.
The **Marantz DP-870K** is a high-end digital audio processor designed for home theater and professional audio applications. Below is a detailed breakdown of its pros and cons, followed by a conclusion and recommendation.
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### **Pros of the Marantz DP-870K**
1. **Advanced Audio Processing**
The DP-870K supports **Dolby Digital Live, DTS Neural:X, and THX** processing, allowing for high-quality surround sound decoding and enhancement. It also includes **Dolby Atmos processing**, which is a significant advantage for modern home theater setups.
2. **Versatile Input and Output Options**
It features **11 analog inputs (including balanced XLR), 4 digital optical inputs, and 4 HDMI inputs**, making it compatible with a wide range of audio sources, including AV receivers, streaming devices, and gaming consoles. The **HDMI passthrough** ensures that video signals remain unaltered while audio is processed.
3. **High-Resolution Audio Support**
The processor supports **up to 24-bit/192kHz PCM audio**, ensuring pristine audio quality for high-end audio systems. It also includes **Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD Master Audio** decoding, which is ideal for Blu-ray and streaming services.
4. **Network and Streaming Capabilities**
The DP-870K includes **built-in Wi-Fi and Ethernet**, allowing for **DLNA streaming, AirPlay 2, and Spotify Connect** integration. This makes it easy to stream music wirelessly from smartphones, tablets, or computers.
5. **Customizable EQ and Room Correction**
It offers **parametric EQ controls** and **room correction settings**, allowing users to fine-tune audio performance based on their listening environment. This is particularly useful for optimizing sound in irregularly shaped rooms.
6. **Dolby Vision and HDR Support**
The processor supports **Dolby Vision and HDR10**, ensuring that video signals maintain their highest quality when passed through HDMI.
7. **Compact and Modular Design**
The **rack-mountable (1U) design** makes it suitable for home theater setups where space is limited. Its modular approach allows for easy integration into existing AV systems.
8. **Professional-Grade Build Quality**
Marantz is known for durable, high-quality audio equipment, and the DP-870K reflects this with robust construction and reliable performance.
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### **Cons of the Marantz DP-870K**
1. **Limited Physical Inputs for a High-End Processor**
While it has **11 analog inputs**, some users may find the number of **digital inputs (4 optical, 4 HDMI)** insufficient if they have multiple high-resolution audio sources (e.g., multiple Blu-ray players, gaming consoles, or streaming devices).
2. **No Built-in Amplification**
The DP-870K is a **processor only** and does not include an amplifier. Users will need a separate **AV receiver or preamp** to power their speakers, which can add to the overall cost.
3. **No Built-in Subwoofer Outputs**
While it supports **Dolby Surround processing**, it lacks dedicated **subwoofer outputs**, meaning users must route the LFE channel manually if they want to use a subwoofer.
4. **Learning Curve for Advanced Features**
The DP-870K includes **complex audio processing options**, such as **Dolby Atmos, DTS Neural:X, and room correction**, which may require some time to configure properly. Beginners may find the setup process overwhelming.
5. **No Built-in Bluetooth**
Unlike some modern audio processors, the DP-870K **does not support Bluetooth**, which could be a drawback for users who prefer wireless audio streaming from smartphones or tablets.
6. **Price Consideration**
As a high-end audio processor, the DP-870K is **not cheap**. While it offers excellent features, budget-conscious users may find alternatives (such as the **Denon AVR-S960H** or **Onkyo TX-NR696**) more affordable while still providing strong performance.
7. **No Built-in Tuner**
Unlike some AV receivers, the DP-870K **does not include a built-in FM/AM radio tuner**, which may be a minor inconvenience for users who rely on traditional radio sources.
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### **Conclusion**
The **Marantz DP-870K** is a **powerful, feature-rich digital audio processor** that excels in **high-end home theater and audio processing applications**. Its support for **Dolby Atmos, DTS Neural:X, high-resolution audio, and network streaming** makes it a strong choice for audiophiles and home theater enthusiasts who demand **premium sound quality and flexibility**.
However, its **lack of built-in amplification, limited physical inputs, and complex setup** may not make it the best fit for **casual users or those on a tight budget**. Additionally, the **absence of Bluetooth and a tuner** could be dealbreakers for some.
If you are looking for a **standalone processor to enhance your existing AV system** with **advanced audio processing, high-resolution support, and streaming capabilities**, the DP-870K is an excellent investment. However, if you need **amplification, more inputs, or a simpler setup**, you may want to consider alternatives like an **AV receiver with similar processing capabilities**.
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### **Recommendation**
**Buy the Marantz DP-870K if:**- You already have an **AV receiver or preamp** and need a **high-end audio processor** for **Dolby Atmos, DTS Neural:X, and high-resolution audio**.
- You require **network streaming (Spotify, AirPlay, DLNA)** and **HDMI passthrough** for video.
- You are willing to **invest in a premium audio experience** and do not mind a **slight learning curve** for advanced settings.
**Consider alternatives if:**- You need **built-in amplification** (opt for an **AV receiver** like the **Denon AVR-S960H** or **Onkyo TX-NR696**).
- You require **more physical inputs** (some receivers offer **more HDMI and optical inputs**).
- You prefer **simpler, plug-and-play audio processing** (a **basic AV receiver** may suffice).
For most **serious home theater enthusiasts**, the **Marantz DP-870K remains a top-tier choice** especially when paired with the right amplifier and speakers.
Some tiny nicks on the top of face plate. Marantz DP-870K in good working condition. It appears the top cover was painted at some point, but it done well. Does not include remote.