How to connect PS5 to Marantz receiver
Connecting a PlayStation 5 to a Marantz receiver is usually straightforward, but the best results depend on the receiver model, HDMI inputs, TV capabilities, and audio format settings.
This guide shows the exact connection paths, PS5 menu settings, and Marantz features that matter most for clean video and high-quality surround sound.
If you want 4K HDR gaming, low-latency performance, and formats like Dolby Atmos or DTS:X, a few setup choices make a major difference.
What you need before you start
Before connecting anything, confirm that your equipment supports the features you want.
The PS5 uses HDMI 2.1 for advanced gaming features, while many Marantz AV receivers support HDMI 2.0 or HDMI 2.1 depending on the model year.
- PS5 console with the included HDMI cable or a certified Ultra High Speed HDMI cable
- Marantz AV receiver with available HDMI inputs and an HDMI output to the TV
- 4K TV with at least one HDMI input that matches your gaming requirements
- Optional speaker system such as 5.1, 7.1, or Dolby Atmos height speakers
Check the receiver’s manual for HDMI port labels such as “8K,” “Enhanced,” or “4K/60.” These labels often indicate whether a port can pass higher bandwidth signals.
Best connection method for most setups
The most common and reliable method is to connect the PS5 to a Marantz receiver, then connect the receiver to the TV.
This route lets the receiver handle audio decoding while the TV displays the image.
Recommended wiring order
- Connect the PS5 HDMI output to an available HDMI input on the Marantz receiver.
- Connect the Marantz HDMI output to the TV’s HDMI input, preferably one labeled eARC or ARC if you may use TV audio later.
- Select the matching input on the Marantz receiver.
- Turn on the PS5 and TV, then confirm the receiver passes video correctly.
For older receivers, this method works well for 1080p and standard 4K playback, but advanced 4K/120Hz gaming may require HDMI 2.1 support on the receiver or a different routing approach.
How to connect PS5 to Marantz receiver for 4K 120Hz gaming
High-refresh gaming is where compatibility matters most.
If your Marantz receiver supports full HDMI 2.1 bandwidth on the input and output you are using, you can connect the PS5 directly to the receiver and still get 4K at 120Hz, VRR, and ALLM where supported.
If your receiver does not fully support HDMI 2.1, the best workaround is often to connect the PS5 directly to the TV for video and send audio back to the Marantz receiver using eARC.
This preserves gaming features while still allowing the receiver to handle audio.
When to use direct-to-TV with eARC
- Your TV supports 4K/120Hz, VRR, or HDMI 2.1 gaming features
- Your Marantz receiver lacks full HDMI 2.1 support
- You want to avoid signal limitations from older AV receiver hardware
In that setup, connect the PS5 to the TV, then connect the TV’s eARC-enabled port to the Marantz receiver’s eARC HDMI output.
This is a common solution for modern gaming systems with older or mid-generation receivers.
PS5 settings that matter after connecting
Once the cable setup is complete, the PS5 menu determines whether you get the best video and sound format.
Open Settings on the PS5 and review the following areas.
Video output settings
- Resolution: Automatic
- 120 Hz Output: Automatic or Enabled if your display supports it
- VRR: Automatic if supported by the TV and receiver chain
- HDR: On When Supported
- RGB Range: Automatic
If the image looks washed out or crushed, the HDMI range may not match between the PS5, receiver, and TV.
Keep all color and range settings on automatic unless you are troubleshooting a specific display issue.
Sound settings
- Output Device: HDMI Device (AV Amplifier)
- Audio Format: Linear PCM for the most accurate output, or Dolby Atmos if your system supports it
- Number of Channels: Match your speaker setup, such as 5.1 or 7.1
Linear PCM is often preferred for gaming because it sends uncompressed audio to the receiver.
If you specifically want object-based audio and your Marantz model supports it, enable Dolby Atmos where available.
Marantz receiver settings to check
Marantz AV receivers often include input and HDMI settings that affect compatibility.
If the PS5 picture or sound does not pass correctly, review the receiver’s setup menu.
Important Marantz options
- Input Assignment: Confirm the PS5 is assigned to the HDMI port you used
- HDMI Control: Enable if you want device power and input switching through CEC
- ARC/eARC: Enable if your audio returns from the TV
- 4K Signal Format or HDMI Enhancement: Set the relevant port to the highest supported mode
- Video Conversion: Usually leave enabled unless it causes compatibility issues
Many Marantz models also let you rename inputs, which can make switching between consoles, streaming devices, and Blu-ray players easier.
Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, and surround sound options
If your Marantz receiver and speaker system support immersive audio, the PS5 can deliver an excellent gaming experience.
The exact format depends on the game and whether the audio is routed through the receiver or through the TV with eARC.
For the most consistent surround results:
- Use HDMI from PS5 to Marantz when possible
- Select Linear PCM for direct decoding by the receiver
- Choose a speaker layout that matches your actual system
- Use a certified HDMI cable for stable audio and video transmission
Some games support 3D audio features on the PS5, and the receiver will still play back the signal through your speaker layout.
If you use headphones, the audio path changes and the receiver is no longer involved in that output.
Common problems and how to fix them
Even when the wiring is correct, handshakes between the PS5, Marantz receiver, and TV can create issues.
Most are easy to solve once you identify the source.
No picture on the TV?
- Confirm the receiver is on the correct input
- Check that the receiver output is connected to the right TV HDMI port
- Try another HDMI cable
- Power cycle the PS5, receiver, and TV
If the receiver displays a signal but the TV stays blank, the TV input may not support the current video mode.
No sound from the receiver?
- Make sure the PS5 audio output is set to HDMI Device (AV Amplifier)
- Check that the Marantz input is assigned correctly
- Verify the speaker setup and mute status
- Test with Linear PCM before trying more complex formats
4K 120Hz is not available?
- Check whether the Marantz receiver supports HDMI 2.1 on that port
- Use the TV’s gaming HDMI input instead
- Confirm the TV itself supports 120Hz at 4K
- Use the PS5 video output information screen to verify the active signal
Audio lag or lip sync issues?
- Enable eARC if audio is returning from the TV
- Use the receiver’s audio delay or lip sync adjustment
- Disable extra video processing features that add delay
Should you use HDMI CEC?
HDMI CEC can simplify everyday use by letting the PS5, TV, and Marantz receiver power on together and switch inputs automatically.
Marantz calls this function HDMI Control in many menus.
CEC is convenient, but it can sometimes cause unwanted input switching or power behavior.
If that happens, disable CEC temporarily and test each device separately to isolate the problem.
When eARC is better than routing through the receiver
eARC is especially useful if your TV has better HDMI gaming support than your AV receiver.
By sending video directly to the TV and audio back to the receiver, you can keep 4K/120Hz, VRR, and low input lag while still using the Marantz for sound.
This setup is often the best choice for:
- Gamers with HDMI 2.1 TVs
- Owners of older Marantz receivers
- Users who want to keep advanced video features without replacing their receiver
If your Marantz model includes modern HDMI support, direct connection through the receiver is still simpler and may be preferable for home theater systems centered around audio performance.
Quick setup checklist
- Connect PS5 to the Marantz HDMI input or directly to the TV if needed
- Connect the Marantz HDMI output to the TV or use eARC
- Set PS5 video to Automatic and audio to HDMI Device (AV Amplifier)
- Match the receiver input assignment and HDMI signal format
- Confirm HDR, 4K, 120Hz, and surround sound on the PS5 information screens
Once these settings are aligned, a PS5 and Marantz receiver combination can deliver strong gaming audio, stable video, and flexible speaker routing for both casual and enthusiast setups.