I've never owned AVRs from either company, but I recently upgraded out of a Marantz integrated amp (PM8004) so I can comment on the Pure Direct mode on that component. And I also own an Onkyo AVR with that feature.
On the Onkyo I cannot hear any difference whatsoever with that feature engaged. Doesn't matter what kind of source material, I just can't hear any difference. For all I know, the button has been broken since I got the thing :-)
The Marantz is a completely different story - the Pure Direct on that makes a big difference to the sound. It made the sound much more airy and live-sounding, with greater presence, sparkle and depth. On darker recordings, or live performances, it was really nice. Of course, on brighter recordings it made things worse, so I had to be judicious in using that feature.
On the Onkyo I cannot hear any difference whatsoever with that feature engaged. Doesn't matter what kind of source material, I just can't hear any difference. For all I know, the button has been broken since I got the thing :-)
The Marantz is a completely different story - the Pure Direct on that makes a big difference to the sound. It made the sound much more airy and live-sounding, with greater presence, sparkle and depth. On darker recordings, or live performances, it was really nice. Of course, on brighter recordings it made things worse, so I had to be judicious in using that feature.