Displaying items by tag: marantz - StereoLife Magazine

Marantz, one of the most revered names in audio for over 70 years, introduced the new 10 Series Collection of three reference-quality stereo products. Comprising the Model 10 Reference Integrated Amplifier, the SACD 10 Reference SACD player and the Link 10n Reference Network Audio Player, the 10 Series Collection represents a new statement in high-end audio design and performance for Marantz, and is the first time the brand has released a new range reference high-end stereo components since 2016.

Developed over five years of extensive collaboration between all departments of the engineering team at the renowned Shirakawa Audio Works in Japan, the new 10 Series components embody unparalleled heritage, performance and contemporary luxury design. Built to the most demanding of standards, the design of each product is inspired by some of the most iconic hi-fi components in Marantz's storied history - yet at the same time, the engineering inside ensures that each component is both truly contemporary and ready to make the most of hi-fi's digital future.

The first product to be released from the new 10 Series Collection is the Model 10 Reference Integrated Amplifier, the most powerful one-box amplifier Marantz has ever made. Model 10 is built around a newly designed dual-mono symmetrical amplifier topology and uses a completely new copper-plated, triple-layered chassis with a compartmentalized design structure designed to provide complete engineering separation of each critical internal function. Two internal compartments plus strategically placed shields isolate high and low power circuits from each other and prevent internal interference from limiting performance.

The Model 10 powerplant is newly engineered. In partnership with Purifi, Marantz developed a new amplifier, two of which are used to achieve dual-mono operation. It operates as a fully balanced amplifier from input to output, with individual power supplies for each amplifier channel and all line-level input circuitry powered by a separate linear power supply unit. Distortion is astonishingly low - 0.05% THD across the entire audio band at full power and an order of magnitude better at half-rated power - while up to 30A of peak current means exceptional dynamic range, plus frequency response that is immune to load impedance.

Driving the novel amplifier section is an all-new preamplifier design based around the latest generation of Marantz's HDAM analogue circuitry. Designed to deliver the optimum combination of speed of response and transparency of signal, HDAM is a proprietary Marantz technology first introduced in the PM-99SE amplifier of 1992. The latest incarnation is the highest performing yet, ensuring the Model 10 has all the musicality for which Marantz amplifiers are rightly renowned.

Of course, as a reference-class integrated amplifier, Model 10 has a commensurately substantial power output, with 250W into 8 ohm speaker loads, rising to 500W with 4 ohm designs. If even more power is required, owners can opt to add a second Model 10 to create a superlative biamplified stereo system using Marantz's proprietary F.C.B.S (Floating Control Bus System) to link and control two amplifiers seamlessly. Up to four Model 10s can be connected together if needed.

Even the smallest details of Model 10's design have been engineered with the utmost care and attention. Its porthole-style OLED display screen references the form of classic Marantz products of the past yet its thoroughly contemporary specification can switch from displaying volume level to selected input to a VU Meter mode, if desired. Brightness and display timeout options can also be adjusted. For those that prefer tactile interaction with their hi-fi, the Model 10 features CNC machined spun-finished aluminum control knobs for volume and input selection, each with individual bearings for a smooth feel. Even the remote handset is unique to Model 10, featuring a teal-colored aluminum top surface for added heft and premium feel.

Internal detailing is every bit as quality-focused. Model 10's exquisite design features a unique mesh-covered grille section rippled with Marantz's iconic rhythmic design pattern and illuminated from within. The result is an amplifier like no other, one ready to invite the listener in with the warmth of both its design and its musical sound. The end result, in terms of attention to detail and clarity of layout, is every bit as exquisite as it sounds.

This distinct top section is complemented by lavish componentry elsewhere in the construction of Model 10. Its solid aluminum side panels are almost 16mm thick, providing an ultra-low-resonance structure. At the front of the amplifier, the special hairline finish on the extruded aluminum control surface is perfectly complemented by discreet LED lighting embedded around the assembly complete with 20 steps of adjustment over its levels of illumination.

Model 10 includes an extensive array of analogue inputs, including two XLR balanced ins, three RCA analogue ins and a high-quality phono stage, complete with both MM and three impedance options for broad MC compatibility. Preamplifier outputs are also provided, again in both XLR and RCA. Uniquely, Model 10 can also be configured to run solely as a power amplifier, bypassing its internal preamplifier, when partnered with its sibling in the new 10 Series Collection, the Link 10n Reference Network Audio Player. Naturally, selectable speaker A/B outputs are also included, alongside a very high-quality headphone output.

Shortly after Model 10 launches, it will be joined by first the SACD 10, a statement-quality SACD player built to the same exacting standards as its amplifier sibling, and then the Link 10n Reference Network Audio Player. At the heart of Link 10n is HEOS - a powerful and versatile digital audio engine that equips this reference model with an unusually comprehensive feature complement. Discerning listeners can stream high resolution from Tidal at up to the highest provided resolution of 192 kHz/24 bit. Music stored locally on USB or network servers can be played back at up to 384 kHz/32 bit and DSD 4X bit-perfect with no down sampling or conversion. An ever-growing list of other services and technologies are supported as well including AirPlay 2, Spotify Connect, Tidal Connect, Bluetooth, TuneIn, Deezer, Pandora and more meaning HEOS makes it simple to find what you love to listen to. Further, Link 10n can play with up to 32 other HEOS Built-In devices including home theater and stereo electronics, powered speakers, and sound bars in a home to create a diverse and entertaining whole-home audio system in which devices can be grouped to stream your favorite playlist in sync, or played separately. Introducing the first product in the new 10 Series Collection, the Model 10 integrated amplifier will be available soon from selected retailers at $15,000. Info and photos by Marantz.

Marantz introduced two exceptional new products to its portfolio of high-performance hi-fi components. The first is the latest addition to the brand's long-established and widely celebrated heritage as the world leader in CD player design - the new CD 50n Networked CD Player. The CD 50n is perfectly partnered by the new Marantz Model 50 Integrated Amplifier, an all-analog design combining exceptional realism and transparency with a purist approach sure to find favor with vinyl devotees. The resulting combination is a harmoniously designed and contemporary hi-fi system blending timeless elegance and outstanding performance with all the flexibility and cutting-edge technology that redefines modern musical luxury at its price point.

Marantz introduced the Cinema Series, a new lineup of premium yet easy-to-install home theater products that establish new benchmarks for high-end performance: impeccable sound quality, feature-rich design, and beautiful styling. Consisting of a flagship immersive preamp/processor with a matching 16-channel amplifier and four AV receivers/amplifiers, the Cinema Series indulges movie and audio aficionados with the most superior, and stunning, at-home listening experience possible.

Marantz introduced the CD 60 high-performance CD player, engineered to provide superior sound quality through the application of highly advanced circuitry and premium internal components. The CD 60 features a striking industrial design and exceptional build quality to give warmth, richness, and dimensionality to the music only Marantz brings to digital audio. "With so much attention devoted to the burgeoning vinyl market plus the popularity of streaming content, we sometimes forget that an entire generation of music lovers built sizable collections of beloved compact discs. Marantz was present at the dawn of CD technology with our original player, the CD 63. Now, the CD 60 reminds us why we fell in love with the format 40 years ago - delivering more warmth, musicality, and detail than any player in its class." - said Joel Sietsema, Marantz brand president.

Marantz introduced the Model 40n integrated amplifier. This new model sets a new standard for outstanding sound quality while providing easy access to a vast library of digital music, podcasts and more. Featuring exquisite design, the Model 40n has been engineered for those who appreciate excellence in craftsmanship and performance in all aspects of their lives. The Model 40n is constructed from the finest materials, adding elegance and refinement to any room. "I strongly believe you don’t have to be an audiophile to enjoy rich, warm sound. With our Model 40n we’ve further perfected the balance between what we’re known for - our sound - with added simplicity, gorgeous design, modern upgrades, and power. This product is truly ideal for those who require excellent performance yet find elegance in simplicity and ease of use." - said Joel Sietsema, Marantz president.

Marantz announced two products signifying a new era for the brand, the Model 30 Integrated Amplifier, and SACD 30n Network Audio Streamer & SACD Player. Born out of the founding mission of Saul Marantz, whose aim was getting the listener as close to the original recording as possible, the Model 30 and SACD 30n were expertly designed and precisely tuned over the last three years. Meticulously manufactured in Shirakawa, Japan, they are also the first Marantz products to launch with the brand's new industrial design language, celebrating and modernizing signature design elements from legendary Marantz products of the 1950s, 60s, and 70s.

Marantz announced the PM7000N, the company's first fully discrete integrated Hi-Fi amplifier with wireless music streaming capabilities. With HEOS Built-in, listeners can stream up to the highest resolution music from Amazon HD, Spotify, Pandora, TIDAL and more, or local music file libraries. The PM7000N has been engineered using custom designed, hand-selected, high-grade audio components to deliver truly exceptional sound quality with Hi-Res audio support, onboard phono stage, voice control, and more.

Marantz announced the M-CR612 compact network CD receiver. The feature-rich mini system is ideal for passionate listeners looking for a simple solution without sacrificing the beautiful soundstage and imaging typical of Marantz components. The M-CR612 offers streaming capabilities with HEOS, Airplay 2 and Bluetooth alongside a built-in CD player for exceptional reproduction of any audio collection. Powerful enough to drive two pairs of loudspeakers with independent volume control or a single pair with double the output power, the M-CR612 encapsulates 65 years of Hi-Fi expertise in a superbly crafted, easy-to-enjoy package.

Marantz introduced a home theater pre-amplifier with 13.2 channel processing and full 4K Ultra HD. The AV8805 supports virtually any high-resolution multichannel audio format, including the latest surround formats from Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, and Auro-3D. Current feedback HDAMs enhance music for a superior listening experience, plus whole-home audio and voice-control make the AV8805 a must-have for serious cinephiles.

Ken Ishiwata is probably one of the most influential personalities in our industry. His engineering talent allowed him to design many great devices and modify Marantz's standard equipment. Amplifiers and CD players signed with his initials are very sought after, and regular models only go into production after gaining his approval. Born in Japan in 1947, Ken Ishiwata is also one of passionate music lovers who had a chance to experience almost every major technology and music format, from tube amps to streamers, from mono recordings to hi-res music files. Privately, he's a very original person who likes to share his passion with other music lovers.