Marantz has introduced the next generation of its home theatre receivers, building on the current CINEMA range with streamlined functionality suited to custom installers.
The new Series 2 models are said to "introduce meaningful advancements in sound quality, connectivity, gaming compatibility and installation flexibility", tuned by the Marantz Sound Master.
Shipped in redesigned and more environmentally friendly packaging, the range comprises the CINEMA 50 Series 2, CINEMA 60 Series 2, CINEMA 60 DAB Series 2 (available in Europe only), and CINEMA 70s Series 2.
A newly implemented 32-bit, eight-channel DAC serves each model, delivering simultaneous conversion across every channel; Marantz says this architecture reduces timing errors and simplifies the signal path.
At the top of the range, the CINEMA 50 Series 2 offers nine channels of amplification and 11.4 channels of processing.
Across the range, the CINEMA 60 Series 2 brings upgraded connectivity to a wider audience, while the slimline CINEMA 70s Series 2 targets installations where space is at a premium.
The CINEMA 70s Series 2
Dirac Live Room Correction is now available across all the models at extra cost, with the CINEMA 50 Series 2 supporting the full Dirac ecosystem (Room Correction, Bass Control and Active Room Treatment).
A future firmware update will add Low-Latency Bluetooth LE Audio for compatible headphones and mobile devices, while an upgraded HEOS platform aims to enhance streaming capabilities.
The new Web Control 2.0 enables system configuration and control from a smartphone, tablet or computer, reducing reliance on TV on-screen menus during installation.
Custom installers will also be interested in HDMI Diagnostics 2.0 within CI Mode, which provides automated HDMI verification and troubleshooting tools designed to reduce setup time.
A new Channel Level Monitoring feature offers real-time visualisation of channel activity, simplifying speaker and system checks.
Exclusive to the CINEMA 50 Series 2, Dolby Atmos Channel Expander uses all available speakers when playing channel-based Dolby Atmos content.
The model also adds Centre Bi-Amp Mode for improved dialogue clarity, while support for 1440p video pass-through and AMD FreeSync compatibility enables smoother gameplay.
Across the range, full-channel preamp outputs support integration with external power amplifiers.
Featured image: The CINEMA 50 Series 2