Marantz has introduced two models to its reference-quality home theatre lineup.
The AV 20 AV Preamplifier and AMP 20 Power Amplifier can be combined in different system configurations and have been developed by the Marantz Sound Master.
Manufactured at Marantz’s factory in Japan, the two new models build on the home theatre pedigree of the award-winning AV 10 and AMP 10 pairing plus the CINEMA 30 AVR.
AV 20
The new AV 20 contains the most powerful Analogue Devices SHARC dual-core DSP chipset alongside 32-bit two-channel DACs with jitter reduction.
The digital platform can decode and process different forms of incoming audio – from high-resolution stereo to the latest forms of immersive audio, including Dolby Atmos, IMAX Enhanced, DTS:X Pro and AURO-3D.
AV 20 also features the option of Dirac Live Room Correction, plus Dirac Live Bass Control for fully optimised low-frequency integration with up to four independent subwoofers.
The preamplifier will also offer the latest and most powerful of Dirac’s extensive room-optimisation technologies: Dirac Live Active Room Treatment (ART), designed to provide cohesive and tonally consistent listening.
The Dirac Live ART upgrade will be supported via a future firmware update.
Each of the model’s seven HDMI inputs can support up to 8K/60Hz or 4K/120Hz video, while its new high-resolution user interface simplifies setup.
Multiple analogue and digital inputs enable adaptability for intimate media rooms through to dedicated and substantial home theatres.
The discrete HDAM SA-3 preamplifier stage feeds up to 13.4 channels via RCA or XLR outputs to deliver flexibility over system configurations.
The AV 20 also supports the latest HEOS whole-home multi-room platform for an effortless and integrated user experience: Roon Ready, Spotify Connect, TIDAL Connect, Qobuz Connect, AirPlay 2 and Bluetooth all complement HEOS.
AV 20
AMP 20
This model is configured as a 12-channel power amplifier with 200 watts per channel to drive multiple different speaker configurations and speaker layouts.
The AMP 20 can also reconfigure pairs of 200W amp channels into bridged-tied-load (BTL) outputs, with up to a maximum of six channels of 400W available if the chosen speaker system requires it.
Alternatively, users can bi-amp up to six speakers. Both XLR and RCA inputs are included.
The AMP 20 can also be combined into systems alongside other Marantz components; for example, as an upgrade for CINEMA 30 owners, or as a complement to AV 10 AV Preamplifiers where fewer channels of power are required.
In the same way, AV 20 buyers can opt to buy the 16-channel AMP 10 Power Amplifier instead of the AMP 20 if they require more than the 12 channels of power offered by AMP 20 in their home theatre system.
Giles Pocock, vice-president of Brand Marketing at Marantz, said: “The new models represent all that is best about the brand’s premium design, engineering excellence and attention to detail, and they also usefully expand the breadth and versatility of our offering in home theatre.”
The AV 20 and AMP 20 incorporate the latest generation of Marantz’s porthole display, built with a multi-layer chassis that features the use of copper.
The aluminium remote control includes backlighting to support the viewing experience in darkened rooms.
Pocock also emphasised the new additions are developing Marantz’ evolution in the high-performance audio world.