Marantz Processor Offers 11.2 Surround, AirPlay, Audyssey EQ

With the introduction of its new AV8801 preamplifier/processor Marantz is providing its dealers and vast following of consumers a flagship home theater processing solution that incorporates the latest technologies. Some of those technologies includes Apple’s AirPlay; options for 11.2 surround sound processing, a choice of XLR (balanced) and RCA outputs and Audyssey Laboratories’ MultEQ XT32 room equalization (EQ) and Sub EQ HT processing technologies. Marantz also incorporates proprietary technologies such as an over-sized toroidal power supply, along with its High Current Feedback Technology and copper-plated chassis.

“Marantz has a longstanding reputation for building components that allow the most discerning consumers and professional custom integrators to create uncompromising dream systems,” says Yoshinori Yamada, product planning manager, D+M Group.

“With our AV8801 preamp we are bringing many of the same technologies and innovations that distinguish our world renowned Reference Series to a new, more affordable price range for the premium home theater category. This new flagship preamp delivers all the unmatched Marantz audio and video performance our customers demand, along with the world’s most up-to-date networking and content access technologies, like more HDMI connectivity options, plus 4K video capability, built-in AirPlay and more”

The company says the preamplifier/processor utilizes 32-bit/192kHz digital-to-analog converters (DACs) on all channels, and Marantz points out that it is capable of decoding WAV, FLAC and ALAC (Apple Lossless) files. Some of the preamplifier/processor’s video capabilities include high-resolution processing with the ability to upconvert standard definition sources up to HD, and HD sources up to 4K levels. The DLNA 1.5-certified preamp also has connectivity for streaming Internet radio stations such as Pandora and provisions to receive XM satellite radio. The 3D-friendly AV8801 also offers seven HDMI inputs and three HDMI outputs and set up options for multi-zone configurations.