Marantz is expanding its lineup of reference-quality home theater components with the AV 30 (an 11.4-channel AV preamplifier) and the AMP 30 Power Preamplifier. These products join the AV 10 / AMP 10 as well as the AV 20 / AMP 20 duos in the line.
What’s the Power Behind the AV 30?
Marantz AV 30
Digging into the hardware of the AV 30 first, the preamp uses Marantz’s Analog Devices SHARC dual-core DSP chipset couple with 32-bit DACs. Additionally, the AV 30 leverages Audyssey MultEQ XT32 room optimization to calibrate sound based off speaker sizes, distances, level adjustments, all enabled by an included microphone.
The preamp also features options for Dirac Live, Dirac Bass Control and Dirac Active Room Treatment (ART).
Furthermore, the device comes equipped with HEOS, which opens streaming content on the preamp through platforms like Roon Ready, TIDAL Connect, Spotify Connect and more to simplify streaming access across hardware devices.
And the AMP 30?
Marantz AMP 30
Moving onto the Marantz AMP 30, the power preamp is configured as a 6-channel power amplifier able to supply 200 watts per channel with the option of reconfiguring channel pairs into bridged-tied-load (BTL) outputs with up to a maximum of 400W available.
Alternatively, Marantz states users can opt to bi-amp up to three speakers.
Both components feature XLR and RCA connections for output and input, respectively. Additionally, both support 8K media for seven HDMI inputs and 3 HDMI outputs.
What Audio Formats are Supported on the AV 30?
According to Marantz, the AV 30 will support all the latest forms of immersive sound formats, which includes Dolby Atmos, IMAX Enhanced, DTS:X and Auro-3D.
Modern Takes on Marantz’s Industrial Design
Both preamps incorporate Marantz’s iconic porthole display and industrial design language. Both models feature selectable side illumination with a fold-down panel on the AV 30 to conceal all lesser-used functions when not in use.
The remote, as well, comes with built-in backlighting for ease of use in darker environments.
Where the AV 30 and AMP 30 Fit into the Marantz Ecosystem
In speaking on the new products, Marantz emphasized that each preamp was designed to be flexible within the Marantz ecosystem. For instance, the company suggested pairing the AMP 30 with the front three speakers in a system based on a CINEMA 30 AVR.
Additionally, both can complement other reference grade home theater components in the same series. An AMP 30 can be paired with an existing AV 10- or AV 20-based system, and vice versa.
The Marantz AV 30 and AMP 30 will cost $4000 MSRP (separately) upon release, with the company stating that both will be available from select retailers beginning in January.
