Audio High


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165 Moffett Blvd
Mtn View, CA 94043

650.964.4000
info@audiohigh.com

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Southern California
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605 North La Brea Ave
Los Angeles, CA 90036

323.939.3000
AHLA@audiohigh.com

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Gig Harbor, Washington
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About Us‎ > ‎Products‎ > ‎

Marantz Reference


For more than half a century, the name Marantz has identified the best in home entertainment. And today, even in the midst of burgeoning and often confusing technology, these components still emulate the vision that originally drove Saul Marantz to expand the sensory horizons of even the most demanding aficionados.

Today the Marantz Reference line is a shining example of pride in craftsmanship with a series of products that are gorgeous, well-built, and a joy to listen to. Below are a few examples of products in their line. Come in to Audio High to learn about the rest of the line and listen for yourself.

Click on any of the images to see larger versions of these products.


SC-7S2 Reference Control Amplifier

Sheer sonic superiority.  That’s one way to describe the SC-7S2.  Sheer artistic expression.  That’s another way.  Both are correct.  But neither touches the whole truth. The SC-7S2 represents a major retune of our Reference Statement Control Amplifier. The best from Marantz just got better.

The SC-7S2 thoroughly updates the distinctive voice of the original Marantz Model 7 preamplifier and further improves on the acclaimed SC-7S1.  This work of art defines new horizons in both musical performance and contemporary elegance.  It is an enduring testament to the synergy of today’s technologies with frequency response and channel separation far exceeding conventional requirements.

The SC-7S2 achieves these goals with a fully balanced current-feedback topology and a power supply based on a aluminum-encased toroid power transformer, Shottky barrier rectifier diodes, and low-ESR electrolytic storage capacitors for optimal power conditioning and distribution.  Each input is fully buffered with Marantz-developed discrete circuitry for accurate signal transfer.  Four Wolfson WM8816 high-precision multi-gang volume controls and 12 Marantz-proprietary HDAM-SA modules form an incredibly precise attenuation circuit fully capable of 0.5 dB resolution throughout its entire 100 dB range.  Although the SC-7S2 is devoutly two-channel, it acknowledges multi-channel music with a floating bus (our F.C.B.S.) that allows you to control multiple units simultaneously for exciting multi-channel reproduction of any source.

The copper-plated aluminum chassis provides exceptional dimensional stability while copper and steel sub-members offer isolation from radio frequency (RF) and electromagnetic interferences (EMI).  Adjustable muting and trim let you tailor the SC-7S2 to your preferences.  You can turn off the display to totally reduce potential distractions.  And a Marantz system remote control lets you enjoy the SC-7S2’s exceptional performance from your favorite listening/viewing location.


MA-9S2 Reference Monaural Power Amplifier

Far more than massive current capability elegantly housed in brushed aluminum, the MA-9S2 thoroughly updates the performance of our original Model 9.  It’s the culmination of more than a half-century’s effort in reproducing audio in the home.  Of course, this must be a Marantz. A major untertaking, the engineers at Marantz tore apart the MA-9S1 and redesigned it from the ground up to be even faster, with less noise, and more authority. The MA-9S2 represents over 50 years of expertise in amplifier circuitry, and sincere love of music.

We began with the historic Model 9.  We improved that distinctive voice with the MA-9S1.  And now we present the MA-9S2 as the latest step in our relentless pursuit of sonic accuracy.  It defines new horizons in both musical performance and contemporary elegance.

When you first see the MA-9S2, you’ll be impressed with its clean yet purposeful look.  The 35mm-thick aluminum chassis and double-layer bottom plate forms an extraordinary rigid structure.  Copper coating isolated delicate internal circuitry from extraneous interference.

Power output is the same (300 watts into 8 ohms, 600 watts into 4) as that of the MA-9S1.  This “double down” capability speaks directly to the MA-9S2’s current delivery prowess and, consequently, its ability to absolutely control any loudspeaker.  Although this “brute force” approach might be adequate for some, the S2 incorporates several advances designed to further improve sound quality.

First, consider the power supply.  The toroid power transformer benefits from a newly-developed “dual hemisphere” design with acoustical isolation augmented by silicon steel and a damped aluminum case.  This greatly reduces internal vibration and sets the stage for finer resolution of sonic nuances.   Shottky barrier diodes provide rectification for the voltage amplification stage to eliminate subtle ripples that can negatively impact overall clarity.  Finally, the storage capacitor bank so important for the current amplification stage is 50% larger than that used in the S1 for even more prodigious yet superbly controlled bass response.

In addition to fully balanced differential topology, the S2 uses current feedback implemented with six HDAM-SA modules for faster response and lower noise.

Flexibility is a key element in the MA-9S2’s appeal, too.  Three switchable inputs (two single ended, one balanced) complement the biwire-capable WBT speaker outputs.  The high-precision power meter lets you keep tabs on the amplifier.  Or you can switch it off completely for concentrated listening.

All in all, the S2 is a textbook example of meticulous engineering.  As did the original, this contemporary masterpiece redefines the art of audio amplification.


SC-7S2 Reference Control Amplifier


Sheer sonic superiority.  That’s one way to describe the SC-7S2.  Sheer artistic expression.  That’s another way.  Both are correct.  But neither touches the whole truth. The SC-7S2 represents a major retune of our Reference Statement Control Amplifier. The best from Marantz just got better.

The SC-7S2 thoroughly updates the distinctive voice of the original Marantz Model 7 preamplifier and further improves on the acclaimed SC-7S1.  This work of art defines new horizons in both musical performance and contemporary elegance.  It is an enduring testament to the synergy of today’s technologies with frequency response and channel separation far exceeding conventional requirements.

The SC-7S2 achieves these goals with a fully balanced current-feedback topology and a power supply based on a aluminum-encased toroid power transformer, Shottky barrier rectifier diodes, and low-ESR electrolytic storage capacitors for optimal power conditioning and distribution.  Each input is fully buffered with Marantz-developed discrete circuitry for accurate signal transfer.  Four Wolfson WM8816 high-precision multi-gang volume controls and 12 Marantz-proprietary HDAM-SA modules form an incredibly precise attenuation circuit fully capable of 0.5 dB resolution throughout its entire 100 dB range.  Although the SC-7S2 is devoutly two-channel, it acknowledges multi-channel music with a floating bus (our F.C.B.S.) that allows you to control multiple units simultaneously for exciting multi-channel reproduction of any source.

The copper-plated aluminum chassis provides exceptional dimensional stability while copper and steel sub-members offer isolation from radio frequency (RF) and electromagnetic interferences (EMI).  Adjustable muting and trim let you tailor the SC-7S2 to your preferences.  You can turn off the display to totally reduce potential distractions.  And a Marantz system remote control lets you enjoy the SC-7S2’s exceptional performance from your favorite listening/viewing location.


PM-11S2 Reference Series Integrated Amplifier

A styling exercise worthy of Saul Marantz himself, the PM-11S2 Reference Series integrated amplifier’s beauty is far more than skin deep. With performance directly traceable to the cost-no-object SC-7S2 Reference Series preamplifier and MA-9S2 monoblock power amplifier, this stunningly functional component combines advanced circuitry and hand-selected parts to virtually define sonic truth.


Ultimate finesse often starts with brute over-engineering.  At least, that’s the case with the Marantz PM-11S2 Reference Series integrated amplifier.

The power supply, that critical stage that provides operating voltages for every circuitry stage, features a massive toroidal transformer newly configured for minimum mechanical vibration.  Completely covered by an aluminum case, and mounted to the chassis on its own 10mm-thick aluminum base, this multiple-secondary device weighs 14.5 pounds in itself.  Another power supply design element is a choke input using a large capacitor to eliminate high frequency noise.  Schottky barrier diodes in the rectifier section provide high instantaneous current capability and quicker response than conventional circuit elements.

The PM-11S2’s preamplifier section features fully balanced circuitry with liberal applications of Marantz’s HDAM® (Hyper Dynamic Amplifier Module) in their newest SA3 configuration.  Sonically, the SA3 modules assure smooth stage-to-stage signal transitions and help provide the silken response so prized by audiophiles.

Each input includes a separate HDAM®-SA3 buffer stage that virtually eliminates unwanted interactions between source and amplifier.  And, of course, the XLR input’s buffer is a balanced HDAM® configuration.  The phono input, ready for both MM and MC phono cartridges, boasts full constant current feedback topology implemented with discrete device.  This minimizes the sonic discontinuity often observed with lower quality equalization circuits as LP signals range from low to high frequencies.

The final preamplifier stage includes a high-precision digital volume control. Augmented by more HDAM® devices, it provides easily repeatable gain settings as well as faultless transition from preamp to power amp stages.

On the amplifier side, the PM-11S2 evidences the same level of careful consideration.  Signal traces, the copper “roads” that carry current, are far wider than convention dictates.

Configured as two “semi-monoblocks” that share only a common chassis, power cord, and transformer, each amplifier channel draws on the MA-9S2’s minimalist two stage design in which a voltage amplifier determines overall gain and then feeds a current stage which provides the force needed to drive the loudspeakers of your choice.

The end result?  An integrated amplifier comfortable with virtually any loudspeaker.  With the ability to “double down” power into low impedances, the PM-11S2 often surpasses the speaker control capability of so-called “super amps”.

A 5mm thick aluminum plate tops the rigid copper-plated chassis and its dual layer bottom provides a firm foundation for all internal components.  Two sets of WBT speaker terminals and front panel A/B speaker switching add a rare level of convenience.  You can also configure a pair of these remarkable components to bi-amp your favorite speakers.  And F.C.B.S., our proprietary Floating Control Bus System, synchronizes for up to three PM-11S2s for multi-channel applications.

Front panel cosmetics are as advanced as the circuitry behind them.  Indirect blue LEDs display status with a décor-friendly sophisticated elegance.  You’ll also be happy to note that the display is a low noise LCD that exacts no performance penalty as it keeps you informed about the PM-11S2’s operation.

The Marantz PM-11S2.  A true Reference in every sense of the word.  Simplicity. Flexibility.  And aural capability beyond your expectations.  But isn’t that exactly what you expect?  After all, you’re considering a Marantz.


Listening

Come see all of these products and more from Marantz at Audio High. And don't forget to bring your favorite music with you!