Marantz is revamping its CINEMA line. The new Series 2 features 32-bit converter technology, more Dirac Live options, enhanced HDMI and gaming capabilities, and additional installation tools for home theater and custom integration.
Marantz is relaunching its successful CINEMA series. The CINEMA Series 2 builds on the design, features, and user interface of the current models, but is said to have been further developed in key areas. The focus is on improvements in sound quality, connectivity options, gaming compatibility, and installation flexibility.
As is customary with Marantz, the manufacturer states that the new models were tuned by the Marantz Sound Master. The goal is not only to deliver greater technical performance, but also to provide a more emotionally engaging entertainment experience for movies, music, and games.
The new generation includes the Marantz CINEMA 50 Series 2, the Marantz CINEMA 60 DAB Series 2, and the compact Marantz CINEMA 70s Series 2. Prices range from 1,100 euros to 2,100 euros.
New DAC architecture for all channels
One of the most important technical innovations concerns digital-to-analog conversion. The receivers in the Marantz CINEMA Series 2 feature a new 32-bit, eight-channel DAC architecture. It enables dedicated, simultaneous high-resolution signal conversion across all channels.
This is intended not only to improve precision but also to ensure consistent surround sound reproduction. Simultaneous processing of the channels is designed to reduce timing errors and simplify the signal path. After all, clean channel separation is a key factor, especially in complex home theater setups with many speakers.
More Models with Dirac Live
Marantz is also expanding the possibilities when it comes to room correction. Dirac Live Room Correction remains a paid option, but is now available for additional models in the series. In addition to the CINEMA 50, the CINEMA 60 DAB Series 2 and the CINEMA 70s Series 2 also support an upgrade to Dirac Live.
This allows room acoustic effects to be corrected through calibration and digital signal processing. For ambitious home theater setups, the CINEMA 50 Series 2 remains the most comprehensive model: It continues to support the entire Dirac ecosystem, including Room Correction, Bass Control, and Active Room Treatment(ART).
Bluetooth LE Audio and the Enhanced HEOS Platform
For wireless playback, Marantz has announced a future firmware update supporting Bluetooth LE Audio. This is primarily intended to reduce latency with compatible headphones and mobile devices. A shorter delay between video and audio is a practical advantage, especially for movie soundtracks and gaming.
In addition, the CINEMA Series 2 features an enhanced HEOS platform with additional multiroom capabilities. With this, Marantz remains true to its strategy of positioning classic AV receivers not only as home theater hubs but also as connected music systems for everyday use.
Web Control 2.0 and HDMI Diagnostics 2.0
The new series includes additional tools for setup and installation. Web Control 2.0 allows you to configure and control the system via a web browser on a smartphone, tablet, or computer. This is convenient if you don’t want to use the on-screen menu via a connected TV or if the receiver is located in a rack or equipment room.
For custom installation applications, HDMI Diagnostics 2.0 is also available. This feature is designed to assist with checking HDMI connections and troubleshooting. Another new feature is a channel level monitor that visualizes channel activity in real time. This makes it easier to verify that all speakers are being driven correctly.
Dolby Atmos Channel Expander for the CINEMA 50 Series 2
An exclusive feature of the Marantz CINEMA 50 Series 2 is the Dolby Atmos Channel Expander. For channel-based Dolby Atmos content, it can incorporate all available speakers into the playback. This should be particularly interesting for larger speaker setups where not all channels are fully utilized by every audio track.
Also exclusive to the CINEMA 50 Series 2 is a new center bi-amp mode for compatible center speakers. It complements the existing bi-amp mode for suitable front speakers.
Gaming at 1440p with AMD FreeSync
Marantz is also upgrading the CINEMA Series 2 for current gaming platforms. New features include support for 1440p video pass-through and AMD FreeSync. On compatible PCs and consoles, this allows for better synchronization of video output and refresh rates, which is designed to reduce screen tearing and lower input latency.
Combined with its existing HDMI 2.1 features, Marantz is clearly positioning these new receivers as the hub for modern gaming setups.
Tried-and-true design, more sustainable packaging
Externally, Marantz remains true to its current CINEMA design language. The Series 2 retains the elegant look of previous models but has been further refined internally. Features mentioned include copper-plated parts, carefully selected components, and an optimized design.
There are also changes to the packaging: Marantz is reducing the amount of plastic used and relying more on recyclable paper materials.
The Marantz CINEMA Series 2 Models
The Marantz CINEMA 50 Series 2 is the top-of-the-line model in the new series. It features nine built-in amplifier channels, 11.4-channel signal processing, full Dirac Live support—including Bass Control and ART—as well as exclusive features such as Dolby Atmos Channel Expander and Center Bi-Amp mode.
The Marantz CINEMA 60 DAB Series 2 incorporates key innovations from the platform, including the new DAC architecture, Dirac Live-Ready functionality, and expanded connectivity options. It is designed for users who want to build a high-performance home theater system but do not need the full range of channels and features offered by the CINEMA 50.
The Marantz CINEMA 70s Series 2 features an exceptionally slim chassis and combines it with the new DAC platform as well as the enhanced streaming and connectivity features found in the larger models. Like the other models, it also offers preamp outputs for all channels, allowing external power amplifiers to be connected.
Prices and availability
| Model | Type | Price | Availability |
|---|---|---|---|
| Marantz CINEMA 50 Series 2 | AV Amplifier | 2,100 euros | Early October |
| Marantz CINEMA 60 DAB Series 2 | AV receiver | 1,450 euros | Mid-September |
| Marantz CINEMA 70s Series 2 | AV receiver | 1,100 euros | Mid-October |
Technical Highlights of the Marantz CINEMA Series 2
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| DAC Architecture | 32-bit, 8-channel DAC |
| Room Correction | Dirac Live Room Correction (optional) |
| Dirac Expansion | CINEMA 50 Series 2 with Room Correction, Bass Control, and ART |
| Streaming | Expanded HEOS Platform |
| Bluetooth | Bluetooth LE Audio via a future firmware update |
| Operation | Web Control 2.0 via Browser |
| Installation | HDMI Diagnostics 2.0, Channel Level Monitor |
| Gaming | 1440p Video Pass-Through, AMD FreeSync |
| HDMI | HDMI 2.1 Features |
| Top Model | CINEMA 50 Series 2 with 9 power amplifiers and 11.4-channel processing |
| Special Features | Dolby Atmos Channel Expander, Center Bi-Amp Mode on the CINEMA 50 Series 2 |
| Packaging | Less plastic, more recyclable paper materials |
