The new MODEL 1 streaming amplifier from Marantz is compact power for home music.
These days, many of us have abandoned physical media when it comes to music. Sure, there’s been a vinyl renaissance, and even CDs and cassettes are seeing a slight increase in sales, but most of us now stream. Whether it’s Spotify, Tidal, Amazon, Qobuz or Deezer, we use audio with an online subscription
Now audio brand Marantz has announced its latest network streamer in the form of the new MODEL M1. Launched today, this next-generation wireless streamer is a compact device that only needs speakers. It is aimed at first-time hi-fi buyers as well as experienced audio enthusiasts.
The Marantz MODEL M1 has enough power to drive a wide range of loudspeakers, whether it’s a pair of compact bookshelf models or a large floor-standing structure. The M1 has a highly efficient 100W stereo output with just 0.005% THD distortion through its digital inputs.
Marantz says these kinds of numbers are usually only found in amps that cost a lot more. There is even an option to add a subwoofer for a 2.1 channel configuration. The subwoofer can have full frequency adjustment of both the high and low filters independently, along with +/-15dB of subwoofer level adjustment.
About the size of a large cookie pan. MODEL M1 from Marantz features 100W per channel … [+]
In addition to powerful amplification, the Marantz MODEL M1 also has support for high-resolution audio, including 24-bit/192 kHz PCM support and DSD support. To ensure that these high definition signals are delivered in the best possible quality, the MODEL M1 is digital from start to finish. This design simplifies the signal flow and Marantz says it eliminates errors caused by cheap DACs found in some traditional hi-fi.
The fully digital design also means that all audio sources have access to the M1’s powerful DSP technologies, including Marantz Music Digital Filtering (MMDF), first developed for the company’s reference audiophile CD players.
The new MODEL M1 uses the HEOS app to access all music services available on the HEOS platform, including TIDAL support and Roon Ready updates coming soon. In addition to HEOS, the MODEL M1 supports Bluetooth, Spotify Connect and AirPlay2, allowing you to stream almost any content. Audio files can even be played from a USB-A drive, turning the M1 into a digital jukebox.
For those looking to access physical media, the MODEL M1 offers connectivity to legacy analog devices such as a vinyl record player, cassette deck or FM tuner. No phono stage is included, but there are line-level analogue RCA inputs.
The new MODEL 1 from Marantz includes USB, eARC HDMI, TOSLink optical, but no coaxial input. PUSH … [+]
MODEL M1 is also offered as an alternative to a TV soundbar. The M1 has an eARC HDMI input that offers system control via the TV remote to adjust volume levels, mute and power functions. Integrated Dolby Digital+ decoding supports the latest audio codecs used by broadcast and streaming TV services in high quality, and there are a number of useful settings features, including a Dialogue Enhancer option.
this makes it easier to hear voices at lower volume levels. There is also a virtual mode that uses Dolby processing to generate a three-dimensional sound field from stereo content.
The MODEL M1 can also share music around the house with other HEOS-compatible devices, including stereo and AVR components. The HEOS app provides full control over the functionality of the MODEL M1, even when the amplifier is installed out of line of sight. However, for greater integration into custom installation systems, the MODEL M1 is compatible with a number of third-party control systems, including Crestron, Control4 and URC. HEOS also offers IR learning so you can use other brands of remote controls.
Price and Availability: The new Marantz MODEL M1 is available from today and costs $1,000 / £900 / €1,000
More information: marantz.com
Technical Specifications:
- Amplification: 2 x 100W / 8Ω.
- Frequency response: 20 Hz – 20 kHz.
- Digital audio support: 192 kHz / 24-bit.
- Wi-Fi: 2.4GHz, 5GHz and 6GHz wireless plus Gigabit Ethernet.
- Inputs: Stereo RCA x 1, HDMI eARC x 1, USB-A x 1, Optical.
- Streaming: HEOS Built-In, Bluetooth, Apple Airplay 2, Spotify Connect and support for other streaming services.
- Subwoofer output with full function settings.