Marantz Model 40n: the best connected amplifier from Marantz?

15 February 2022

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Updated on 24 February 2022

New for 2022, the Marantz Model 40n combines the premium design of the Marantz Model 30 amplifier with the network features of the Marantz PM7000N connected amp. A perfect match for these two multi-award-winning electronics, the Marantz Model 40n amplifier offers even more connectors than its predecessors, with analog and digital inputs, including an HDMI ARC port. Its network player with integrated Heos multi-room connectivity can access many online music services, tracks shared on the local network and web radios, but can also receive music via AirPlay 2 and Bluetooth. Finally, the HDAM SA3 high-efficiency amplifier modules promise to deliver up to 2 x 70 watts into 8 ohms. Available for €2,499 from March 10, 2022, what does this latest generation connected amplifier have in store for us?

*The amplifier is a versatile and powerful solution, incorporating the key elements of the Marantz Model 30 with the network features of the Marantz PM7000N.*

Marantz Model 40n: packaging & accessories

The manufacturer includes an infrared remote control that has the same design as that of the Marantz Model 30 with the Marantz Model 40n amplifier. Two antennas for Bluetooth and WiFi connections are also included, as well as a power cable and a quick start guide.

Marantz Model 40n: presentation

Design

The Marantz Model 40n connected amplifier has the same aesthetic codes as the Marantz Model 30. As a result, it features a non-magnetic aluminum chassis that is reinforced to eliminate vibrations. The front panel has a convex metal plate with recesses that resemble those of a golf ball. In its center is a thick aluminum plate inspired by the electronics of the 60s and 70s. The latter accommodates the different potentiometers and the circular central display. On this front panel, the differences with the Marantz Model 30 amplifier are minimal and only the name of the model really differentiates the two amplifiers.

*The Marantz Model 40n connected amplifier (the silver model on the top shelf) has the same aesthetic codes as the Marantz Model 30 (black model on the bottom shelf) and the Marantz SACD 30N CD player.*

HDAM amplification

The Marantz Model 40n connected amplifier’s amplification stage can deliver 2 x 70 watts into 8 ohms with a very low distortion of 0.02%. Therefore, it is very slightly more powerful than the Marantz PM7000N and its 2 x 60 watts, but remains more modest than the Model 30’s 2 x 100 watts. This amplifier stage relies on HDAM SA3 modules developed by Marantz. They are combined with a toroidal power transformer and a high-capacity power supply whose reactive current layout developed by Marantz ensures instantaneous response to dynamic shifts. The capacity of this power supply makes it possible to provide a large quantity of current ensuring that demanding speakers are properly powered.

*The Marantz Model 40n connected amplifier features a toroidal power transformer to ensure high current capacity for effectively powering demanding speakers.*

Connectors

While the Marantz Model 30 speaker has an entirely analog design, the new Marantz Model 40n is more versatile as it offers both analog and digital inputs. Its analog stage includes three line level RCA inputs, as well as a phono input compatible with MM cartridges. The use of an external stereo pre-amplifier is also possible by using the Power Amp In input which allows you to directly drive the amplifier stage. The Marantz Model 40n then functions as a power amplifier. While the opposite was also possible with the Model 30, the Marantz Model 40n no longer offers a pre out. Instead, it has a subwoofer output.

The Marantz Model 40n amplifier has four digital inputs, with an optical and coaxial input to connect a CD/SACD player, for example. For the first time, an HDMI ARC input has been added to facilitate the connection of a TV and to recover the soundtrack of the program being watched. However, the Marantz Model 40n is not an AV receiver and cannot decode Dolby and DTS audio streams. It is therefore important to set the TV and 4K Blu-ray player’s audio output to PCM.

*The digital stage of the Marantz Model 40n amplifier includes a coaxial and optical input for connecting a CD player, as well as an HDMI ARC port for easy connection to a TV.*

Lastly, the Marantz Model 40n amplifier has a USB-A port on the rear panel that can be used to play high-resolution audio files on a USB stick or external hard drive. The latter can also be used to power USB equipment such as an external DAC or a Bluetooth receiver, for example.

For its two pairs of speaker terminals, the Marantz Model 40n uses the same connectors as the Marantz PM7000N amp. It uses Marantz SPKT-1+ terminals that are compatible with wide gauge cables as well as with spade connectors and banana plugs. They have the distinctive feature of being enclosed in a plastic casing with a circular hole on the side to guide the insertion of stripped cable, but also with a slot for inserting a spade connector.

*The Marantz Model 40n amplifier uses the same high-end speaker terminals as the Marantz PM7000N, compatible with wide gauge cables, spade connectors and banana plugs.*

Heos and streaming

Once connected to the network via WiFi or Ethernet, the Marantz Model 40n hi-fi amplifier multiplies its capabilities thanks to Heos technology. This technology opens the doors to streaming, with access to music shared via DLNA over the local network, web radios via TuneIn, as well as native support for the most popular online music services including Spotify, Deezer, Tidal and Amazon Music. To do this, the Heos system relies on the mobile app of the same name available for iOS and Android smartphones and tablets.

To convert digital audio files, the Marantz Model 40n amp uses an ES9016K2M DAC. This chip supports 24-bit, 192kHz PCM audio streams (WAV / FLAC / ALAC), as well as DSD64 (2.8MHz) and DSD128 (5.6 MHz) files, from the local network, the Internet (high-resolution streaming services) or a USB device.

AirPlay 2 and Bluetooth

While very comprehensive, unfortunately HEOS technology still does not integrate Qobuz. To enjoy this service or any other audio stream, it is possible to take advantage of AirPlay 2 compatibility from an iPod, iPhone, iPad or Mac. To do this, simply select the Marantz Model 40n amplifier as a receiver in the audio settings of the Apple device and it will turn on and play the music. For an Android device or a device that is not AirPlay compatible, this can be done via Bluetooth. However, only the SBC codec is supported, which does not allow for very high bandwidth streaming.

*The Marantz Model 40n connected hi-fi amplifier can easily receive any audio stream via AirPlay 2 (CD quality) or Bluetooth for wireless music streaming.*

Multi-room

Once connected to the local network, the Marantz Model 40n amplifier can be combined with multiple Denon or Marantz Heos-compatible speakers or equipment to form a multi-room audio system. Using the Heos app, it is then possible to create multiple listening zones within the home and simultaneously play the same music everywhere or different songs in each room. Multi-room streaming can also be done with AirPlay 2 compatible devices, this time using the Apple Home mobile app.

Control & management

The Marantz Model 40n connected amplifier can be controlled in a variety of ways. At close range, its physical interface on the front panel allows you to adjust the volume, select the source, activate the Pure Audio mode or make your own tone and balance adjustments. The circular LCD display shows essential information such as the name of the active source or the volume level.

*The many knobs on the front of the Marantz Model 40n amplifier allow you to select the source, activate the Pure Audio mode and adjust the tone, balance and volume.*

The Marantz Model 40n amplifier can be controlled remotely with its infrared remote control. The latter benefits from a premium design directly derived from the Marantz Model 30 remote control. It provides all the essential functions of the amp, but can also control other Marantz equipment, such as the brand’s CD/SACD players: Marantz CD-6007, Marantz ND-8006, Marantz SACD 30N, Marantz SA-12 SE and Marantz SA-10. The amplifier’s network features, such as choosing an online music service or accessing music shared on the local network, are easily accessible from the HEOS mobile app. Last but not least, the Marantz Model 40n amplifier can also be paired with a smart speaker with Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant or Siri in order to control it vocally.

*The Marantz Model 40n can be controlled remotely using the infrared remote control, the mobile app or vocally by pairing it with a speaker equipped with a voice assistant.*

Marantz Model 40n: key specifications

Connected hi-fi amplifier
2 x 70 watts RMS into 8 ohms
Spotify, Deezer, Tidal and Amazon Music compatible
AirPlay and Bluetooth streaming
Alexa, Google Assistant and Siri compatible
PCM playback up to 24-bit/192kHz and DSD 5.6MHz
4 digital inputs including HDMI ARC and USB
4 analog inputs including phono
Dimensions (WxHxD): 443 x 130 x 432mm
Weight: 16.7kg

Marantz Model 40n: listening conditions

We tested the Marantz Model 40n amplifier with the Elipson Legacy 3230 and Sonus Faber Sonetto V speakers, which were connected using Audioquest StarQuad Type 5 Banana speaker cables. For the sources, we chose the Thorens TD 124 DD turntable and Marantz SACD 30N SACD player.

*The high power reserve of the Marantz Model 40n connected amplifier can efficiently power the Elipson Legacy 3230 or Sonus Faber Sonetto V speakers.*

Marantz Model 40n: listening impressions

In many ways, the sound signature of the Marantz Model 40n amplifier is quite similar to that of its larger counterpart. We enjoyed the same precision in the midrange and highs, which were always clear, smooth and intelligible. The bass was tight, generous, but a little less round than with the Model 30. Overall, the Marantz Model 40n wasn’t quite as warm and round as the 30n, in favor of a slightly brighter and more transparent soundstage.

*The Marantz Model 40n amplifier is a little less round than the 30n, but offers the same precision in the midrange and highs.*

Like the Marantz Model 30, the Marantz Model 40n connected amplifier managed to reproduce and enhance the slightest information in music. On the track Money for Nothing by Dire Straits, the Marantz Model 40n demonstrated a very high power reserve and dynamic character. The percussion instruments were delivered with an unmistakable sense of rhythm and clarity that allowed each hit to stand out effectively from the rest of the soundstage. While not as soft as with the Model 30, the highest notes of the electric guitar were still very well controlled, smooth and precise.

The Marantz Model 40n amplifier impressed with its clarity and transparency in the upper midrange and treble. The attacks of the notes were very lively and direct. They were effectively emphasized and positioned with great control, without intruding on the other ranges or affecting the tonal balance. Each beautifully structured chord took shape and unfolded with clarity.

The Marantz Model 40n amplifier offers vivid and direct attacks and ensures perfect tonal balance.

The soundstage offered by the Marantz Model 40n hi-fi amplifier was a little less open than the Model 30. It still benefited from a very nice sense of space that allowed each instrument to materialize with naturalness and conviction. The distribution of each chord was precise and masterful. We noticed this same approach in the reproduction of vocals, which had a strong presence, giving an impression of proximity with the artists.

The soundstage offered by the Marantz Model 40n hi-fi amplifier benefits from a very nice fullness that allows each instrument to materialize with naturalness and conviction.

Marantz Model 40n: compared to…

Marantz Model 30: big brother of the Marantz Model 40n, the Marantz Model 30 offers a slightly more premium amplification solution (€3,199). It adopts an HDAM amplifier stage with an HDAM-SA3 module to deliver up to 2 x 100 watts, co 2 x 70 watts for the Model 40n. Soundwise, the Marantz Model 30 amplifier offers a slightly rounder and warmer reproduction. The highs are slightly softer and the soundstage unfolds with more ease. However, the Marantz Model 30 adopts only analog inputs and is not connected. The new Marantz Model 40n is more versatile with its analog and digital inputs, as well as its compatibility with many music services and Hi-Res streaming.

*The Marantz Model 30 offers a slightly rounder and warmer sound, but isn’t as versatile as the Marantz Model 40n, which is equipped with a network player and digital inputs.*

Cambridge EVO 150: sold for €2,490, the Cambridge EVO 150 connected amplifier is a very compact model equipped with many analog and digital inputs, including an HDMI ARC and a USB-B port. Its DAC supports higher resolution files, up to 32-bit/384kHz and DSD256. This Cambridge amp also has the advantage of supporting Qobuz, in addition to Tidal and Spotify Connect. The 150 watt Hypex Electronics amplification means it can power even more demanding speakers and offers better bass. The sound is also a little more dynamic and energetic. Finally, the Cambridge EVO 150 has a large color screen on its front panel that can display a lot of information about the playback, as well as the album covers.

Marantz Model 40n: who is it for?

The Marantz Model 40n connected amplifier is an excellent all-in-one solution for building a versatile audio system that can handle both analog and digital sources and can even connect to a TV with HDMI ARC for a more immersive experience with movies and TV shows. The integration of a network module and HEOS system makes this Marantz amplifier perfect for enjoying streaming services, music shared over the local network, as well as multi-room connectivity.

*The Marantz Model 40n connected amplifier is a comprehensive solution for enhancing analog and digital sources.*

Marantz Model 40n: conclusion

With the Marantz Model 40n connected amplifier, the manufacturer offers an excellent intermediate solution between the Marantz PM7000N and the high-end Marantz Model 30. This new model takes the numerous network functions and digital connectivity of the PM7000N, while adding an HDMI ARC input for integration into a hi-fi or video system. The Marantz Model 40n amplifier borrows the refined and very polished design of the Marantz Model 30, as well as a rather similar sound. Even if it is a little less round and spacious and has a more modest power output, the Marantz Model 40n does disappoint. It manages to provide a completely coherent reproduction and ensures the same precision in the mids and highs. It is therefore a serious alternative, more affordable and easier to use thanks to its extensive connectivity and the integrated Heos technology.

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