With the new Marantz Model M1 amplifier, the manufacturer offers an ultra-complete solution in a mini format. Equally well-suited to streaming thanks to the Heos system, and to listening to TV with its Dolby Digital-compatible HDMI eARC port, this latest-generation model could well overshadow the market’s tenors.
A major competitor
Compact connected amplifiers are definitely on a roll. In this category, the Sonos Amp is the pioneer and bestseller, but recent models such as the Bluesound Powernode Edge, Octavio AMP and the more affordable WiiM Amp are gradually stealing the show. The new Marantz Model M1 arrives with strong arguments to compete with these models: a distinctive design, Dolby compatibility and historic expertise.
Compact design
At 23cm wide and just 8cm thick, the Marantz Model M1 amp is designed to sit discreetly alongside your TV, on an office shelf or in your living room hi-fi cabinet. Marantz even announces the possibility of rack-mounting this model. Its minimalist design and matte black finish with a grille on top recall the silhouettes of the Marantz Model 30 and Marantz Model 40n. Despite its compact size, the Marantz Model M1 manages to develop a very comfortable power output of 2 x 100W into 8 ohms and 2 x 125W into 4 ohms, thanks to its class D amplification.
HDMI eARC with Dolby
Like any self-respecting modern connected amplifier, the Marantz Model M1 features an HDMI eARC port for receiving sound from a TV or compatible projector. But the Japanese manufacturer sets itself apart from any other model by supporting Dolby Digital and Dolby Digital+ tracks, in addition to the PCM format. What’s more, it offers several modes, including a virtualization DSP to expand the soundstage and bring movie soundtracks to life with greater realism. For nighttime sessions, the night mode lets you limit the dynamic range so you can enjoy your content without disturbing those around you with excessive bass.
Read: What’s the point of HDMI ARC and eARC in 2024?
HD streaming services
Like the brand’s other connected devices, the Marantz Model M1 amp can access major streaming services such as Tidal, Spotify, Deezer and Amazon Music, as well as web radios and music shared on the local network. Its DAC supports most formats up to 24-bit/192kHz, as well as DSD tracks. These can also be played from a USB stick or hard drive connected to the Marantz M1’s dedicated port. Finally, AirPlay 2 and Bluetooth protocols enable music to be streamed directly from a smartphone, tablet or computer.
Connectors
While the Marantz Model M1’s connectivity is naturally less extensive than that of a larger model like the Marantz Stereo 70s, it remains sufficient for most users. In addition to the HDMI eARC port, there’s an optical digital and RCA analog input for connecting a pre-amplified turntable or CD player, for example. In addition, a USB-A port lets you play files stored on an external device, and there is a dedicated output for a subwoofer.
With the new Marantz Model M1, the Japanese manufacturer effectively condenses the countless functions of the Heos system and offers versatile connectivity in a compact, designer format. This model is now available for pre-order on Son-Vidéo.com for €999.
