Marantz is updating its best-selling amplifier with the new Marantz MCR 60n DAB, the direct successor to the Marantz M-CR612. Just as compact as ever, this new all-in-one hi-fi system retains the formula that made its predecessor a success, featuring a CD player, streaming, a DAB+/FM radio tuner, and four-channel amplification, while thoroughly modernizing it. Notable new features include an HDMI eARC input and MM phono input, Hi-Res streaming up to 32-bit/384 kHz, two-way Bluetooth, and optional compatibility with Dirac Live. These features transform this next-generation mini system into the true heart of a modern hi-fi system.
The highly anticipated successor to the Marantz M-CR612
Launched in 2019, the Marantz M-CR612 network amplifier established itself as one of the most popular compact amplifiers in its category thanks to a simple formula: combining stereo amplification, a CD player, network streaming, and radio into a single unit, all while keeping the footprint to a minimum. With the Marantz MCR 60n DAB, the brand is sticking to this exact philosophy but adapting the formula to new uses. The manufacturer describes it as its most comprehensive compact music system to date. It can play a CD, stream music from a service via Wi-Fi or Bluetooth, connect to a turntable, or receive audio from a TV via HDMI eARC.
The unit remains particularly compact, measuring just 280 mm wide, 111 mm high, and 303 mm deep, and weighing 4.2 kg. This makes it easy to set up in a living room, bedroom, office, or on a TV stand. It comes in two finishes—matte black and Champagne Gold—to blend seamlessly into any interior.
Up to four speakers
The Marantz MCR 60n DAB network amplifier features a new power supply capable of delivering more current and greater dynamic headroom than previous generations. As a result, Marantz promises better speaker control, tighter bass, and enhanced dynamics. The power output now reaches 2 x 65 watts into 4 ohms. Like the M-CR612, the new model actually features four amplifier channels. It can therefore operate in a 4 x 33-watt configuration into 4 ohms to power two pairs of speakers (A and B), with independent volume control. It is also possible to use these four channels in a bi-amp configuration, while the Parallel BTL mode allows the amplifier stages to be combined to optimize their current capacity with a single pair of speakers.
HEOS, AirPlay 2, Roon, and Hi-Res streaming
Naturally, streaming is one of the key features of the Marantz MCR 60n DAB. The amplifier features the latest generation of the HEOS platform, which provides access to major streaming services such as Spotify, Deezer, Qobuz, Tidal, and Amazon Music, as well as Internet radio stations and music stored on the local network.
Streaming can also be done via AirPlay 2, through a Roon ecosystem, or via Bluetooth using the new bidirectional model. This model now allows not only the reception of music but also its transmission for listening through wireless headphones or connected speakers.
Hi-Res playback has also been enhanced with support for PCM files up to 32-bit/384 kHz and DSD files up to 11.2 MHz. Supported file formats include FLAC, WAV, ALAC, MP3, WMA, and AAC, with gapless playback for FLAC, WAV, and DSD.
HDMI eARC and phono input
The Marantz MCR 60n DAB amplifier also features an HDMI eARC/ARC input, making it easy to connect to a TV. This allows you to enjoy the audio from movies, TV shows, and video games directly through your living room stereo system, with support for Dolby Digital and Dolby Digital Plus streams, in addition to stereo PCM. HDMI-CEC control also allows you to adjust the amplifier’s volume using the TV’s remote control.
Another important new feature: the Marantz MCR 60n DAB now includes a built-in MM phono preamp. A turntable equipped with a moving-magnet cartridge can therefore be connected directly, without requiring an external phono preamp. This input rounds out a set of connectors that also includes an analog input, an optical digital input, a USB-A port, and an Ethernet port. A headphone output is located on the front panel, while a variable pre-out allows the Marantz to be used as a network preamplifier with active speakers or an external power amplifier. Finally, a dedicated output makes it easy to connect a subwoofer.
Dirac Live makes its debut
Even more unexpected on such a compact system is its compatibility with Dirac Live Room Correction acoustic calibration. Available as an optional upgrade, this technology analyzes the speakers’ response in the room and then applies corrections to improve, in particular, the precision of the stereo image, the evenness of low frequencies, and tonal balance. The subwoofer output also features adjustable filtering to facilitate the integration of a subwoofer with the main speakers.
A thoroughly modernized Marantz M-CR612
With the MCR 60n DAB, the company has thoroughly revamped its best-selling model, turning it into a true connected mini hi-fi system, better suited to modern uses. The CD player and DAB+ tuner remain to preserve the spirit of the line, but the addition of HDMI eARC, an MM phono preamp, Dirac Live, two-way Bluetooth, and streaming up to 32-bit/384 kHz significantly expands its capabilities. As a result, the Marantz MCR 60n DAB can just as easily be paired with a set of bookshelf speakers in an office as it can take center stage in the living room, bringing together digital music, CDs, vinyl, radio, and television into a single compact unit. This versatile system is now available to pre-order on Son-Vidéo.com for €899.
