Marantz Model 70 & CD 70 review: the evolution of a duo that has become a classic

A true best-seller for many years, the Marantz PM6007 and CD6007 pair is now being replaced by the new Marantz Model 70 and CD 70. This new generation marks a major overhaul of the range, adopting the honeycomb design of the brand’s most prestigious models while incorporating the latest technologies such as HDMI ARC, Bluetooth aptX Adaptive, and a completely redesigned internal architecture. True to the brand’s musical DNA thanks to HDAM modules, these two components aim to take the heart of the Marantz lineup to the next level, without sacrificing what made their predecessors so successful. We paired them with our reference speakers to see if this duo is worthy of carrying on the legacy of the famous PM6007 and CD6007.

The revival of a best-seller

For many years, the Marantz PM6007 and Marantz CD6007 have stood out as an essential benchmark and one of the most highly recommended systems at Son-Vidéo.com for building a true hi-fi system without breaking the bank. These two devices won over listeners with their warm sound, meticulous design, and great versatility, capable of handling both analog and digital sources.

Rather than making only minor tweaks to this winning formula, Marantz started from scratch. The Model 70 and CD 70 usher in a new generation of electronics inspired by the brand’s high-end models. Their design incorporates the hallmarks of the premium series, with a sculpted front panel, textured sides, and—for the amplifier—an elegant circular display that instantly modernizes the overall look.

But the real innovation lies inside. The Marantz Model 70 now features a power output of 2 x 50 W into 8 ohms, with a completely redesigned architecture based on HDAM SA3 modules, an ESS Sabre DAC, and an optimized linear power supply. Most importantly, it finally features an HDMI ARC input to connect a TV, as well as a Bluetooth module supporting aptX HD and aptX Adaptive, enabling higher-resolution wireless playback from a smartphone. Conveniently, this feature is bidirectional, which also allows for transmission to wireless headphones or a pair of Bluetooth speakers.

The Marantz CD 70 player follows the same philosophy, featuring a redesigned internal architecture, a new DAC, an optimized playback mechanism, HDAM-SA2 stages, and a more refined power supply. It also retains the ability to play high-resolution audio files via USB, bringing together CDs and digital music in a single device.

Marantz Model 70: presentation

Design: the entry-level model takes a step up

The Marantz Model 70 amplifier moves away from the very classic lines of the PM6006 and PM6007 by adopting the design language first seen in the premium Model Series components. At first glance, it feels as though you’re looking at the Marantz Stereo 70s, as it shares the same compact dimensions and control layout. It features a very appealing slim profile, standing just about ten centimeters tall, making it easy to place in a cabinet or next to the TV.

The front panel features an instantly recognizable three-part design. The central section, set slightly forward, houses the circular display with an OLED screen. More modern than the traditional rows of LEDs found on earlier models, it represents a significant improvement by clearly displaying the selected source and the volume level. Its brightness can be easily adjusted using the remote control to make it more or less discreet once the music starts playing.

The two recessed, textured side panels feature a dimpled pattern similar to that of a golf ball, which adds a lot of depth to the design. The controls maintain a very intuitive layout, with—from left to right—the source selector, tone controls, balance, and volume knob. The headphone output is naturally located on the right side of the front panel.

The build quality is significantly superior to that of the PM6007. The adjustments are flawless, and the knobs offer smooth, precise rotation—though we do regret that the diameter of the volume knob has been reduced, as it has switched from an analog control to a digital one. The device as a whole feels truly sturdy. The level of sophistication is on par with the Model 30 and Model 40n—minus the LED backlighting on the sides.

The Marantz Model 70 amplifier can also be controlled remotely using the included infrared remote control. Completely redesigned, it echoes the visual style of the brand’s higher-end electronics, although its design remains fairly traditional with numerous buttons. This design choice may seem a bit dated compared to the more streamlined remotes of some competitors, but it offers a practical advantage: the most essential functions remain directly accessible, without having to navigate through menus. Source selection, volume adjustment, filter control, and even the display’s brightness can all be adjusted in just a few seconds.

The remote control can also operate a second compatible Marantz device, such as the Marantz CD 70 CD player. Two dedicated buttons allow you to quickly switch between the amplifier’s controls and those of the CD player. The layout may seem a bit cluttered at first glance, but it ultimately proves practical for those who prefer to have direct access to every function from a single remote control.

Amplification that stays true to Marantz’s DNA

While Marantz has thoroughly modernized the design of its amplifier, the manufacturer remains true to the DNA that has made this line a success for several decades. As such, the Model 70 features class AB amplification, prioritizing musicality above all else. However, the architecture has evolved slightly to increase the power output to 2 x 50 watts into 8 ohms and 2 x 65 watts into 4 ohms, compared to 2 x 45 watts for the PM6007. On paper, this increase may seem modest, but it primarily reflects a more generous power supply and improved current capacity. In practice, the Model 70 is perfectly capable of driving most bookshelf speakers as well as many floorstanding speakers with a decent sensitivity rating (ideally above 89 dB).

To achieve this, Marantz retains the famous HDAM-SA3 modules, developed in-house and now an iconic element of the brand’s electronics. These discrete circuits replace conventional operational amplifiers to reduce noise, increase slew rate, and improve current capacity. They play a major role in creating the brand’s signature sound, which blends smoothness with harmonic richness. The system is paired with a linear power supply handled by a toroidal transformer housed under a dedicated metal cover to minimize interference with the unit’s other circuits. The capacitors range from 12,000 µF to 15,000 µF to maximize current capacity.

The Marantz Model 70 amplifier also has current-feedback architecture, a technology dear to Marantz that prioritizes fast transients and a wide bandwidth. This design delivers a frequency response of 5 Hz to 100 kHz and an extremely low distortion rate of 0.08%.

Finally, an HDMI ARC input

This is probably the most anticipated new feature of this new generation. While the PM6007 required an optical connection to connect a TV, the Model 70 finally includes an HDMI ARC input. Now, a single HDMI cable is all it takes to automatically receive audio from the TV while controlling the volume using the TV remote via the CEC protocol. The rest of the connectivity options include optical and coaxial inputs for connecting a CD player, network player, or any other digital source, as well as four RCA inputs, including an MM phono input with ground (GND) for connecting a turntable. Marantz also includes a stereo pre-out, in addition to the subwoofer output, allowing you to expand the system later by adding a power amplifier. Finally, the terminal blocks, although not as high-quality as those on the more premium models in the series, provide a secure connection and accommodate wide gauge cables, banana plugs, and spade connectors.

This upgrade also includes a new digital-to-analog conversion section. Marantz has replaced the PM6007’s AKM converter with an ESS Sabre chip, which supports PCM streams up to 24-bit/192 kHz via the optical and coaxial inputs. Combined with the HDAM-SA3 modules, this new DAC helps improve transparency and precision, while maintaining the natural sound reproduction characteristic of Marantz electronics.

Bluetooth aptX Adaptive

While the Marantz Model 70 amplifier does not include a HEOS network player, it is by no means out of step with today’s trends. It features a Bluetooth receiver compatible with aptX, aptX HD, and aptX Adaptive, making it easy to stream music from a smartphone, tablet, or computer while enjoying audio quality superior to that of the traditional SBC codec. Thanks to aptX Adaptive, the bitrate automatically adjusts to the conditions of the wireless connection to ensure the best possible listening quality. More uniquely, the Model 70 can also function as a Bluetooth transmitter. This makes it possible to transmit audio to wireless headphones or earbuds—a particularly convenient feature if you want to watch a movie or listen to music late at night without disturbing those around you. Users of wired headphones, meanwhile, can opt for the front-panel headphone output.

Marantz CD 70: presentation

A design that perfectly complements the Model 70

Like its amplifier counterpart, the Marantz CD 70 CD player marks a true break from the CD6007. The straight, relatively understated lines of the previous generation have given way to a much more refined, faceted design, directly inspired by the prestigious SACD 30n. It features the same three-part front panel as the Model 70, with the exception that the disc tray is located in the center of the unit, just above the LCD display. The latter contrasts somewhat with the Model 70’s more modern circular OLED screen. Its aesthetic appears more traditional, even a bit dated, and the overall design lacks a bit of cohesion in this regard. On the other hand, this wider format proves very practical in use, offering more space to clearly display the track number, playback time, and other available information.

The playback controls are arranged perfectly symmetrically on either side, while the headphone output and volume control are located on the right. When paired with the Model 70, the result is very harmonious, and the two devices truly give the impression of having been designed as a single unit rather than as two separate pieces of equipment.

A next-generation DAC

While the Marantz CD 70 remains true to the philosophy of the CD6007, it features a significantly redesigned audio architecture. The main improvement lies in its new digital-to-analog conversion section, which now features a newer DAC developed as a continuation of the work done on the Marantz Model 70. The manufacturer has also paid particular attention to the internal clock by adopting a low-phase-noise oscillator to minimize jitter. This new design aims to improve signal stability and preserve the full subtlety of recordings, particularly with high-resolution sources.

The player also retains all the features that made its predecessor so great. Its front-panel USB-A port still supports playback of FLAC, WAV, AIFF, ALAC, and DSD files, while the analog stages are based on proprietary HDAM-SA2 modules, which ensure the warm, natural sound signature characteristic of Marantz. The two digital filters are also included to slightly adjust the character of the sound reproduction according to the user’s preferences.

Note from the expert 
Jitter refers to very slight synchronization errors that occur when converting a digital audio signal to analog. In theory, each sample should be converted at a precisely defined moment. If this timing varies—even by a few billionths of a second—slight inaccuracies can occur. In the most severe cases, these result in a loss of definition, a less stable soundstage, or less natural tones. By using a high-precision clock with low phase noise, the Marantz CD 70 minimizes these temporal variations to ensure a more faithful conversion and preserve the full richness of the recordings.

Finally, Marantz continues to pay close attention to the mechanical design of its player, featuring a dual-layer base mounted on rigid feet, designed to minimize vibration transmission and preserve the performance of the various audio circuits.

24-bit/192 kHz USB playback

Like the CD6007 before it, the Marantz CD 70 can also play audio files stored on a USB stick thanks to its front-panel USB-A port. Compatible with PCM formats up to 24-bit/192 kHz, as well as DSD files, it offers a convenient way to occasionally enjoy a few digital albums without needing a network player. However, the lack of a dedicated app or a more advanced navigation interface quickly becomes apparent once your music library grows substantial. Browsing through several hundred albums using only the display and the remote control is not very user-friendly, which ultimately limits this feature to occasional use.

A true output for headphones

Like its predecessor, the Marantz CD 70 features a dedicated headphone amplifier—also based on HDAM-SA2 modules—with separate volume control. This design allows you to use high-fidelity headphones directly without needing an external amplifier. Three gain settings are available (low/medium/high), making it compatible with virtually any type of headphones, from highly sensitive earbuds to high-impedance hi-fi headphones.

On the rear panel, the rest of the Marantz CD 70 player’s connectors include a gold-plated RCA analog output for direct connection to the Model 70 or any other amplifier, as well as optical and coaxial digital outputs that allow you to use an external DAC if desired.

Marantz Model 70 & CD 70: configuration

For this review, we paired the Marantz Model 70 and the Marantz CD 70 with several pairs of speakers to evaluate their performance with a variety of sound signatures and different efficiency levels. Our listening sessions were primarily conducted with the Elipson Prestige Facet 8B II, Q Acoustics 3020C, and B&W 606 S3 bookshelf speakers, as well as the Elipson Heritage XLS 11 and Dali Sonik 5 floorstanding speakers.

The CD player was connected to the amplifier using an RCA analog connection to take full advantage of the conversion and output stages developed by Marantz. We also conducted several listening sessions using an EverSolo network player connected to the Marantz Model 70 for Hi-Res streaming from Qobuz.

The Marantz Model 70 and CD 70 are remarkably easy to integrate. The two units work seamlessly together, without requiring any special setup. They power on quickly, the controls are responsive, and the entire system can be operated using the same remote control.

Listening impressions

Marantz has successfully advanced the technical capabilities of its electronics while preserving its soft, warm musical character. The tonal balance comes across as remarkably natural, with no particular register being emphasized. Compared to the PM6007/CD6007 pair, however, this new generation seems to have gained in maturity. The sound reproduction is more refined, smoother, and more transparent. The previous models already offered plenty of body and a pleasant warmth, but the new duo takes a significant step forward in terms of definition and, above all, clarity.

Rather than trying to impress with excessive width, the soundstage instead emphasized a remarkable sense of depth. The various layers of sound were perfectly structured, truly giving the impression of attending a live performance. On Nils Lofgren’s Keith Don’t Go, the acoustic guitar immediately took center stage with a strong presence. Each string was perfectly distinct, while the resonance of the body naturally echoed throughout the space. The audience’s applause gradually filled the room without ever masking the instrument’s finest details.

Vocals are probably the area where the Marantz character truly shines. On Norah Jones’ Come Away With Me, the singer had an almost physical presence between the speakers. The many nuances of her voice—her breaths, the attack of consonants, and even the slightest variations in intensity—were reproduced with remarkable finesse. The Model 70 avoided any harshness. The vocals had texture and body and, above all, were very natural.

While the PM6007 already delivered warm bass, the Model 70 offers greater definition and better control. On Hotel California by the Eagles, the percussion was reproduced with greater precision. The hits were well-defined, the resonance of the drumheads was easier to distinguish, and the double bass benefited from particularly convincing articulation. However, the Model 70 never tried to impress with a show of power. The sub-bass remained unobtrusive, and the amplifier clearly prioritized a smooth bass response. Fans of particularly powerful bass will therefore find it beneficial to pair it with a subwoofer, even though its tonal balance remains impeccable.

This philosophy is also reflected in the amplifier’s dynamic performance. Level shifts were reproduced very naturally, and the Model 70 maintained excellent clarity even when the musical texture became denser. Orchestral crescendos remained smooth, with no perceptible compression, and changes in tempo were perfectly rendered. On the other hand, it lacked the authority and punch of more powerful amplifiers. The impact was slightly muted—an approach true to the Marantz philosophy and one that is particularly appealing during long listening sessions.

Marantz Model 70 & CD 70 vs. Denon PMA-900NE & DCD-900NE

With similar price points, the Denon PMA-900NE amplifier and Denon DCD-900NE player duo is the most direct competitor to this Marantz system. Although both brands belong to the same group and share many technologies, their listening philosophies differ significantly. Denon favors a more energetic sound, with puncher bass, crisper attacks, and more dramatic dynamics, which makes it better suited for contemporary music or listening at high volume. Conversely, the Marantz Model 70 & CD 70 pair focuses above all on tonal richness, fluidity, and naturalness. Vocals have body, the soundstage seems deeper, and the listening experience proves more pleasant for longer sessions. Finally, the Marantz Model 70 amplifier offers greater convenience thanks to its HDMI ARC input and its HD Bluetooth receiver, which also functions as a transmitter.

Marantz Model 70 & CD 70: who are they for?

With this new generation, Marantz lets you build a music hi-fi system while staying within your budget. The Marantz Model 70 amplifier is ideal for users with a variety of audio sources. Its connectivity options allow it to connect to a turntable, a network player, a TV via HDMI ARC, or even a CD player. Its power reserve allows it to effortlessly drive the vast majority of bookshelf speakers as well as many floorstanding speakers with good sensitivity in living rooms ranging from 30 to 35 m².

The CD 70, meanwhile, will appeal to anyone who wants to continue enjoying a vast collection of physical discs while also taking advantage of high-resolution digital files via the USB player. Together, the two devices form a particularly cohesive system. They share exactly the same audio philosophy, prioritizing natural sound, rich tones, and listening pleasure.

FAQ – Frequently asked questions