What we liked
- The warm, rounded sound
- The many streaming options
- The elegant design
We would have liked
- Dirac Live included as standard
- Support for wireless surround speakers
- A pre-out output for upgrading to 7.2.4 channels
Our expert’s opinion
With the Cinema 60 DAB Series 2, Marantz refines a proven formula without altering the fundamentals that made its predecessor a success. The HDAM-SA2 architecture and the seven 100-watt amplifier channels have been carried over and now feature a new 32-bit, eight-channel conversion stage. Sound-wise, the receiver remains true to the Marantz signature, delivering a warm, balanced, and exceptionally nuanced sound. Without seeking to rival the most effusive models in terms of impact, it captivates with its natural tones, smoothness, and excellent clarity, even during the most complex soundtracks. The spatial imaging is equally impressive, with effects unfolding in a very coherent manner to create a true soundscape in Dolby Atmos.
The Dirac Live compatibility is one of the most exciting evolutions of this generation. It allows for even greater acoustic optimisation while retaining the simplicity of the built-in Audyssey MultEQ XT system for less experienced users. The countless streaming options within the Heos ecosystem further enhance the versatility of this receiver, which is equally well-suited for movie nights and everyday music listening.
The Marantz Cinema 60 DAB Series 2 AV receiver is therefore a comprehensive solution for effectively enjoying Dolby Atmos movies, concerts, and high-resolution music with a single device. This is a particularly well-rounded option for users who appreciate the Marantz sound and want to power up to seven speakers and two subwoofers.
A revamped version of one of the manufacturer’s most popular models, the Marantz Cinema 60 DAB Series 2 AV receiver features seven amplifier channels, a power of 100 watts per channel, and the musical qualities for which the Japanese manufacturer is renowned, while updating its architecture. Features include a new 32-bit, eight-channel DAC, Dirac Live compatibility, and a redesigned interface. Priced at €1,449, this mid-range AVR promises to deliver the power needed for Dolby Atmos and DTS:X soundtracks while retaining enough finesse for music playback.
Introducing the Marantz Cinema 60 DAB Series 2
A proud hi-fi heritage
With the Cinema 60 DAB Series 2, Marantz builds on the fundamentals that made its predecessor a success. It retains its seven channels, capable of directly powering a 7.2- or 5.2.2-channel home theatre system, with two speakers dedicated to Dolby Atmos vertical effects. The power output also remains unchanged, at 100 watts per channel into 8 ohms when two channels are in use. This is sufficient for most bookshelf, floorstanding, and architectural speakers designed to provide sound in a reasonably sized (less than 50 m²) living room or home theatre.
This receiver continues to rely on a current-feedback architecture and discrete power stages combined with the proprietary HDAM-SA2 (Hyper Dynamic Amplifier Module) modules. Inherited from the brand’s stereo electronics, this design aims to preserve fast signal processing, reduce interference, and retain the full richness of musical details. Particular care is also taken in component selection and acoustic tuning, which is entrusted to the same acoustic engineers who work on the manufacturer’s hi-fi amplifiers.
The Marantz Cinema 60 DAB Series 2 AV receiver therefore takes a versatile approach, offering enough power to reproduce the dynamic range of action movies while also featuring a design crafted to preserve the nuances of voices, the timbres of instruments, and even the most delicate ambient sounds. This philosophy has always set Marantz AVRs apart from models that prioritise a more direct and demonstrative sound.
New 32-bit, 8-channel DAC
The main evolution of this Series 2 lies in its digital section. The Cinema 60 DAB Series 2 now features an enhanced 32-bit, eight-channel DAC, which converts the various audio tracks before they are amplified. This new architecture is part of the same modernisation effort undertaken by Denon for its 2026 models, notably the Denon AVC-X3900H and Denon AVR-X2900H DAB.
By handling the conversion of multiple channels within a single circuit, this design aims to ensure consistent reproduction of the various tracks, with improved overall coherence and precise management of audio information. Marantz also reports improvements in clarity, resolution, and dynamic range.
These improvements really come into their own with multichannel soundtracks, where effects must move seamlessly between the various speakers without any break in tone or volume. They should also enhance the reproduction of the subtlest ambient sounds, while preserving the impact of spectacular passages. This new conversion is also beneficial for music. Combined with the HDAM-SA2 circuits, it should better preserve the subtle details, harmonics, and richness of high-resolution recordings.
Dolby Atmos and DTS:X over 7 channels
The Marantz Cinema 60 DAB Series 2 AV receiver supports all major multichannel audio formats, including Dolby TrueHD, Dolby Atmos, DTS-HD Master Audio, and DTS:X. With its seven amplified channels, it can power a traditional 7.1 or 7.2 setup, as well as a Dolby Atmos system with 5.1.2 or 5.2.2 channels. In the latter case, two speakers are mounted on the ceiling or angled toward it to reproduce overhead sound effects.
For systems without ceiling speakers, Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization and DTS Virtual:X technologies can recreate a sense of vertical depth using the existing speakers. The receiver also features Dolby Surround and DTS Neural:X processing, which can distribute sound effects across all speakers in the system when playing standard stereo or multichannel content.
Dirac Live makes its debut
Until now, the Cinema 60 DAB relied on the Audyssey MultEQ XT system to adapt the sound output to the room’s acoustics. This solution is, of course, still included and allows for automatic calibration using the included microphone. During the process, the receiver analyses the speakers’ response from several listening positions to adjust their volume, distance, and equalisation. The goal is to compensate for certain environmental irregularities, such as bass resonance, level differences between speakers, or variations in frequency response.
For users who want to take things a step further, the Marantz Cinema 60 DAB Series 2 AVR now supports Dirac Live, subject to the purchase of an optional license. This more advanced technology allows users to define custom target curves and fine-tune the behaviour of the speakers in the room. It offers greater freedom to users who wish to tailor their system to their listening preferences.
In practice, this dual compatibility is particularly appealing. Audyssey MultEQ XT retains the advantage of simplicity for quickly achieving balanced sound reproduction, while Dirac Live allows for more advanced corrections. It is a shame, however, that the latter solution is not included directly.
HEOS streaming: Qobuz Connect, Tidal Connect, and Roon Ready
In addition to movie viewing, the Marantz Cinema 60 DAB Series 2 receiver also takes advantage of the HEOS ecosystem to provide access to a vast selection of online music. This platform, shared by Marantz and Denon electronics, has seen numerous enhancements since the launch of the previous generation, notably with the arrival of Qobuz Connect, which was eagerly anticipated by hi-fi enthusiasts. This compatibility allows you to start playback directly from the Qobuz app, without having to go through the HEOS interface. The Tidal service also supports its Connect feature, while Spotify Connect, Deezer, and Amazon Music round out the streaming options. The AVR is also Roon Ready-certified, ensuring seamless integration into a centralised music library.
You can connect via Wi-Fi or a wired Ethernet connection, with the ability to play music files shared on the local network or stored on a USB drive. The AVR supports FLAC, WAV, and ALAC files up to 24-bit/192 kHz, as well as DSD files up to 5.6 MHz. Gapless playback is also supported, allowing you to enjoy albums and concerts without any pauses between tracks.
AirPlay 2 and Bluetooth are also part of the package, allowing you to easily stream music from a smartphone, tablet, or computer. Bluetooth also works in transmission mode, so you can listen to sources connected to the receiver through wireless headphones. This is a handy feature for watching a movie late at night without disturbing those around you.
Finally, HEOS allows you to integrate the Cinema 60 DAB Series 2 into a compatible multi-room system. This makes it possible to stream the same music to multiple rooms or to control the different zones independently from the app. Strangely, and unlike the latest 2026 generation of Denon AVRs, Marantz does not currently support the use of HEOS wireless speakers for surround sound playback.
HDMI 2.1: 120Hz 4K and 8K UHD
The Marantz Cinema 60 DAB Series 2 AV receiver features modern video connectivity, with six HDMI inputs, three of which support UHD 8K signals at 60 frames per second and 4K signals at up to 120 frames per second. This allows you to centralise a 4K UHD Blu-ray player, an Apple TV, a set-top box, and several game consoles. The two HDMI outputs make it easy to use both a TV and a projector within the same setup. The main output is eARC-compatible, which lets you receive audio from apps installed on the TV, including the multichannel formats supported by the various devices.
The receiver supports all major HDR formats, including Dolby Vision, HDR10+, HLG, and Dynamic HDR. This allows it to transmit video content without compromising the contrast and brightness information needed for proper playback on a compatible TV or projector. Gamers also benefit from VRR, ALLM, and QFT features to optimise smoothness and minimise latency. AMD FreeSync compatibility is supported on HDMI inputs 4 through 6. This allows you to get the most out of a PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X, or gaming PC with 120Hz 4K-compatible games.
A full range of connectors for all audio and video sources
In addition to its HDMI inputs, the Marantz Cinema 60 DAB Series 2 offers a wide range of audio connectors, making it ideal for combining a hi-fi and home theatre system. It features four stereo RCA inputs for connecting a CD player, a network player, or any other analogue source, as well as two optical inputs and two coaxial inputs for digital devices. An MM phono input also allows for direct connection of a turntable equipped with a moving-magnet cartridge. This feature adds to the receiver’s versatility for users who want to combine home theatre and music in a single system.
The Marantz Cinema 60 DAB Series 2 AV receiver also features 7.2-channel pre-out connectors. These allow you to use an external power amplifier to drive specific speakers or the entire system. This is a great way to gradually upgrade your system or integrate more demanding speakers. Two dedicated outputs are available to connect two subwoofers and ensure better distribution of low frequencies throughout the room. Finally, the seven speaker terminals can be configured according to your needs, such as for bi-amping the front speakers or powering a second zone. The FM/DAB/DAB+ tuner is a final advantage, allowing you to listen directly to traditional and digital radio stations without relying on an Internet connection. The Marantz Cinema 60 is the only model in the Cinema series to feature this dual tuner.
A design true to the Marantz signature
Aesthetically, the Cinema 60 DAB Series 2 AV receiver retains the design language introduced by the Cinema range. It features the same elegant, contemporary lines reminiscent of Marantz hi-fi components, with a front panel showcasing a honeycomb pattern and a small circular display in the centre. This display, a hallmark of the brand, shows essential information such as volume and the selected source. Two large knobs are positioned on either side to adjust the volume and select the source. They are complemented by a few discreet controls for quick access to essential functions such as selecting the DSP mode, tuning the radio, or choosing a zone.
The Marantz Cinema 60 DAB Series 2 AVR comes with a large backlit remote control identical to that of the previous model, with the only difference being the removal of certain shortcuts, such as Eco mode. It offers the same user-friendly design, with the main controls—including power and source selection—located on the top panel. The central area is dedicated to menu navigation, with play, pause, next track, and previous track buttons for streaming or local music playback, as well as shuffle and repeat functions. At the bottom are the audio controls and a numeric keypad, which can be programmed to control certain functions of a connected TV or projector.
In addition to its remote control, the Marantz Cinema 60 DAB Series 2 can be controlled from a smartphone or tablet using two dedicated apps: Marantz AVR Remote and HEOS. The first includes most of the receiver’s controls, with a clear interface that lets you select sources, adjust the volume, manage outputs, or quickly access key settings. It’s handy for everyday use, especially for controlling the system without turning on the TV.
For its part, the HEOS app is entirely focused on audio streaming. It centralises access to compatible online music services, files shared on the local network and a wide catalogue of web radios. The whole system integrates seamlessly into the brand’s multi-room ecosystem, making it easy to play music throughout the home.
This 2026 generation also introduces a new, more modern and comprehensive web interface, accessible directly from a browser. It lets you configure and control the AV receiver without using the on-screen display, a real plus for fine-tuning settings from a computer without turning on the TV or unrolling the projection screen.
Installation and configuration
The Marantz Cinema 60 DAB Series 2 AV receiver is designed to be user-friendly, even for those setting up their first true multichannel home theatre system. During the initial setup, a visual wizard on the TV or projector guides the user through the various steps, from selecting the language to configuring the speakers and HDMI sources. First, simply specify the number of connected speakers and their layout in the room. The receiver then adapts its settings based on the selected configuration, whether it’s a stereo setup, a traditional 5.1 system, or a Dolby Atmos 5.1.2 installation.
The Audyssey MultEQ XT system then takes over to perform the acoustic calibration. The included microphone should be placed at ear level at the main listening position, then moved to several nearby locations. The receiver sends a series of test signals to each speaker to measure their acoustic behaviour and interactions with the room. This process helps balance volume levels, adjust acoustic distances, and correct certain response irregularities. More experienced users can then fine-tune the settings, customise crossover frequencies, or use Dirac Live to take advantage of additional features.
We tested the Marantz Cinema 60 DAB Series 2 AV receiver in several home theatre rooms at the Son-Vidéo.com store in Paris to evaluate its performance in various setups. The systems used were Dolby Atmos 5.2.2 setups consisting, in succession, of Dali architectural speakers, Klipsch floorstanding and bookshelf speakers, and Elipson Planet satellite speakers. The sources included a Sony UBP-X800M2 4K UHD Blu-ray player and a Zidoo Z9X 8K network player. For display, the receiver was paired with various televisions, conventional projectors, and ultra-short-throw models. Finally, each setup underwent acoustic calibration using the included microphone and the Audyssey MultEQ XT system.
Listening impressions
The main question regarding this new Cinema 60 DAB Series 2 concerns the actual benefit of its new eight-channel DAC, whose performance gain is very difficult to measure precisely. During our listening sessions, however, we noticed a very smooth distribution of sound, with natural transitions from one speaker to the next and excellent overall coherence. During Dune: Part Two, the scenes on Arrakis illustrated this quality particularly well. The sound of the wind, the movement of the sand, and the rumbling of the giant worms were layered with impressive precision, creating a particularly immersive atmosphere without ever interfering with the message. The dialogue remained perfectly clear, even as Hans Zimmer’s gained in intensity.
True to the Marantz sound signature, the Cinema 60 DAB Series 2 receiver favoured a warm and balanced sound, where finesse took precedence over sheer power. Thrill-seekers might criticise it for a slight lack of bite and impact compared to certain more showy AVRs. This choice, however, resulted in a particularly nuanced sound, with beautifully rounded bass and a pleasant smoothness in the high frequencies. Even the most dense soundtracks remained exceptionally clear, with perfectly intelligible dialogue and effects that unfolded without ever becoming aggressive. This sound signature will allow you to watch movie after movie and enjoy extended viewing sessions at high volumes without experiencing auditory fatigue.
With *Top Gun: Maverick*, the Cinema 60 DAB Series 2 showcased its full potential in Dolby Atmos. During the aerial sequences, the planes darted from one speaker to another with remarkable fluidity, tracing precise and perfectly continuous paths through space. Vertical effects naturally extended these movements above the viewers, reinforcing the sensation of planes flying overhead and the immersion in the heart of the action. Lightning-fast accelerations and low-altitude flybys were accompanied by powerful yet well-controlled roars, conveying the full intensity of these scenes without ever becoming excessive.
Marantz Cinema 60 DAB Series 2 vs. Denon AVC-X3900H
The Denon AVC-X3900H is the direct competitor to the new Marantz Cinema 60 DAB Series 2. The two manufacturers share part of their technology ecosystem, notably HEOS, and have upgraded their 2026-generation receivers with improved 32-bit, eight-channel conversion.
However, their approaches remain significantly different. The Denon AVC-X3900H offers great home theatre versatility with nine 105-watt amplifier channels, support for up to 11.4 channels, and four subwoofer outputs. This allows you to set up a Dolby Atmos 5.4.4 system without an external receiver, whereas the Marantz Cinema 60 DAB Series 2 is limited to a 5.2.2 configuration.
The Denon also features several advanced functions, including a Channel Expander to enhance the presence of vertical effects, a more advanced Audyssey MultEQ XT32 calibration system, and announced support for compatible wireless surround speakers following a software update. It therefore offers an advantage for users who are primarily looking for a scalable, immersive setup.
For its part, the Marantz Cinema 60 DAB Series 2 features electronics specifically designed to preserve musicality, with its HDAM-SA2 modules and current-feedback architecture. The choice will therefore depend mainly on your priorities. The Denon appears to offer more comprehensive features for adding speakers and immersive audio processing, while the Marantz takes a simpler approach, with seven channels and a particular focus on musical reproduction.
Who is the Marantz Cinema 60 DAB Series 2 designed for?
The Marantz Cinema 60 DAB Series 2 AV receiver is primarily designed for users who want to build a true home theatre system while still enjoying excellent musicality. With its seven amplified channels, it’s an excellent choice for powering a 5.1 or Dolby Atmos 5.1.2 system in a reasonably sized living room.
It’s also ideal for music lovers who want to enjoy a single system for their movies, concerts, and albums. With HDAM circuits, an MM phono input, high-resolution audio playback, a wide range of streaming options, and a DAB tuner, this device combines hi-fi and home theatre capabilities in a single unit. Dirac Live compatibility is also a great new feature for users who want to gradually optimise their setup, especially in a living room where the acoustics aren’t always ideal. The built-in Audyssey system, however, is sufficient for quick and easy setup.
On the other hand, those considering a Dolby Atmos setup with four vertical speakers would be better off choosing a higher-end model, such as the Cinema 50 Series 2 or the Denon AVC-X3900H.
FAQ – Frequently asked questions
The Marantz Cinema 60 DAB Series 2 retains the seven amplified channels and 100-watt-per-channel power output of its predecessor but features a new 32-bit, eight-channel digital-to-analogue converter. This upgrade is designed to improve channel coherence, the precision of sound effects, and overall sound quality. Another major new feature is Dirac Live compatibility, now available as an option to further refine room correction. Finally, the HEOS ecosystem benefits from enhanced features, notably Qobuz Connect, to make listening to music easier.
The Marantz Cinema 60 DAB Series 2 receiver features seven amplifier channels and two subwoofer outputs. As a result, it can directly power a 7.1 or 7.2-channel system, with seven speakers arranged around the listeners, or a Dolby Atmos 5.1.2- or 5.2.2-channel system incorporating two vertical effect speakers.
The Cinema 60 DAB Series 2 allows you to set up a home theatre system with up to 7.2 channels, featuring 100 watts per channel and Audyssey MultEQ XT calibration. The more ambitious Cinema 50 Series 2 features nine amplified channels delivering 110 watts each, audio processing for up to 11.4 channels, and four independent subwoofer outputs. It also features the Audyssey MultEQ XT32 system and additional immersive formats, including Auro-3D and IMAX Enhanced. The Cinema 60 is therefore well-suited for living rooms and reasonably sized installations, while the Cinema 50 is designed for more comprehensive Dolby Atmos setups.
Yes, musicality is in fact one of its main strengths. Thanks to its HDAM-SA2 modules, its current-feedback architecture, and its new 32-bit DAC, the Cinema 60 DAB Series 2 delivers a warm, natural, and nuanced sound. This makes it particularly appealing to users who want to combine a hi-fi system with a home theatre setup.
Yes, the Marantz Cinema 60 DAB Series 2 has six HDMI inputs, three of which support 120Hz 4K and 60Hz 8K. It also supports VRR, ALLM, and AMD FreeSync technologies to improve display smoothness and reduce latency with compatible games. It can therefore serve as a hub for a PS5, an Xbox Series X, or a gaming PC, while ensuring the playback of multichannel soundtracks.
No, the Marantz Cinema 60 DAB Series 2 comes standard with Audyssey MultEQ XT acoustic calibration, which automatically adjusts speaker output to the room using the included microphone. Dirac Live compatibility is a new feature in this second generation but requires the purchase of an additional licence.
