For Whom?
Contents
Who is this marantz-system for? That’s quite a good question. Because nowadays there is a lot for sale. Also a lot of good stuff. Think of the NAD M33 that we recently tested. An all-in-one beast. But we are looking at a slightly different target group here. This Marantz is for the more classically oriented audio lovers who also want to play CD’s and sacd’s and maybe also wants to enjoy streaming. Or the other way around: primary streaming, but also a nice shiny silver disc once in a while. There the SACD 30N just is the perfect solution. (But fix that app!).
The Model 30 is an ode to the glory days of hi-fi. And Marantz does that well, although the big question is: how much difference is there between a PM12, KI Ruby and this Model 30? We’re guessing it’s small, though it will be audible in the nuances. Is it enough not to cannibalize? That’s a good question. We’re not company strategists. For the consumer it is of course irrelevant: for 3000 euros you get a nice amplifier that does justice to the Marantz sound … with an extra touch of fun.
Conclusion
The new Model 30 and SACD 30N from Marantz looks good. We do find it a pity that for the machined piece on the sides plastic has been used. We don't think that's necessary for 3000 euro per component. The symmetry, the invisible LEDs on the sides and the large, easy-to-read display on the SACD 30N are nice.Then the sound: it sound a lot like the PM12 and the KI Ruby. This is not surprising: the amplifier is almost the same, except for the input stage: both the Model 30 and the PM12 and the KI Ruby have the same nCore modules with a switching power supply for the output stage and a linear power supply for the pre-amp. So the signature is almost the same. Then the question: isn't that cannibalizing? Time will tell.
All in all Marantz creates a beautiful duo. Both in terms of sound and in terms of design and functionality. For 3000 euros, they are just beautiful components that are certainly not out of place in a serious hi-fi system.