Marantz AV 30 and Marantz AMP 30

In the high-end home cinema segment, demand is growing for solutions that allow precise adaptation to room size, loudspeaker layout and performance requirements. Within this context, Harman International expands the home cinema offering of its HiFi manufacturer Marantz with the AV 30 and AMP 30. Rather than relying on a classic AV receiver design, the company deliberately separates signal processing and power amplification. According to the manufacturer, both components are developed and built at the Shirakawa Audio Works in Japan and are intended to combine current technical standards with the brand’s established sonic philosophy.

Key Facts

• Modular system consisting of an 11.4-channel AV preamplifier and a 6-channel power amplifier
• Support for immersive audio formats including Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, IMAX Enhanced and Auro-3D
• Full 8K HDMI connectivity with gaming-relevant features and eARC
• Advanced room correction with Audyssey MultEQ XT32, expandable with Dirac solutions
• Flexible amplification concept with BTL and bi-amping options
• Extensive analogue and digital connectivity for custom installations
• Designed and tuned in Japan

System concept and positioning

With the AV 30 and AMP 30, Marantz follows a clearly modular strategy. Both components can be used as a dedicated pair or combined with additional power amplifiers from the brand to expand channel count or increase output reserves for front speakers. This approach addresses advanced home cinema users who prefer a scalable system architecture, as well as professional installers who require predictable long-term planning and integration flexibility.

Signal processing and audio formats in the Marantz AV 30

At the core of the AV 30 is a dual-core SHARC DSP platform from Analog Devices, designed to handle complex multi-channel processing in parallel. The digital architecture decodes all current surround and 3D audio formats and supports both conventional multi-channel soundtracks and modern object-based mixes. High-quality 32-bit digital-to-analogue conversion forms the basis for precise signal reproduction, while Marantz’s proprietary HDAM-SA2 modules are used in the analogue preamplifier stage. In practical terms, this design aims to deliver consistent signal quality regardless of whether the system is configured as a compact 5.1 layout or a full 7.4.4 immersive setup.

Supported surround and 3D audio formats

The AV 30 is designed for modern immersive home cinema applications and supports all relevant surround and 3D audio standards. Object-based formats such as Dolby Atmos and DTS:X enable flexible spatial placement of sound events, particularly in systems with height speakers. In addition, IMAX Enhanced is supported for dynamic and detailed film sound reproduction, while Auro‑3D offers an alternative height-layer concept. Classic formats such as Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD Master Audio are also processed, ensuring compatibility with UHD Blu-ray sources as well as streaming services.

Room correction and real-world optimisation

Automatic room calibration is handled by Audyssey MultEQ XT32, which adjusts speaker distances, levels and frequency response to the listening environment. For users with more advanced requirements, Marantz offers optional support for Dirac Live, including Dirac Bass Control and Dirac Active Room Treatment. Especially in systems with multiple subwoofers, these tools can help distribute low-frequency energy more evenly throughout the room, resulting in more consistent bass performance across different seating positions.

Connectivity, HDMI and system integration

Seven HDMI inputs and three HDMI outputs ensure that the AV 30 is prepared for current and upcoming video sources. All HDMI connections support up to 8K/60 Hz and 4K/120 Hz, along with eARC and gaming-oriented features such as variable refresh rates. Beyond HDMI, the AV 30 provides a wide range of analogue and digital audio connections, including balanced XLR outputs and four independent subwoofer outputs. Network and multiroom functionality is based on HEOS and is complemented by Roon Ready support, AirPlay 2, Bluetooth and access to various streaming services, allowing the AV 30 to function as a versatile media hub beyond pure home cinema use.

Power amplification with the Marantz AMP 30

The AMP 30 is designed as a 6-channel power amplifier delivering 200 watts per channel into 8 ohms. Alternatively, amplifier channels can be bridged in BTL mode to create up to three channels with 400 watts each, or configured for bi-amping to drive separate high- and low-frequency sections of compatible loudspeakers. This flexibility allows targeted use of the AMP 30 for front channels, height speakers or demanding multi-way systems. Balanced XLR inputs support low-noise signal transmission, while the compact chassis simplifies installation in space-constrained racks.

Design, control and installation

Visually, both components follow Marantz’s current design language with the characteristic porthole display and subtle side illumination. The AV 30 features a fold-down front panel that conceals secondary controls, contributing to a clean rack appearance. A backlit remote control and a high-resolution graphical user interface support everyday operation and system setup. For professional environments, IP control, RS232 and trigger connections are provided, enabling seamless integration into complex control systems.

Price and availability

The Marantz AV 30 AV preamplifier is available at a recommended retail price of € 4.000,-. The Marantz AMP 30 6-channel power amplifier is also offered at a recommended retail price of € 4.000,-. According to the manufacturer, both components are scheduled to be available from selected specialist retailers starting January 2026.

Conclusion

With the Marantz AV 30 and Marantz AMP 30, Harman International presents a home cinema solution under the Marantz brand that is clearly designed for modularity and long-term expandability, targeting discerning users. The combination of powerful signal processing, flexible power amplification, and comprehensive connectivity enables individually tailored systems, from high-end living room cinemas to dedicated home theaters. Those who deliberately opt for separate preamplifiers and power amplifiers and value current standards and professional integration options will find a consistently implemented concept here.

Technical specifications

Technical specifications