Marantz Cinema 60 Review – A Comprehensive Guide

Marantz Cinema 60 Review

The Marantz Cinema 60, the latest offering in the realm of high-fidelity home theater systems, marks a significant leap in the evolution of audio-visual technology. Esteemed for its rich heritage in the world of sound, Marantz has once again demonstrated its prowess with this state-of-the-art receiver. The Cinema 60, a true testament to Marantz’s dedication to audio excellence, promises an immersive cinematic experience right in the comfort of your living room.

This comprehensive Marantz Cinema 60 Review delves into its myriad features, exploring how it stands out in the crowded market of AV receivers. At its heart, the Cinema 60 boasts an impressive array of technological advancements, including cutting-edge audio processing capabilities, support for the latest high-definition audio formats, and seamless integration with various streaming services. Its design, a harmonious blend of elegance and functionality, echoes Marantz’s commitment to aesthetic appeal without compromising on performance.

Furthermore, the review evaluates Cinema 60’s user experience, from setup to daily operation, highlighting its intuitive interface and user-friendly controls. Whether you are an audiophile, a movie enthusiast, or someone seeking to elevate your home entertainment system, the Marantz Cinema 60 is a compelling choice. Through detailed analysis and practical insights, this review aims to provide a thorough understanding of what makes the Marantz Cinema 60 a noteworthy addition to Marantz’s illustrious lineage of audio equipment.

Marantz Cinema 60 Design and Build Quality

The Marantz Cinema 60 AV Receiver, as part of Marantz’s newly introduced Cinema series, showcases a bold step forward in design and build quality, distinguishing itself from its predecessors and competitors.

Design-wise, the Cinema 60 retains the luxurious vintage aesthetic characteristic of Marantz products but infuses it with a more modern appeal. This redesign was a much-needed refreshment, giving the unit a contemporary edge while maintaining its classic charm. It measures 17.4″ x 13.9″ x 9.3″ (442 x 354 x 235 mm) and weighs approximately 24.0 lbs (10.9 kg), aligning it with other receivers in its category. The unit’s profile can be reduced to 6.5″ (165mm) if the antennas are positioned horizontally, which does not significantly affect connection quality.

The front panel features two large circular knobs for input selection and volume control, flanking a central circular porthole which now sports an OLED display. Below this are nine circular buttons for various controls such as M-DAX, Pure Direct, Zone 2, and others, arranged in a straight line. The front also houses a microphone jack, a USB port for external storage, a headphones jack, and a small circular power button. The sides of the front face exhibit a lightly curved and textured design, adding stylistic flair to the overall presentation.

Internally, the Cinema 60 underwent several changes. It includes Marantz’s proprietary HDAM circuitry, now updated with the HDAM-SA2 board. However, some features like the Hybrid PLL Clock Jitter Reducer, present in the SR5015, are not included in the Cinema 60.

The remote control received a redesign to align with the new aesthetics of the receiver. It features a straightforward layout with input, volume, channel, and navigation controls, along with a new backlight function for easier use in low-light conditions.

In summary, the Marantz Cinema 60 combines a fresh, modern design with the classic luxury that Marantz is known for. Its build quality and internal components reflect Marantz’s commitment to providing a high-quality audio experience, making it an attractive choice for both audiophiles and home theater enthusiasts.

Marantz Cinema 60 Features

1. Advanced Sound Processing

The Marantz Cinema 60 features advanced sound processing capabilities, ensuring an immersive audio experience. It supports the latest audio formats, including Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, and Auro-3D, providing a three-dimensional soundstage that enhances any movie or music experience.

2. 8K HDMI Connectivity

With its future-proof design, the Cinema 60 offers 8K HDMI connectivity. This allows for high-quality video passthrough, supporting 8K/60Hz and 4K/120Hz video resolutions. It also supports HDR10, HDR10+, HLG (Hybrid Log Gamma), and Dolby Vision, providing stunning visuals to accompany its superior audio.

3. HEOS Built-in

The Cinema 60 is equipped with HEOS Built-in, Marantz’s proprietary multi-room audio technology. This feature enables seamless integration with other HEOS-enabled devices, allowing for synchronized audio playback throughout the home.

4. High-Resolution Audio Streaming

Marantz Cinema 60 supports high-resolution audio streaming, compatible with a wide range of streaming services. It offers support for FLAC, ALAC, and WAV files, as well as DSD 2.8/5.6MHz playback, ensuring audiophile-grade sound quality.

5. Voice Control Compatibility

This receiver is compatible with major voice control agents like Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple Siri. Users can easily control the device using voice commands, adding convenience and enhancing the user experience.

6. Dual Subwoofer Outputs

The Cinema 60 features dual subwoofer outputs, providing better bass balance and a more immersive audio experience. This setup allows for more flexibility in subwoofer placement and improved room calibration.

7. Eco-Friendly Power Consumption

Marantz has also focused on eco-friendliness with the Cinema 60. It has an auto-standby mode and a low power consumption design, making it an energy-efficient choice for home theater enthusiasts.

8. Robust Build Quality

Reflecting Marantz’s commitment to quality, the Cinema 60 boasts a robust build. It features a metal front panel and well-crafted knobs and buttons, ensuring durability and a premium feel.

9. Easy Setup and User Interface

The Cinema 60 is designed for ease of setup and use. It includes an intuitive on-screen setup assistant and a straightforward user interface, making it accessible even for those who are not tech-savvy.

10. Advanced Room Calibration

Utilizing Audyssey MultEQ XT room calibration technology, the Cinema 60 optimizes sound according to the specific room characteristics. This feature ensures the best possible audio quality in any environment.

These features collectively make the Marantz Cinema 60 a versatile and high-performing AV receiver, suitable for a wide range of home theater applications.

Marantz Cinema 60 Connectivity

The Marantz Cinema 60 AV Receiver offers a variety of connectivity options to suit various home theater and audio needs. Here are the key connectivity features:

1. HDMI Connections

The Cinema 60 comes equipped with six HDMI inputs and two HDMI outputs. Three of these HDMI inputs support 8K resolution, providing future-proofing for upcoming high-resolution video formats. The HDMI outputs include support for eARC (Enhanced Audio Return Channel), allowing for high-quality audio transmission from TV apps back to the receiver.

2. Digital and Analog Inputs

For digital audio, the Cinema 60 includes two optical and two coaxial inputs. Additionally, it offers five analog inputs, including a dedicated MM (Moving Magnet) phono input for turntables, making it versatile for various audio sources.

3. Network Connectivity

The Cinema 60 supports both wired (Ethernet) and wireless (Wi-Fi and Bluetooth) network connections. This flexibility enables easy integration into your home network for streaming and control purposes.

4. HEOS Built-in

With HEOS Built-in, the Cinema 60 can stream music from popular services like Pandora, Spotify, iHeart Radio, Deezer, and TIDAL. It also facilitates multi-room audio setups and control through the HEOS app.

5. High-Resolution Audio Streaming

The receiver is capable of streaming high-resolution audio formats, including PCM signals up to 24-bit/192 kHz and DSD signals up to 5.6 MHz (DSD128).

6. Voice Control Integration

The Cinema 60 can be integrated into smart home systems, offering voice control compatibility with Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple Homepod.

7. Remote and App Control

Apart from the physical remote control, which features a convenient backlight for low-light conditions, the Cinema 60 can also be operated using the Marantz AVR Remote app, available on both iOS and Android platforms.

These connectivity options make the Marantz Cinema 60 a highly adaptable and future-proof choice for both audiophiles and home theater enthusiasts, offering extensive compatibility with a wide range of devices and formats.

Marantz Cinema 60 Sound Quality

Immersive Surround Sound

The Marantz Cinema 60 excels in delivering immersive surround sound experiences. It supports the latest audio formats like Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, which are essential for creating a realistic, three-dimensional sound field. The receiver’s ability to decode these advanced formats ensures that soundtracks are rendered with precision, offering an enveloping audio experience that enhances movie watching.

Power and Clarity

With 100 watts per channel, the Marantz Cinema 60 is capable of filling medium-sized rooms with powerful and clear sound. This power ensures that the receiver can handle dynamic soundtracks without distortion, maintaining clarity even at higher volume levels. The sound quality remains consistent across various content, whether it’s action-packed movies or dialogue-heavy scenes.

Virtualization Technologies

The receiver includes Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization and DTS Virtual:X technologies. These virtualizers can create an illusion of height and surround sound, even in setups without physical speakers in those positions. While not as accurate as true physical setups, these technologies are beneficial for those who cannot install multiple speakers in their room.

Music Playback

Marantz is known for its musicality, and the Cinema 60 continues this tradition. It supports high-resolution audio formats, ensuring that music playback is handled with care and precision. The receiver’s ability to render music with detail and resolution makes it an excellent choice for audiophiles who want a system that performs well for both movies and music.

Overall Performance

The Marantz Cinema 60 demonstrates a balanced performance in both stereo and surround sound applications. Its ability to handle complex soundtracks with ease and its prowess in music playback make it a versatile choice for a home theater system. The receiver’s sound quality, combined with its range of features, positions it as a strong contender in its price range.

In summary, the Marantz Cinema 60 offers a compelling audio experience, marked by its immersive surround sound capabilities, powerful and clear output, advanced virtualization technologies, and excellent music playback. Its performance in both movies and music makes it a well-rounded choice for a home entertainment system.

Marantz Cinema 60 Pros and Cons

Based on the information from the Marantz website and reviews from Home Theater HiFi and H-M Entertainment, here are five pros and three cons of the Marantz Cinema 60 AV Receiver:

Pros:

1. High-Quality Sound Reproduction: The Cinema 60 is lauded for its superior sound quality, delivering rich, detailed, and dynamic audio. It excellently handles a variety of audio formats, including Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, offering an immersive listening experience.

2. Advanced Video Capabilities: With support for 8K HDMI connectivity, the Cinema 60 is future-proofed for high-resolution video content. It also supports HDR10, HDR10+, Dolby Vision, and HLG, ensuring exceptional video quality.

3. Versatile Streaming and Connectivity: The receiver includes HEOS Built-in for multi-room audio and streaming from popular services. It also offers both wired and wireless connectivity options, including Bluetooth and Wi-Fi.

4. User-Friendly Interface and Control: The Cinema 60 features an intuitive interface and is compatible with voice control systems like Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple Siri. The included remote control and Marantz AVR Remote app add to its ease of use.

5. Robust Build and Elegant Design: Marantz maintains its reputation for high-quality build and design. The Cinema 60 sports a modern yet classic look, fitting seamlessly into various home theater setups.

Cons:

1. Limited Backward Compatibility for Video Connections: The receiver lacks composite and component video inputs, which limits its compatibility with older devices that require these connections.

2. No Support for Qobuz Streaming: Unlike some other streaming services, HEOS does not support Qobuz, which might be a drawback for users who prefer this service.

3. Price: Positioned in the mid-upper range of AV receivers, the Cinema 60 may be considered pricey for some budgets, especially when compared to other models in the market.

These pros and cons highlight the Marantz Cinema 60 as a powerful, versatile receiver with a few limitations, mainly concerning backward compatibility and streaming service options.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Marantz Cinema 60 stands as a testament to the brand’s longstanding commitment to audio excellence and innovation. This receiver blends a classic design with modern technology, offering an array of features that cater to both audiophiles and home theater enthusiasts.

Its standout attributes include exceptional sound quality, advanced video capabilities with 8K HDMI support, versatile streaming and connectivity options, and a user-friendly interface. The HEOS Built-in feature for multi-room audio and streaming, along with high-resolution audio support, make it a compelling choice for a modern home entertainment setup. Additionally, its sleek design and robust build quality align with the luxurious aesthetic Marantz is known for.

However, the Cinema 60 is not without its drawbacks. The lack of backward compatibility for certain video connections and the absence of Qobuz streaming support might be limiting for some users. Furthermore, its price point places it in the mid-upper range, which might be a consideration for those with a tighter budget.

Overall, the Marantz Cinema 60 is an excellent investment for those seeking a high-quality AV receiver that balances superb audio performance with the latest in video technology. It embodies the ideal of a modern, feature-rich receiver that does not compromise on sound quality, making it a worthy addition to any home theater system.