Marantz has introduced the MCR 60n, a new compact all-in-one Hi-Fi system combining CD playback, network streaming, HDMI eARC, turntable connectivity and amplification in a single component.
Described by Marantz as its most capable compact music system to date, the MCR 60n has been designed to offer the flexibility of a modern streaming system while retaining the company’s traditional focus on two-channel music reproduction. A European MCR 60n DAB version will also be available.
The system features a new power supply designed to provide greater current capability and amplifier headroom than previous models, with output increased to 65W per channel into 4 ohms. Marantz says this delivers improved dynamics, stronger bass performance and greater control across a wider range of loudspeakers.
Four channels of amplification support Bi-Amp, Parallel Bridge-Tied Load (BTL) and dual speaker configurations, allowing the MCR 60n to be optimised for different loudspeaker systems or used to power two independent listening zones.
HDMI eARC provides integration with televisions, including HDMI-CEC volume control and Dolby Digital and Dolby Digital Plus decoding, allowing the system to provide a stereo alternative to a soundbar.
An integrated MM phono stage caters for turntables, while Marantz has retained a front-loading CD mechanism. High-resolution streaming supports PCM up to 384kHz/32-bit and DSD up to 11.2MHz.
The latest generation of the HEOS platform provides access to streaming services, internet radio and multi-room audio, with Spotify, TIDAL and Qobuz Connect also supported alongside AirPlay 2 and Roon.
Four customisable Smart Select presets can recall sources, listening modes and volume settings, while Bluetooth supports both receive and transmit modes. This allows users to stream music from a mobile device to the MCR 60n or send music and TV audio from the system to compatible wireless headphones.
Marantz has also included a configurable subwoofer output with adjustable crossover settings, while Dirac Live Room Correction is available as an optional upgrade for stereo playback. This allows users to calibrate the system for the listening environment, with the aim of improving imaging, bass response and tonal accuracy.
Variable audio outputs mean the MCR 60n can also operate as a streaming preamplifier with active loudspeakers or existing Hi-Fi components. Connectivity is completed by Ethernet, USB and optical digital inputs, with the European version also featuring DAB radio.
The compact chassis follows Marantz’s latest design language and will be offered in Matte Black and Marantz Champagne Gold, although the latter will not be available in North America.
With its combination of traditional sources and current streaming and TV connectivity, the MCR 60n is designed to cover a broad range of applications, from a compact main Hi-Fi system to a desktop set-up or an audio upgrade for a television.
The MCR 60n is potentially more interesting than its ‘compact Hi-Fi’ positioning might initially suggest. HDMI eARC, HEOS multi-room capability, flexible speaker configuration, subwoofer management, variable outputs and optional Dirac Live give installers a considerable amount to work with in a relatively small box.
For secondary rooms, studies, bedrooms and smaller media spaces where clients want genuinely capable music and TV audio without a rack of equipment, products of this type could provide an increasingly useful middle ground between traditional separates and wireless speaker systems.
It also reflects a wider trend towards reducing the visual footprint of AV technology in the home. As clients and interior designers increasingly look for technology that complements rather than dominates a room, compact electronics combined with architectural or discreet loudspeakers can offer installers another route to delivering high-quality audio without compromising the interior.
The Marantz MCR 60n and MCR 60n DAB will be available to the public via authorised Marantz retailers from September 15.
