Marantz Model 40n Integrated Stereo Amplifier Review
As a leading global high-fidelity audio equipment manufacturer, Marantz has always upheld its original commitment to music and is dedicated to delivering the most authentic, original sound. With this commitment in mind, Marantz is embarking on a new journey, leveraging its decades of brand heritage and support from a professional acoustics team to shape a new brand philosophy centered on creating “luxury for modern music.” Through the fresh upgrade of the Marantz Model 40n Integrated Stereo Amplifier, the company aims to provide users with a more realistic, credible, professional, and luxurious musical listening experience.
The Marantz Model 40n Integrated Stereo Amplifier combines the features of three existing Marantz products: the Model 30 (stereo amplifier), the NR1200 (HDMI transmission), and the PM7000n (network and streaming transmission). This all-in-one design not only caters to Marantz’s traditional Hi-Fi audiophile community but also reaches out to general music lovers who seek high-quality music and desire a range of features and convenient operation. It is a rare combination of the best features from multiple products.
Design
Marantz MODEL 40n VS Marantz MODEL 30
At first glance, Marantz MODEL 40n amplifier and Marantz MODEL 30 may look like twins, but there are significant differences in their circuitry and functions. The MODEL 30 is a hybrid amplifier with only analog input and output, while the MODEL 40n is Marantz’s first mid- to high-range streaming amplifier.
It features built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, HEOS Built-in streaming functionality, compatibility with AirPlay 2, and support for internet streaming music services such as Spotify, Apple Music, Tidal, and TuneIn. It can also play Hi-Res music files up to 192kHz/24bit and is compatible with DSD64 and DSD128.
The MODEL 30n is a pure two-channel hybrid amplifier, while the MODEL 40n includes decoding capabilities as well as WiFi and LAN network connections. It incorporates the technical features of several popular Marantz products, including the network functions of the PM7000n, the HDMI ARC audio return of the NR1200, and the appearance and sound of the MODEL 30.
The circular OLED display in the center of the front panel continues Marantz’s classic dial design, and the vintage element combined with the symmetrical metal body in either black or silver is very stylish. The body is made of aluminum for the front and side panels, steel for the top cover, and high-density feet to increase stability. The redesigned body also makes the unit weigh 16.7kg.
The vintage circular dial design features an OLED screen that displays various body setting information such as source and volume. The front panel has six knobs for selecting and setting the source, Source Direct mode, bass, treble, left-right balance, and volume.
There is also a 6.3mm headphone jack on the right side of the front panel. There is a ring of pale yellow light around the front panel, giving it a vintage yet fashionable look, and the brightness can be adjusted.
In addition to playing music files from a NAS or portable device over the network, the MODEL 40n’s USB interface also supports NTFS format. This allows users to use a USB hard drive as a music library and play it using the HEOS App by simply plugging it into the unit.
Another notable feature of the Marantz MODEL 40n stereo amplifier is that it is one of the few Hi-Fi amplifiers with an HDMI ARC interface, allowing it to easily replace the TV speakers and turn on and off the TV.
By now, it should be clear that the Marantz Model 40n is well-suited to the needs of audio enthusiasts in the streaming age. With a MODEL 40n and a pair of speakers, you can have a streaming audio system, and Marantz also included a PHONO input for a corresponding MM cartridge so you can listen to vinyl records.
The Marantz MODEL 40n also has a subwoofer output with an adjustable low-pass crossover point, making it suitable for use with a 2.1-channel speaker system.
In terms of the amplification circuit, MODEL 40n’s preamplifier circuit (including volume control and high-level amplification) is similar to MODEL 30. It is equipped with Marantz’s proprietary HDAM and HDAM-SA2 high-dynamic amplification circuits.
The preamplifier circuit has a variable gain design, resulting in a 45% lower noise ratio compared to the PM8006 at low volumes, allowing users to hear more subtle sound information.
In terms of the amplifier circuit, the previous Marantz MODEL 30 used a Hypex NCore (class D), while the MODEL 40n has returned to Marantz’s traditional linear amplification (class AB). It uses an HDAM-SA3 current feedback amplifier circuit structure that has high-speed, high signal-to-noise ratio, and low distortion characteristics.
The output stage uses a parallel design to double the output current, with a maximum instantaneous output current of up to 68 amps.
The rated power of the MODEL 40n is 70 watts per channel at 8 ohms and 100 watts at 4 ohms. While the output power may be lower than the MODEL 30, it is sufficient for most households and offers more features than most integrated amplifiers at a lower price than the MODEL 30.
The Marantz Sound Masters team has carefully selected top-quality components for the MODEL 40n in an effort to improve the performance of the product. Using the company’s proprietary dynamic amplifier module (HDAM), the MODEL 40n is able to fully express the sound connected to the speakers – from precise low-frequency transients to smooth mid-range and high frequencies.
The MODEL 40n uses carefully designed shorter signal paths, and the internal dynamic amplifier module (HDAM) will provide listeners with uncompromising sound enjoyment.
The Marantz MODEL 40n amplifier uses advanced Wi-Fi technology to provide wireless streaming through Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, even in noisy and crowded urban environments. To make it easier for users to use, the MODEL 40n comes with a remote control that is very easy to operate.
In addition to streaming capabilities, the MODEL 40n is also equipped with a range of inputs and outputs, including an HDMI ARC port, allowing it to be easily integrated into a home theater system.
The MODEL 40n also supports a variety of high-resolution audio formats, including 192kHz/24bit and DSD64/128, making it a great choice for audiophiles. Overall, the Marantz MODEL 40n is a versatile and feature-packed amplifier that is sure to be a hit with music lovers and home theater enthusiasts alike.
The Marantz MODEL 40n has both RCA Audio and Phono (MM) inputs and is equipped with Marantz Musical Phono EQ, allowing you to enjoy analog sound directly by connecting a turntable. In addition to optical and coaxial digital inputs, this model also has an HDMI port, which can be used to directly send TV audio back to the amplifier output through the ARC function.
This is convenient for users who like to listen to music and use the same system to enhance the sound quality when watching TV. However, audio is only supported in PCM, so the TV’s audio output also needs to be set accordingly. The Marantz MODEL 40n integrated amplifier also provides a subwoofer Pre-out terminal, which can be used to connect an additional subwoofer to create a 2.1-channel system.
It also offers a frequency division point setting of 40/60/80/100/120Hz, catering to a wide range of needs and allowing you to listen to music and watch TV at the same time.
The Inside
Marantz MODEL 40n is equipped with the company’s well-known HDAM (High Dynamic Amplification Modules) and uses the HDAM-SA3 to restore music details and Marantz’s unique, pleasant sound.
In comparison to the Class D amplification of MODEL 30, MODEL 40n has Class A/B amplification which can be expected to produce a warmer sound. The amplifier also provides a 70W output per channel (8Ω). The double-shielded, large transformer on the left side of the body is larger and more powerful than the 2.9kg, 108mm diameter transformer used in the PM8006, weighing in at 3.4kg and having a 129mm diameter.
When paired with high-quality ELNA capacitors, this ensures a stable power supply and better driving and control power in dynamic music. The circuits for the HEOS/HDMI, DAC, and Phono amplification are all equipped with powerful shielding to prevent digital noise interference with other circuits.
Standby mode power supply (SMPS) is also a source of distortion, so the MODEL 40n completely shuts off the SMPS while in operation and switches to the transformer for power.
When in standby mode, it switches back to the SMPS to eliminate this type of distortion. In addition to its heavy body and precise design, the MODEL 40n is also made in Japan, giving users confidence in its quality.
With so many circuits stacked in a small space, would they interfere with each other? Of course, the original factory engineers have taken this into account. The heatsink is in the center, probably in order to maximize the separation of the power supply from the circuit.
Metal shielding also has this consideration. In addition, some functions that may never be used can also be manually turned off, thereby reducing the impact of this part of the circuit on the whole. The inside of the HEOS / HDMI, DAC, and Phono amplification circuits are all equipped with strong shielding.
Sound Performance
The Marantz Model 40n integrated stereo amplifier adheres to the brand’s signature tuning philosophy, producing a warm, smooth, and enjoyable sound. When playing back vocals, jazz, and piano music, the Model 40n conveys a sense of intimacy and charm. In a medium-sized living room, paired with larger, high-sensitivity bookshelf speakers, the Model 40n fills the space with rich, powerful bass.
For two-channel living room home theater users, be sure to use its HDMI ARC function. As a Marantz audio master previously said in an interview with a Japanese media, the Model 40n is the first amplifier that has put in a lot of effort to improve the HDMI ARC feedback sound, so the improvement in sound quality is significant (the Model 40n can only accept PCM data feedback).
MODEL 40n is equipped with B&W’s 705 Signature bookshelf speakers in this review test. The whole system is quite simple, just an All-in-One streamer combined with a pair of speakers, and then a mobile phone is used to control and stream TIDAL, Spotify, as well as USB and music on the phone through the HEOS App.
Although it is only paired with bookshelf speakers, the sound field presented by the entire system is quite wide, especially when listening to Bob James’ “Topside”, the positions of vocals and instruments are extremely three-dimensional, and the sense of depth in the left, right, up and down, as well as the front and back can be fully presented.
Moreover, some of the sounds extend upwards in a more exaggerated way, even far beyond the scope of the listening space itself, which is hard to imagine the effect brought by such a simple combination. Although the low frequency of the bookshelf has a little limitation, the sound is full, with strength and elasticity, and there is a certain sense of surround, and the extension is just right.
On one hand, the B&W 705 Signature speakers contributed to the overall sound quality, but on the other hand, the MODEL 40n also demonstrated its strong driving power and stability. The sound was full and calm, with excellent control and attention to detail.
The Marantz MODEL 40n was able to reproduce the layers and nuances of drum sounds with both large and small dynamics. The texture of the instruments was prominent, and the reverberation of vocals and strings was clear and soothing.
In addition, the MODEL 40n had a spacious soundstage, making the sound coming from the speakers sound excellent, with high resolution and clarity. Compared to MODEL 30, MODEL 40n had a slightly warmer sound and more detail. The vocals had depth and emotion, but were not excessively warm and had a refreshing quality. All aspects were well-balanced and performed exceptionally.
Conclusion
Marantz Model 40n Integrated Stereo Amplifier is positioned in the mid to high-end range in Marantz’s product line. The “all-in-one” feature configuration, including DLNA, streaming playback, and HEOS multi-room transmission, as well as app control, is sufficient to appeal general public who love music, have high requirements for music appreciation, but may not be willing to spend time and effort on a complicated system. All you need is an extra pair of speakers and a continuous source of music.
