Marantz – Official Playlist
Marantz is a legendary hi-fi and home-cinema audio brand known for a smooth, musical and slightly warm sound signature. The brand is especially respected for amplifiers, CD/SACD players, network streamers and AV receivers.
Started: 1953
Founder: Saul Marantz
Origin: New York, USA — Saul Marantz built the first Audio Consolette at home, then founded the Marantz Company in Woodside, Queens, New York.
Current location / ownership: Marantz originated in the USA and has strong Japanese engineering heritage. Official Marantz material says its products are developed internationally and tuned by Japanese experts. As of September 2025, Marantz is part of Sound United under HARMAN International, a Samsung Electronics subsidiary.
Top 3 successful / iconic Marantz products
| Product | Type | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| Marantz Model 7 | Tube preamplifier | One of the most famous vintage Marantz products; highly collectible and important in hi-fi history. |
| Marantz CD-63 / CD-63 KI Signature | CD player | A very successful and loved CD-player line, known for its musical, warm and fluid sound. |
| Marantz CINEMA series / CINEMA 30 | AV receiver | Modern premium home-cinema line, combining Marantz’s musical tuning with modern surround formats and streaming features. |
Overall rating
Overall brand rating: 4.6 / 5
Strengths: refined musical sound, strong hi-fi heritage, excellent CD/SACD players, premium AV receivers, beautiful design, good build quality.
Weaknesses: usually more expensive than Denon for similar home-cinema features; not always the most neutral or analytical sound; high-end models can be costly.
Best for: listeners who want smooth, musical, premium sound for stereo music and home cinema rather than only maximum specs or raw power.