Marantz Model 50
Integrated amplifier
If there's somerthing Marantz masters, it's a pure analog amplifier, and that's exactly what you get in the Marantz Model 50. There are no digital inputs, network features, Bluetooth or other newfangled features - you can just add that externally and connect via one of the many inputs. The only digital technology you will find on this amplifier is the OLED display on the front, and it is of course a special low-noise display.
Marantz Model 50 highlights
- 2 x 70 watts class A/B
- CD input bufferstage
- MM phono stage
- High-quality SPKT-1+ terminals
It is quite deliberate that Marantz has kept the amplifier analog, for two reasons. The first is that you eliminate the risk of electrical noise from the digital circuits, which could otherwise affect the sensitive analog circuits. The second is, of course, that the Marantz Model 50 is created as the perfect partner for the CD player/streamer Marantz CD 50N, which can then take care of all your digital needs, physically from CD or via network. Model 50 is a classic Marantz amplifier design, based on class A/B topology. You get 70 watts per channel into an 8 Ohms load (100 watts in 4 Ohms), which drives most speakers without problems.
Lots of options for connectivity on Marantz Model 50
In terms of inputs, Marantz Model 50 has you covered. You get a total of four pairs of RCA inputs, which can be used for analog sources. In addition, there is an RCA input that Marantz has made a put a little more work into. It is marked with 'CD' and is undoubtedly made for connection to the Marantz CD 50N, or CD 60. The input is special, in that it is the only one equipped with a buffer amplifier, and thus delivers even higher sound quality than the remaining four inputs, i.a. by improved channel separation. It's a small detail, but a nice one, which emphasizes that Marantz is super serious about their amplifier. Finally, we must mention that Marantz has also equipped the Model 50 with an excellent phono stage for MM cartridges, so you can connect your record player without any need for further amplification.
Marantz Model 50 of course also offers a range of outputs, and you will find a pair of pre-outs, so you can connect a subwoofer, or a power amplifier should you need extra power. There's also a pretty capable headphone amplifier built in, so you can listen all to yourself if the neighbors have gone to bed and you need a shot of jazz and a whisky.
Excellent design, attention to detail and features
On the fascia, the Marantz Model 50 is equipped with options for tone control, for adjusting bass, treble and stereo balance. If you just want the pure sound, these can of course be disabled using the Source Direct function on the remote control. It is also on the front of Model 50 that you can choose between listening to a single pair of speakers or to two if you have chosen to connect two pairs. There are a lot of good details on the Model 50, and it is worth highlighting the beautiful new design that Marantz uses on both the stereo and the surround products. When you move up a bit in the range from Marantz, there are also other details that have received a bit more attention - on this amplifier it is, for example, the speaker terminals, which are the SPKT-1+ type, and of really high quality.
| Measurements | 44,2 × 43,1 × 13 cm |
| Weight (net) | 14.2 kg |
| Digital input(s) | No |
| Input, Stereo RCA | 6 |
| Input, Home Theater | Yes |
| Input, Phono pre-amp | Yes, MM compatible |
| Output, Headphone | Yes, 1/4" TRS |
| Pre-out (stereo) | Yes |
| Tape out | Yes |
| Power at 8Ω (per channel) | 70 watts |
| Power at 4Ω (per. channel) | 100 watts |
| A/B Speaker | Yes |
| Number of channels | 2 |
| Amplifier type | Class A/B |
| In the box | Remote control, Power cable, Users guide |
| Power consumption when standby | 0.3 watts |
| Power consumption | 220 watts |