Marantz Launches Cinema Series 2 AV Receivers With Major Upgrades

Marantz has introduced its new Cinema Series 2 lineup of AV receivers, bringing notable improvements in audio performance, connectivity, gaming support and installation features across the range. The new lineup consists of the flagship Cinema 50 Series 2, the mid-range Cinema 60 Series 2 and the entry-level Cinema 70s Series 2, with each model receiving enhancements over the original Cinema receiver family.

At the core of every Cinema Series 2 receiver is a new 32-bit, eight-channel digital-to-analog converter (DAC) designed to deliver high-resolution audio across all channels. Marantz says the upgraded hardware provides greater precision, improved sound imaging, enhanced dynamic expression and more cohesive surround sound performance. The receivers also process every channel simultaneously, helping reduce timing errors while improving signal consistency and reliability.

The new lineup introduces Channel Level Monitoring, allowing users to view real-time activity from each speaker to simplify home theater setup and verification. Marantz also said every receiver has been tuned by a Marantz Sound Master to maintain the company’s signature warm, spacious and musical sound profile.

All three models now support the optional Dirac Live Room Correction system, enabling users to optimize audio for their listening environment. However, the feature is not included as standard and must be purchased separately. The flagship Cinema 50 Series 2 is the only model compatible with the complete Dirac ecosystem, including Room Correction, Bass Control and Active Room Treatment.

Marantz also confirmed that a future firmware update will add Low Latency Bluetooth LE Audio, reducing wireless audio delay when paired with compatible headphones and mobile devices. The receivers will also receive an upgraded HEOS platform, improving streaming responsiveness while adding new multi-room audio capabilities.

Installation and system management have also been updated with Web Control 2.0, allowing users to configure and control the receivers through a smartphone, tablet or computer without relying on on-screen TV menus. For professional installers, HDMI Diagnostics 2.0 has been added to the receivers’ CI Mode, providing automated HDMI verification and troubleshooting tools to simplify installation.

Gaming support has been expanded across the lineup with HDMI connections capable of 1440p pass-through at 120Hz, along with AMD FreeSync compatibility to reduce screen tearing on supported displays. Additional connectivity includes full-channel pre-amplifier outputs for integration with external power amplifiers. Each model also features Marantz’s premium design, including copper hardware, carefully selected internal components and high-quality construction.

The Cinema 50 Series 2 delivers nine channels of amplification with 110 watts per channel and supports 11.4-channel processing. It also includes the most advanced feature set in the lineup, including full Dirac compatibility, a Center Channel Bi-Amp mode for improved dialogue clarity and a Dolby Atmos Channel Expander that utilizes all available speakers when playing channel-based Dolby Atmos content.

The Cinema 60 Series 2 offers seven channels of amplification rated at 100 watts per channel, while the slim Cinema 70s Series 2 provides seven channels with 50 watts per channel.

Marantz said the Cinema Series 2 receivers will be available worldwide beginning August 15. European buyers will also receive a dedicated Cinema 60 DAB Series 2 model with integrated digital radio. Pricing starts at $1,500 for the Cinema 70s Series 2, rises to $2,000 for the Cinema 60 Series 2 in the Americas and Asia-Pacific markets, and reaches $3,000 for the flagship Cinema 50 Series 2. The European Cinema 60 DAB Series 2 will retail for €1,450 and £1,250, while the Cinema 50 Series 2 will cost €2,100 and £1,850, and the Cinema 70s Series 2 will be priced at €1,100 and £950.