Can a Small Marantz Really Sound This Powerful? Marantz Model M1 Tested

Modern solutions for home audio equipment tend to be compact, but at the same time, they are “stuffed” with all sorts of functions, including network integration. The Japanese company Marantz also follows this trend and presented a compact amplifier with streaming functions. The Marantz Model M1 has a minimalist design (there is no display), the power of the built-in amplifier is up to 125 W per channel at a load of 4 Ohms at THD 0.05%, and Wi-Fi network capabilities are represented by AirPlay 2 and Spotify Connect. There is also Bluetooth 5.0 for signal reception. For a full-fledged home stereo system, all that remains is to connect passive acoustics and an active subwoofer.

The Marantz Model M1 is a powerhouse with a compact design, combining classic Hi-Fi craftsmanship with modern features. Whether streaming your favorite playlists or diving into your treasured vinyl collection, the M1 delivers a dynamic and rich sound experience that brings your music to life. Its sleek, minimalist aesthetic fits effortlessly into any space, while its powerful performance makes it a must-have for audiophiles who crave style and substance.

Design And Build Quality

The first thing you notice about the Marantz Model M1 is its size. Arriving in a box not much larger than one for a pair of shoes, the unit itself is an almost-perfect cube measuring just 22 x 8.5 x 22 cm.

Its design is strict and minimalist. The chassis is coated in a matte black silicone finish that, while prone to collecting fingerprints and dust, feels premium and pleasant to the touch. The top of the amplifier is covered by a beautiful, bumpy metal mesh grille that aids in ventilation. This, combined with its impeccable assembly and a base that is slightly smaller than the body, gives the M1 a sophisticated “floating” appearance. While not overtly luxurious, it is undeniably a serious and well-built piece of equipment.

Connectivity: The Essentials for a Modern System

Despite its compact size, the Model M1 provides all the essential connections for a modern digital audio setup. The rear panel includes:

• HDMI eARC: Perfect for getting high-quality audio from a TV. It can decode PCM and Dolby Digital+ streams.
• Digital Input: 1x Optical input.
• Analog Input: 1x RCA stereo input.
• Wired Network: 1x Ethernet port.
• Storage: 1x USB-A port for external drives.
• Outputs: A high-quality pair of speaker terminals and a dedicated subwoofer output for creating a 2.1 system.

Notably missing is a phono preamp, which will be a disappointment for vinyl enthusiasts who will need to purchase an external one. However, for digital sources and TV integration, the M1 is exceptionally well-equipped.

• Materials: Plastic front panel with Marantz logo and aluminum grille on top.
• Case features: ventilation holes at the bottom and top for cooling.
• Dimensions: The compact size enhances the impression that the device is “floating” above the surface, thanks to the slightly reduced base.

The rear panel contains all the necessary connectors:

• Connections: HDMI eARC, optical input, USB-A, Ethernet, analog RCA.
• Outputs: speaker terminals and subwoofer output (2.1 system).

Unfortunately, there is no phono preamp for vinyl, which may disappoint fans of analog sound. But for digital sources, this device offers maximum possibilities.

Marantz Model M1 Wireless Streaming Amplifier

While it is not the most compact (239 x 84 x 217 mm) or the most beautiful of connected amplifiers, the Model M1 benefits from a certain care, which already justifies its price a little higher than its direct competitors. For example, the device sports a matte black silicone coating, certainly dirty, but very pleasant to the touch. Another interesting detail is the presence of a bumpy metal mesh, of a very beautiful effect, as a top cover. Adding to the balance its impeccable assembly, the Marantz Model M1 already ranks among the serious devices, failing to be luxurious.

The connectivity, necessarily limited by the available volume, fortunately, provides the essentials. In addition to the wireless chips (WiFi and Bluetooth), as well as the Ethernet port and the USB-A socket (for external storage device), all linked to the network capabilities, the Model M1 has an HDMI eARC input capable of decoding PCM and Dolby Digital+ streams, an optical port, an RCA Line input, and a subwoofer output. In short, nothing is missing for those who want a simple device and not a hub.

Marantz Model M1 Heos Capable

While the Model M1 has many features, its ergonomics are a bit more disappointing. Considering its very basic touch controls (on the front) and the absence of a dedicated remote control, the device is almost entirely dependent on the user’s smartphone. Unfortunately, support for the HEOS multiroom ecosystem comes via an app whose settings interface is rather rustic, consisting of a long list of functions placed one after the other. Simply put, Marantz’s HEOS app is rich in features, but not very welcoming.

Powered by a mysterious stereo power module capable of delivering 2 x 100 watts under 8 ohms, when listening, the Marantz M1 turns out to be a very good amplifier. Without being the most technical that has passed through our hands, it allows us to propel without any difficulty the vast majority of Hifi speakers.

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Marantz Model M1 Power

Powerful but nuanced, it shines with the simplicity of its representation, neutral and detailed, without being cold. The sound is neither spectacular nor soft, simply right, without real interpretation, typical of what a good modern amplifier should be.

Of course, if we put aside its power, which is above average, the Model M1 is not technically better than its direct competitors. However, Marantz still retains some advantages, such as the integration of sound processing linked to video use. Not essential, but rather successful.

Conclusion: Brilliant Hardware, Clumsy Software

The Marantz Model M1 is a beautifully built, powerful, and sonically excellent compact amplifier. It successfully packs the heart of a true Marantz Hi-Fi system into a small, modern package and is capable of driving almost any pair of classic speakers with ease.

However, it is a product of two halves. The brilliant hardware is let down by a clunky and unintuitive software experience via the HEOS app. If you are deeply embedded in the HEOS ecosystem and can overlook a dated app, the M1 is a fantastic choice that delivers on its sonic promises. But for users who value a seamless, modern user interface, the daily reliance on this app could be a significant source of frustration.

At its typical price of around $1,000, the Model M1 offers a solid balance of premium features and performance, but it’s a qualified recommendation. It’s a mature amplifier that truly deserves a more polished application to match its outstanding sound.

Price Marantz Model M1:

When it comes to pricing, the Model M1 offers a solid balance of premium features and affordability. While it sits in the mid-range price category, it packs a punch comparable to higher-end models. Typically, you can expect the Marantz Model M1 to be priced around $1,000, though this may vary depending on your location and any promotions available.

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Marantz Model M1 Specifications

• Type: Connected stereo integrated amplifier
• Network inputs: WiFi, Ethernet, Bluetooth, USB-A for reading USB sticks
• Digital inputs: HDMI eARC compatible with PCM, Dolby Digital and Dolby Digital+, Toslink optical port
• Analog Input: Stereo RCA
• Analog outputs: RCA for subwoofer, screw speaker terminals
• Other port: 3.5mm jack IR input
• Network Compatibility: HEOS, AirPlay 2, Spotify Connect, TuneIn, DLNA/UPnP
• Control is possible via a device with Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, or Siri assistant
• Advertised output power: 100 W per channel into 8 ohms, 125 W per channel into 4 ohms
• Compatible impedances: 4 to 16 ohms
• Dimensions: 239 x 84 x 217 mm
• Weight: 2.2 kg

Marantz Model M1 Specifications:

• Type: Connected stereo integrated amplifier
• Network inputs: WiFi, Ethernet, Bluetooth, USB-A for reading USB sticks
• Digital inputs: HDMI eARC compatible with PCM, Dolby Digital and Dolby Digital+, Toslink optical port
• Analog Input: Stereo RCA
• Analog outputs: RCA for subwoofer, screw speaker terminals
• Other port: 3.5mm jack IR input
• Network Compatibility: HEOS, AirPlay 2, Spotify Connect, TuneIn, DLNA/UPnP
• Control is possible via a device with Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, or Siri assistant
• Advertised output power: 100 W per channel into 8 ohms, 125 W per channel into 4 ohms
• Compatible impedances: 4 to 16 ohms
• Dimensions: 239 x 84 x 217 mm
• Weight: 2.2 kg