Marantz Introduces New CINEMA Series 2, With Exclusive UK Distribution Of CINEMA 60 DAB Series 2 Through AWE

Marantz has introduced CINEMA Series 2, the next generation of its premium AV receiver range, bringing upgrades to audio performance, room correction, system configuration, connectivity and gaming.

For the UK, the new Series 2 line-up comprises the CINEMA 50 Series 2, CINEMA 60 DAB Series 2 and slimline CINEMA 70s Series 2, with the CINEMA 60 DAB Series 2 available exclusively from AWE in the UK.

Alongside a new 32-bit, eight-channel DAC architecture across all three models, Series 2 expands access to Dirac Live and introduces a number of new features designed specifically to make installation, commissioning and troubleshooting easier for custom installers.

*Introducing the Marantz CINEMA Series 2 Range – (L to R) CINEMA 50 Series 2, CINEMA 60 DAB Series 2 & CINEMA 70 Series 2*

Dirac Live Comes To More CINEMA Models

One of the most significant developments with CINEMA Series 2 is the expansion of Dirac Live support.

The CINEMA 60 DAB Series 2 and CINEMA 70s Series 2 are now Dirac Live ready, with Dirac Live Room Correction available as an optional upgrade. This gives installers access to Dirac calibration across a wider choice of Marantz AV receivers, with tools to address room-related acoustic issues and improve consistency across the listening area.

The CINEMA 50 Series 2 offers the most comprehensive Dirac support of the three new Series 2 models, with compatibility for Dirac Live Room Correction, Dirac Live Bass Control and Dirac Live Active Room Treatment (ART).

All three models also introduce a new 32-bit, eight-channel DAC, providing simultaneous high-resolution conversion across every channel. Marantz says the new architecture delivers greater precision and improved imaging, while reducing timing errors and simplifying the signal path.

As with the existing CINEMA range, each model has been tuned by the Marantz Sound Master to retain the company’s distinctive sonic character.

Watch the CINEMA Series 2 Overview Video

New Installation & Diagnostic Tools

For custom installers, some of the most useful Series 2 upgrades are found in the setup and diagnostic tools.

The new Web Control 2.0 provides complete system configuration and control from a smartphone, tablet or computer. This allows an installer to configure the AVR from their own device without needing to work through the TV’s on-screen interface.

Series 2 also introduces HDMI Diagnostics 2.0 within CI Mode, providing automated HDMI verification and more advanced troubleshooting capabilities. For installers commissioning a system or returning to diagnose an issue, this provides additional visibility into the HDMI signal chain without requiring separate troubleshooting processes for every potential problem.

A new Channel Level Monitoring feature provides real-time visualisation of channel activity across all CINEMA Series 2 models, making it quicker to verify that individual speakers and channels are operating correctly.

Together, these features give installers more information directly from the AVR during setup, commissioning and fault finding.

*The CINEMA 70 Series 2 features a slimline design, making it easy to integrate into discreet installations and spaces where a full-size AV receiver isn’t practical.*

Additional Flexibility With CINEMA 50 Series 2

The CINEMA 50 Series 2 offers the most comprehensive feature set of the three new Series 2 models, with nine channels of amplification and 11.4 channels of processing.

It also introduces two features exclusive to this model within the Series 2 range.

The new Dolby Atmos Channel Expander makes use of all available speakers when playing channel-based Dolby Atmos content, while Centre Bi-Amp Mode provides an additional configuration option for compatible centre speakers. This sits alongside the existing bi-amp functionality for compatible front left and right speakers.

All three CINEMA Series 2 receivers retain full-channel preamp outputs, giving installers the option to add external power amplification where required.

*CINEMA 50 Series 2 – Front and Rear Views Showing Ports and Connections*

Updated Support For Gaming & Streaming

CINEMA Series 2 also adds support for 1440p video pass-through and AMD FreeSync, building on the existing HDMI 2.1 capabilities of the CINEMA platform.

For compatible gaming PCs and consoles, AMD FreeSync synchronises the display refresh rate with the source to help reduce tearing and provide smoother gameplay.

The integrated HEOS platform has also been upgraded, with Marantz promising a more responsive streaming experience alongside expanded multi-room functionality.

A future firmware update will introduce Low-Latency Bluetooth LE Audio, reducing wireless audio delay when using compatible headphones and mobile devices.

*CINEMA 60 DAB Series 2 – Exclusively Available in the UK Through AWE*

Three New Series 2 Models For UK Installers

The three new Series 2 models provide options for different sizes and types of installation.

The CINEMA 50 Series 2 provides nine amplified channels and 11.4-channel processing, with support for Dirac Live Room Correction, Bass Control and Active Room Treatment.

The CINEMA 60 DAB Series 2, available exclusively from AWE in the UK, brings Dirac Live upgradeability, the new DAC architecture and the latest Series 2 installation and diagnostic features to the CINEMA 60 platform.

For projects where space is more restricted, the CINEMA 70s Series 2 retains Marantz’s slimline form factor while gaining the new DAC architecture, Dirac Live upgradeability and the wider Series 2 feature set.

All three models will be offered in Black and Silver Gold finishes.

The CINEMA 50 Series 2 is expected from mid-September, followed by the CINEMA 60 DAB Series 2 in early October and the CINEMA 70s Series 2 in mid-October.

For more information on Marantz CINEMA Series 2, including the AWE-exclusive CINEMA 60 DAB Series 2, contact the AWE team.