Marantz Cinema Series 2 receivers bring 1440p and FreeSync for gamers
Marantz has unveiled its new Cinema Series 2 AV receiver lineup, targeting both audiophiles and gamers. The flagship Cinema 50 Series 2 is priced at $3,000, the mid-range Cinema 60 Series 2 at $2,000, the compact Cinema 70s Series 2 at $1,500, and the European-only Cinema 60 DAB Series 2 at €1,450.
All four models share a new 32-bit eight-channel digital-to-analog converter. By processing audio conversion across all channels simultaneously, the new architecture tightens dynamic response, sharpens acoustic imaging, and significantly reduces timing jitter during complex multichannel playback.
The company also paid attention to gamers. All receivers support HDMI 2.1 with native 1440p passthrough and AMD FreeSync technology, which should ensure smooth image output without tearing.
System management has been overhauled thanks to the Web Control 2.0 interface. Users can configure deep system menus directly from a browser on a smartphone, tablet, or laptop. A future firmware update will add Bluetooth LE Audio support and a refreshed HEOS multi-room streaming platform.
The most significant changes concern sound calibration. Dirac Live Room Correction, previously reserved for top-tier hardware, now comes standard on the Cinema 50 and is available as a paid add-on for the other three models.
The Cinema 50 Series 2 remains the most powerful model with nine amplified channels and 11.4 channels of processing. It is the only model supporting Dirac's full advanced suite, including Bass Control and Active Room Treatment. Hardware extras include a Dolby Atmos Channel Expander and a Center Bi-Amp mode to maximize dialogue clarity.
The slimline Cinema 70s Series 2 packs the complete core suite — full-channel preamp outputs, the upgraded 32-bit DAC, and 1440p FreeSync gaming passthrough — into a compact frame built for tight media consoles.
The initial rollout begins on August 12 for the Cinema 50, Cinema 60, and Cinema 60 DAB, with the compact Cinema 70s following on September 15.
