Marking seven decades of audio excellence, Marantz proudly presents the 70 Days for 70 Years Trade-In program staring on September 1. This event presents a unique opportunity for both long-time Marantz aficionados and newcomers to elevate their audio setups and immerse themselves in the purest essence of music and cinema to experience Modern Musical Luxury.
How the Marantz Audiophile and Home Theater Trade-in Program Works
Marantz’s commitment to excellence extends to both their new products and the gear that has accompanied audiophiles on their musical journey for decades. To commemorate this, Marantz has partnered with dealers across the globe for a special 70-day event, where customers can bring in used audio equipment to participating dealers and receive an exclusive credit towards the purchase of a new Marantz product. Whether it’s a preloved amplifier, an old receiver, or a well-worn turntable, any used equipment is eligible for trade.
How to Take Advantage of the Marantz Trade-in Program
1. Locate a participating dealer near you through the Marantz website.
2. Visit the dealer’s establishment, bringing your used amplifier or receiver (in any condition) for thorough evaluation.
3. Based on the dealer’s assessment, you could receive a generous credit, allowing you to enjoy up to 20 percent off a new Marantz product.
Renew with a Fresh Warranty
Emphasizing Marantz’s dedication to quality, every new Marantz product comes with an industry-leading five-year warranty. This warranty ensures that customers participating in this trade-in event not only experience the immediate excellence of Marantz technology, but also enjoy the assurance of a prolonged, premium listening experience.
What Marantz Audiophile and/or Home Theater Gear Can Be Upgraded in Trade?
Those participating may use their exclusive credit toward the purchase of the following Marantz Products:
- Marantz CINEMA 40
- Marantz CINEMA 50
- Marantz CINEMA 60
- Marantz CINEMA 70s
- Marantz Model 40N
- Marantz Model 30 (read the review)
- Marantz AV10
- Marantz AMP10
- Marantz TT15
- Marantz SACD 30n (read the review)
- Marantz SA-10
- Marantz PM10
- Marantz AV8805A
- Marantz AV7706
- Marantz MM8077
The Audiophile History of Marantz
For decades, Marantz has been a respected name in the world of high-fidelity audio. Known for its warm, musical sound and elegant design, the brand has earned a loyal following among audiophiles, collectors, and music lovers. Its history is closely tied to the evolution of home audio—from the tube era to digital streaming.
Origins: Saul Marantz and the Audio Consolette
The Marantz story begins in 1951 with Saul Bernard Marantz, an audio enthusiast and amateur engineer living in New York. Frustrated by the limited quality of home hi-fi equipment at the time, he designed his own preamplifier, the Audio Consolette. Originally built for personal use, it quickly gained attention for its superior sound and functionality.
By 1953, Saul had formally launched the Marantz Company. His Audio Consolette evolved into the Model 1, a full-function preamplifier that set new standards for fidelity and precision. The success of that first product helped establish Marantz as a serious contender in the growing high-end audio market.
1950s and ’60s: Tube Glory
Following the Model 1, Marantz released a series of high-performance tube-based components that are now considered classics. The Model 2 power amplifier and the Model 7 preamplifier were praised for their musicality, accuracy, and build quality. The Model 7, in particular, became a benchmark for preamp design and is still admired today for its elegant simplicity.
In the early 1960s, the Model 9 monoblock amplifier and the Model 10B FM tuner pushed the company further into audiophile legend. The 10B was one of the most advanced tuners ever made at the time—known for its exceptional engineering, stunning sound, and equally stunning price tag. These early components helped cement Marantz’s identity as a brand that prized audio purity above all else.
Growth, Sale, and Japanese Manufacturing
In 1964, Saul Marantz sold the company to Superscope Inc., which expanded the brand’s reach internationally. Around this time, manufacturing was gradually shifted to Japan through a partnership with Standard Radio Corp., a company that would eventually become Marantz Japan. Though the business model changed, the company retained its dedication to high-quality design.
The 1970s became known for the golden age of Marantz receivers. Models like the 2230, 2270, and 2600 became household staples for music fans and collectors alike. These units were powerful, beautifully styled, and known for their smooth, musical tone. They featured eye-catching blue dials, brushed aluminum faceplates, and an aesthetic that still holds appeal today.
Digital Era: CDs and Solid-State Gear
In the 1980s, as compact discs and digital audio took center stage, Marantz adapted by releasing some of the earliest consumer CD players. During this time, the brand was partially owned by Philips, one of the developers of the CD format. This collaboration helped Marantz release a number of highly regarded CD players, such as the CD-63, which became known for its warm, analog-like sound.
Rather than chase specs or trends, Marantz focused on maintaining its musical voice, even as audio shifted from analog to digital. Their CD players and amplifiers during this period were often tuned for a more natural, balanced sound, making them stand out from the often clinical-sounding digital gear of the era.
Back to Audiophile Roots
In the 1990s and early 2000s, Marantz began refocusing on its audiophile heritage. It returned to producing high-end two-channel gear—integrated amplifiers, SACD players, and separates aimed squarely at discerning listeners. One of the key figures during this period was Ken Ishiwata, a longtime Marantz engineer and brand ambassador. His tuning work on products like the PM-KI Pearl and SA-KI CD player helped define a new generation of Marantz sound.
In 2001, Marantz Japan bought the global brand from Philips, and a year later it merged with Denon to form D&M Holdings. While the two companies shared some resources, Marantz maintained a distinct design philosophy rooted in musical fidelity and emotional engagement.
Modern Marantz
Today, Marantz continues to offer a mix of high-end two-channel equipment and multi-channel home theater gear. Its Reference Series components—such as the PM-10 and SA-10—showcase the brand’s dedication to audio excellence, blending modern digital features with analog warmth.
Even in the age of wireless streaming and smart speakers, Marantz remains committed to sound quality. Many of their newer products combine classic design cues with today’s streaming capabilities, aiming to deliver the best of both worlds.
