Marantz AMP 30

Six channels of pure amplification, with no processing or conversion: the AMP 30 focuses on a single mission—delivering clean power to your speakers. Designed to operate in tandem with a preamplifier or a home cinema processor, this amplifier uses the HDAM technology that Marantz has been developing for several decades. Its compact format and central VU meter immediately recall the brand’s visual signature, while the professional-grade connectivity allows integration into demanding systems.

A fully discrete amplification architecture

The AMP 30 is built around six independent amplification stages, each using HDAM (Hyper Dynamic Amplifier Module) blocks. This proprietary technology replaces conventional integrated operational circuits with selected discrete components assembled on dedicated printed circuit boards. The result is an extended bandwidth and a very short rise time, two parameters that directly influence transient accuracy and treble definition.

The current-feedback amplification used here differs from the more common voltage-feedback topologies. This approach maintains stable behavior regardless of load impedance and reduces intermodulation distortion, particularly with complex musical signals where multiple frequencies interact simultaneously.

Generous power reserves

Each channel delivers 200 W into 8 Ω with total harmonic distortion kept to 0.05% when two channels operate simultaneously. Into 4 Ω, power doubles to 400 W per channel, demonstrating a properly sized power supply and output transistors capable of delivering the current required by difficult loads.

When all channels are working together (typical multichannel soundtrack configuration), each one still provides 200 W into 8 Ω. This consistency prevents drops in dynamics during passages where all speakers are active at the same time. For setups that prioritize raw power over a smaller number of channels, the BTL (bridged-tied-load) mode groups the channels in pairs and produces three outputs of 400 W into 8 Ω.

Balanced and unbalanced connectivity

The AMP 30 accepts signals via balanced XLR or unbalanced RCA inputs on each of its six channels. A selector lets you switch between the two connection types; both cannot be used simultaneously on the same channel. Balanced XLR connections offer an advantage in electrically noisy environments or when cables exceed a few meters, as they reject interference picked up along the signal path.

Six pairs of speaker terminals complete the rear panel. Their design allows for passive bi-amping (one pair of channels per speaker, with bass and mid/high separation) or the conventional wiring of a 5.1 system with one channel left available for future use.

Integration into a home automation or multiroom system

Several control interfaces allow the AMP 30 to be integrated into a managed installation. The RS-232 port provides bidirectional communication with automation systems such as Crestron or Control4. The IR Flasher input receives repeated infrared commands from a technical room, while the Marantz Remote bus simplifies interconnection with other devices from the brand.

The 12 V trigger allows the amplifier to turn on or off automatically when a preamplifier or processor sends the corresponding signal. A trigger output is also provided to daisy-chain multiple devices. The auto standby function cuts the power after an extended period of inactivity, reducing standby consumption to just 0.2 W.

A compact format despite its performance

With dimensions of 442 × 442 × 111 mm and a weight of 10 kg, the AMP 30 fits into a standard rack space and easily slides into a hi-fi cabinet. The metal front panel features Marantz’s signature analog VU meter, whose needle reacts in real time to level variations. The side lighting provides a soft glow that highlights the unit’s lines without being harsh on the eyes in a dark room. These aesthetic elements are in keeping with the brand’s amplifier design language since the 1970s.

Idle power consumption reaches 70 W with the eco mode deactivated, indicating a class A/B operation with moderate bias current. Activating ECO mode lowers this consumption without affecting performance during playback.

Technical specifications

Architecture and design

• 6-channel discrete power amplifier
• Proprietary Marantz HDAM technology
• Current feedback amplification
• Compact chassis with metal front panel
• Central analog VU meter on the front
• Gentle side lighting with Marantz signature

Output power

• 200 W per channel into 8 Ω
  • 1 kHz, 0.05% total harmonic distortion, 2 channels driven
• 400 W per channel into 4 Ω
  • 1 kHz, 0.7% total harmonic distortion, 2 channels driven
• BTL mode: 3 × 400 W into 8 Ω
• 200 W per channel into 8 Ω
  • 1 kHz, 0.7% total harmonic distortion, 5 channels driven

Audio connectivity

• Balanced XLR and unbalanced RCA line inputs
  • 6 channels with exclusive XLR / RCA selection
• 6 speaker terminals
• Bi-amping and BTL compatible

Integration and control

• RS232
• IR Flasher input
• Marantz Remote Bus
• 12 V trigger: input / output (1 / 1)
• Auto power off

Power consumption

• Power consumption: 300 W
• Power consumption with no signal (ECO on / off): 70 W
• Standby power consumption: 0.2 W

Dimensions and weight

• Dimensions (W × D × H): 442 × 442 × 111 mm
• Weight: 10 kg

Box contents

• AMP 30 amplifier
• Quick start guide
• Power cord
• Amplifier control cable
• Remote control