Marantz AV 30 AV Preamlifier Review: A Cinematic Powerhouse for Your Home Cinema
In this Marantz AV 30 AV Preamlifier Review, we explore how Marantz has engineered a reference-grade 11.4-channel balanced pre-amp that redefines immersive home theatre performance. By combining precision craftsmanship from Shirakawa, Japan with cutting-edge audio and video technologies, the AV 30 stands as a must-consider for audiophiles and cinema enthusiasts alike. Discover every detail, from thunderous bass to crystal-clear dialogue, in our in-depth analysis below.
Immersive Home Theatre Performance
The AV 30’s heart is its 11.4-channel processing engine, capable of driving complex speaker configurations—think 7.4.4 Dolby Atmos or a full 9.2.4 DTS:X Pro layout. Marantz’s exclusive HDAM-SA2 discrete circuitry and Current Feedback topology deliver a wide dynamic range and ultra-low noise floor, ensuring precise transients and lifelike realism. Four independent subwoofer outputs let you calibrate bass response with surgical precision, while balanced XLR pre-outs maintain impeccable channel separation.
Advanced Video & Audio Compatibility
Future-proof your installation with seven HDMI 2.1 inputs (all supporting 8K/60Hz & 4K/120Hz pass-through) plus eARC output. The AV 30 handles Dolby Vision, HDR10+, Dynamic HDR and HLG with ease, ensuring your 4K and 8K sources look flawless. On the audio side, full support for Dolby Atmos®, DTS:X Pro® and AURO-3D® means every height channel, object effect and surround ambience is rendered with pin-point accuracy.
Precision Room Optimisation
Achieve reference-level performance in any listening environment with Audyssey MultEQ XT32 room correction. By measuring acoustic anomalies and applying digital filters, the AV 30 neutralises standing waves and frequency peaks. For those seeking the ultimate in tuning flexibility, optional Dirac Live upgrade takes fine-tuning to a new level—ideal for custom builds and professional calibration.
HEOS™ Multi-Room Streaming & Control
Leveraging HEOS™ technology, the AV 30 transforms into a high-res music hub. Stream FLAC, ALAC, WAV up to 192/24, or DSD 5.6 via Wi-Fi, Ethernet and Bluetooth. The intuitive HEOS app unifies TIDAL, Amazon Music HD, Spotify and more under one interface—perfect for whole-home audio. Need guidance? Speak with our team at The Audio Tailor on 1300 308 711 or email us.
Design & Build Quality
Marantz have married timeless aesthetics with modern functionality. The iconic porthole display, copper-plated chassis and subtle side illumination evoke classic high-end design. Internally, a robust toroidal transformer and precision-wound capacitors ensure stable power delivery. Every knob, switch and connector feels engineered to last decades of critical listening.
Who Is the AV 30 For?
- Home cinema purists seeking a dedicated preamp with unrivalled surround processing.
- Audiophiles wanting balanced XLR outputs & discrete HDAM modules for two-channel bliss.
- Custom integrators requiring flexible zone outputs, RS-232/IP control and HEOS CI compatibility.
- Gamers & videophiles who demand 8K/60Hz, VRR and ALLM for next-gen consoles.
Pros & Cons
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Pros:
- Reference-grade 11.4-channel balanced processing
- Discrete HDAM-SA2 circuitry for exceptional clarity & dynamics
- Full 8K/60Hz & 4K/120Hz HDMI 2.1 support
- Audyssey MultEQ XT32 (Dirac upgradeable) for precise room correction
- HEOS™ multi-room streaming & Roon-Ready capability
- Timeless Marantz design with premium build quality
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Cons:
- Premium price point—investment for serious enthusiasts
- Dirac Live upgrade sold separately
Elevate Every Cinematic Moment
The Marantz AV 30 AV Preamlifier Review makes one thing clear: this pre-amp is an audio powerhouse designed to satisfy the most demanding ears. Whether you’re constructing a dedicated theatre or upgrading an existing HiFi setup, the AV 30 delivers unmatched performance, future-proof connectivity and the finesse expected from Marantz. Ready to transform your home cinema? Explore the full details and secure your AV 30 here: Marantz AV 30 AV Preamlifier. For personalised advice and tailored system design, call our experts at The Audio Tailor on 1300 308 711—we’re here to help every step of the way.