NAD and Marantz are both old names when it comes to audio device engineering. If you are looking for a powerful AV receiver or integrated amplifier, you may be considering NAD or Marantz. However, which should you choose? Which brand produces better amps and other audio devices? In this article, we explore NAD vs Marantz.
Here is a short comparison if you don’t wish to read everything:
NAD amplifiers tend to outperform Marantz amplifiers of similar specifications and prices. However, Marantz amplifiers offer better resolution, bass, and mid-range sound quality. Marantz also offers better built quality and better warranty.
It is also best to demo your amplifiers before deciding to buy.
Before we do that, here are some other comparisons in this series:
Marantz vs Yamaha
Marantz vs Anthem
Marantz vs Denon
NAD Vs Marantz Comparison Table
| Features | NAD | Marantz |
|---|---|---|
| Sound Quality | They produce a nice sound that takes into account the price. NAD amps sound really good especially if you want to hear a lot of detail, clarity. | Marantz shows up as a “warmer” sound with better sound accuracy and quality. |
| Bass Performance | Clean, tight powerful bass extortion. | More power handling capabilities. |
| Frequency Response | Narrow frequency response range. | Wider frequency response range. |
| Pricing | Affordable pricing | Marginally expensive |
| Efficiency | Efficient sounding systems. | Super-efficient, high-performance. |
| Power and Amplification | Low power demand and high amplification efficiency. | Low power demand. |
| Music | Mellow music – jazz, rock | Warmer music – jazz, rock, classical |
| Movies | Action, romance | Comedy, thriller |
NAD Vs Marantz Overview
NAD Overview
NAD has been in the market since 1972. Many of the new technology in the NAD’s Masters Series innovations are finished with an advanced design.
Besides, they sound better than boutique brands that can cost more than NAD. The Masters Series was created to prove that high-fidelity audio, high technology, and high design should not come at a fortune.
The DirectDigital amplifier in the Masters Series is one of the most advanced closed-loop digital amplification with the ability to compare its output to the input and make corrections every 10 nanoseconds.
This results in pure and vivid sound quality. The other technology is HybridDigital which masterfully blends analog and digital technology to create a platform that beats every traditional component, even with analog sources.
NAD products enjoy noble design features engineered by award-winning industrial designer, David Farrage of DF-ID in New York. The Master Series is a high-fidelity product with software-defined switches and readouts that allow real-time updates.
Marantz Overview
The company was started by Saul Marantz in 1953. Over the years, Marantz receivers have evolved from the ‘Consolette” pre-amp of 1953 to the modern receivers produced by Denon and Marantz under Sound United.
From the first audio device – the Consolette pre-amp, Marantz produced the Model 1 preamplifier, then the Model 2 mono power amplifier, Model 3, and Model 7 preamplifier. The company focused on improving the models.
Model 8B came with an added 5Wpc power increase from a circuit base, and Model 9 became the very first Marantz preamplifier with a front panel and 70W output. At Model 10, Marantz added an FM radio and Philips bought the company in the 70s.
However, in 2000, Marantz Japan Inc. united all the subsidiaries. In 2013, Marantz produced the SR Series Home Theater Receiver with improved sound quality, Hyper Dynamic Amplifier Module, and AirPlay connectivity.
It is therefore an old name when it comes to the manufacture and marketing of audio devices.
Is Marantz Good Quality?
Here are a few reasons why Marantz is considered good quality;
- The Marantz Brand has built and upheld a reputation for continually producing high-quality products
- The Marantz brand carved a niche for itself in the manufacturing and creative industry.
- They have maintained Family-friendly, affordable prices.
- Since the brand was founded by Saul Marantz in 1953, they have had about four different owners, yet the product has always maintained its premium price.
- Products created by the Marantz Company have maintained a well-earned reputation for durability and quality, ever since the seventies.
- The Marantz Brand has continued to grow despite growing challenges plaguing the industry over time.
- They make quality sound products accessible to their customers at fair pricing.
- Unlike their counterparts, there is rarely any inflation in the prices of Marantz products.
Sound Quality
NAD Sound Quality
NAD is one of the all-time great buys in audio land. In general, they offer a warm sound that is non-fatiguing and they do not emphasize the top end.
NAD amps sound really good especially if you want to hear a lot of detail, clarity, and good bass. Some people however find them quite harsh.
Power amplifiers are the strength of NAD. It is however difficult to say how a particular speaker will sound with a particular amp. Simply put, NAD sounds warmer.
Marantz Sound Quality
When dealing with higher price points, Marantz shows up as a “warmer” sound. Many people also add that Marantz provides better sound accuracy and quality.
Also, Marantz receivers from the 1970s epitomize the pinnacle of the solid-state hi-fi era. For instance, Marantz 2245 hits a real sweet spot in terms of power and price.
NAD Sound Harshness and Fatigue
NAD amplifiers sound smooth and linear. The sound is generally mellow, crisp clear, and fantastic. They sound controlled, without being too bright.
Besides, they got plenty of soul for music and the home theater is very impressive.
Marantz Sound Harshness and Fatigue
Marantz generally produces a less detailed sound than NAD. They sound a bit bright, but with all the “detail.” Fatigue can however creep in if you are using bright recordings.
Bass Performance
For the purpose of bass performance, we shall review NAD T758 Vs. Marantz SR 7011. These subwoofers offer splendid bass performance regardless of the music you are listening to.
If you need more power-handling capabilities, go with Marantz. However, if your interest is in clean, tight powerful bass extortion, NAD wins the league.
NAD T758 Surround Sound Receiver
This receiver features popular surround sound formats such as DTS:X, HD formats Dolby Atmos, and DTS Master Audio. Also, the receiver offers a simple and flexible user interface.
Pros
- Extremely easy to set up.
- Multi-channel.
- Built-in BluOS wireless streaming technology.
Cons
- The regular interface and BluOS technology are old-school.
Marantz SR6015
The Marantz SR6015 is a 9.2 Channel 8K AV Receiver with 3D Audio, HEOS built-in, and voice control. It also offers 110W per channel (8 Ohm, 20Hz-20kHz, THD: 0.08%, 2ch drive).
The sound is rich, full, and powerful. Besides, the receiver delivers a very healthy power output.
Pros
- Excellent room calibration fine-tunes the sound quality.
- The solid design makes it both functional and attractive.
- Versatile, with good connections and features.
- 2 channels.
Cons
- Poor remote configuration.
- Needs active cooling
Frequency Response
NAD Frequency Response
NAD speakers have a narrow frequency response range. For instance, the NAD 802 speaker with a bass reflex output and delivers perfect midrange.
The crossover frequency of the speaker amounts to about 2 kHz, while the reflex tuning frequency is 65 Hz and the tuner section receiving range is 87.50 MHz – 108.00 MHz.
Marantz Frequency Response
Marantz is generally produced with a wider range of frequency responses. Major products range from 10 Hz to 20 kHz. The audio section of the SR6014 for instance is 10 Hz – 100 kHz. Tuner however has a similar reception frequency range of 87.5 MHz – 108.0 MHz.
Pricing
NAD Speaker Prices
NAD is considered a high-end audio company that sells a lot of high-end amplifiers among other audio devices.
The prices are however much more favorable and affordable with regards to the quality and most of their receivers under $1000 cannot find competitors in the market even at higher prices.
Marantz Speaker Prices
Marantz has earned a reputation for innovation, consistent manufacturing, and production of high-quality products. Going spec by spec, the Marantz receivers are priced marginally higher than NAD.
Efficiency
NAD amps sound really ok especially if you need a lot of detail, clarity, and even fairly good bass response. This makes them quite efficient.
Marantz employs the Digital Audio Amplifier Technology that majorly features four channels of high-efficiency, low-distortion digital audio amplification. Some users describe them as super-efficient, high-performance audio devices.
Power And Amplification
NAD Power Requirements
NAD speakers are not so power-hungry. They deliver huge bass values at lower power rates and will not kill your amps. The amplification efficiency is very high with low power demands.
Marantz Power Requirements
Marantz speakers are generally not power-hungry. However, depending on the category of speakers you choose, and if you listen to music at high volumes, the speakers will demand more power.
Is Marantz For audiophiles?
The Marantz brand has always maintained a tradition of catering to audiophiles and audio enthusiasts, they recently unveiled two new AV receivers which are specifically designed for audiophiles.
- The Marantz SR5014: a 100-watt AV receiver that can support a 7.2-channel speaker system.
- The Pricer SR6014: a 110-watt AV receiver that can support a 7.2-channel system.
The SR5014 and the SR6014 support IMAX Enhanced and Dolby Atmospheric height virtualization technology. This means that the 7.1 system will be completely immersive, without needing extra speakers.
NAD Speakers For Music and movies
A sound test with NAD C368 confirms that NAD is a perfect-sounding amp that provides a rich, impulsive, and immersive experience to give you beautiful and clear sound effects and music.
Besides, the sound effects work hard to reproduce the actual intentions of the movie effects making you the real conqueror of the movie theater.
Marantz Speakers For Music and Movies
Marantz has a good musical reputation based on their many years of developing products for audio support.
No matter if you are a jazz aficionado, a real rock, and roller, or a lover of classical tunes, Marantz is the better choice. You will feel immersed in the deep sound of the various instruments being played on the stereo, whether you are in your favorite song or movie.
Design And Build Quality
NAD amplifiers do not really grab much attention on their design. Customers who care more about design won’t really like the modest, understated exteriors. The interior build is however superb with futuristic provisions that allow expansion such as MDC.
Marantz Design and Build Quality
Marantz receivers are generally stylish, offering a luxurious feel with illuminated displays. The build is perfect.
For instance, you can find 11 speaker terminals on Marantz SR7015, with the gold-plated RCA terminals that make it look even more appealing.
The design is simply top-notch with top-of-the-line parts infused throughout the chassis. Marantz’s designs will surely get your first impression.
Impedance
Speaker impedance is very important when you are considering a receiver. In general, NAD is better for speakers that are harder to drive. They are most rated for 4 ohms, while Marantz is typically rated for 8-ohm speakers
The Importance Of Audio Audition
Choosing the best receiver or speaker in a market full of vintage and modern players may not be so easy. For example, many people will tell you the Marantz 2270 is still a good choice today. Check out our Marantz 2270 receiver review to learn more. As far as vintage is concerned, keep in mind that many Marantz amps have a phono input which could be a plus if you ever need to play vinyl.
That is why we recommend you conduct your own audio audition when choosing audio equipment until you land your best match. You will find one of your best speakers or receivers from NAD or Marantz, just listen to both first.
Marantz SR 7015 Vs. NAD T 778
The NAD T 778 is the latest high-performance AV receiver from NAD and continues the MDC philosophy. The 9-channel AV Receiver features NAD’s Hybrid Digital Amplifier Technology to deliver the claimed performance of 140 watts FTC power at 8 ohms and 170 watts at 4 ohms, and will run up to a 7.2.2 system.
Besides, there is processing onboard for 11.2 channels by using pre-outs plus an additional2-channel amp that allows you to move to 7.2.4 for Dolby Atmos.
For audio, you get superb musicality for stereo playback, Dirac Live, Dolby Atmos, and DTS:X decoding.
The design is however very subjective but will appeal to many AV enthusiasts. Also, control is made easier with the large TFT touchscreen in the center of the front plate and large remote control.
Pros
- Superb sound quality with stereo and multi-channel
- Excellent design
- Future-proofing with MDC
Cons
- Only one 4K HDMI output
- Very expensive
Marantz SR 7015
Equipped with performance amplification, this receiver features high-current 9-channel distinct amplifiers.
The power output is 125 watts per channel when 2 channels are in use. Some of the innovative features include HDAM circuitry, the latest HDMI technology, razor-sharp motion clarity, ALLM, and more.
The overall impression is optimal fidelity and excellent sound quality with high operational stability.
Pros
- Stunning audio performance
- Admirable build quality
- High operational flexibility
Cons
- No Front Wide Channel Support
- No MHL Input
NAD C316 BEE Vs. Marantz PM5005
Based on our rating, C316BEE has a total of 5.2 out of 10 Vs. 6 out of 10 for PM5005. Here are the advantages of Marantz PM5005 over NAD C316BEE:
- Has speakers A and B switch
- Better signal to noise ratio: 103dB Vs. 95dB
- Supports 8 ohms and 4ohms Vs. 8 ohms only
- Better THD in stereo: 0.01% vs 0.02%
Other common strengths of Marantz PM5005 include:
- Balance control
- Treble control
- Bass control\moving magnet phono stage
NAD C326 BEE Vs. Marantz PM6006
NAD C326 BEE
- 50 watts per channel when operating 2 channels
- 7 RCA audio inputs
- 4 ohms stable for use with a wide range of speakers
Marantz PM6006
- 45 watts per channel when operating 2 channels
- Optical and coaxial digital audio inputs
- Built-in DAC
- 5 RCA audio inputs, including a phono input for the turntable
- Current feedback amplification and toroidal power transformer for clean, accurate sound
NAD T758 V2 Vs. V3
NAD T758 V3 is an eminent upgrade of NAD T758 V2 that has been endowed with bleeding-edge room correction and audio streaming capabilities. Let’s look at the plus and minuses of this upgrade at a glance.
Plus
- Modularity allows upgrades
- Dirac room correction
- BluOS audio streaming
- Atmos 7.1.4 is capable of external amplification
Minus
- Only 3 HDMI inputs
- No DTS:X
Are NAD Amplifiers Good?
Power amplifiers are a major product of the NAD brand, and the C272 product has been sought after for a long time.
It is almost impossible to determine how a particular speaker will work with any power amp. The outcomes are usually random. Your best course of action would be to try out demo models at the store, till you find a suitable choice.
Conclusion
Marantz seems to win with resolution and mid-range brilliance. However, in real tests, NAD always outperforms Marantz as the better all-rounder.
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