Audio T Verdict
The Marantz MODEL 40n is a comprehensively equipped network integrated amplifier for listeners who want serious two-channel performance without filling the room with separate boxes. Add a suitable pair of passive speakers and it can handle music streaming, television sound, vinyl, conventional analogue sources and external digital equipment from one elegant component.
Its Class A/B amplifier delivers 70W per channel into 8 ohms and 100W per channel into 4 ohms, with both channels driven. Marantz combines this with current-feedback circuitry, proprietary HDAM modules and a double-shielded toroidal transformer to provide a more substantial amplifier platform than many compact streaming systems.
HEOS Built-in places music streaming at the centre of the design, with app control, supported music services, internet radio, AirPlay 2, Bluetooth, network music playback and multi-room integration. An Ethernet connection is provided alongside dual-band Wi-Fi for installations where a wired network connection is preferred.
HDMI ARC makes the MODEL 40n particularly useful in a living-room system. A compatible television can send two-channel PCM sound back to the amplifier through one HDMI cable, allowing television programmes, films and connected sources to play through the main stereo speakers.
The built-in moving-magnet phono stage, optical and coaxial digital inputs, USB-A playback, Power Amp Direct input and subwoofer connection give it far more flexibility than a streaming-only amplifier. For someone seeking a refined, powerful and versatile hub for both traditional and modern sources, the MODEL 40n is one of the most complete Marantz stereo amplifiers available.
Its extensive feature list also makes a demonstration particularly worthwhile. Audio T can compare it with simpler integrated amplifiers, newer streaming models and separate components, then match it with speakers that suit the room, listening level and musical preferences.
70W Class A/B Amplification
Delivers 70W per channel into 8 ohms and 100W per channel into 4 ohms with both channels driven.
HEOS Built-in
Access compatible streaming services, internet radio, network music libraries and HEOS multi-room playback.
HDMI ARC
Connect a compatible television and play two-channel PCM television sound through the main hi-fi speakers.
MM Phono Stage
Connect a turntable fitted with a compatible moving-magnet cartridge without requiring a separate phono stage.
High-Resolution Digital Playback
Supports high-resolution PCM and DSD music through compatible network and USB sources.
Subwoofer Integration
A dedicated subwoofer output includes selectable low-pass filter settings for more considered bass integration.
A Complete Streaming Amplifier
The MODEL 40n combines a network music player, digital-to-analogue converter, stereo preamplifier and power amplifier within one full-width enclosure. It only requires passive speakers and access to the chosen music sources to create a complete hi-fi system.
This integrated approach reduces the number of separate components, power cables and interconnects required. It also ensures that the streaming, digital, control and amplification sections have been designed to operate together.
It remains more flexible than a closed all-in-one system because conventional turntables, CD players, digital sources, televisions and active subwoofers can all be added. Browse Audio T’s wider range of all-in-one music systems and streaming solutions to compare the available approaches.
70W per Channel Class A/B Amplification
Marantz rates the MODEL 40n at 70W per channel into 8 ohms and 100W per channel into 4 ohms from 20Hz to 20kHz, with both channels driven. This gives the amplifier useful flexibility when partnering modern standmount and floorstanding speakers.
Power ratings alone do not establish whether an amplifier and speaker will work well together. Speaker sensitivity, impedance behaviour, room size, listening distance and preferred volume are all important. A demonstration provides a much clearer indication of whether the MODEL 40n has the control and presentation required for a particular pair of speakers.
Marantz HDAM and Current-Feedback Circuitry
The amplifier uses Marantz Hyper Dynamic Amplifier Modules rather than relying entirely on standard integrated operational-amplifier chips. The MODEL 40n incorporates HDAM-SA3 and HDAM-SA2 circuitry as part of its analogue signal path.
Current-feedback topology is used to support wide-bandwidth operation and a fast response to changing musical signals. Marantz combines this circuitry with selected components, a symmetrical circuit-board layout and aluminium heat sinking.
Double-Shielded Toroidal Transformer
A double-shielded toroidal transformer forms the foundation of the amplifier’s linear power supply. Toroidal transformers can provide substantial current while keeping stray magnetic fields under control, which is particularly valuable when analogue and digital circuits share the same enclosure.
Schottky barrier diodes and a double-layer bottom plate are also used within the construction. The finished amplifier weighs 16.7kg, reflecting a more substantial design than its relatively clean exterior might suggest.
HEOS Built-in Music Streaming
HEOS Built-in allows the MODEL 40n to access compatible music-streaming services, internet radio and music stored on networked computers or NAS drives. Playback, source selection, browsing and multi-room control are managed through the HEOS app for compatible iOS and Android devices.
Supported services can include Spotify Connect, TIDAL, Amazon Music and Deezer, although availability, subscription requirements and maximum streaming quality vary by service and region.
The amplifier can also join other compatible HEOS products. Music can be grouped across several rooms or different content can be played independently in each area.
AirPlay 2 and Bluetooth
Apple AirPlay 2 provides direct wireless playback from compatible Apple devices and applications. It can also form part of an AirPlay 2 multi-room system.
Bluetooth offers a quick way to play music from phones, tablets and computers without connecting the amplifier to a full network service. The MODEL 40n can receive Bluetooth audio and can also transmit sound to compatible Bluetooth headphones or speakers.
Bluetooth transmission can introduce a small delay and does not support every input or grouped HEOS operating mode. For critical listening, a wired, network or AirPlay connection may provide a more suitable route.
Wired Ethernet and Dual-Band Wi-Fi
The MODEL 40n can connect to the home network using either Ethernet or Wi-Fi. Its wireless system supports both 2.4GHz and 5GHz network bands.
A wired Ethernet connection is generally worth considering when the amplifier is positioned close to the router or a suitable network point. It can provide a more consistent connection in homes with congested wireless networks, thick walls or several simultaneous streaming devices.
High-Resolution Network and USB Playback
Compatible high-resolution music files can be played from network storage or a USB flash drive connected to the rear USB-A port. Supported formats include common compressed and lossless audio types, with PCM playback available up to 24-bit/192kHz and DSD support up to 5.6MHz where the source format and connection allow.
The USB-A connection is intended for compatible storage devices. It is not a USB-B computer-audio input and cannot be used to connect a computer directly with a conventional USB audio cable.
USB Storage, Not USB Computer Audio
The rear USB-A port is designed for FAT32 or NTFS-formatted USB storage and is controlled through the HEOS app. The MODEL 40n does not provide an asynchronous USB-B input for direct computer connection.
HDMI ARC for Television Sound
Connect the MODEL 40n to the ARC-compatible HDMI connection on a television and television audio can play through the main stereo speakers. The amplifier can automatically switch to the selected television input when a compatible TV signal is detected.
This provides a straightforward way to improve everyday television, film and gaming sound without changing from a two-channel hi-fi system to a full AV receiver and surround-speaker package.
The HDMI connection is for audio return from a compatible television. The MODEL 40n does not provide multiple HDMI inputs, video switching, surround decoding or an on-screen AV interface.
Set the Television to Two-Channel PCM
The MODEL 40n accepts two-channel linear PCM through HDMI ARC, optical and coaxial connections. The connected television or source should be set to PCM stereo rather than Dolby Digital, DTS, AAC or another multichannel bitstream format.
Optical and Coaxial Digital Inputs
One optical and one coaxial digital input allow compatible televisions, CD transports, network players and other digital sources to use the MODEL 40n’s internal digital-to-analogue converter.
These inputs accept two-channel linear PCM at sample rates from 32kHz to 192kHz and word lengths of 16 or 24 bits. Marantz Musical Digital Filtering provides two selectable digital-filter characteristics, allowing the presentation to be adjusted to personal preference.
ES9016K2M Digital-to-Analogue Converter
Digital conversion is handled by an ESS ES9016K2M DAC. It processes compatible signals from the streaming platform, network playback, USB storage, HDMI ARC, optical and coaxial inputs before passing the audio to the amplifier’s analogue stages.
Adding an external DAC remains possible through one of the conventional line inputs, but it should not be assumed that another DAC will automatically produce a better result. A controlled demonstration is the most reliable way to compare the alternatives.
Marantz Musical Phono EQ
The built-in Marantz Musical Phono EQ stage allows a turntable fitted with a compatible moving-magnet cartridge to connect directly to the amplifier. This avoids the immediate need for a separate phono stage and leaves the conventional line inputs available for other equipment.
The phono input is not compatible with a low-output moving-coil cartridge. A suitable external phono stage will normally be required when using an MC cartridge or when pursuing a worthwhile phono upgrade.
Browse Audio T’s range of turntables and record players, or speak to a local store about cartridge and phono-stage matching.
Analogue Inputs and Recorder Output
Alongside the phono connection, the MODEL 40n provides CD, line and recorder-level analogue inputs. These allow conventional source components such as a CD player, tuner or external DAC to be incorporated into the system.
A fixed-level recorder output is also provided for a compatible recording device. As this output is not governed by the amplifier’s main listening volume, it should only be connected to equipment designed to accept a line-level signal.
The Marantz CD 50n can provide high-quality CD playback while adding further digital and network flexibility to a matching Marantz system.
Power Amp Direct Input
A Power Amp Direct input allows the MODEL 40n to operate as a stereo power amplifier when connected to a suitable external preamplifier or an AV component with variable front-channel pre-outs.
When this input is selected, the MODEL 40n’s volume, balance and tone controls are bypassed and the network section is disabled. Listening volume must therefore be controlled by the connected preamplifier.
Power Amp Direct Operates at Maximum Gain
Do not connect a fixed-level source directly to the Power Amp Direct input. Check that the connected preamplifier’s volume is reduced before switching to this input, as the MODEL 40n’s own volume control has no effect in this mode.
Subwoofer Integration
A dedicated subwoofer pre-output allows an active subwoofer to be added to extend low-frequency performance. The output includes selectable low-pass filter settings of 40, 60, 80, 100 or 120Hz, with 80Hz used as the factory default.
The correct filter setting depends on the main speakers, subwoofer controls, room and listening position. Audio T can advise on suitable active subwoofers, positioning and integration.
Headphone Listening
A conventional wired headphone output is provided on the front panel. Bluetooth transmission can also send compatible sources to suitable wireless headphones or Bluetooth speakers.
The Bluetooth headphone volume is adjusted on the connected headphones rather than through the MODEL 40n. Bluetooth models without their own volume adjustment should not be used.
Tone Controls and Source Direct
Front-panel bass, treble and balance controls provide straightforward adjustment when recordings, speakers or the listening room require it. Bass and treble adjustment extends to ±10dB at Marantz’s specified frequencies.
Source Direct bypasses the tone and balance controls when a more direct signal path is preferred. This allows the listener to choose between useful correction and a simplified route according to the system and recording.
Classic Marantz Design
The MODEL 40n combines a symmetrical front-panel layout with Marantz’s circular porthole display. The front centre panel, side sections and main control knobs use aluminium, while adjustable illumination allows the visual presentation to be adapted to the room.
Black and silver-gold manufacturer finishes are available. Finish availability should be checked before ordering.
MODEL 40n, MODEL 60n or STEREO 70s?
The MODEL 40n combines premium construction, 70W Class A/B amplification, HEOS streaming, HDMI ARC and extensive analogue connectivity. It suits listeners who want a substantial music-first streaming amplifier that can also improve television sound.
The Marantz MODEL 60n provides a more affordable route into HEOS streaming and HDMI-connected stereo sound, while the Marantz STEREO 70s adds broader HDMI switching and AV-style connectivity in a slimline chassis.
The best option depends on whether amplifier construction, stereo performance, HDMI flexibility, physical size or overall budget takes priority. An Audio T demonstration can compare the models using suitable speakers and familiar music.
System Matching and Setup
The MODEL 40n provides nearly everything needed at the electronics end of a modern stereo system, but the loudspeakers and installation still determine much of the final result. Speaker sensitivity, electrical load, room size, positioning and listening distance should be considered together.
Network stability is also important. Audio T can help with Ethernet or Wi-Fi setup, HEOS configuration, streaming-service access, television settings, turntable connection and subwoofer integration.
Explore more Marantz products available from Audio T or browse our wider hi-fi range.
Why Buy from Audio T?
A versatile amplifier still needs to be matched and configured correctly. Audio T can help establish whether the MODEL 40n is the right hub for your speakers, television, turntable, network and streaming services.
- Independent advice from experienced hi-fi specialists
- In-store demonstrations with suitable loudspeakers
- Help comparing streaming amplifiers and separate components
- Speaker, turntable, cartridge and subwoofer matching
- HEOS, Ethernet, Wi-Fi and streaming-service setup guidance
- HDMI ARC and television audio configuration advice
- Home visits, home demonstrations and product loans where available
- Part-exchange options for suitable existing equipment
- Installation and ongoing support from your local Audio T store
Find your nearest Audio T store to discuss the Marantz MODEL 40n, arrange a demonstration or compare it with alternative streaming amplifiers.