Audio T Verdict
The Marantz MODEL M4 is a purpose-built distribution amplifier for professionally planned multi-room systems. Rather than placing a separate streaming amplifier in every room, it combines four independent stereo zones, eight amplification channels and four HEOS modules inside one centrally located chassis.
Each zone can play its own HEOS source or be grouped with other rooms. This allows different music to be streamed in four areas at the same time, or one source to be synchronised throughout the home. AirPlay 2, Spotify Connect and Roon Ready support provide further control options alongside the HEOS app.
The eight internal amplifier channels deliver 100W each into 8 ohms and 125W into 4 ohms. Bridge mode can reconfigure the system as four 200W channels, providing additional power for two higher-performance stereo zones where required.
Four analogue inputs, two assignable optical inputs and four USB connections provide extensive source flexibility. Each zone also has stereo preamplifier outputs and a selectable mono subwoofer output, allowing external amplification, active speakers or active subwoofers to be incorporated into the system.
This is not a conventional single-room integrated amplifier. It has no Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, HDMI, front-panel source controls or handheld remote. A wired Ethernet network, suitable speaker cabling, correct ventilation and careful configuration are fundamental parts of the installation. For the right project, however, the MODEL M4 provides an unusually capable and space-efficient foundation for high-quality whole-home audio.
The Marantz MODEL M4 is an eight-channel, four-zone network distribution amplifier designed for custom-installed music systems in homes and other suitable properties.
Four independent HEOS modules allow each stereo zone to operate as a separate network music player. The zones can play different sources independently or be grouped for synchronised playback, all from one rack-mountable component.
Designed for Custom Installation
The MODEL M4 is intended to be located centrally, with speaker and network cables routed to the required rooms. It is most effective when the number of zones, speaker positions, cable routes, network infrastructure, ventilation and control requirements are planned before installation.
Four Independent HEOS Zones
Different Music in Four Rooms
Each zone contains its own HEOS module, amplification, source selection and volume control. Four different streams or locally connected sources can therefore be played simultaneously.
Rooms can be named within the HEOS app, making it easier to select and control areas such as the kitchen, lounge, bedroom or study.
Group Rooms for Synchronous Playback
Any combination of the four internal zones can be grouped through HEOS when the same music is required in several areas.
The MODEL M4 can also be grouped with other compatible HEOS Built-in products, allowing the wider system to include both centrally wired and standalone components.
Four HEOS Modules in One Chassis
Each MODEL M4 counts as four devices towards the maximum of 32 HEOS Built-in devices supported on one network.
Marantz supports up to eight MODEL M4 units on one network, providing a potential maximum of 32 independently controlled zones when the network and installation are designed appropriately.
HEOS App Control
The HEOS app for compatible iOS, Android and Kindle Fire devices provides source selection, music browsing, room grouping, zone naming, volume control and system configuration.
There is no conventional handheld remote control. Day-to-day operation is handled through the app, compatible streaming platforms or an integrated third-party control system.
Eight Channels of Amplification
8 x 100W into 8 Ohms
The MODEL M4 provides eight amplifier channels arranged as four stereo zones. Marantz rates each channel at 100W into 8 ohms from 20Hz to 20kHz with all eight channels operating.
Output rises to 125W per channel into 4 ohms under the manufacturer’s specified measurement conditions. Compatible loudspeakers should have a nominal impedance between 4 and 16 ohms.
Bridge Mode up to 4 x 200W
Zones 1 and 2 can be combined, as can zones 3 and 4, using the rear bridge switches. This reconfigures the amplifier as four channels rated at 200W each into 4 ohms.
Bridge operation is useful when two higher-output stereo zones are preferable to four conventional zones. The wiring and rear switches must be configured correctly before the amplifier is powered.
Stereo or Dual-Mono Operation
Each zone can be configured for conventional stereo playback or dual-mono operation.
Dual mono is useful in spaces where two speakers are required for even coverage but a normal left and right stereo image would not be practical, such as larger kitchens, hallways or open-plan areas.
Four-Way Speaker Terminals
Each amplifier channel uses a four-way binding post for connection to suitable passive loudspeakers.
Speaker choice should take account of impedance, sensitivity, room size, expected listening level and whether the speaker is installed in a wall, ceiling or conventional cabinet. Browse speakers available from Audio T.
HEOS Streaming and Network Music
Streaming Services and Internet Radio
HEOS provides access to compatible streaming services, internet radio, music stored on mobile devices, USB storage and shared network libraries.
Available services include Spotify, Amazon Music, TIDAL, Deezer, Qobuz and TuneIn, subject to region, account requirements and changes made by third-party providers.
AirPlay 2 and Spotify Connect
AirPlay 2 allows compatible Apple devices to send music across the wired network, while Spotify Connect provides direct control from the Spotify app.
The network must remain connected by Ethernet. AirPlay support does not mean that the MODEL M4 has built-in Wi-Fi.
Roon Ready
Roon Ready certification allows the MODEL M4 to operate as part of a suitably configured Roon system.
This provides another route to music discovery, library management and zone control for installations built around Roon.
High-Resolution File Playback
Compatible network and USB sources support WAV, FLAC and ALAC files at up to 24-bit/192kHz, together with DSD at 2.8 and 5.6MHz.
MP3, WMA and AAC files are also supported for compressed music libraries. Browse more network music and streaming products at Audio T.
Wired Ethernet Network Connection
No Wi-Fi or Bluetooth
The MODEL M4 must be connected to the home network using Ethernet. It has no Wi-Fi or Bluetooth receiver, and music cannot be streamed directly to it from a Bluetooth device. Structured network cabling should be included when planning the installation.
Dual Ethernet Connections
Two Ethernet ports are provided. One connects the MODEL M4 to the wired network, while the second can be used to daisy-chain another MODEL M4.
Marantz recommends shielded CAT-5 or better network cable. Reliable network infrastructure is particularly important when several zones are streaming high-resolution music simultaneously.
Expansion up to 32 Zones
Up to eight MODEL M4 amplifiers can be supported on one network, subject to correct network design and the HEOS limit of 32 devices.
Larger projects should be planned with suitable switching, addressing, ventilation, rack space, power provision and cable management.
Local Sources and Television Sound
Four Stereo Analogue Inputs
Four stereo RCA inputs accommodate locally connected sources such as CD players, tuners, external phono stages and other compatible analogue components.
Connected sources can be assigned and distributed to the required zones rather than being restricted to the room in which the source is physically located.
Two Assignable Optical Inputs
Two optical digital inputs allow compatible televisions and other digital sources to be added to the installation.
The inputs can be assigned within the system so that television or digital-source sound is directed to the required zone.
Dolby Digital Decoding
The MODEL M4 can decode compatible Dolby Digital signals received through its optical inputs, as well as linear PCM.
Dialog Enhancer, Virtual and Night listening modes provide useful options when the system is also used for television sound.
TV Sound Grouping
TV Sound Grouping allows television audio connected to an optical input to be shared with other MODEL M4 zones.
There is no HDMI connection. A television or source must provide a compatible optical digital audio output.
Four USB Storage Connections
Four USB ports accept compatible FAT32 or NTFS storage devices containing supported music files.
These connections are for storage playback and cannot be used as computer USB DAC inputs.
Power Amplifier Mode
The analogue inputs can accept signals from a compatible external preamplifier when the required zone is configured for Power Amplifier Mode.
This allows selected MODEL M4 amplifier channels to be incorporated into a wider control or audio system.
Zone Outputs and Audio Adjustment
Four Stereo Preamplifier Outputs
Each zone provides a stereo RCA preamplifier output for connection to compatible external power amplification, active speakers or another suitable audio component.
This allows the internal amplifier channels to be supplemented or replaced where a particular room requires different amplification.
Four Selectable Subwoofer Outputs
Each zone provides a selectable mono RCA subwoofer output for connection to a compatible active subwoofer.
Independent low-pass filtering helps integrate the subwoofer with the speakers in that room. Explore hi-fi subwoofers available from Audio T.
Adjustable High-Pass and Low-Pass Filters
Each zone provides adjustable high-pass filtering from 40Hz to 250Hz and low-pass filtering from 40Hz to 120Hz.
These settings help divide low-frequency duties between the main speakers and an active subwoofer, subject to correct system design and calibration.
Independent Zone Adjustment
Available adjustments include bass, treble, balance and maximum volume. This allows each room to be configured for its speakers, acoustics and intended use.
Sound modes include Stereo, Direct, Virtual, Dialog Enhancer and Night Mode.
Marantz Musical Digital Filtering
Marantz Musical Digital Filtering is applied to digital sources within the MODEL M4. This proprietary processing was developed to preserve natural tonal information and detail during digital playback.
The completed amplifier is manufactured at Marantz’s Shirakawa facility in Japan and designed for the reliability required by permanently installed multi-room systems.
Rack and Control-System Integration
Rack-Mount Brackets Included
Supplied brackets allow the MODEL M4 to be fitted into a standard EIA equipment rack. The removable feet are taken off when rack mounting.
Heat is dispersed through the side surfaces, so the sides must not be obstructed. Rack temperature and ventilation should be considered carefully, with forced ventilation used where required.
Third-Party Control
TCP/IP integration is supported for compatible Crestron, Control4 and AMX systems.
Four 12V trigger outputs can control suitable external amplifiers and other equipment as individual zones are activated.
MODEL M4 or MODEL M1?
The Marantz MODEL M1 is designed for one room and includes Wi-Fi, Bluetooth and HDMI eARC. It is suitable when a compact, standalone streaming amplifier is required beside the speakers and television.
The MODEL M4 is designed for a centrally wired installation covering up to four rooms. Its additional zones, Ethernet-only networking, rack mounting, extensive outputs, triggers and control-system compatibility make it the more appropriate choice for a permanent whole-home system.
Explore the complete Marantz range at Audio T or compare more amplifiers and network music players.
Why Buy from Audio T?
The MODEL M4 is only one part of a successful multi-room system. Speaker choice, cable routes, network infrastructure, ventilation, source assignment and control configuration all need to work together.
- Independent advice from experienced hi-fi and home entertainment specialists
- Help planning the number and purpose of each audio zone
- Advice on speaker type, placement and amplifier matching
- Network and Ethernet infrastructure guidance
- Rack positioning, ventilation and cable-management advice
- HEOS setup, zone naming and room-grouping support
- Help configuring bridge mode, external amplifiers and subwoofers
- Integration advice for televisions and locally connected sources
- Home visits and installation support where available
- Part-exchange options for suitable existing equipment
- Ongoing support from your local Audio T store
Contact your nearest Audio T store to discuss a Marantz MODEL M4 multi-room system, arrange a home consultation or get help planning the complete installation.