Audio T Verdict
The Marantz AMP 30 brings genuinely substantial multichannel power into a chassis that is considerably slimmer and lighter than a conventional high-output home cinema amplifier.
Its six Class D amplifier channels are rated at 200W each into 8 ohms, with 400W available into 4 ohms under Marantz's stated test conditions. The detailed specification also confirms 200W output with five channels driven into 8 ohms, demonstrating that the AMP 30 has been designed for more than short bursts from a single stereo pair.
Flexibility is one of its strongest features. All six channels can operate normally, two channels can be combined to bi-amplify a compatible loudspeaker, or each adjacent pair can be switched into BTL bridged operation to provide up to three 400W channels into suitable 8-ohm speakers.
Every amplifier channel has both a balanced XLR input and an unbalanced RCA input, selected through its own rear-panel switch. This allows the AMP 30 to work with a wide selection of processors and pre-amplifiers without requiring adaptors or sacrificing the benefits of balanced cabling in a larger installation.
Marantz has not treated it as a generic Class D installation amplifier. Current-feedback input stages, proprietary HDAM circuitry, selected audio components and high-quality machined speaker terminals are used to preserve the detailed, spacious and controlled presentation expected from the company's premium home cinema separates.
The AMP 30 is a natural partner for the Marantz AV 30, but it is equally useful with the AV 20, AV 10 or a Marantz CINEMA receiver fitted with suitable pre-amplifier outputs. It can power a complete 5.1 system, strengthen the front stage of an existing receiver, add six height channels or provide three powerful bridged channels for the front left, centre and right speakers.
It contains no volume control, surround processing, source selection or room correction. A suitable AV processor, pre-amplifier or receiver with variable pre-outs is essential. Used within a properly planned system, the AMP 30 offers an unusually adaptable route into serious separate home cinema amplification.
Marantz AMP 30 Six-Channel Power Amplifier
The Marantz AMP 30 is a high-performance six-channel power amplifier designed for premium home cinema systems using a separate AV processor or a receiver with variable pre-amplifier outputs.
It converts six line-level audio signals into the high-current speaker-level output required by passive loudspeakers.
The amplifier can be configured for conventional six-channel operation, bi-amplification or BTL bridged operation, allowing its available channels to be assigned according to the loudspeakers and room.
Balanced XLR and unbalanced RCA inputs are provided for every channel, alongside AMP CONTROL, trigger, remote, RS-232C and IR connections for integrated system operation.
An AV Processor or Pre-Amplifier Is Required
The AMP 30 is a power amplifier rather than an AV receiver or integrated amplifier.
It cannot select sources, decode surround sound or control listening volume by itself.
- No HDMI inputs or outputs
- No Dolby Atmos or DTS:X decoding
- No room-correction system
- No volume control
- No source selection
- No internal DAC
- No network streaming
- No Bluetooth connection
- No subwoofer processing
Six Independent Amplifier Channels
The AMP 30 contains six separate power-amplifier channels within one enclosure.
In normal operation, each channel receives its own input signal and drives one passive loudspeaker.
This makes one AMP 30 suitable for applications such as:
- Five main cinema loudspeakers with one spare channel
- Six surround or height loudspeakers
- Front left, centre, front right and three additional channels
- A 5.1 system using passive speakers and an active subwoofer
- Additional amplification for a Marantz CINEMA receiver
- Expansion of a larger system using an AMP 10 or AMP 20
Active subwoofers connect to the processor rather than the AMP 30 because they contain their own internal amplification.
200W Per Channel into 8 Ohms
Marantz rates the AMP 30 at 200W per channel into 8 ohms.
The detailed test specification confirms 200W with two channels driven at 1kHz and 0.05% distortion. It also specifies 200W with five channels driven into 8 ohms at 1kHz and 0.7% distortion.
This substantial output provides useful dynamic headroom for large rooms, demanding cinema soundtracks and loudspeakers that require greater control than a typical AV receiver can provide.
400W Per Channel into 4 Ohms
Output rises to 400W per channel into a 4-ohm load under Marantz's stated two-channel test conditions.
The increase demonstrates the amplifier's ability to provide additional current as the loudspeaker impedance falls.
Actual suitability still depends on the loudspeaker's full impedance curve, sensitivity, recommended amplifier range and the ventilation available around the AMP 30.
Quoted Power Requires Context
Amplifier ratings can use different channel counts, frequencies and distortion limits.
The AMP 30's official figures include 200W with two channels driven, 200W with five channels driven into 8 ohms and 400W with two channels driven into 4 ohms. Audio T can help compare these figures with other amplifiers on a like-for-like basis.
High-Efficiency Class D Amplification
The AMP 30 uses high-efficiency Class D switching power-amplifier modules.
Class D operation allows Marantz to provide six high-output channels within a chassis measuring only 111mm high.
It also reduces the continuous heat and weight that would normally accompany six conventional high-current Class AB amplifier channels.
The amplifier still produces heat during use and must be installed with adequate ventilation.
Current-Feedback Input Stages
A high-speed current-feedback amplifier circuit handles the line-level signal before the Class D output stage.
Marantz uses this topology to maintain a wide operating bandwidth and respond accurately to fast changes within high-resolution and multichannel material.
This is particularly important in a cinema system, where several channels must remain dynamically and spatially coherent during complex effects and musical passages.
Marantz HDAM Circuitry
Marantz Hyper Dynamic Amplifier Modules are used within the amplifier's low-level stages.
HDAM circuitry is built from carefully selected components and developed as part of the complete Marantz signal path.
The aim is to preserve fine detail, low-level ambience and the tonal character of the source before the signal reaches the high-power output stage.
Selected High-Quality Components
Marantz uses selected audio components throughout the AMP 30, including MELF resistors and audio-grade electrolytic capacitors.
The component selection, circuit layout and final voicing are intended to prevent the amplifier's high output and compact design from coming at the expense of refinement.
Made in Shirakawa, Japan
The AMP 30 is manufactured at Marantz's Shirakawa facility in Japan.
It is designed to complement the current Marantz AV separates range in both construction and appearance.
Balanced XLR Inputs
A balanced XLR input is provided for each of the six amplifier channels.
Balanced connection can reduce the effect of electrical interference, particularly when the processor and amplifier are separated by longer interconnect cables or installed within a rack containing video and networking equipment.
The balanced input sensitivity is 2.8V, with an input impedance of 100k ohms.
Unbalanced RCA Inputs
An unbalanced RCA input is also provided for every channel.
This allows the AMP 30 to work with processors and AV receivers that provide conventional RCA pre-amplifier outputs.
The unbalanced input sensitivity is 1.4V, with an input impedance of 47k ohms.
Individual RCA and XLR Input Selection
Rear-panel switches select the balanced or unbalanced connection used by each channel.
The switch must correspond to the cable connected from the processor.
Connecting both RCA and XLR to one channel does not provide automatic source selection and is not recommended.
Switch Off Before Changing Connections
Turn off the AMP 30 and connected processor before changing input cables, input selectors, loudspeaker wiring or amplifier mode.
Reducing the processor volume before the system is powered again helps prevent an unexpectedly high output.
Normal Six-Channel Operation
In Normal mode, all six amplifier channels operate independently.
Each channel uses its own input, amplifier stage and speaker output.
This is the correct setting for conventional surround, height, wide or main-speaker amplification.
Bi-Amp Operation
Bi-amp mode allows two amplifier channels to power the separate high-frequency and low-frequency sections of one compatible loudspeaker.
The AMP 30 internally distributes one input signal to the paired channels, so an additional pre-amplifier cable is not required for the second amplifier channel.
Bi-amplification can reduce interaction between the loudspeaker's high-frequency and low-frequency sections by giving each one a dedicated amplifier channel.
Remove the Loudspeaker Terminal Links
A loudspeaker used for bi-amplification must have separate high-frequency and low-frequency terminals.
The metal links or jumper cables joining those terminals must be removed before the amplifier is connected. Leaving the links fitted can damage the amplifier.
Up to Three Bi-Amplified Loudspeakers
The six amplifier channels can be arranged as three bi-amped pairs.
This could be used to bi-amplify the front left, centre and front right speakers within a high-performance cinema system.
The benefit depends on the loudspeaker crossover, room and wider system. It should be demonstrated rather than assumed to be preferable to using the six channels elsewhere.
BTL Bridged Operation
BTL stands for Bridge-Tied Load.
In this mode, two amplifier channels operate together to drive one loudspeaker, producing a rated 400W into an 8-ohm load under Marantz's stated test conditions.
The two amplifier outputs operate in opposite phase, increasing the voltage available across the loudspeaker.
BTL operation can provide greater headroom and authority for demanding front loudspeakers, but it also places different electrical demands on the amplifier.
Up to Three 400W Bridged Channels
The six amplifier channels can be arranged as three bridged pairs.
This makes the AMP 30 particularly useful for powering the front left, centre and front right speakers at up to 400W each into suitable 8-ohm loads.
It can also operate with a mixture of Normal, Bi-Amp and BTL assignments, subject to the available channel pairs and the planned connection layout.
BTL Requires Suitable Loudspeakers
Marantz specifies speaker impedance from 8 to 16 ohms in BTL mode.
Do not use BTL mode with a loudspeaker that presents an unsuitable low-impedance load. Confirm compatibility with Audio T before connection.
The mode selector must be set before the amplifier is powered on. Changes made while it is operating are not applied.
Speaker Impedance Requirements
In Normal and Bi-Amp modes, Marantz specifies loudspeakers from 4 to 16 ohms.
In BTL mode, the specified range is 8 to 16 ohms.
Nominal impedance does not reveal every demand made by a loudspeaker, so its minimum impedance and electrical phase should also be considered.
Machined Brass Speaker Terminals
Six pairs of Marantz SPKT-1+ machined brass speaker terminals are fitted to the rear panel.
The robust binding posts provide secure connections for correctly prepared loudspeaker cable.
Check that no loose strands of bare wire can touch another terminal or the amplifier chassis.
Adding the AMP 30 to an AV Receiver
The AMP 30 can upgrade a compatible AV receiver that provides variable pre-amplifier outputs.
Possible arrangements include:
- Powering the front left, centre and right speakers in BTL mode
- Powering the front stage and two surround channels normally
- Bi-amplifying the front speakers while powering additional channels
- Powering six height or surround speakers
- Removing the most demanding speakers from the receiver's internal power supply
The receiver continues to handle HDMI switching, decoding, volume and room correction.
Partnering the Marantz AV 30
The AMP 30 was developed as the natural power-amplifier partner for the Marantz AV 30 processor.
One AMP 30 can power six of the AV 30's available channels. Additional AMP models or other suitable power amplifiers can be added according to the planned speaker layout.
The included AMP CONTROL cable allows power and illumination settings to operate together.
Partnering the Marantz AV 20
The AMP 30 can also be used within a larger AV 20 system.
Its six channels could power the front and surround speakers, all six height speakers within a 7.4.6 layout, or three demanding speakers in BTL mode.
Additional amplification will be required where the planned system uses more than six passive loudspeaker channels.
Combining AMP 30, AMP 20 and AMP 10
Marantz's current AMP range uses the same basic 200W-per-channel output intent across different channel counts.
- AMP 30 provides six channels
- AMP 20 provides twelve channels
- AMP 10 provides sixteen channels
Different models can be combined so that the amplification matches the number and demands of the speakers rather than forcing every installation into one fixed amplifier package.
AMP CONTROL
The supplied AMP CONTROL cable connects the AMP 30 to a compatible Marantz AV processor.
Once connected, the processor can synchronise the AMP 30's power and front-panel illumination settings.
The control connection is ground floating, helping prevent the control cable from creating an unwanted earth loop within the audio system.
DC Trigger Input and Output
A DC control input allows compatible third-party equipment to switch the AMP 30 between standby and operation.
The input responds to a control voltage between 5V and 15V.
A trigger output is also provided for controlling another compatible device. Marantz specifies a maximum output of 12V DC at 150mA.
Marantz Remote-Control Bus
Remote-control input and output connections support system integration with compatible Marantz products.
A remote-control cable is supplied.
RS-232C and IR Flasher Input
An RS-232C port provides serial control for compatible home-automation systems.
The IR flasher input allows an external infrared receiver or control system to operate the amplifier when it is installed inside a cabinet or equipment rack.
Front Porthole Level Meter
The central Marantz porthole contains an analogue-style level meter.
The meter displays the signal level received by Channel 1.
It does not display the combined output of all six channels and should not be treated as a calibrated power meter.
Switchable Meter and Illumination
The level meter and its lighting can be switched off.
The brightness of the front sidelights can also be adjusted using the front DIMMER control or synchronised with a compatible Marantz processor through AMP CONTROL.
Automatic Standby
A rear selector enables automatic standby.
When activated, the AMP 30 enters standby after approximately 15 minutes without an input signal or operation.
The factory setting is off, allowing the installation engineer or owner to choose the required behaviour.
Protection Circuitry
The AMP 30 includes protection against conditions such as excessive temperature, overload, abnormal voltage and speaker-cable short circuits.
A front indicator flashes when the protection circuit has operated.
Protection is an emergency safeguard rather than a substitute for suitable loudspeakers, correct wiring and adequate ventilation.
Compact Slimline Construction
Despite its six high-output channels, the AMP 30 measures only 111mm high.
Its 442mm width matches conventional full-size Marantz equipment, while the maximum depth is approximately 442mm.
The amplifier weighs 10kg, making it considerably easier to accommodate than many conventional six-channel high-power designs.
Ventilation and Placement
The AMP 30 should be placed on a rigid, level shelf or correctly supported equipment rack.
Allow free space around the top and sides so that heat can escape.
Additional rear clearance is required for XLR or RCA interconnects, six pairs of loudspeaker cables, trigger connections, control cables and the mains lead.
Do Not Enclose the Amplifier Tightly
Class D operation is efficient, but the AMP 30 still produces heat when driving several loudspeakers.
Do not cover the ventilation openings or place the amplifier inside an unventilated cabinet.
AMP 30 or AMP 20?
Choose the AMP 30 When
- Six amplifier channels cover the intended requirement
- You are upgrading selected channels from an AV receiver
- Three bridged channels are required for the front stage
- You want a compact and comparatively affordable separates amplifier
- The remaining speakers will use another amplifier
- System expansion will take place gradually
Choose the AMP 20 When
- You require twelve amplifier channels in one enclosure
- A larger immersive layout is being built immediately
- You want fewer power and control cables between amplifiers
- Several speakers may be bi-amplified or bridged
- The system uses an AV 20 or another high-channel processor
- Rack space for a larger amplifier is available
AMP 30 or AMP 10?
Choose the AMP 30 When
- Six channels are sufficient
- The system is being expanded in modular stages
- A smaller and lighter amplifier is preferable
- The additional AMP 10 channels would remain unused
- More budget should be allocated to speakers or subwoofers
Choose the AMP 10 When
- You require up to sixteen amplifier channels
- A large reference cinema is being designed
- One primary chassis should power most or all speakers
- Extensive bi-amp or BTL configurations are planned
- The complete installation justifies the flagship amplifier
AMP 30 or a Conventional Stereo Power Amplifier?
Choose the AMP 30 When
- Several cinema channels require consistent amplification
- Balanced and RCA inputs are needed for six channels
- Bi-amp and BTL flexibility is useful
- Compact rack space is important
- Marantz AMP CONTROL integration is required
- Home cinema is the system's principal purpose
Consider a Stereo Amplifier When
- Only the front left and right speakers require upgrading
- Two-channel music is the main priority
- A particular stereo amplifier is a better tonal match
- The front speakers require unusually high current
- The remaining cinema channels are adequately powered already
System Matching
Well Suited To
- Marantz AV 30, AV 20 and AV 10 processors
- Marantz CINEMA receivers with suitable pre-outs
- Premium 5.1 and 7.1 home cinema systems
- Dolby Atmos height-channel expansion
- Balanced processor and power-amplifier installations
- Front left, centre and right BTL amplification
- Bi-amplification of compatible loudspeakers
- Mixed AMP 10, AMP 20 and AMP 30 systems
- Custom-installed and rack-mounted home cinemas
Check Before Buying
- A suitable processor or receiver with variable pre-outs is available
- The required number of amplifier channels has been calculated
- Loudspeaker impedance is suitable for the selected mode
- BTL speakers are rated between 8 and 16 ohms
- Bi-amp terminal links can be removed safely
- Balanced or RCA input selection has been planned
- Sufficient ventilation and rack depth are available
- Interconnect and loudspeaker cable routes have been planned
- Professional configuration is arranged for complex systems
Connection and Setup Guidance
- Switch off the AMP 30, processor and source equipment before making connections.
- Connect only to variable pre-amplifier outputs.
- Never connect a fixed-level source directly without suitable volume control.
- Select RCA or XLR separately for each connected channel.
- Use one input type per channel rather than connecting both.
- Set every Normal, Bi-Amp or BTL selector before powering the amplifier.
- Use loudspeakers rated from 4 to 16 ohms in Normal or Bi-Amp mode.
- Use loudspeakers rated from 8 to 16 ohms in BTL mode.
- Remove the loudspeaker terminal links before bi-amplification.
- Follow the Marantz BTL terminal arrangement exactly.
- Check loudspeaker polarity before powering the system.
- Ensure no loose wire strands can short the speaker terminals.
- Begin with the processor volume reduced.
- Use AMP CONTROL with a compatible Marantz processor where required.
- Allow unrestricted airflow around the amplifier.
Finish
Black
The AMP 30 is supplied in Black for the UK market.
Its metal front panel combines the central Marantz porthole meter with adjustable side illumination and styling designed to match the AV 30 and other current Marantz home cinema separates.
Marantz Products and Audio T Home Cinema Guides
These Audio T links provide useful product comparisons and further guidance on processors, power amplifiers, loudspeakers and complete home cinema systems.
Key Features
- Six-channel power amplifier
- High-efficiency Class D amplification
- 200W-per-channel headline output into 8 ohms
- 400W-per-channel headline output into 4 ohms
- 200W with five channels driven into 8 ohms under stated conditions
- Up to three 400W BTL bridged channels
- Up to three bi-amplified speaker pairs
- Normal, Bi-Amp and BTL operating modes
- Marantz current-feedback input circuitry
- Proprietary Marantz HDAM circuitry
- Selected MELF resistors
- Selected audio-grade capacitors
- Six balanced XLR inputs
- Six unbalanced RCA inputs
- Individual RCA and XLR input selectors
- Balanced input sensitivity of 2.8V
- Unbalanced input sensitivity of 1.4V
- 29dB voltage gain
- 110dB signal-to-noise ratio
- Frequency response from 5Hz to 70kHz
- Six pairs of SPKT-1+ machined brass speaker terminals
- 4-ohm to 16-ohm compatibility in Normal mode
- 4-ohm to 16-ohm compatibility in Bi-Amp mode
- 8-ohm to 16-ohm compatibility in BTL mode
- Marantz AMP CONTROL
- Synchronised power operation
- Synchronised front illumination
- DC trigger input
- DC trigger output
- Marantz remote-control bus
- RS-232C system control
- IR flasher input
- Selectable automatic standby
- 15-minute no-signal standby period
- Front porthole level meter
- Channel 1 level indication
- Switchable meter display
- Adjustable front illumination
- Protection status indicator
- Overload protection
- Overvoltage protection
- Overtemperature protection
- Short-circuit protection
- Compact 111mm-high chassis
- Metal front panel
- Made in Shirakawa, Japan
- Black finish
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Marantz AMP 30?
It is a six-channel Class D power amplifier designed for use with a separate AV processor, pre-amplifier or compatible AV receiver.
Does it contain a surround processor?
No. It requires a separate component to provide source selection, decoding, volume control, bass management and room correction.
How many channels does it have?
It contains six independent power-amplifier channels.
How much power does it produce?
Marantz rates it at 200W per channel into 8 ohms and 400W per channel into 4 ohms under the stated test conditions.
Are those ratings all channels driven?
The detailed specification states 200W with two channels driven into 8 ohms, 400W with two channels driven into 4 ohms and 200W with five channels driven into 8 ohms, using the published frequency and distortion conditions.
Is it a Class D amplifier?
Yes. It uses high-efficiency low-distortion Class D switching power-amplifier modules.
Does it contain Marantz HDAM circuitry?
Yes. HDAM and current-feedback circuitry are used within its high-speed input stages.
Does it have balanced inputs?
Yes. Each of the six channels provides a balanced XLR input.
Does it have RCA inputs?
Yes. Each channel also provides an unbalanced RCA input.
Can the amplifier switch automatically between XLR and RCA?
No. A rear selector must be set to the input type used by each channel.
Can I connect both XLR and RCA to one channel?
This is not recommended. Select and use one input type for each channel.
What is the balanced input sensitivity?
It is specified at 2.8V with an input impedance of 100k ohms.
What is the RCA input sensitivity?
It is specified at 1.4V with an input impedance of 47k ohms.
What is Bi-Amp mode?
Two amplifier channels power the separate high-frequency and low-frequency sections of one compatible loudspeaker.
Do I need two pre-amplifier cables for bi-amplification?
No. In the AMP 30's Bi-Amp mode, the signal is distributed internally to the paired amplifier channels.
Must I remove the speaker terminal links?
Yes. The high-frequency and low-frequency terminals must be electrically separated before bi-amplification.
How many speakers can be bi-amplified?
All six channels can be arranged as three bi-amplified pairs.
What is BTL mode?
BTL combines two amplifier channels to drive one loudspeaker at a rated 400W into 8 ohms under the stated test conditions.
How many bridged channels can it provide?
The six channels can be arranged as up to three BTL bridged outputs.
Which speaker impedance can be used in BTL mode?
Marantz specifies speakers from 8 to 16 ohms.
Can I change amplifier mode while it is switched on?
No. Set the Normal, Bi-Amp or BTL switches before turning on the amplifier.
Can it power a complete 5.1 system?
Yes. Five channels can power the passive speakers, while the active subwoofer connects directly to the AV processor.
Can it power a 7.1 system?
Six channels are available, so at least one additional amplifier channel is required for seven passive loudspeakers.
Can I add it to an AV receiver?
Yes, provided the receiver has variable pre-amplifier outputs for the channels being upgraded.
Is it the matching amplifier for the Marantz AV 30?
Yes. The AMP 30 was developed as its natural six-channel power-amplifier partner.
Can it be used with the AV 20?
Yes. It can power any six assigned channels, with additional amplification used for the remainder of a larger layout.
Can it be combined with AMP 20 or AMP 10?
Yes. Different Marantz AMP models can be combined to achieve the required channel count and operating modes.
What does AMP CONTROL do?
It allows a compatible Marantz processor to synchronise the AMP 30's power and illumination settings.
Does it have a trigger input?
Yes. The DC control input accepts a compatible control voltage between 5V and 15V.
Does it have a trigger output?
Yes. The specified maximum output is 12V DC at 150mA.
Does it support RS-232C control?
Yes.
What does the front meter display?
It displays the input signal level for Channel 1.
Can the meter be switched off?
Yes. The level meter and its illumination can be disabled.
Does it have automatic standby?
Yes. When enabled, it enters standby after approximately 15 minutes without a signal or operation.
What speaker impedance is supported normally?
Marantz specifies 4 to 16 ohms in Normal and Bi-Amp modes.
What are its dimensions?
It measures approximately 442mm wide, 442mm deep and 111mm high.
How much does it weigh?
Its net weight is approximately 10kg.
Where is it made?
It is crafted at Marantz's Shirakawa facility in Japan.
Which finish is available?
The UK AMP 30 is supplied in Black.
Why Buy From Audio T?
- Complete home cinema system demonstrations
- Processor and power-amplifier channel planning
- Advice choosing between AMP 30, AMP 20 and AMP 10
- AV receiver power-amplifier upgrade guidance
- Normal, Bi-Amp and BTL configuration advice
- Loudspeaker impedance and power-handling checks
- Balanced XLR and unbalanced RCA system matching
- Front-stage and height-channel amplifier planning
- Interconnect and loudspeaker cable guidance
- AMP CONTROL and trigger setup
- Equipment-rack and ventilation planning
- Professional installation and calibration support
- Home demonstrations may be available
- Part exchange may be available on suitable existing equipment
- Ongoing setup and system support
Contact your local Audio T store to arrange a demonstration or discuss adding the Marantz AMP 30 to your home cinema system.