Audio T Verdict
The Marantz MCR 60n DAB is a very persuasive answer for anyone who wants a proper Hi-Fi system without filling the room with separate components. Add a suitable pair of passive loudspeakers and this compact unit can handle network streaming, CD playback, DAB+ and FM radio, a television, Bluetooth, USB music and a turntable.
It represents a substantial update over the M-CR612. Output rises from 50W to 65W per channel into 4 ohms, while Marantz has revised the power supply, strengthened the bottom chassis and changed the feet to improve current delivery, stability and bass performance. Bi-Amp and Parallel BTL modes remain available, allowing the four-channel Class D amplifier to be configured around the loudspeakers being used.
The latest-generation HEOS module adds simpler app-based set-up, Roon Ready certification and support for PCM files up to 32-bit/384kHz and DSD up to 11.2MHz. HDMI eARC makes it far easier to use the same system for television sound, while the addition of a proper moving-magnet phono input means a compatible turntable can now connect without a separate phono stage.
It is unusually flexible for something only 280mm wide. The adjustable subwoofer crossover, fixed or variable stereo output, Bluetooth transmission, four Smart Select presets and optional Dirac Live room correction allow it to grow well beyond a basic one-box system. Speaker matching still matters, and Dirac Live requires a separate licence, but the MCR 60n DAB covers an enormous amount of ground for £800.
Dirac Live Requires a Licence and LE Audio Requires an Update
The MCR 60n DAB is upgradeable to Dirac Live Room Correction, but a separate Limited Bandwidth or Full Bandwidth licence is required. Low-latency Bluetooth LE Audio support is planned through a firmware update and will also require compatible transmitting or receiving equipment.
Marantz MCR 60n DAB All-in-One Compact Hi-Fi System
The Marantz MCR 60n DAB combines a network music player, stereo amplifier, CD player, DAB+/FM tuner, DAC, Bluetooth receiver and transmitter, MM phono stage and television-audio connection in one compact component.
It is designed for listeners who want the performance and flexibility of a real Hi-Fi system, but would rather add one pair of speakers than assemble a rack full of electronics.
Its design takes inspiration from the Marantz MODEL M1, with a full-size OLED display, understated front panel and a choice of Matte Black or Marantz Champagne Gold finishes.
- All-in-one compact Hi-Fi system
- 65W + 65W into 4 ohms
- Four-channel Class D amplifier
- Standard, Bi-Amp and Parallel BTL modes
- Speaker A and Speaker B outputs
- Independent A/B volume control
- Latest-generation HEOS networking module
- Guided HEOS app onboarding
- Ethernet and Wi-Fi
- AirPlay 2
- Roon Ready
- PCM support up to 32-bit/384kHz
- DSD support up to 11.2MHz
- Front-loading CD mechanism
- DAB+ and FM radio
- HDMI eARC and ARC
- HDMI-CEC television control
- Dolby Digital and Dolby Digital Plus decoding
- Optical digital input
- Rear USB-A connection
- Bluetooth reception and transmission
- Low-latency LE Audio planned by firmware update
- Moving-magnet phono input
- Stereo line input
- Fixed or variable stereo audio output
- Adjustable subwoofer output
- Subwoofer crossover from 30Hz to 250Hz
- Dirac Live Room Correction upgradeable
- Four Smart Select presets
- Direct, Stereo and Virtual sound modes
- Full-size OLED display
- Dedicated infrared remote control
- Matte Black or Marantz Champagne Gold
- Compact 280mm-wide cabinet
Latest-Generation HEOS Music Streaming
The MCR 60n DAB uses the latest HEOS networking module to provide app-controlled music streaming, internet radio, network-library playback and integration with other compatible HEOS products.
Ethernet and Wi-Fi connections are provided, while AirPlay 2 offers a familiar wireless route from compatible Apple equipment. Availability of individual streaming services and features can vary by region and service provider.
Simpler HEOS Set-Up
Initial set-up is handled through the latest HEOS onboarding process. Open the HEOS app, choose Setup Now and follow the instructions. When prompted, press the Connect button on the rear of the MCR 60n DAB, confirm the Wi-Fi details and assign the product to a room. The network indicator turns solid white when the connection is complete.
Roon Ready High-Resolution Playback
The new networking platform increases supported network-audio resolution to PCM up to 32-bit/384kHz and DSD up to 11.2MHz.
Roon Ready certification is included out of the box, allowing the MCR 60n DAB to appear as a recognised audio endpoint within a compatible Roon system.
File compatibility, maximum resolution and gapless behaviour can depend on the file type, network source and playback method being used.
Dedicated CD Playback
A front-loading CD mechanism keeps physical-disc playback at the heart of the system.
Marantz states that the drive mechanism is designed specifically for audio applications and that the MCR 60n DAB is tuned using real CD sources. This is important for anyone who wants modern streaming convenience without abandoning an existing CD collection.
DAB+ and FM Radio
The built-in DAB+ and FM tuner provides conventional broadcast radio alongside internet-radio options available through HEOS.
A dedicated 75-ohm DAB/FM aerial connection is fitted to the rear panel.
HDMI eARC for Television Sound
A compatible television can connect through the HDMI eARC/ARC port, allowing the MCR 60n DAB and its attached loudspeakers to handle television, film, game and streaming-app sound.
HDMI-CEC allows everyday volume operation from a compatible TV remote. The built-in DSP supports PCM signals up to 24-bit/192kHz, including compatible multichannel input formats up to 7.1 channels, together with Dolby Digital and Dolby Digital Plus decoding.
Why eARC Is Useful
With a compatible eARC television, the TV does not normally need to be forced into two-channel PCM output. When using ordinary ARC, the television may still need to be set to PCM depending on the programme format and the TV's own audio settings.
Moving-Magnet Phono Input
A dedicated MM phono input and ground terminal allow a turntable fitted with a compatible moving-magnet cartridge to connect directly.
If the turntable has a switchable built-in phono equaliser, it should normally be switched off when connecting to the Marantz PHONO input. A turntable providing a fixed line-level output should use the ordinary LINE input instead.
The Built-In Phono Stage Is for Moving-Magnet Cartridges
The MCR 60n DAB does not provide a dedicated low-output moving-coil input. A suitable external phono stage will normally be required for an MC cartridge and should be connected to the line input.
Bluetooth Reception and Transmission
Bluetooth works in both directions. Compatible phones, tablets and computers can send audio to the Marantz, while the MCR 60n DAB can also transmit sound to suitable Bluetooth headphones.
Low-latency Bluetooth LE Audio is planned through a firmware update. With compatible equipment using the LC3 audio codec, this is intended to reduce the delay between picture and sound when watching television and improve responsiveness during wireless listening.
Both ends of the connection must support LE Audio for the low-latency mode to operate. Ordinary Bluetooth devices can still use the conventional Bluetooth connection.
65W per Channel into 4 Ohms
The four-channel Class D amplifier is rated at 65W + 65W into 4 ohms at 1kHz and 0.7% THD+N. This compares with the M-CR612's quoted 50W + 50W output under the manufacturer's stated comparison conditions.
Marantz has increased the amplifier's overall headroom and revised the power supply to provide higher, more stable current delivery and improved low-impedance drive with demanding loudspeakers.
The 65W Figure Is Measured at 1kHz
The published 65W + 65W figure is measured into 4 ohms at 1kHz and 0.7% THD+N. It should not be presented as a full-bandwidth 8-ohm power rating.
Revised Power Supply and Audio Components
The MCR 60n DAB uses newly selected custom power-supply capacitors, a custom inductor within the amplifier circuit and dedicated noise-reduction components.
The revised supply is designed to maintain a more stable voltage under high-current loads, contributing to greater power delivery while preserving a clean, low-noise presentation.
Strengthened Bottom Chassis
Marantz has added a second 1mm SECC steel plate to the bottom chassis. The M-CR612 used a single 1mm layer, whereas the MCR 60n DAB combines the original 1mm chassis with an additional 1mm plate.
The extra reinforcement is intended to increase structural stability and support more controlled bass performance.
High-Density Feet
The cabinet feet have also been redesigned. They combine ABS and polycarbonate materials in a higher-density structure, with felt used as the cushioning material.
Marantz identifies improved stability, bass performance and resolution as the reasons for the revised construction.
Standard Speaker A and B Operation
Two pairs of horizontally arranged speaker terminals support Speaker A, Speaker B or Speaker A+B operation.
Individual volume control allows the second speaker output to be used for a simple second-zone arrangement where the connected loudspeakers and installation are suitable.
Bi-Amp and Parallel BTL Modes
The four amplifier channels can be reconfigured around one pair of loudspeakers.
Bi-Amp Mode
Marantz recommends Bi-Amp mode when the connected loudspeakers provide separate compatible terminals for their high-frequency and low-frequency sections.
Parallel BTL Mode
Parallel BTL mode is recommended by Marantz when using one conventional pair of loudspeakers that does not support bi-amping.
Check the Loudspeaker Connections Before Changing Amplifier Mode
Bi-amping requires compatible loudspeakers and the terminal links must be removed before connection. Parallel BTL uses a different terminal arrangement. Always follow the Marantz instructions or ask Audio T for help before powering the system.
Fixed or Variable Stereo Audio Output
The gold-plated stereo RCA audio output can be set to either Fixed or Variable level through the set-up menu.
Fixed mode can feed a suitable amplifier or receiver with its own volume control. Variable mode allows the MCR 60n DAB to operate as an all-in-one stereo preamplifier for a compatible power amplifier or pair of active loudspeakers.
Adjustable Subwoofer Output
A dedicated subwoofer output makes it possible to add a compatible active subwoofer.
The crossover can be adjusted from 30Hz to 250Hz in 10Hz steps through the product's set-up menu. The subwoofer can also be switched on or off and its level adjusted through either the HEOS app or the unit's own menus.
Why an Adjustable Crossover Matters
Different loudspeakers and rooms require different crossover settings. The broad adjustment range makes it easier to blend a compact subwoofer with small standmount speakers or add carefully controlled low-frequency support to larger designs.
Upgradeable Dirac Live Room Correction
The MCR 60n DAB can be upgraded with Dirac Live Room Correction. This measures how the loudspeakers interact with the room and creates a correction filter intended to reduce the effects of reflections, standing waves and channel imbalance.
Room Correction only is supported. Limited Bandwidth and Full Bandwidth licence options are available separately, and the chosen licence is not included in the product's £800 purchase price.
Four Smart Select Presets
Four Smart Select buttons can store and recall frequently used system configurations from the infrared remote, the top panel or the HEOS app.
A Smart Select can remember a compatible source or station together with volume, tone or Dynamic Bass Boost settings, sound mode and, where installed, the selected Dirac Live filter.
Assignable sources include DAB/FM radio, Bluetooth, CD, HDMI, Optical, Phono, Line and compatible HEOS services or stations. Individual online-service availability varies by region.
Direct, Stereo and Virtual Sound Modes
Direct, Stereo and Virtual processing modes allow the presentation to be adjusted for different sources and listening situations.
Tone and Dynamic Bass Boost settings remain available through the system menus and can be stored within a Smart Select, even though the previous dedicated DBB/TONE button has been removed from the new remote control.
Full-Size OLED Display and New Remote Control
The front panel uses a full-size OLED display, accompanied by playback controls, a front-loading CD slot and a 3.5mm headphone connection.
The supplied infrared remote adds a dedicated HEOS button and four Smart Select buttons. Compared with the M-CR612 handset, the dedicated DBB/TONE, QUEUE and +10 buttons have been removed, with the relevant functions handled elsewhere in the updated control layout.
Rear-Panel Connections
The rear panel has been rearranged around a horizontal speaker-terminal layout to make installation clearer.
- One HDMI eARC/ARC television connection
- One optical digital input
- One rear USB-A connection
- One Ethernet network connection
- One stereo RCA line input
- One MM phono input with ground terminal
- One fixed or variable stereo RCA audio output
- One adjustable subwoofer output
- Two pairs of screw and banana-compatible speaker terminals
- One 75-ohm DAB/FM aerial connection
- Rear network Connect button
Compact MODEL M1-Inspired Design
The MCR 60n DAB measures 280mm wide, 111mm high and 303mm deep, matching the compact footprint of the M-CR612 while introducing a cleaner design inspired by the Marantz MODEL M1.
It weighs 4.2kg, an increase from the M-CR612's 3.8kg, reflecting changes including the additional bottom-chassis plate.
Matte Black and Marantz Champagne Gold finishes are available. The colour and surface treatment have been chosen to sit comfortably alongside loudspeakers finished in black, white or natural materials while retaining a recognisable Marantz identity.
More Environmentally Considered Packaging
Marantz has adopted a more environmentally considered packaging design for the MCR 60n DAB.
The documentation uses a plastic-free sleeve, the mains cable uses a plastic-free paper tie and the accessories are supplied in a plastic-free box. Documentation includes a Quick Start Guide, safety instructions, Notes on Radio and battery information.
Marantz MCR 60n DAB Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Marantz MCR 60n DAB?
It is a compact all-in-one Hi-Fi system combining stereo amplification, HEOS network streaming, CD playback, DAB+/FM radio, Bluetooth, HDMI eARC, digital and analogue inputs, an MM phono stage and subwoofer connectivity.
How powerful is the MCR 60n DAB?
Marantz rates it at 65W + 65W into 4 ohms at 1kHz and 0.7% THD+N. This is not a full-bandwidth 8-ohm measurement, so loudspeaker suitability should be judged on more than the headline figure.
Does it need separate speakers?
Yes. The MCR 60n DAB contains the source components and amplifier but requires a suitable pair of passive loudspeakers. It can also operate two appropriate speaker pairs or use Bi-Amp or Parallel BTL modes with one pair.
Does the MCR 60n DAB have HEOS?
Yes. It uses the latest-generation HEOS networking module and the current guided onboarding process through the HEOS app.
Is it Roon Ready?
Yes. Roon Ready certification is included out of the box.
What high-resolution audio does it support?
Network playback supports PCM files up to 32-bit/384kHz and DSD up to 11.2MHz. The optical and HDMI connections support compatible PCM signals up to 24-bit/192kHz.
Does it play CDs?
Yes. It has a front-loading CD mechanism designed specifically for audio playback.
Does it have DAB+ radio?
Yes. DAB+ and FM radio tuners are built in, with a rear 75-ohm aerial connection.
Can I connect it to my television?
Yes. A compatible television can connect through HDMI eARC or ARC, with HDMI-CEC allowing everyday volume control from the TV remote.
Can it decode Dolby Digital?
Yes. The internal DSP supports Dolby Digital and Dolby Digital Plus decoding through the HDMI connection.
Can I connect a turntable?
Yes. A turntable fitted with a compatible moving-magnet cartridge can use the PHONO input. A turntable with its own line-level phono output should normally use the LINE input instead.
Can I use a moving-coil cartridge?
Not directly through the built-in phono input. A suitable separate MC phono stage will normally be required and should connect to the line input.
Can the MCR 60n DAB receive Bluetooth audio?
Yes. Compatible phones, tablets and other Bluetooth sources can send audio to the system.
Can it transmit to Bluetooth headphones?
Yes. Bluetooth transmission allows system audio to be sent to suitable wireless headphones.
Does it support Bluetooth LE Audio?
Low-latency LE Audio support is planned through a firmware update. Both products in the connection must support the relevant LE Audio technology.
Is Dirac Live included?
No. The MCR 60n DAB is upgradeable to Dirac Live Room Correction, but a separate Limited Bandwidth or Full Bandwidth licence is required.
Can I connect a subwoofer?
Yes. The subwoofer output provides level control and an adjustable crossover from 30Hz to 250Hz in 10Hz steps.
Can it be used as a preamplifier?
Yes. The stereo RCA audio output can be switched between fixed and variable level, allowing connection to a suitable external amplifier, receiver or pair of active loudspeakers.
What are Smart Selects?
Four Smart Select memories can recall a source or station along with settings such as volume, tone, sound mode and an optional Dirac Live filter.
What finishes are available?
The MCR 60n DAB is available in Matte Black and Marantz Champagne Gold.
How large is it?
It measures 280mm wide, 111mm high and 303mm deep.
How much does it weigh?
Product weight is 4.2kg.
Related Marantz Products and Audio T Categories
Why Buy the Marantz MCR 60n DAB From Audio T?
The MCR 60n DAB may combine almost every source in one compact component, but the quality of the finished system still depends on choosing suitable loudspeakers, positioning them correctly and configuring the amplifier for the room.
Audio T can help you compare speaker options, connect an existing turntable or television, decide whether Bi-Amp or Parallel BTL mode is appropriate and integrate a subwoofer without overwhelming the main loudspeakers.
- Friendly specialist Hi-Fi advice
- In-store demonstrations where available
- Amplifier and loudspeaker matching
- Speaker A/B, Bi-Amp and Parallel BTL guidance
- HEOS network and streaming set-up
- Roon Ready system advice
- Turntable and moving-magnet cartridge matching
- HDMI eARC television set-up
- Bluetooth and wireless-headphone guidance
- Subwoofer selection and crossover adjustment
- Dirac Live upgrade guidance
- Part-exchange options
- Home demonstration options where appropriate
- Ongoing after-sales support
Contact your local Audio T store to discuss the Marantz MCR 60n DAB, suitable loudspeakers or arranging a demonstration when stock becomes available.