Marantz SACD 30n Network SACD Player Review

[gene]

The Marantz SACD 30n is a networking SACD player capable of delivering high-resolution playback performance of SACD and CDs while also serving as a networking streamer with USB DAC function and can even eliminate the need for a preamplifier. In this detailed review, we do a series of objective bench tests and subjective listening tests to determine if it sounds as good as it looks. With a variable line level output, can the SACD 30n eliminate the need for a preamp and just be directly connected to your power amp? We discuss this in the review.

Read: Marantz SACD 30n Network SACD Player Review

 

[Epsonfan]

I stick to Apple lossless & save me 3k.

 

[ryanosaur]

The Marantz SACD 30n is a networking SACD player capable of delivering high-resolution playback performance of SACD and CDs while also serving as a networking streamer with USB DAC function and can even eliminate the need for a preamplifier. In this detailed review, we do a series of objective bench tests and subjective listening tests to determine if it sounds as good as it looks. With a variable line level output, can the SACD 30n eliminate the need for a preamp and just be directly connected to your power amp? We discuss this in the review.

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Read: Marantz SACD 30n Network SACD Player Review

Great write up, Gene. Thank you!

 

[isolar8001]

Nice dream machine ! Good work as usual, Gene.
“Your Latest Trick” is one of my go-to tracks for evaluating anything...fantastic choice !

 

[Cos]

Insightful review as usual. The one question I have relates to TIDAL and HEOS. As a Model 40N owner I was surprised to learn that it can't resolve all of the details. Is this a known limitation of HEOS? I find the app to be basic, but it works well enough. I don't believe you are referring to MQA Tidal? I would also be curious it this is the case for other HD formats from sources like Amazon Music HD etc?

 

[Mikado463]

Good review Gene and as an owner of the Marantz 'Ruby' SACD player I find living without XLR outputs to be no big deal. But then my run to my line stage is only a half-meter.

 

[DT Audio]

Thanks Gene for the review! Can you elaborate on the Tidal/Heos issue that affected sound quality? Was that MQA?
Thank you!
DT

 

[Trebdp83]

So, 3K doesn’t get you the second unfolding of Tidal’s MQA? Not that it matters as it’s not really lossless hi- res for those who care. Didn’t try Amazon Music Unlimited Ultra HD for 24/192 tracks?

I'd think anybody with a newer Denon/Marantz processor or receiver could save a fortune and simply use the built in HEOS app for streaming Amazon Ultra HD. Yamaha owners can use MusicCast to stream hi-res from Qobuz. Frankly, they kinda’ set the standard for music streaming quality.

Denon got me many years ago when I wanted a CD/DVD-AUDIO/SACD player to match my Denon AVR. Just not falling for that nonsense anymore when far less expensive options exist with no discernible loss of quality. Sony’s UBP-X800M2 is a far less expensive option for those wanting CD, DVD-AUDIO, SACD, and UHD blu-ray disc support when their AVR already has it’s own USB and network streaming capabilities.