Marantz Melody X review – Melody maker
Marantz has been recently noted for its high-fidelity Ken Ishiwata Signature series. However, the new versatile Melody X aims to prove that great sound can be offered at a lower price point. Tested at €699.
Review by Alex Röser
Marantz is a renowned manufacturer known for its versatile range of players, converters, and amplifiers. The company caters to a wide audience, offering both entry-level Hi-Fi devices and high-end equipment. Marantz has received numerous awards over the years, and recently, two of its devices received top marks from us: the KI Ruby integrated amplifier and the SA-KI Ruby high-end CD player with digital converter, both part of the Ken Ishiwata Signature series. These devices honor the long-time chief developer and company ambassador Ken Ishiwata, who significantly shaped Marantz’s direction and audio signature.
Marantz Melody X
The M-CR612, also known as Melody X, is a digital streamer with a CD player and integrated stereo amplifier. This compact, all-in-one solution is priced at €699, targeting new Hi-Fi enthusiasts or those who want to become one. The Melody X supports almost every popular streaming service, including Tidal and Spotify, as well as TuneIn and network storage. It can be connected to a home network either wired or wirelessly.
Additionally, music can be played from the built-in CD player or through analog and digital inputs. The output can be directed to other devices, such as an amplifier, or directly to two pairs of speakers via the integrated Class-D amplifier. The total nominal power of 120 watts can be split between two pairs in an A/B setup (2x60W) or for two different zones (4x30W at 6 ohms). Each speaker pair’s volume can be controlled separately.
Features
- Supports voice assistants Alexa, Google Assistant, and Siri.
- Equipped with Airplay 2, enabling multi-room capabilities.
- Includes Heos by Denon, allowing control via the Heos app on smartphones or tablets.
- Onboard controls and remote control are available.
- A high-resolution OLED screen enhances usability and aesthetics.
Performance
We tested the Melody X with a pair of our reference speakers, the Dynaudio Contour 30, and began with a CD. The Melody X read the disc quickly and operated quietly. It delivered a tight bass and handled complex rhythms and synth sounds well. However, in terms of dynamics and liveliness, it did not quite match a full-sized stereo amplifier. Using the Heos app, we streamed music from Spotify and found the sound to be detailed and colorful. The app was quick and stable, making it easy to explore music.
Insights
1) 2x optical digital inputs
2) USB-A port
3) RCA stereo in and outputs
4) Subwoofer output
5) Binding posts for two sets of speakers
SPECS
PRODUCT Marantz Melody X
ORIGIN UK/China
TYPE All-in-one system
WEIGHT 3.4kg
DIMENSIONS (WxHxD) 280 x 111 x 303mm
FEATURES
• Quoted power output: 2x 60W (6ohm)
• HEOS UPnP streaming and multi-room capability
• Digital inputs: 2x optical
• Analogue inputs: 1x RCA
• Outputs: 1x subwoofer preout; two sets of speaker terminals; 6.35mm headphone socket
DISTRIBUTOR Sound United
TELEPHONE 0208 1034770
WEBSITE marantz.com
Available in black or silver, the Melody X boasts a simple, minimalist design
The Marantz is cheaper than the phenomenal Quad Vena II Play and the spec for CD users at least is rather more appealing
Verdict
Ratings:
- Sound Quality: 52.5/60
- Features/Build Quality: 19/20
- User Friendliness: 10/10
- Price/Performance: 8/10
The Melody X is an excellent all-in-one system, ideal for multi-room setups or as a secondary system in a bedroom. It offers everything a streaming enthusiast needs, along with a CD player and 2x60W output. While it may not provide the ultimate high-end sound, it brings plenty of enjoyment and versatility to any Hi-Fi enthusiast.
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