The Article
NR1200 Network Receiver From Marantz
1st August 2019
The Marantz NR1200 is a two-channel receiver that features a newly designed 75W amplification section with separate, symmetrical left and right power amplifiers sharing a centralised power supply with independent windings for each function.
The stereo receiver also features two separate DACs per channel. With HEOS Built-in, users can access Spotify (Free and Premium), Amazon Music, Tidal, TuneIn Internet Radio and more or local music file libraries via the HEOS App.
It can also deliver music to any room throughout the home using other HEOS-capable speakers, systems or components.
Users can play the same song in every room or select a different song for each connected room.
In addition, streaming content can be played back via Bluetooth or Apple AirPlay 2.
Digital radio can be accessed via DAB+ tuner. A built-in phono input is included for turntables.
You also get five HDMI inputs, including HDCP 2.3, 4K Ultra HD 60Hz video, 4:4:4 Pure Color sub-sampling, HLG, High Dynamic Range (HDR10), 21:9 video, 3D and BT.2020 pass-through. Plus, ARC (Audio Return Channel) supports the transmission of audio from the TV with a single HDMI cable. HDMI inputs automatically rename themselves based upon information provided by the source. In addition, the NR1200 will automatically down-mix all surround formats.
NR1200 supports Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant or Apple Siri. Use verbal commands to initiate music playback, turn the volume up or down, skip to the next track, input selection and more. Users can switch between voice agents or pick a favourite. Functionality varies by voice agent.
A future firmware update will add Bluetooth Headphones functionality to the receiver. Once connected, users can either select to play only through the headphones or simultaneously listen via the speakers even in surround mode and via the headphones in stereo at the same time, with individual volume control on the headphones.
The Marantz NR1200 will be available in September in a black or silver gold finish for £599.
For additional information, visit www.marantz.co.uk
[Don’t forget to check out my Facebook Group, The Audiophile Man: Hi-Fi & Music here: www.facebook.com/groups/theaudiophileman for exclusive postings, exclusive editorial and more!]
There is a lot of controversy these days about accurate power ratings. What’s the skinny on the NR1200? Peak power? 4ohm? Will it drive Elac UB5’s fully? Thks for your input.
Hi James – at the moment we’re just at the news stage with this one so I don’t know any more than the information I’ve provided here, I’m afraid.
Thks Paul-due to necessities of moving from overseas I’m looking at an entirely new system. Some of the speakers I’m looking at are 4 ohm, the M1200 caught my eye because of the “network” features. Think it will drive elac unifi series? Cambridge Audio? Thks for any input.
Hi James – is streaming and network audio a priority? What’s your budget?
I’m in the same boat as you. My research has lead me to understand that if I intend to use speakers that are more demanding, such as the Elac product or the B & W 700 series that I’m considering, and I do want the network/wireless streaming function as that is my only source of music, the PM7000N is a MUCH better amplifier than the NR1200. The PM7000N has a better transformer, better capacitors, better heat sink, etc. The NR1200 has the same guts as my current Marants NR1403, which is rated at 50W per channel at 8 ohms. I love this little guy, but it shows it’s lack of power with my B & W 686 bookshelf speakers at higher volume levels. For me, other than for the added streaming/networking capabilities, the NR1200 would likely not be much of a step up for sound quality. Hope this helps.
Yes they are- I have a 10 yr collection on Amazon( I know, poor choice), hoping to use tidal/tune in going forward. Budget $2 k max. Mahalo.
Hi James – this product should work ok with the Elac speakers. At that budget though, you might want to look at a higher spec Onkyo because that company produces very nice amplifier modules or, if I can convince you to save a bit, then why not go true audiophile and try this one from Moon? It’s a superior product: https://theaudiophileman.com/moon-neo-ace/
He mentioned HDMI switching, Arcam or Lyngdorf
Sorry Mike – you’ve lost me a bit there, can you elaborate please?
Then why not get the full range Audio Nirvana with 95db efficiency. I use their 8” neo, in Oris horns, and plan their 12” ferrite in a large bookshelf for TV.. mainly for classical music, mind you not WWIII.
Thanks for this review, very useful! I am considering to connect these to q acoustic 3050. Just wondering about the more expensive Marantz PM7000N. Any obvious difference in quality there. Streaming is important and I am also wondering if it is not just worth going for the PM6006 (or any other amplifier without network capabilities) and just add the chromecast audio?
Hi Jonas – in pure sound quality terms, I would always recommend separating tasks. That means, a separate, dedicated streamer or, as you say, Chromecast. But you tend to pay more for separates. So it depends on your budget and the importance of sound quality in your system. Re your other question, I’d go for the 700N as a choice between that and the 1200 on sonic terms.
Hi Paul,
I am continuing my quest :). Whereas I would not mind going for separate components, meaning a separate streamer connected to an amp, there does not seem to be such set-up which includes an hdmi connection. And that’s a bit important to me, as I also want to connect to a beamer with hdmi. At the moment I have the NR1200 pitted against the DRA 800H, which you also kind of reviewed here. Do you see any significant differences between those two? Thanks.
Hi Jonas – well this is just a news item, not a formal review and so I have yet to properly test the Marantz. Same with the Denon. I’ve only heard it in causal terms, as it where. So take my thoughts with a large pinch of salt. In general sonic terms, I tend to lean towards the Marantz. As I say, though, that might change under formal test conditions.
Can i upgrade the NR1200 output cps to say Jupitor copper in wax and bypass with Dueland .01 silver foil? Thanks.
Hi Thomas – I’m afraid this was a news item only, I never saw it ‘in the flesh’ and hence I know little about it, I’m afraid or its upgrade possibilities. Have you tried to contact the company? Here’s a phone number: 44-208-103-4770
Hi. Advice please. I have a marantz network audio receiver linked to my turntable. Can I record my albums onto a memory stick?
You will need an A2D (analogue to digital) convertor before that can happen. That’s what those USB sockets on the back of some turntables are linked to. You can also find the same on certain external phono amps. Check out the Rega Fono Mini A2D MK2 for the lowest entry point that I know of…