Marantz AV8805 13.2CH 4k UltraHD AV Processor Preview

The Marantz AV8805 13.2 Channel AV Processor Supports Amazon Alexa, Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, Auro 3D and the Latest UHD Video Formats

Marantz has been enjoying a joint partnership with Denon under Sound United allowing them to share engineering resources. What do you get when you mix Denon digital know-how with Marantz analog finesse? The AV8805 13.2CH AV Processor! The AV8805 is the successor to the AV8802A but is revamped based on the new Denon AVR-X8500H 13.2CH AV Receiver recently announced at CES 2018.

CES 2018 Recap: Best New AV Processors and Receivers YouTube Discussion

The Marantz AV8805 handles all high-resolution audio formats and is said to produce exceptional surround sound quality, giving installers and consumers the flexibility and performance to bring even the most delicate sounds to life. Not only does the AV8805 process up to 13.2 channels, it also hosts their unique Hyper Dynamic Amplifier Module (HDAM) for all channels independently. Marantz includes full wireless multi-room audio, which they claim empowers integrators and users to seamlessly create a whole-home audio experience unlike any other on the market.

“The Venetian high-performance audio suites at CES is a thrilling location for us to showcase Marantz’s legacy and commitment to the evolution of sound via new advanced audio technologies, and corresponding integrations,”

said Emmanuel Millot, global brand director at Marantz.

“The Marantz AV8805 disrupts the pre-amplifier category with more channel processing, high-resolution sound, 4K ultra HD, and the latest in custom integration functionality to sync with modern 3rd party controllers and revolutionize the entertainment experience. This next-generation, high-performance system was designed to meticulously handle even the finest audio formats.”

Audiophile Grade Parts

For those demanding the ultimate home entertainment experience, Marantz’s AV8805 is a no-compromise, multichannel AV processor, and pre-amplifier, designed for use with high-quality external power amplification or active speakers. Blending a futuristic minimalist design, the Marantz AV8805 is engineered to produce superb surround sound from the latest 3D audio formats, including Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, and Auro 3D decoding. Auro 3D will be added via a future firmware update at no extra charge. Further, the AV8805 enhances audio quality to ensure all high-resolution audio formats and playbacks are fully supported for optimal fidelity.

Marantz AV8805 Inside View - Note the encapsulated toroidal transformer and HDAM monolithic analog circuit boards

As a result of rigorous mechanical testing, the Marantz AV8805 is said to offer amazing high resolution, reproduction and flexibility for both music and movies through its top-of-the-line, premium grade AK4490 32-bit DACs across all channels and XLR input and outputs. Additionally, the processor boasts a balanced XLR stereo input, as well as assignable 15.2 balanced XLR outputs, which includes two subwoofer outputs, front height/width outputs, and overhead channels. This extensive balanced XLR compatibility ensures high-end performance in the home and the studio, while 15.2 RCA pre-outs provide additional compatibility with multiple power amplifier types or active speakers, ideal for the integrator.

In addition, the AV885 further enhances audio quality by delicately handling all signals via the Marantz HDAM modules in Current Feedback topology, before passing to the XLR or RCA outputs and separate power amp. Consumers looking for a world-class home theater and entertainment experiences will find a Phono MM input, perfect for vinyl lovers. With advanced wireless connectivity provided by both Wi-Fi and Bluetooth™ to support its many features, the AV8805 will become a key component of a complete wireless multi-room system. Users can enjoy their favorite music anywhere and everywhere around the home. Streaming capabilities are available with partners such as Pandora, Spotify, TuneIn Internet radio, Amazon Prime Music, iHeart Radio, SiriusXM, Soundcloud, TIDAL, Napster, Deezer, Amazon Music Unlimited and Apple Airplay.

Latest in HDMI and Functionality

The Marantz AV8805 also features an advanced video section, with full 4K compatibility that's fully compatible with the latest HDMI connectivity and HDCP 2.2 specifications on all eight HDMI inputs. It also comes with enhanced audio return channel (eARC) support (via a firmware update) for the most advanced audio formats via single HDMI connection between the AV8805 and compatible TVs. The AV8805 also supports 4K Ultra HD 60Hz video, 4:4:4 Pure Color sub-sampling, High Dynamic Range (HDR), 21:9 video, 3D, and BT.2020 pass-through support. As such, the AV8805 is prepared for 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray disc players, set-top boxes and other 4K Ultra HD sources. Additionally, it can support legacy systems by upscaling standard and high definition analog and digital video content to 4K Ultra HD. Dolby Vision, eARC (Enhanced Audio Return Channel) and HLG (Hybrid Log Gamma) compatibility are also supported. eARC will be enabled via a firmware update in 2018.

Although the press release doesn't explicitly state it, we're gonna go out on a limb and assume that Marantz plans to support the owners of the AV8805 (just like Denon is doing with the AVR-X8500H) with both hardware and software upgradability to the HDMI 2.1 specification, namely 8K pass-through, when the solution becomes available.

For remote control compatibility with other components in your home theater system, the AV8805 features an IR (infrared) remote control input and output on the rear panel, along with dual 12V trigger outputs. For direct connection to external home automation and control equipment, the AV8805 features an RS-232C serial port with Control4 SDDP (Simple Device Detection Protocol) and Crestron Connected certification for quick and easy integration with Control4 and Crestron home automation equipment.

Audyssey Editor App

The AV8805  comes with Audyssey MultEQ XT32, LFC, Sub EQ HT, Dynamic Volume and Dynamic EQ to deliver the ultimate equalization for your home theater space. MultEQ XT32 is able to analyze each speaker’s output at up to eight measurement locations and generates precision digital filters that optimize each channel for the correct frequency and time domain response. With the addition of Audyssey Dynamic Volume and Dynamic EQ, installers and users will have maximum control to optimize their audio set up for the absolute best fidelity. Audyssey Low-Frequency Containment uses advanced psychoacoustic algorithms to deliver a full range tonal balance, including deep bass, but without disturbing those in other rooms. Additionally, the AVR-X8500H supports the new Audyssey MultEQ Editor App compatibility. The MultEQ Editor App allows users to view and customize the sound more precisely to the specific problems in the room, and tailor the sound to your personal preferences.

Key Features of the AV8805:

• 13.2 channel processing with 15.2 channel XLR and RCA outputs and assignable pre-amplifier outputs for advanced home theater users.

• Dual Subwoofer outputs with independent level and delay control, and assignability as a stereo pair, or mono-mix.
  

• All Immersive surround formats supported including: Dolby Atmos (up to 7.1.6 or 9.1.4), DTS:X and Auro-3D (up to 13.1).

• High-performance AK4490 192kHz/32bit D/A converters for all channels for state high-resolution performance.

• Audyssey MultEQ XT32, LFC, Sub EQ HT, Dynamic Volume and DynamicEQ and Audyssey editor app for sound optimization and full customization.

• Built-in Bluetooth and Wi-Fi with 2.4GHz/5GHz dual band support offer improved network stability even in Wi-Fi-crowded homes.

• HEOS wireless music streaming technology (AirPlay, Bluetooth, TuneIn Internet radio, Pandora, Spotify, SiriusXM, Amazon Prime Music, TIDAL and more) and the HEOS app allows easy multi-room listening.

• Network music streaming supported via DSD (2.8/5.6MHz), FLAC, ALAC and WAVsupport for high-resolution, Hi-Fi listening.

•  4K/60 Hz full-rate pass-through, 4:4:4 color resolution, HDR, BT.2020, Dolby Vision and HLG (Hybrid Log Gamma) pass-through.

• eARC (Enhanced Audio Return Channel) functionality via a firmware update to support object-based audio formats, including Dolby Atmos and DTS:X via single HDMI connection between AVRs and compatible TVs.

• Eight HDMI inputs, including one on the front, with full HDCP 2.2 support, plus three HDMI outputs (zones), ample inputs for digital sources and the ability to support different video in different rooms.

• Analog to HDMI conversion and SD to HD/4K Upscaling for legacy video sources, plus full HD and even Ultra HD video quality from existing DVDs or analog sources.

• Installation and operation are seamless with the Setup Assistant and Marantz AVR Remote app.

 

Marantz AV8805 Backpanel View - Note the triple HDMI outputs, 17 XLR pre-outs (including 2 subwoofers) and dual XLR inputs.

 There are FOUR pairs of height outputs and Height4 which can be reassigned to Front Wide.

This allows for a 13.1ch Auro3D layout combined with a 9.1.4 or 7.1.6 Atmos layout.

Initial Impressions

We like the trend Sound United is setting with both Denon and Marantz by reintroducing flagship level AV receivers and preamp/processors into the marketplace again. The AV8805 represents some of the most advanced processing currently available with future expandability to extend life and reduce the fear of obsolescence.  This is one of the first AV processors that supports ALL 3 immersive surround formats, 3 pairs of height channels, and a HDMI 2.1 upgradability path. While its asking price may seem a bit spendy, it's really not when you consider the arsenal of processing power this baby has and how flexible it will be for even the most upscale home theater installations.

The AV8805 ($4,499) will be available February 2018 through authorized Marantz retailers. For more please visit: www.us.marantz.com/us

Unless otherwise indicated, this is a preview article for the featured product. A formal review may or may not follow in the future.