Marantz SR4002 7.1 A/V Receiver w HDMI 1.3

With features such as seven channels of all discrete amplifier stages, HDMI V1.3 Switching with V1.1 Repeating, (7.1) LPCM via HDMI, and a ridiculously low MSRP of only 549.99, The Marantz SR4002 surround receiver just might be the best buy of the year.

From the legendary company of Marantz comes an entry-level home theater receiver that raises the bar in performance and features that will no doubt have many wondering how are they making a profit. From their humble beginnings in the 1950’s and their rise to audio prominence in the 1970’s, Marantz has always been a force to reckon with. Although they fell off the audio map for a while in the late 80’s and early 90’s, the last fifteen years or so has seen Marantz come back with a vengeance. This latest crop of receivers from Marantz is sure to raise the eyebrows of audio enthusiast, and cause heartburn to some other audio companies.

In keeping true to their audiophile heritage, the receivers amplifier section is rated at 80-watts x 7 with all discrete amplifier stages. Also, The SR4002 receiver comes fully loaded with features previously found on units that were considerably more expensive. These features include 192kHz/24-bit processing on all seven channels, full complement of DTS processing including DTS 96/24, Dolby Digital EX and Pro-logic IIx, Dolby headphone, HDCD decoding (unheard of in this price range), HDMI V1.3 switching and V1.1 repeating, S-video up conversion to component, 8-channel input and 8-channel pre amplifier outs, (this will have some separates people thinking), and M.R.A.C. auto calibration. The receiver also supports 7-channels of LPCM over HDMI for compatibility with HD DVD and Blu-Ray disc players. We think this is one heck of a feature set for a receiver in this price range.

The Marantz SR4002 is no slouch when it comes to inputs either. Most receivers in this price class are usually input challenged, but not the Marantz. Having no less than three HDMI inputs, three component inputs, five S-video, five composite video, two each of both optical and coaxial digital inputs as well as front panel inputs, this receiver can handle it all. As always, fit and finish appear to be excellent on this receiver and we would expect nothing less from Marantz. We just think it is an extra special bonus to have this all carry down to an entry-level receiver.

When features and quality are a must, but the budget is a little tight, the Marantz SR4002 comes to the rescue with an impressive set of features and an even more impressive price that will leave even the most finicky of spouses smiling, and your neighbors drooling. Just don’t tell them how little you spent.

For more information, visit: http://us.marantz.com/

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