We're rather fond of Marantz's Melody (MCR) compact systems that combine CD player, radio, amplification and network streaming into one stylish box. Previous models in the range – such as the M-CR610 and M-CR603 – nabbed What Hi-Fi? Award wins for their user-friendly design, breadth of features and enjoyable sound.
The new Marantz MCR 60n DAB aims to keep that same compact concept going, but is now a much more elevated affair, with plenty of new features, a classy design, and a new price.
The MCR 60n DAB continues to feature a CD player, DAB/FM radio, Bluetooth and AirPlay 2, and it is now joined by a moving magnet phono stage owing to turntables’ continuing popularity.
The system is powered by Marantz's HEOS streaming platform, which brings with it support for popular music streaming apps, which include Tidal Connect, Qobuz Connect and Spotify Connect. There is also an optical input and a 3.5mm headphone output.
Hi-res streaming support has been extended to 32-bit/384kHz PCM and DSD 11.2 MHz, while low-latency LE Audio and two-way Bluetooth is also on board. It's Roon Ready, too.
For seamless TV audio playback, it now boasts an HDMI eARC input, which supports 7.1 channels and Dolby Digital/Dolby Digital Plus decoding via built-in DSP, and can play up to 24-bit/192kHz PCM audio.
These are substantial feature gains over the previous model, the four-star M-CR612 (also called Melody X) that we reviewed in 2019. The HEOS platform and app has been updated since, with Marantz saying the onboarding set-up process should be even better than before.
The sound quality has been improved, too. There is an updated power supply for higher and more stable current delivery, while the power rating has been increased to 65W per channel (into 4 ohms) from a previous 50W. Marantz says the extra headroom will result in better power delivery and better sound quality overall from the Class D amplifier. Additionally, there are new custom components in the circuitry to further help deliver a clean, powerful and low-noise performance.
The bottom chassis of the unit features an additional plate to help reduce vibrations coming from the CD mechanism, while the feet have a high density structure and felt cushioning to also help with damping and deliver a more stable bass performance.
The MCR 60n DAB can also be used as a preamp or with active speakers thanks to fixed and variable outputs, while the subwoofer output now has adjustable crossover filters in 10Hz increments from 30Hz to 250Hz.
The unit is also compatible with Dirac Live Room Correction, although you'll need to buy a license separately to make full use of the calibration software.
A new feature is the ability to save four 'Smart Selects' that store your favourite sound configuration for a certain source. For instance, you may want to employ different volume and tone settings and a Dirac-calibrated profile for when watching TV/movie content compared with listening to music via streaming or from radio, and this lets you choose your pre-set sound profiles accordingly.
These can be easily accessed from the button on the unit itself, or by using the updated remote control.
The design of the MCR 60n DAB is inspired by the Marantz Model M1, with a more minimal and luxurious design than before, but it retains the same compact footprint.
The Marantz MCR 60n DAB will be available for £800 / €900 from 15th September. This DAB version is for the European market and is available in Champagne Gold and Black finishes, while the non-DAB version will be available for $1000 in the black finish only.
That's a substantial jump in price over the previous M-CR612, which we tested at £630 in 2019, while older MCR units tended to cost £500. With all the new features and proposed improvements for the MCR 60n DAB, we're hoping it will be more than justified.
MORE:
Read our Marantz M-CR612/Melody X review
The Linn LP12, Mission Cyrus One or a humble WiiM Pro Plus: what product got you into hi-fi?
