What Hi-Fi? Verdict
The Marantz is now better value, and at this price its combination of precision and detail means it deserves five stars
Pros
- +
Great styling
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impressive spec
- +
exceptional precision and timing
- +
clean and precise sound
Cons
- -
Needs careful matching of speakers to avoid overly clinical sound
Why you can trust What Hi-Fi? Our expert team reviews products in dedicated test rooms, to help you make the best choice for your budget. Find out more about how we test.
We first reviewed the M-CR502 in the July 2009 issue of What Hi-Fi? Sound And Vision. At £500, we liked it a lot for its lean, driving approach and sonic clarity, let alone its impressive design and attractive styling.
But still, we felt it lacked a little too much soul, a little too much of the subtleties of instrumental realism, to be awarded five stars.
However, it's always about 'performance-per-pound' here on whathifi.com. And with the news that Marantz has dropped the price of the M-CR502 from £500 to £400, we felt it deserved another listen at the new price.
First impressions are very good – the curved chassis and symmetrical layout is very stylish indeed, while the display is large and clear. Only the old-fashioned, unergonomic remote control disappoints.
Optional speakers cost £100
You can buy the system on its own, or for £100 extra Marantz will supply the LS502 speakers which were specifically designed to partner the M-CR502.
The LS502s are decent small speakers with plenty of drive, attack and excitement, and the gloss finish matches the top of the main unit. We also tested the unit with Tannoy's £110 Mercury F1 Customs.
If it were our money, we'd pay an extra £10 for the Tannoys. They retain the Marantz's precision intact while smoothing sibilance.
Returning to features, the '502 offers support for WMA and MP3 files via USB or CD-R (limited to 192kbps and 320kbps), and two pairs of speaker outputs that enable you to play music in two zones – or to bi-amp the system.
