Marantz AV8003 Networking Preamplifier

by Marantz

Product Details

User Guide [15.91mb PDF]

• Product Dimensions: 15.2 x 17.3 x 7.3 inches ; 25.6 pounds
• Shipping Weight: 34 pounds
• Shipping: This item is also available for shipping to select countries outside the U.S.
• Shipping Advisory: This item must be shipped separately from other items in your order. Additional shipping charges will not apply.
• ASIN: B001B0F2LU
• Item model number: AV8003
• Average Customer Review: 4.5 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (2 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #33,680 in Electronics (See Top 100 in Electronics)
  • #31 in Electronics > Home Audio & Theater > Stereo Components > Receivers & Amplifiers > Component Preamplifiers

Product Description

From the Manufacturer

From the Manufacturer

The Marantz AV8003 Networking Preamplifier – Technology and Tradition Combined

The best contemporary technology combined with traditional Marantz quality. That’s what the Marantz AV8003 is all about. It’s more than just an outstanding A/V processor. It unites all the entertainment possibilities you want: Movies, music, photos, streaming audio and video. And the AV8003 does it in a single room or throughout your home. Enjoyment? You bet. But enjoyment raised to the level only Marantz panache can reach.

Contains 4 HDMI V1.3a inputs and 2 HDMI V1.3a outputs (View larger)

The Basics

Let’s start with the basics. For a "net-friendly" A/V pre/pro/tuner, or for any home entertainment component, that means a high capacity and well shielded power supply so each circuit has all the current it needs and stray leakage from the transformer doesn’t interfere with data signals. To that end, Marantz engineers specified a low-flux toroid transformer and encased it in an anti-magnetic steel shield for even greater stray flux control.

And because interference can come from outside as well as inside, they gifted the AV8003 with a heavy copper-plated steel chassis to lock out electromagnetic and radio frequency noise as well as external vibrations. On the practical side, the chassis is shallower than conventional designs, too, so the AV8003 fits where others don’t.

Inside the Chassis

Inside the chassis, you’ll find premium parts carefully arranged in a short-signal-trace configuration so that entertainment signals don’t suffer corrupting influences. And analog audio outputs include balanced connections via XLRs (configured to the "pin 2 = hot" standard) to insure noise-free data transmission from the AV8003 to a multichannel power amplifier such as Marantz’ new eight-channel MM8003.

Audyssey’s MultEQ for Superior Sound

As you would expect from a Marantz pre/pro/tuner, the AV8003 handles all the latest audio sources, even Dolby TrueHD and dts-HD Master Audio, for the best no-compromise sound from today’s advanced media. Connections abound for both contemporary and heritage sources, too, so you’ll have no trouble connecting even tape or CD recorders. Audyssey’s MultEQ automatically creates a surround sound field that’s best matched to your main listening/viewing room.

Worried about the sound quality of compressed audio formats like MP3 or WMA? Or maybe concerned that you won’t enjoy FM or AM as much as you used to because they just don’t hold up to Blu-ray’s high def audio tracks? Relax and enjoy! M-DAX (Marantz Dynamic Audio Expander) recreates the missing high frequency spectrum so well that you might mistake even a low bit rate MP3 file for a CD.

The AV8003 gives you extensive radio capabilities too. In addition to tuners for FM, AM, and HD Radio terrestrial broadcasts, it’s also XM and Sirius satellite radio-ready! Just add an XM Mini-Tuner and dock or a Sirius Connect home tuner kit and you’re ready to go. Of course, you’ll need a subscription to enjoy these broadcasts but having easy connectivity is the major step. And the AV8003 has done that for you already.

Just to reinforce the AV8003’s audio capability, it’s earned a THX Ultra 2 certificate! So you can rest assured that this pre/pro/tuner is at the top of the performance scale.

Enough Connections for All Your Entertainment Needs

Four HDMI inputs and two HDMI outputs (all adhering to the newest version 1.3 specs) complement composite, S-, and component capability. The AV8003 supports Deep Color and xvYCC Color Space for even better video performance when these technologies finally make an appearance. Speaking of video, the AV8003 incorporates the latest processing and scaling (up to 1080p) capability from Anchor Bay Technologies. So the video image you’ll see will be mountain-air clear.

Features the newly designed Clean Front panel (View larger)

Excellent Networking Capabilities

As impressive as these capabilities are, the real story behind the AV8003 is its networking prowess. The rear panel Ethernet port brings the world of streaming audio and video from your computer, NAS (network-attached storage) device, or Escient Fireball, etc., to your home theater system. And that includes photos – JPEG or BMP format – so you can display your vacation shots on the big screen with musical accompaniment!

As far as compressed audio formats go, the AV8003 handles MP3, AAC, WMA, and WAV files. Video formats include MPEG2 and MPEG4, as well as WMV. Three zone audio and video distribution means you won’t be restricted to one-room enjoyment either. With the AV8003, you can watch or listen to movies, music, and other entertainment files wherever it’s most convenient.

Obviously, the AV8003 belongs in advanced A/V/Network systems. So installation ease and connectivity are paramount. We’ve already mentioned the rack-friendly chassis size. And there’s an RS232 port for control, internal IR repeater functions (input and output), two 12-volt DC "trigger" outputs, a detachable AC cord, and an easy front panel "key lock" so younger family members or guests can’t accidentally change your system’s setup parameters. You’ll also find two remotes, one computer-programmable full-function hand held, and a simpler "zone" remote for a secondary room.

Elegantly Designed

Last but not least is the face the AV8003 presents to everyone who sees it. Rather than the flat surfaces common to lesser home entertainment components, the AV8003’s radiused corners, three-dimensional front panel, and simplified control layout add a touch of designer elegance that complements any décor. This new look is inviting in itself and is a reflection of the Marantz heritage of outstanding industrial design begun by Saul B. Marantz himself.

Both internally and externally, the AV8003 is the newest expression of our continual quest for excellence in performance and aesthetics. Marantz tradition and today’s technology in harmony for your enjoyment.

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Choose a Marantz Amplifier that is Right for Your Audio Needs

Marantz offers several models of amplifiers for your entertainment system, from the Marantz AV8003 Networking Preamplifier to the ZS5300 Multi-Zone Control Power Amplifier. Each amplifier has different qualities so you can choose the one that is right for the sound you want. Here's a quick breakdown of the Marantz Amplifiers.

	The Marantz AV8003 Networking Preamplifier. The Marantz AV8003 Networking Preamplifier contains a Digital Media Player for Ethernet, video scaling and processing by Anchor Bay Technology, HDMI V1.3a: 4-in/2-out, XLR pre output terminals for 7.1ch, XLR audio inputs for CD/SA-CD (Stereo), multi zone component video out, a RC2001 main zone remote and a copper plated chassis, gold plated speaker terminals and a new Clean Design front panel. It is HD Radio / XM Ready / Sirius Ready and THX ULTRA2 Certified.
	The Marantz MM8003 Power Amplifier. The Marantz MM8003 Power Amplifier is a 140W x 8ch (8 ohms) Power Amplifier. Contains low impedance continuous drive capability, massive Toroidal power transformer, 8ch XLR input terminals, DC Trigger control inputs, DC power status outputs, IR flasher input terminals, copper plated chassis, gold plated speaker terminals and a new Clean Design front panel .
	The Marantz PM8003 Integrated Amplifier. The Marantz PM8003 Intergrated Amplifier is a fully discrete current-feedback amplifier and fully discrete constant current feedback phono preamplifier. Contains HDAM-SA3 circuits, double-shielded large capacity Toroidal power transformer, Marantz-custom power supply capacitors, separate input buffer for exclusive CD/for Common other inputs, power amp direct input & Pre Out, gold plated rear panel terminals and a triple layer bottom chassis.
	The Marantz PM5003 Integrated Amplifier The Marantz PM5003 Intergrated Amplifier is a discrete-component amplifier, containing a sophisticated new aluminum/reinforced resin front panel, current feedback amplifier circuit, Source Direct switch, 5 line-level inputs, 2 record outputs, transparent screw-type A/B speaker terminals and a detachable AC cord.
	The Marantz ZS5300 Multi-Zone Control Power Amplifier The Marantz ZS5300 Multi-Zone Control Power Amplifier is a 60 Watts x 6 Channel amplifier. It contains identical amplifier stages for all channels, matrix audio switcher, three independent zone/room outputs with all discrete control commands and is compatible with all major keypads.

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Product Description

AV Surround Pre/Processor

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

17 of 17 people found the following review helpful:

4.0 out of 5 stars Audio First!, September 2, 2009

By 

Butch Patchell (Tuttle, Oklahoma United States) - See all my reviews

This review is from: Marantz AV8003 Networking Preamplifier (Electronics)

Although presented as an audio/video controller, the AV8003 shines brightest on the audio side. The newest uncompressed codecs from DTS and Dolby are simply phenomenal when played through this unit. I'm using a Marantz DV9600 and an Oppo Digital BD-83 for my front end and they both sound awesome. I'm using an Anthem A5 connected to the AV8003 using balanced cables for amplification. Speakers are Paradigm Reference Studio 100 v2 L/R. Paradigm Servo 15 subwoofer. Paradigm Reference Center and surrounds.

If you are looking to use this unit to do video scaling, look elsewhere. Fortunately for me both the Oppo and Marantz players have excellent video and the Oppo has a plethora of video scaling options so that I just set the AV8003 on pass-thru. The AV8003 uses Anchor Bay's video scaler which is the same one used in DVDO products so its not a bad choice. Its just that the audio is what grabs attention.

Using the Audyssey MultEQ® setup is a breeze and the results are terrific. The Audyssey system creates multiple equalization curves that you can toggle through and select the one that pleases you most. Each channel can be manually calibrated and equalized if you like tweaking things. You can even display the curves on your TV which I found entertaining, especially comparing my settings to those of the Audyssey system. If equalizers leave you queasy, just choose source direct and bypass the tone controls completely. I personally believe that this is the way to go for stereo sources in particular. The DV9600 has some really good DACs so I play my CDs using the analog connections to the AV8003. I'm no expert on analog stages, but the 8003 trumps the SR19 by a small margin and to my ears, equals the sound quality of some expensive 2-channel only controllers I've listened to. Where images wavered from side to side with the SR19, the AV8003 locks each instrument and voice into place and holds them there. The depth and width of the sound stage equals that of the SR19 which also had the ability to make it seem as though the sound is coming from somewhere beyond your speakers.

I replaced my Marantz SR19 receiver with the AV8003 after spending many a night agonizing over the prospect of retiring the SR19. It was absolutely the best sounding receiver I've ever listened to. The opportunity to reduce the cable clutter behind my equipment rack was the straw that tipped the scales in favor of the AV8003.

My only gripe with the AV8003 is the remote controller. If I had been unable to find a suitable replacement for it, I would have sent the whole unit back. It is that bad! There is not enough space on this web site to describe the frustrations I experienced trying to program and use that thing! It is, by far, the worst remote I've ever used. Nothing about it is intuitive. Programming it to control your system is an exercise in futility. If you decide to purchase the AV8003, do yourself a big favor: Buy a Logitech Harmony remote control. I'm using the Harmony 890 and I love it.

5 of 15 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars No second choice gr8, February 5, 2009

By 

Vikas Kapoor "vikas" (india) - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

This review is from: Marantz AV8003 Networking Preamplifier (Electronics)

g8 two piece pre/power amp first I'm using onkyo 989 I want to upgrade the system for today hd formet first I chose denon avcai hd and select for the demo nice but the sonic performance is not so good my ears and mind still have question after denon I chose yamha z11nice sound but not what I'm looking for yamha don't have basic. For today recever auddsey setup also hd format not impress my ears .I'm bit confuse which system I chose then one of my friend confirm me about new marantz two piece system I search the dealer and fix the time for demo my first reaction after first look of av8003&mm8003 wow killing look and when we on the system with DTs 7.1master audio blue ray the performance and the sonic of the marantz twin system blown me the sound is so smooth just like some one put hot burning knife on the butter..after spending 2hrs in demo I decide to purchase the system .now I'm using marantz pre/power av8003 in my home theater with jamo d6thx
speakers & results you are in a heaven after this setup



my speakers have new life if ur are serious movie lover this system is right choice the sonic performance of the system is far far far far better then denon and any other receiver of this class really GR8....
one thing first propely auddsey mic setup and used best brand 1.3hdmi cable and use blue ray player who forward all hd formet in bit stream to marantz twin system u realy amazed and I'm sure you will spend most of time in your home theater