At the recently held CEDIA 2024, Marantz announced the introduction of its flagship 10 Reference Series audio components. We previously reported on the $15,000 Model 10 Integrated Amplifier and now the details have been revealed about the other components in the 10 Series, the Link 10n network audio player and SACD 10 CD player.
What the Link 10n Is
The Marantz Link 10n is Marantz’s newest Reference Network Audio Player (aka Network Streamer). Wireless streaming functions are built in through the HEOS streaming platform which are accessible via the HEOS app.
This enables the Link 10n to access streaming services including Spotify, Apple Airplay, Deezer, iHeart Radio, Pandora, Sirius XM, TIDAL, Amazon Music, and more, and is also Roon Ready.
HEOS also supports wireless multiroom audio with compatible speakers and associated devices. The Link 10n also incorporates Bluetooth for additional music-listening options.
Pro Tip: Although a wireless remote is provided, the Link 10n also supports voice control via Apple Siri or Google Assistant.
Sound Master Tuned
As part of the 10 series, the Link 10n is Marantz’s flagship digital music streamer. Marantz claims that the LINK 10n has the best-measured performance of any digital product they have introduced. The Marantz Sound Master has selected premium parts for use in key circuits that are designed to elevate audio listening performance.
Status Display
LINK 10n incorporates a large high-resolution full-color rectangular display (not the portole design that Marantz is famous for) for a visible user interface and intuitive operation. The onboard operation utilizes Arrow buttons for navigation and scrolling that enable users to select inputs and also see the source, track info, play mode, and more, displayed on the screen.
Industrial Design
Incorporating a triple-layer aluminum chassis with copper plating to newly developed multi-layer PCBs (Printed Circuit Boards), isolated sub-enclosures, and HDAM modules, the LINK 10n represents the evolution of Marantz’s audio engineering history.
Along with the front panel display, the Link 10n features a machined and brushed aluminum control surface, sculpted backshell, and spun knobs. The design follows the Marantz design ethos, drawing inspiration from classic and modern models.
Preamplifier
In addition to its network and streaming capabilities, the LINK 10n can also be used as a preamplifier which can be used with a compatible amplifier (such as the companion Model 10). The Link10 includes both single ended and balanced analog inputs, digital inputs (including HDMI-eARC), and a Marantz Premium Phono EQ supporting both MM and MC cartridges.
A subwoofer pre-out connection is also included.
Specifications
- Product Type: Network Audio Player
- Product Series: Reference 10 Series
- Streaming Platform: HEOS – Includes access to Spotify, Apple Airplay, Deezer, iHeart Radio, Pandora, Sirius XM, TIDAL, Amazon Music, and more,
- Roon Ready: Yes
- DAC Circuit: MMM-Conversion (Marantz Musical Mastering)
- Preamplifier Circuit: New HDAM High-Grade full-balance
- Wireless Inputs: Wi-Fi, Bluetooth.
- Wired Inputs: Ethernet, USB socket (mass storage), HDMI (eARC), RCA, XLR, Phono (MM, MC – switchable impedance), Digital In (Coax and Optical),
- Wired Outputs: Line out (unbalanced), XLR (balanced), Digital out (Coax and Optical), Headphone (6.3mm), Subwoofer (low pass filter adjustable)
- Frequency Response (PCM): PCM 2Hz–50kHz (-3dB)
- Frequency Response (Analog Input): 5 Hz–100 kHz (+0dB/-3 dB)
- Hi-Res Audio Support: Up to DSD 11.2MHz and PCM 384kHz/32-bit
- Remote Controller: RC004PMND
- Voice Control Support: Apple Siri, Google Assistant
- Power Transformer: Toroidal
- Power Consumption: 7W (Less than 2W (at Network Control On Bluetooth, Ethernet, Wi-Fi, USB)
- Standby Power Consumption: Less than 0.3W
- Dimensions (WxHxD – with Antenna)
- 440 × 192 × 472 mm
- 17.3 x 7.56 x 18.58 inches
- Dimensions (WxHxD – cabinet only)
- 440 × 192 × 422 mm
- 17.3 x 7.56 x 16.61 inches
- Weight: 33.3kg (73.5 lbs)
- Panel Color Options: Black / Marantz Champagne
The Bottom Line
Coming off the recent release of the $15,000 Model 10 Integrated Amplifier that we saw and heard at CEDIA Expo 2024, the Link 10n is the second entry in the Marantz Reference 10 series of flagship audio components. The product build is industrial grade with a weight of over 73 lbs and with a rather understated looking design.
The Link 10n offers enough digital inputs and outputs for a small army of source devices and some will find great value in the inclusion of a MM/MC phono section. Although it is not clear if the unit converts the original analog signal from your phono cartridge into digital before the analog outputs.
However, at $12,000 there are a lot less expensive network audio players out there that will satisfy many, such as Marantz’s own 60n which also includes a built-in amplifier stage and is priced much lower at $1,500 (just connect speakers are you are all set). Or if you are focused on getting a good streamer to connect to your existing system you can even opt for the popular $329 Wiim Ultra.
Price & Availability
The Marantz Link 10n is available for $12,000 in black or champagne finishes at Audio Advice and other Authorized Dealers. European pricing is set at €12,000.
For more information: marantz.com
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Johnny C
October 27, 2024 at 2:09 am
SO the bottom line is that I can pay 12k for this Marantz unit that weighs 73 lbs or else 1.5k for another Marantz unit or 329 dollars for the Wiim which probably weighs less than 5 lbs and I would probably enjoy owning any of them. What’s up with that? I don’t mean to disparage audiophiles but WTF? I have to conclude the 1 per centers hold tremendous influence in audiophile land. (I have a Wiim, but that’s not why I commented)
Ian White
October 27, 2024 at 3:16 pm
Johnny,
I find the $$$$ network players to be a huge waste of money. I have WiiM, Cambridge, and Bluesound network players in my systems and the concept of spending more than $1,000 on any network player (that does nothing else) just feels kinda stupid. I would rather add a better quality DAC to them if I really felt it would elevate the sound quality that much. The only $$$ network player I would buy is the Innuous ZenMini III because of its CD ripping capabilities and app.
$12K for a network player makes very little sense in 2024.
IW