Marantz introduces the Marantz Horizon and Grand Horizon active streaming speakers with GaN-FET amplifiers.
Marantz has launched two wireless speakers with a distinctive design, the Marantz Horizon and the larger Grand Horizon. According to the manufacturer, they are “two luxurious wireless speakers, designed for listeners who demand both outstanding sound quality and timeless elegance.”
A New Design Statement
The manufacturer describes the new series as follows: “The Horizon and Grand Horizon exude modern luxury, elevating Marantz’s signature design style to a new level. Then there is the iconic round porthole motif of Marantz which has been reimagined and forms the central element in the unique round design of both speakers. With carefully placed lighting and high-quality materials that emphasize the symmetry of the design, these speakers offer a sensory experience you can see, hear, and feel.”
Stylish and Eco-Friendly
Both the Horizon and Grand Horizon are made from sustainable materials. Each model is covered with Marantz RadianceTM 360o Seamless Ecofiber, a fabric made from recycled ocean plastic developed in collaboration with the fashion industry. The fabric has a luxurious look due to the addition of gold lurex, which enhances the warm appearance of the design and sound.
The speakers are available in three colors: the dark Midnight Sky, the bright Moon Ray, and the warm Marantz Champagne. Each model rests on a marble base that perfectly matches the speaker colors. For those who prefer different placements, Marantz offers a stylish wooden floor stand for the Horizon and wall mounts for both models. “Even the unboxing is a special experience, with an elegant protective cover that encloses the speakers,” says the manufacturer.
The New Shape of Sound
Horizon and Grand Horizon are wireless solutions for room-filling sound with a wide range, according to Marantz: “Each model features a unique configuration of drivers for high and mid frequencies. To provide a spacious listening experience, this sound is delivered through a central subwoofer.”
Inside the speakers, you’ll find Marantz’s patented RiseTM amplifier technology, which is based on highly responsive and thermally efficient GaN FET technology. It provides an output power of 310 watts (Horizon) or 370 watts (Grand Horizon), according to FTC standards. The amplifier drives Marantz GravityTM drivers, each with powerful neodymium magnets for what the manufacturer describes as “the ultimate combination of accuracy, responsiveness, and low distortion.” Horizon’s heart consists of a 165mm subwoofer, complemented by two 25mm silk-dome tweeters and three 50mm full-range drivers. The Grand Horizon, being the larger speaker, includes a 200mm subwoofer, three 25mm tweeters, and four 76mm midrange drivers.
DSP
The built-in Marantz MirageTM DSP allows users to tailor the sound characteristics of the speakers to their mood and musical preferences. This digital DSP is controllable via the HEOS app to adjust clarity, spaciousness, and warmth according to the user’s liking. “It’s also possible to select a Sound Master Mode, allowing listeners to experience the sound of the Horizon or Grand Horizon just as Marantz’s Sound Master, Yoshinori Ogata, intended,” the announcement explains.
Sensors
The Horizon and Grand Horizon are designed to engage the senses. As you approach one of the speakers, built-in proximity sensors automatically activate it. With Marantz AuraControlTM, utilizing 100 hidden LEDs and light sensors, a seamless interaction between light and sound is created. By simply touching the ring around the subwoofer, you can adjust the volume, which is subtly displayed.
Fully Equipped
The Horizon and Grand Horizon utilize the Marantz HEOS platform, providing access to popular streaming services such as Amazon Music, Deezer, Spotify, and TIDAL. Additionally, they come with built-in Apple AirPlay2 and Bluetooth for easy streaming from mobile devices. Both models also feature physical connections, including analog, optical, HDMI, and USB-C, and support Dolby Atmos via HDMI. Thanks to the HEOS ecosystem, Horizon and Grand Horizon can also be paired with other HEOS devices for a multi-room setup. Users can even combine multiple Horizon or Grand Horizon speakers for the “ultimate sound experience” in larger spaces.
Prices and Specs
The Marantz Horizon is priced at €3800, and the Grand Horizon at €6000, both available starting January 2025. A matching stand for the Horizon costs €750. Below are the key specifications for each model:
Horizon
- 310W amplification (FTC-rated output power), 745W peak
- 2x 25mm tweeters, 3x 50mm full-range drivers, 1x 165mm subwoofer
- Stereo RCA input x1, optical input x1, HDMI eARC x1, USB-C x1
- HEOS Built-in, including Bluetooth, AirPlay2, Spotify Connect, and support for popular streaming services like Amazon Music, Deezer, Spotify, and TIDAL.
- 366 x 210 x 387.5mm (14.33 x 8.27 x 15.26”) (W x D x H)
Grand Horizon
- 370W amplification (FTC-rated output power), 860W peak
- 3x 25mm tweeters, 4x 76mm full-range drivers, 1x 200mm subwoofer
- Stereo RCA input x1, optical input x1, HDMI eARC x1, USB-C x1
- HEOS Built-in, including Bluetooth, AirPlay2, Spotify Connect, and support for popular streaming services like Amazon Music, Deezer, Spotify, and TIDAL.
- 366 x 210 x 387.5mm (14.33 x 8.27 x 15.26”) (W x D x H)