Welcome to our comprehensive Marantz AV 20 Review, where we take a deep dive into one of the most advanced AV preamplifiers available in 2025. If you’re searching for a top-tier processor that combines cutting-edge audio technology, support for 8K video, and immersive 3D audio formats like Dolby Atmos and DTS:X Pro, then this Marantz AV 20 Review is exactly what you need to read before making a decision.
The Marantz AV 20 has quickly become a hot topic in the home theater community. Designed for audiophiles, gamers, and home cinema enthusiasts, this AV processor offers premium features like HDMI 2.1 compatibility, HEOS wireless streaming, and support for both Audyssey MultEQ XT32 and Dirac Live. In this Marantz AV 20 Review, we’ll explore why this flagship unit is being hailed as one of the most capable and future-proof AV processors on the market.
Whether you’re upgrading an existing setup or building your dream home theater from scratch, our detailed Marantz AV 20 Review will help you understand everything this powerhouse has to offer—and whether it lives up to the hype in real-world use.
What Is the Marantz AV 20?
The Marantz AV 20 is a state-of-the-art AV preamplifier/processor designed for serious audiophiles and home theater enthusiasts. Built with Marantz’s legendary HDAM circuitry and packed with support for 8K video, Dolby Atmos, DTS:X Pro, Auro-3D, and IMAX Enhanced, this unit promises to deliver the ultimate audio-visual experience.
In this Marantz AV 20 Review, we’ll break down what makes this AV processor stand out in the crowded premium home theater market.
Design and Build Quality
At first glance, the Marantz AV 20 commands attention. It sports the company’s signature porthole display and a brushed aluminum finish that exudes sophistication. Measuring 17.3 x 15.7 x 7.3 inches and weighing just under 30 pounds, this processor is built like a tank — and looks just as refined.
The front panel remains minimalist, with essential controls and an intuitive layout. The rear panel, however, is where things get serious. With 7 HDMI inputs and 3 outputs (including dual main and Zone 2), along with balanced XLR and unbalanced RCA outputs, the AV 20 offers maximum connectivity for any advanced AV setup.
Features and Connectivity
No Marantz AV 20 Review would be complete without diving into the specs and features that truly define this unit. Here are the standout capabilities:
- 8K and HDR Support: All HDMI inputs support 8K/60Hz and 4K/120Hz pass-through, making it future-proof for next-gen video content.
- HDMI 2.1 Compliance: With full bandwidth and advanced gaming features like VRR, QFT, and ALLM, gamers are well-covered.
- Audyssey MultEQ XT32: This sophisticated room calibration system ensures optimal audio performance based on your room’s acoustics.
- Dirac Live Ready: For those who demand ultimate precision, Dirac Live support is included (license sold separately).
- 3D Audio Formats: Enjoy full support for Dolby Atmos, DTS:X Pro, Auro-3D, and IMAX Enhanced for the most immersive experience possible.
- HEOS Built-In: Stream music wirelessly across your home using the HEOS multi-room system.
- Voice Control: Works with Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, Apple Siri, and Josh.ai.
Performance: Audio and Video Quality
Let’s get into the heart of this Marantz AV 20 Review — its performance. Audio quality is where Marantz truly shines, and the AV 20 is no exception. Thanks to its proprietary Hyper Dynamic Amplifier Modules (HDAMs), the processor delivers dynamic range, clarity, and depth that will leave any audiophile impressed.
Movies come to life with thunderous bass, pinpoint dialogue, and immersive surround sound. When tested with a 7.2.4 Dolby Atmos speaker setup, the sound field was expansive, with precise object tracking and natural spatial cues. Even in stereo mode, the Marantz AV 20 presents a warm, musical sound signature that enhances all genres of music.
On the video side, the 8K support ensures crystal-clear imagery with HDR10+, Dolby Vision, and HLG compatibility. Upscaling works flawlessly, and gamers will appreciate the ultra-low latency and smooth frame rates.
Ease of Setup and User Experience
Another highlight in our Marantz AV 20 Review is how user-friendly the setup process is. With an intuitive on-screen interface and the Audyssey Setup Assistant, even beginners can get started with ease. The Marantz AVR Remote App offers further convenience, allowing control from your smartphone or tablet.
Integration with smart home systems and custom installers is seamless, with IP, IR, and RS232 control capabilities. This makes it a favorite among professional integrators and DIY enthusiasts alike.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Outstanding audio quality with HDAM tech
- Full 8K HDMI 2.1 support
- Wide format compatibility (Dolby Atmos, DTS:X Pro, etc.)
- Dirac Live and Audyssey MultEQ XT32 support
- HEOS multi-room streaming
- Premium build quality and aesthetics
Cons:
- Premium price tag
- Dirac Live license sold separately
- Requires external amplifiers
Who Should Buy the Marantz AV 20?
This Marantz AV 20 Review concludes that this processor is ideal for home theater enthusiasts, audiophiles, and anyone building a high-performance media room. If you already own quality external amplifiers and want the best in audio processing, the AV 20 is a compelling option.
Gamers, streamers, and cinephiles will all benefit from its comprehensive format support, future-proof connectivity, and unrivaled sonic performance.
Final Thoughts – Marantz AV 20 Review
In conclusion, this Marantz AV 20 Review confirms that Marantz has once again raised the bar in the world of high-performance home theater equipment. From its elegant design and premium build quality to its unmatched support for 8K video, 3D audio formats, and advanced room calibration tools, the AV 20 is built for enthusiasts who demand nothing but the best.
Whether you’re a serious audiophile craving studio-quality sound or a home theater lover looking to future-proof your setup, the Marantz AV 20 delivers exceptional value and performance. Its support for cutting-edge technologies like HDMI 2.1, Dirac Live, Dolby Atmos, and DTS:X Pro makes it one of the most capable AV processors on the market today.
We hope this Marantz AV 20 Review has helped you better understand what makes this model stand out in a competitive field. If you’re ready to invest in your dream home cinema experience, the Marantz AV 20 is undoubtedly a worthy contender.
For more reviews like this Marantz AV 20 Review, tech comparisons, and buying guides, don’t forget to visit GadgetSyte.com—your trusted source for all things audio and video in 2025.
