The Marantz AMP 20 is a reference-class 12-channel power amplifier that sits at the heart of an elite home cinema system, positioned between the 6-channel AMP 30 and the 16-channel AMP 10 in Marantz's power amplifier range. Designed to pair with the Marantz AV 20 preamplifier processor, the AMP 20 delivers the channel count and power reserves needed for immersive, large-format home theatre at the highest level of performance.
Performance and Technology
Each of the 12 channels is driven by custom-developed Class D switching amplifiers rated at 200W into 8 ohms (2-channel drive, 1 kHz, 0.05% THD), rising to 400W in BTL (Bridge-Tied Load) mono configuration or 400W into 4 ohms. The amplifier maintains its full 200W rating in multi-channel operation, ensuring no compromise in dynamic headroom during complex, multi-speaker playback. The amplifier stages incorporate Marantz's proprietary HDAM-SA2 circuitry, which the brand's Sound Masters meticulously tuned through careful component selection to achieve exceptional sonic performance alongside the raw output capability of Class D.
Connectivity and Control
The rear panel provides 12 channels of both balanced (XLR) and unbalanced (RCA) main amplifier inputs, selectable via a front-panel switch, allowing connection to virtually any preamplifier or AV processor. Twelve high-quality SPKT-1+ speaker terminals accommodate the full channel count. The AMP 20 supports Bi-Amp drive for compatible speakers and BTL drive for configurations requiring higher mono power. System integration is handled via RS-232 control, an IR flasher input, the Marantz Remote Bus, and a DC trigger with both input and output, enabling whole-system automation. A front-mounted level meter gives a visual indication of output levels.
Construction
The AMP 20 is assembled at Marantz's Shirakawa Audio Works facility in Japan, the same site responsible for the brand's most revered reference components. The chassis is copper-plated to reduce the influence of stray magnetic fields, and the sculpted metal front panel carries the signature Marantz aesthetic. The unit draws up to 400W at full load, reducing to 110W with no signal and just 0.2W in standby.