Marantz
All prices in euros (€) unless otherwise noted.
At time of report, 1 € is approximately 1.37 US dollars.

The Marantz room consisted of a modestly priced setup in nicely appointed surroundings. The core components of the system were the SA-KI Pearl CD/SACD player and PM-KI Pearl integrated amplifier that we featured as a ShowStopper (2800 € each), and Mordaunt-Short Performance 6 Limited Edition loudspeakers (3000 € each). These were connected with Synergistic Research cabling. There was also a Marantz TT-15S1 turntable on display, but it was not in use when we were in the room.

Another key component to this system isn't a product but rather a person: Marantz's Ken Ishiwata, whose 30 years with the company are being celebrated through the Pearl components that bear his initials. His job title is Brand Ambassador. No wonder.

As we've seen in previous years here, nine times out of ten when you visit the Marantz room, Ken himself is conducting the demonstration. Ken also personally sets up the system, chooses the music, and ensures that the sound is just right for the listeners who are there. The result is a high-quality demonstration -- both in terms of sound and in the way the components are presented. This can all be used as a lesson for how to set up a tradeshow display.

Ken is aware of everything going on in the room, particularly when we sneak into corners and try to take inconspicuous, candid shots.