Experience unparalleled audio quality and sophisticated design with the Marantz Grand Horizon and Horizon wireless speakers. This in-depth review explores both models, highlighting their exceptional build, intuitive controls, and impressive sound capabilities. From the luxurious marble base to the powerful driver arrays, we delve into the details that set these premium speakers apart. Discover how the Marantz Grand Horizon delivers a truly immersive listening experience in larger spaces, while the compact Horizon provides equally stunning audio in smaller rooms.This review examines the key differences and shared features, comparing their connectivity options, sound profiles, and overall performance. We explore the intuitive Aura control, the versatile HEOS app, and the advanced acoustic features designed to optimize sound in any environment. Whether you're looking for a statement piece for your living room or a high-fidelity solution for a more intimate setting, this review will guide you in choosing the perfect Marantz Horizon speaker to elevate your listening experience.
Pros And Cons
- High-quality build with a solid marble base
- Eight drivers for superior sound quality
- Tight sound, good transient response, no audible distortion
- Detailed sound reproduction
- Sounds bigger than it looks
- Wide range of connectivity options (Bluetooth, AirPlay 2, HDMI eARC, RCA line in, USB Type-C)
- Heos app for music playback and settings customization
- My Mirage feature for sound customization
- Same design as Grand Horizon
- Six drivers (smaller than Grand Horizon)
- Available in midnight sky finish with black marble base
- Tripod stand option for flexible placement
- Smaller than Grand Horizon, may be less suitable for larger spaces
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Unboxing and Design: A Statement Piece
The Marantz Grand Horizon immediately captivates with its elegant design. The light accent surrounding the Aura control adds a touch of modern sophistication. The solid marble base isn't just aesthetically pleasing; it provides excellent vibration dampening, ensuring superior sound quality and a unique, high-end feel. No two speakers are exactly alike due to the natural variations in the marble.
The touch-sensitive rim (Aura control) allows intuitive control of volume and playback. A proximity sensor activates the light accent when someone approaches, creating an inviting user experience. The overall build quality is exceptional, far surpassing many competitors in this price range.
Sound Quality: Powerful and Detailed Audio
The Grand Horizon boasts eight drivers, including seven silk dome tweeters or mid-range drivers, and a powerful low-frequency driver (Moran's Gravity driver). This sophisticated setup delivers incredibly tight and detailed sound with excellent transient response. The speaker handles sudden peaks and changes in orchestral music effortlessly, with no sluggishness or audible distortion.
Music reproduction is exceptionally clear and detailed; even familiar tracks reveal nuances previously unheard. The soundstage is surprisingly large, projecting sound effectively across the room even at moderate volumes. I could still feel the bass while sitting 12 feet away, showcasing its impressive power and reach.
Connectivity and Features: Extensive Options
The Grand Horizon offers a wide range of connectivity options, catering to various needs and devices. It includes Bluetooth, AirPlay 2 (for multi-speaker grouping), and DNLA. Wired connections include HDMI eARC (for use as a TV speaker), RCA line-in, and USB Type-C (for playing music from external hard drives).
The HEOS app provides access to settings, input sources, and allows customization of the sound based on room acoustics using the My Mirage feature. You can adjust the sound profile to suit your preferences, making it warmer, clearer, or more spacious.
Marantz Horizon: The Smaller Sibling
The Marantz Horizon shares the same design philosophy and many features as the Grand Horizon, but in a more compact form. It has six drivers instead of eight and a smaller Gravity driver. It’s ideal for smaller spaces. This model is available in a 'Midnight Sky' finish with a black marble base.
A significant difference is the option to mount it on a tripod stand, offering placement flexibility beyond traditional surfaces. Despite its smaller size, it retains the high-quality build and audio performance characteristic of the Marantz line.
Conclusion: A Premium Sound Experience
Both the Marantz Grand Horizon and Horizon offer a premium listening experience, combining stunning design with exceptional sound quality. The Grand Horizon's powerful soundstage and multiple drivers make it perfect for larger rooms, while the Horizon is a more compact yet equally impressive option for smaller spaces. The solid marble base, intuitive controls, and extensive connectivity options further enhance their appeal.
While both models excel, the Grand Horizon's superior power and additional drivers provide a more immersive experience for larger rooms. However, the Horizon’s versatility and tripod mount make it an equally compelling option for those with less space. Either speaker represents a significant investment, but the high-quality build, exceptional sound, and luxurious design justify the price for discerning audiophiles.