Marantz’s New Wireless Speakers Resemble Art Gallery Pieces

Purchasing Marantz’s latest Horizon or Grand Horizon wireless speakers is sure to spark conversations in your home long before you even power them on. Their eye-catching circular design, complemented by a sturdy marble base, is available in three stunning colors: Midnight Sky, Moon Ray, and Marantz Champagne. These speakers embody a unique blend of art and technology, resembling sculptures rather than mere audio devices, and they’re priced accordingly—$3,500 for the Horizon and $5,500 for the Grand Horizon. While they may appear to be the ideal present for someone with discerning taste, you’ll have to hold off on gift-wrapping them, as they won’t hit the market until January 14, 2025.

At the heart of both models is the HEOS software, which powers multiroom audio for various devices produced by Denon, Marantz, and Onkyo. The HEOS mobile application allows users to manage all compatible devices conveniently, offering similar functionality to options like Sonos and Wiim. Additionally, you can stream from a multitude of services, including Amazon Music, Deezer, Spotify, and Tidal, plus access your personal music library if stored on a compatible network.

Longtime supporters of Marantz may remember that the Horizon isn’t the brand’s first foray into wireless speakers—this title belongs to the discontinued MS7000 Marantz Consolette from 2013.

These innovative speakers support high-resolution stereo and multichannel audio, accommodating up to 7.1 channels at 24-bit/192kHz, as well as DSD128 (5.6MHz). Marantz has incorporated its proprietary Mirage DSP to offer various sound modifications.

Support for Spotify Connect, Apple AirPlay 2, and Bluetooth is included, along with several physical connection options: each model features a stereo RCA input, a digital optical port, an HDMI eARC port, and a USB-C connector. The unique arrangement of drivers promises a compelling spatial audio experience, with Dolby Audio processing capabilities when connected to a TV through HDMI eARC. Additionally, two Horizons can be paired together for a stereo setup via the HEOS app.

Both speakers incorporate a central subwoofer—the prominent disc at the center—while additional drivers are concealed behind the stylish fabric grille of the outer ring. The primary distinctions between the two models relate to their size, power output, and driver configurations.

The Horizon measures approximately 15 inches in diameter and is just over 8 inches deep. It is equipped with a “Marantz Rise” GaN FET amplifier delivering 310 watts (with a peak of 745 watts) and includes six “Marantz Gravity” drivers: two 1-inch tweeters, three 2-inch full-range drivers, and a single 6.5-inch subwoofer.

Meanwhile, the Grand Horizon is about 20 inches in diameter and 10 inches deep. It boasts an amplifier that produces 370 watts (with a peak of 860 watts) and features eight drivers, which include three 1-inch tweeters, four 3-inch full-range drivers, and a single 8-inch subwoofer.

Enhancing the visual appeal of the Horizon is a concealed ring of 100 LEDs. These lights not only indicate the volume level but also react when someone approaches the speaker, thanks to built-in proximity sensors. You can gain greater control over the lighting experience through the Marantz AuraControl application.

If you need more versatility in speaker placement, an optional wall mount is available, or you might consider the Marantz Horizon Tripod, which retails for $700, offering a stylish walnut finish for floor standing.