Marantz AV8805A 13.2 Channel Pre-Amp Processor Review

Reference-Quality Sound from one of Marantz’s best Pre-amp Processors

What is a pre-amp processor?

A surround sound preamp/processor is like a home theater receiver without the built-in amplifier section. It does video processing, surround sound decoding, input switching, and audio signal processing.

What are the benefits of an audio system using a separate preamp/processor and amplifier?

This type of setup will give you better sound and more system-building flexibility when compared to a stand-alone receiver.

Intro

The Marantz AV8805A – Inspired by More Than 60 Years of Audiophile Heritage

Founded in 1953, Marantz has a rich history of designing audio components embraced by music lovers and critical listeners around the world. Because music matters, the AV7706 continues our long tradition of delivering a best-in-class listening experience for music and home theater.

The AV8805A is made for home cinema enthusiasts who seek versatility and flexibility, without sacrificing musicality. Marantz Sound Masters leveraged decades of experience in Hi-Fi to drive exceptional, audiophile-quality surround sound for all your entertainment.

The Marantz AV8805A is a flagship pre-amp processor that was the company’s top pre-amp from 2018 to 2023, which is when Marantz released a new flagship pre-amp, the AV10. The AV8805A was discontinued and replaced in 2025 by the AV20 pre-amp processor.

Features:

• AV Surround Preamplifier: The Marantz AV8805A AV Surround Preamplifier features 13.2-channel processing with 15.2-channel balanced XLR and unbalanced RCA outputs, along with flexible preamplifier stages. Delegating the amplification duties to a separate component enables the Marantz AV8805A AV Surround Preamplifier to maintain a healthy distance between noise-inducing high-voltage/high-current circuits and sensitive low-level circuits. This means that the radio frequency and electromagnetic interferences that are found in most AV preamplifiers simply don’t exist in a preamplifier/processor or are reduced by several orders of magnitude. The result is less distortion and less signal degradation in general.
• 2 Channel Assignment: The Marantz AV8805A AV Surround Preamplifier supports up to 13.2 channel playback and can be configured in a variety of ways to accommodate your system’s setup.
• Current Feedback Topology: The Marantz AV8805A uses a high-speed current feedback amplifier circuit for its preamplifier so that audio signals from a Blu-ray Disc player and other equipment that support high-definition audio formats can be listened to with high fidelity. Current Feedback technology offers faster signal handling and an extended frequency range. Current feedback circuits track rapid sonic changes more accurately and thus sound more natural. Current feedback topology ensures astounding accuracy and control even under high-drive conditions.
• HDAMs (Hyper-Dynamic Amplifier Modules): The AV8805A utilizes Marantz’s proprietary HDAM (Hyper-Dynamic Amplifier Module) circuits for dynamic reproduction of movie and music soundtracks. The AV8805A features the latest Marantz proprietary HDAM (Hyper Dynamic Amplifier Module) components, which consist of matched-precision, discrete, and selected circuit elements on a compact sub-board, along with an ultra-wide-band response (100 kHz, -3 dB) for an open soundstage with refined detail reproduction. HDAMs combine the short signal path advantages of ICs (integrated circuits) and op-amps (operational amplifiers) with the superior sound quality of separate circuit components. Because HDAMs are discrete designs, Marantz engineers are free to choose the parts best able to preserve the sonic details of your favorite sources.
• Advanced 32-Bit Conversion on All Channels: For optimum fidelity and the widest dynamic range with lowest distortion, the AV8805A features premium-grade 32-bit/192kHz DACs on all channels. This ensures consistent high fidelity and precise channel matching across all channels for the ultimate listening experience. In addition, the preamplifier utilizes a Hybrid PLL Clock Jitter Reducer to eliminate distortion caused by jitter errors for a more accurate reproduction of the recording, the way the artist intended.
• Optimized Components: The carefully optimized audio/video signal paths rest on separate circuit boards for maximum performance as well as isolation from interferences generated by high-speed video processing.  In addition, the Marantz surround preamplifier employs a high-current linear power supply with an EI core power transformer for high-quality sound playback.
• The Marantz AV8805A offers outstanding construction for the best, unaltered music and movie playback. The highly rigid base chassis – the foundation for all circuit boards carrying the sensitive audio signal – leaves no chance for microphonic effects through unwanted vibration. The oversized toroidal transformer feeding the big main capacitors is set on an extra 5mm aluminum pedestal for extra stability. All electronics are supported by copper plating on the main chassis, which generates the best ground connection at any point and improves signal-to-noise behavior significantly. Finally, everything is exceptionally well-covered by a heavy top lid constructed from three pieces.

• DSP: Four Dual-Core SHARC 32-bit Analog Devices ADSP21573
• Toroidal power supply ensures low noise, high-performance picture and sound
• Dolby, DTS, and Auro-3D surround sound decoding
• Dolby Atmos processing for use with in-ceiling or “height” speakers for more enveloping home theater sound
• Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization and DTS Virtual:X create three-dimensional effects without height speakers
• IMAX Enhanced reproduces the full dynamic range of specially encoded IMAX soundtracks from compatible sources
• Analog-to-HDMI video conversion upscales standard-definition video signals to HD and Ultra HD (up to 8K)
• Audyssey MultEQ XT32 auto setup and room calibration system
• 2-channel balanced XLR and unbalanced RCA outputs for connection to external power amps
• Includes two discrete line-level subwoofer outputs
• 1-channel preamp inputs
• Digital audio inputs: 2 Toslink optical, 2 coaxial
• 6 analog RCA stereo inputs
• 1 stereo balanced XLR input
• MM (moving magnet) phono input for connecting a turntable
• Front-panel Type-A USB input for plugging in a thumb drive
• HDMI 2.1 audio/video switching: 8 in (includes 1 front-panel input), 3 out, 1 input, and 2 outputs support 8K/60Hz and 4K/120Hz video
• All inputs and outputs support 4K/60Hz video
• HDCP 2.3 technology ensures compatibility with Ultra HD sources and TVs
• HDR-compatible for extended picture contrast and brightness with compatible TVs and HDR encoded content
• Supports HDR10, HDR10+, Dolby Vision, and HLG
• Gaming-optimized video processing technologies for a smooth, lag-free gaming experience
• Variable Refresh Rate (VRR), Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM), and Quick Frame Transport (QFT) reduce or eliminate lag and frame tearing
• Supports ARC (Audio Return Channel) and eARC (Enhanced Audio Return Channel)
• eARC receives uncompressed surround sound signals, including Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, via the HDMI connection with your compatible TV
• Multi-room audio/video: three-room/three-source output
• Multi-zone playback supports both analog and digital audio connections
• Zone 2 and 3 compatible audio sources: HDMI audio, optical/coaxial digital inputs, analog audio inputs, AM/FM tuner, USB, Bluetooth, and HEOS music apps
• Cannot select different USB/Bluetooth/network sources for each zone
• HDMI dual-zone switching for watching video content from different sources in two zones simultaneously
• Built-in Wi-Fi for listening to music from a networked PC, free internet radio, and music services
• HEOS Built-in technology wirelessly connects compatible HEOS components for whole-home audio, including support for Pandora, SiriusXM, and Spotify (subscription required for some services)
• The free HEOS app offers easy Wi-Fi control, settings adjustments, and music selection and playback
• High-resolution audio support with the ability to decode up to 24-bit/192 kHz ALAC, FLAC, and WAV lossless files as well as 2.8 and 5.6 MHz DSD tracks (the audiophile format of SACD) via the front-panel USB port and network sources.
• Works with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant voice control assistants
• Apple AirPlay 2 lets you stream directly from an iPhone or iPad and ask Siri to play Apple Music
• Supports multi-room audio with compatible wireless speakers built-in Bluetooth for wireless music listening with smartphones, tablets, and compatible computers, plays high-resolution digital music files via USB storage device or a networked computer (PCM up to 24-bit/192kHz resolution; DSD up to 5.6 MHz)
• Roon Tested
• Free Marantz AVR Remote app lets you use your Apple or Android device as a Wi-Fi remote.

Design & Build Quality

The AV8805A has a minimalist front end with only the input selector and volume knobs in addition to a power button. The unit is fashioned with Marantz’s classic front end featuring rounded corners and their unique front port display design. Visually, I find the AV8805A aesthetically pleasing with a look that distinguishes it from other brands of AV pre-pros and receivers on the market.

Although the porthole on the front of the unit only displays limited info, there is a drop-down front panel that gives you access to a full-sized display offering full functionality of the unit. There are also several control buttons, as well as connectivity ports, on the front of the unit.

The AV8805 has excellent build quality. The unit uses premium materials featuring a solid aluminum front panel and a copper-plated chassis, which contribute to its high-end feel and aesthetic appeal. The unit is also notably heavy, indicating robust internal components and construction. I also appreciate the copper-plated screws used to secure the body of the unit to the chassis, as well as the copper accents found on the rear panel. This adds to the premium look and feel of the unit.

Performance

I’ll say it from the start, the AV8805A offers incredible sound quality when paired with a high-end amplifier or even non-high-end amplifiers that offer good performance. I paired the unit with my high-end Rotel 1095 5-channel 200-watt per channel amp. This amp is used for my front, center, and surround speakers. I also use a Monoprice Monolith M5100X to power my front height speakers for Dolby Atmos and DTS:X audio and a single back surround speaker. By the way, the M5100X is a very good budget amp, and I highly recommend it.

During my setup process, I ran Audyssey Multi EQ XT32 room correction, found in the AV8805A. In my room, it improved the sound quality and made my listening experience much more enjoyable. I also want to mention the Audyssey MultEQ Editor app that is available for $20 and is downloaded to your mobile phone. This allows for a lot more customization, including storing multiple sound profiles that you can edit to your liking. I really like using this app, and in my opinion, it is worth $20.

And while we’re talking about apps, there is another very useful app I enjoy using with the AV8805A, and that’s the “Marantz AVR Remote” app. This free app download allows full control and functionality of the AV8805A from the comfort of your listening position. It’s nice not having to look at the front display of the A/V processor while making changes when you can see and do everything from your mobile phone.

Ok, there is one more app I want to mention, which will lead to the audio performance of the AV8805A, and that’s the HEOS app, which is also free, and allows you to control the built-in HEOS software. HEOS is a proprietary wireless ecosystem that allows you to wirelessly stream music from many music services directly to this unit.

When listening to music through the AV8805A, I find myself using HEOS regularly. One of my sources is a smooth jazz station streaming out of the UK. Although the bit rate is low (128 kbps), the sound quality is quite good when listening through the AV8805A. This station’s audio quality, however, pales in comparison when listening to Hi-Resolution audio music via Qobuz. I was skeptical of whether the 44.1 kHz/16-bit (CD) or Hi-Res tracks (from 88.2 kHz/24-bit and 96 kHz/24-bit up to 192 kHz/24-bit) would sound as good as my CD or SACD versions. Well, I have to say I was pleasantly surprised that the sound quality from Qobuz was indistinguishable from my physical media versions. For the record, this listening comparison was done in 2-channel mode.

As mentioned earlier, the sound quality from the AV8805A is incredible, and the AV8805A delivered the best sound quality to date that I have heard in my home. Detail and clarity were well defined. That soundstage was spacious with excellent placement of instruments within the soundstage. This was readily apparent when listening to “So What” by Miles Davis from his “Kind of Blue” album. Another stunning track I enjoy listening to on the AV8805A is “Birds” by Dominique Fils-Aime from her “Nameless” album. The bass is delivered with great articulation and impact. Each pluck of the upright bass strings is well defined, rendering a life-like presence. Dominique’s vocals take command of the sound stage shortly after the bass introduction. Her amazing voice is presented with great authority, sounding natural with refined articulation and an airy crispness that filled my listening space. I was very impressed.

Moving on to Blu-ray lossless Dolby TrueHD audio. One of my favorite Blu-ray discs is “Chris Botti in Boston”. When played through the AV8805A, I was presented with a transparent and spacious sound that I assumed mimicked the Symphony Hall in Boston, where the video was recorded. The sound of Chris Botti’s trumpet was refined, detailed, and transparent. This also held true for the instruments from his immediate band members as well as the entire Boston Symphony Orchestra.

So, what about movie soundtracks? Well, the AV8805A didn’t disappoint in this area either. I experienced room-filling dynamic sound with great detail and clarity, and pinpoint accuracy of the surround sound objects and elements throughout the sound field. Midrange frequencies were well defined, and high frequencies were clean and crisp without any harshness at the top end. I also noticed how low the noise floor was during quiet movie scenes, which gave an even greater sense of realism to what I was watching. The bass output was defined and impactful during movie scenes, thanks to the combination of the AV8805A’s audio processing capabilities and my SVS Sound PB13 Ultra subwoofer. All in all, I truly enjoyed watching movies with the AV8805A in the mix, which delivered superb audio quality.

Conclusion

The Marantz AV8805A pre-amp processor is an outstanding piece of audio architecture that delivered the best performance I have ever experienced in my home. Marantz’s heritage and reputation for delivering some of the finest audio quality available were certainly achieved through the AV8805A. Most, if not all, audiophiles will be pleased with the home cinema and musical prowess of the Marantz AV8805A. I know I was. Highly recommended!

Check out the YouTube video overview/review of the Marantz AV8805A