Marantz Cinema 40
Score: 84/100
Klipsch Reference 5.2 Black
Score: 84/100Rankings
The Marantz Cinema 40 is a premium 9.4-channel AV receiver offering strong power, extensive HDMI 2.1 and Dolby Atmos support. Its main trade-off is measured distortion that falls short of top-tier competitors. Best suited for audiophiles and home-theater enthusiasts who value build quality and feature depth over absolute measured performance.
The Klipsch Reference 5.2 Dolby Atmos system delivers immersive height effects and strong bass thanks to dual 12" subwoofers. Its large floorstanding speakers and need for a robust AVR may limit suitability for compact rooms. Ideal for medium-sized home theaters seeking a plug-and-play Atmos solution.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
9.4best | 5.2 | |
125 Wbest | 100 W | |
— | 96 dBbest | |
— | 8 Ωbest | |
— | 6.5 inbest | |
| ↓ lower better | 710 Wbest | — |
— | 1 inbest | |
— | 12 inbest |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Power & Performance(1) | ||
Total Power Output (W) | 125 W | 100 W |
Audio(1) | ||
Audio Channels | 9.4 | 5.2 |
Build & Design(2) | ||
System Weight (lb) | 40.565 lb | 49 lb |
System Dimensions (H×W×D) (cm) | H×W×D: 18.5×43.9×40.1 cm cm | 101.6x23.9x23.9 cm |
Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).
Professional reviewers consider the Cinema 40 a reference-class AV receiver, lauding its luxurious build, immersive Dolby Atmos/DTS:X/Auro-3D sound, extensive HDMI 2.1 gaming features, and sophisticated Audyssey tuning, while noting that measured distortion metrics fall short of the high-end benchmark set by competitors.
Professional reviewers and editors consistently commend the system for its dynamic, horn-loaded sound signature, high sensitivity, and integrated Atmos height channels that deliver clear, realistic overhead effects.
Consumers appreciate the plug-and-play nature of the kit, noting the immersive Atmos experience, powerful bass from the dual subs, and ease of installation thanks to included wiring.
