Marantz has launched its new Model 70 integrated amplifier at £749 and CD 70 compact disc player at £499, marking a fresh generation for its entry-level separates. Meanwhile, KEF debuted its LS Luxe wireless system, and Disney+ temporarily dropped 4K UHD and HDR support following a recent court ruling.
Major hardware shifts are under way across the consumer audio market as long-running favorites step aside for modernized replacements. Marantz has officially unveiled the successors to its award-winning PM6007 amplifier and CD6007 CD player, bringing a new aesthetic and significant internal redesigns to the separates arena. The arrivals coincide with high-profile updates from KEF and sudden streaming adjustments by major entertainment platforms.
Marantz Model 70 Amplifier and CD 70 Player Specifications and Pricing
The new Marantz separates bring the brand’s current visual language down to its entry-level tier. Both units feature textured front panels, while the amplifier retains the manufacturer’s trademark circular porthole. Beyond aesthetics, the hardware changes run deep. The Model 70 is a Class A/B amplifier delivering 50 Watts of power per channel, utilizing an upgraded power supply, a larger transformer, and an electronic volume control instead of the analogue design found on its predecessor, the PM6007.
Reviewers testing the equipment found that the amplifier offers increased insight, muscle, and clarity compared to the outgoing model. However, its pricing strategy shifts it into a tougher competitive bracket. While the PM6007 originally launched at £499 and has recently sold for various prices, the Model 70 arrives priced at £749 in the UK and €850 in Europe. That price jump alters expectations, earning the unit a cautious recommendation from reviewers who noted it faces much sharper rivals at that tier.
“The Marantz Model 70 amplifier has plenty of appeal. It is well-specified, decently made and works with a wide range of music. Had it been priced closer to the PM6007, we would undoubtedly be proclaiming it a class leader. However, the move up in price level puts it up against tougher competition and, in that context, it earns a more cautious recommendation.”
Marantz Model 70 Integrated Amplifier & Marantz CD 70 CD Player Launches 50 watts output & HDMI ARC
Reviewers, via What Hi-Fi?
Pricing and availability carry a notable regional quirk. The Model 70 amplifier will not be available in North America when products officially launch on August 15, leaving prospective buyers across the Atlantic waiting for regional release details.
Alongside the amplifier, the CD 70 compact disc player enters the market at £499, €600, $750, or AU$1000 excluding VAT. That figure represents a modest increase from the CD6007’s launch price of £399 back in 2020. Testers praised its clear, insightful sound, solid stereo imaging, and tight low end, awarding it a five-star rating.
“The entry-level hi-fi market isn’t what it used to be, but it’s great to see Marantz deliver another excellent attainable CD player. The CD 70 is undoubtedly the new go-to recommendation at this level.”
Reviewers, via What Hi-Fi?
The CD 70 shares a high-performance digital-to-analog converter with the amplifier and adds a front USB-A port supporting WAV, FLAC, AIFF, and DSD files. It also includes a dedicated headphone amplifier with adjustable gain control accessible via on-screen menus.
KEF LS Luxe Wireless System Expands the Brand’s Premium Offerings
In the wireless speaker category, KEF introduced its latest high-end system, the LS Luxe. Designed by Ross Lovegrove—the industrial designer behind the ultra-high-end Muon speakers—the new system sits above the brand’s existing LS50 Wireless II lineup. The active stereo setup incorporates a 12th-generation 6.5-inch Uni-Q driver array and has earned strong praise for its construction and acoustic performance.
Reviewers highlighted the hardware’s deep soundstage and build quality, describing the release as a great all-round performer and noting that thanks to its mature, deeply satisfying sound, impressive feature suite and high-quality construction, this wireless active stereo system is crying out for a place on your shortlist.
Disney+ Temporarily Removes 4K UHD and HDR Support Due to Court Ruling
Hardware isn’t the only area experiencing sudden shifts; streaming subscribers are also facing alterations. Premium tier subscribers on Disney+ have lost access to ultra-high-definition and high-dynamic-range playback in affected regions.
The platform confirmed that the step is temporary while the company evaluates its technical delivery methods in response to the legal decision.
