Audio and video perfectionists with a penchant for consolidation can finally relax. Capitalizing on decades of legendary expertise, Marantz has created the Pangaea of disc-based components in its new flagship, the UD9004 Universal Player. Inside, reference-grade parts and construction combine to provide an unsurpassed multimedia experience for practically any 12 cm digital audio or video disc in existence, including CDs, SCADs, DVDs, and Blu-ray. Of course, with an MSRP of $5,999.99, owning this pinnacle of home entertainment performance doesn’t come cheap. So those thirsting for home theater perfection must match their obsessions with sultan-like incomes to have one of their own.
Designed to cater to the pickiest of home theater enthusiasts, mechanical audio distortion is virtually eliminated through the UD9004’s extensively braced chassis and machine milled copper feet. The unit’s dedicated audio section addresses other distinct audiophile concerns over electronic signal disruptions in several ways. In “Pure Direct” mode, internal interference is further dampened to deliver exceptionally focused sound by shutting down video playing elements when not in use. Widespread shielding, balanced channels and Two Sharc Digital Signal Processors provide uncompromised HD audio decoding and signal purity. On the video side, outstanding image accuracy is obtained via 36-bit Deep Color support and a leading-edge 10-bit Silicon Optix Realta chipset. High-end projector owners will also appreciate the unit’s vertical stretch feature when playing back titles with a 2:35:1 aspect ratio. This maximizes screen space by eliminating top and bottom black bars without introducing image noise or artifacts.
As long as Blu-ray remains entrenched as the picture and sound benchmark of home entertainment, the UD9004 is impeccably suited for its role as a signal source disc-based component. Delivering a superior audio and visual experience only formerly produced by separate reference grade devices, those who can afford it should appreciate its performance for years to come. Connectivity features such as dual HDMI outputs, an SD card reader, Ethernet jack and convenient onscreen interface only help to extend the device’s future compatibility.
