Here's why the Marantz Model 70 stereo amplifier isn’t going to be available in the US

Marantz Model 70 in silver/gold on a red tabletop with a shadow in the background.

In case you missed the news last week, Marantz officially announced the successors to its entry-level CD6007 CD player and PM6007 stereo amplifier.

The CD 70 and Model 70 go on sale on the 15th August for £499 | €600 | $750 | AU$1100 (exc VAT) and £749 | €850 | AU$1600 (exc VAT) respectively.

At the time of the announcement, there was no US pricing for the Model 70, and Marantz confirmed to What Hi-Fi? that this was because the stereo amplifier wouldn’t be available there at launch.

We asked Marantz to comment further, and it has replied with a full explanation for the decision:

“MODEL 70 will not be available in North America at this time. Following careful evaluation, we determined that anticipated market demand in the region would not support the minimum production volumes required for a local launch. As a result, we have made the decision to focus availability for the initial launch in markets where consumer demand can be more effectively met.

"We are confident that we already have other products in our current portfolio that can meet our customer needs for stereo components in North America, including the acclaimed STEREO 70s Stereo Receiver and the compact MODEL M1 Streaming Amplifier. We remain committed to bringing innovative products to North America and will continue to introduce new models that align well with the needs of the region.”

While it might come as a surprise to hear the amplifier isn’t launching in the US, this isn’t the first time a manufacturer has targeted specific markets with specific products and product ranges, nor will it be the last.

Different international markets might have different demands and requirements for products, so it makes sense not to launch something that might muddy the waters. Having said that, undoubtedly there will be some prospective buyers who might be looking forward to experiencing the new integrated amp and disappointed that it won't be making the journey.

The statement does use the words “initial launch”, though, so who knows if Marantz might change its plans further down the line.

We have both the CD 70 and Model 70 in for testing at the moment and will be reporting back with the official What Hi-Fi? verdict soon.

MORE:

End of an era as Marantz waves goodbye to two hi-fi classics and unveils new entry-level Model 70 integrated amplifier and CD 70 compact disc player

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