Marantz is so proud of their network speaker that they’ve named it after the company’s first product, the Consolette.
With the Consolette, Marantz is celebrating their 60th anniversary. Typically the words “anniversary” on any product offers a cautionary warning, but we’ll be upfront in saying it’s not the case with the Consolette.
 Click to enlarge |
It borrows several design elements from its ancestral system, such as the Gyro Touch Wheel introduced in the 70s and the three solid feet featured on its premium turntables; however, in keeping with the times these components have been updated. Combined with its anodised aluminum front, a solid wooden back finished in walnut and its understated design, the Consolette proves evocative of Marantz’s rich history.
 |
Aside from the nostalgic appearance, the Consolette remains a modern networking speaker. Inside beats a true 2-way active speaker system and an amplifier developed by Marantz audio guru Ken Ishiwata. The use of anodized aluminum serves function in addition to design; it stops electrical interference and eliminates perverting vibrations for high fidelity audio.
The Consolette’s modern persona shines through its connectivity portfolio. Apple and Android devices alike can remotely control music playback and manage internet radio. Six of the internet radio stations can be programmed into the Consolette for internet radio playback without the need of a smartphone.
Apple devices benefit from an on board 30 pin dock and wireless music playback over AirPlay. Alternatively, non-Apple devices can stream music wirelessly by easily connecting the Consolette to their home network, a task Marantz says is easily done by using NetLink.
 Click to enlarge |
Marantz’s Consolette is available now in Silver White, will be available shortly in Silk Black, and has a $1,650 price tag.
 |
 |
