Marantz 1090 User Manual

The Marantz 1090 is a high-performance stereo integrated amplifier featuring 45 watts per channel, phono input for turntables, tape monitoring, loudness contour, high and low filters, and comprehensive tone controls. With its classic Marantz design and robust construction, it delivers exceptional audio quality for music enthusiasts. Below are key sections for features, installation, operation, specifications, and maintenance.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Installation 3. First-Time Setup 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Settings 6. Connecting Components 7. Operation Guide 8. Maintenance 9. Regulatory Information 10. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Power amplifier section, preamplifier controls, input selector, tone controls, tape monitoring, and speaker outputs.

Feature	Description
Power Output	45 watts per channel into 8 ohms
Phono Input	MM cartridge compatible with adjustable capacitance
Tone Controls	Bass and treble controls with defeat switch
Filters	High and low frequency filters
Loudness Contour	Compensates for low volume listening
Tape Monitoring	Dual tape inputs with monitor function
Speaker Selector	A/B speaker selection
Headphone Jack	Front panel 1/4" headphone output
Power Switch	Main power on/off with indicator light
Volume Control	Stepped attenuator for precise level adjustment

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Place on stable, well-ventilated surface.

Connect speakers: Use heavy-gauge speaker wire to A or B speaker terminals.
Connect source components: Use appropriate cables for phono, tuner, tape, or auxiliary inputs.
Connect turntable: Use phono input for magnetic cartridges.
Plug into AC power outlet.

WARNING! Ensure proper ventilation; do not block heat sinks. Use correct speaker impedance.

First-Time Setup

Power on amplifier; set initial controls to neutral positions.

Set tone controls: Start with tone defeat engaged for flat response.
Adjust volume: Begin with volume at minimum, then gradually increase.
Select input: Choose appropriate source (phono, tuner, aux, tape).
Speaker selection: Choose A or B speakers as desired.

CAUTION! Always turn volume down before powering on or off to prevent speaker damage.

Specifications

Power Output: 45 watts per channel (8 ohms, 20Hz-20kHz)
Total Harmonic Distortion: 0.08% at rated output
Frequency Response: 10Hz-50kHz (+0, -3dB)
Input Sensitivity: Phono: 2.5mV, Aux/Tape: 150mV
Signal-to-Noise Ratio: Phono: 76dB, Aux: 90dB
Tone Controls: Bass: ±10dB at 100Hz, Treble: ±10dB at 10kHz
Power Requirements: 120V AC, 60Hz, 240 watts max
Dimensions: 17" W × 5" H × 13" D
Weight: 22 lbs

Controls and Settings

Front panel controls: Power switch, input selector, volume, balance, tone controls, loudness, filters, tape monitor.

Rear Panel: Speaker terminals, phono/aux/tape inputs, AC power cord.

Input Selection: PHONO, TUNER, AUX, TAPE 1, TAPE 2. Tone Controls: Bass and treble with defeat switch. Filters: High cut (7kHz) and low cut (70Hz). Loudness: Compensates for Fletcher-Munson curves. Balance: Adjusts left/right channel balance.

Connecting Components

Speaker connections: A/B terminals with color coding. Source connections: RCA inputs for all sources.

Turn off amplifier before making connections.
Connect turntable to PHONO inputs only.
Use high-quality interconnects for best performance.
Ensure secure connections to prevent hum and noise.

Tip: Keep signal cables away from power cords to minimize interference.

Operation Guide

Daily operation procedures for optimal performance.

Power on: Switch power on, wait 5 seconds before playing music.
Source selection: Choose appropriate input for your component.
Volume adjustment: Start low, increase gradually to desired level.
Tone adjustment: Use tone controls to suit room acoustics and program material.
Tape monitoring: Engage tape monitor when recording or playing tapes.
Loudness contour: Use at low volume levels for full frequency response.

WARNING! Do not operate with covers removed. Avoid excessive volume levels.

Maintenance

Unplug before cleaning. Use soft, dry cloth for exterior. Clean controls with contact cleaner if noisy.

CAUTION! No user-serviceable parts inside. Refer servicing to qualified personnel.

Regulatory Information

FCC Part 15: Class B digital device; complies with interference limits for residential use. Copyright © Marantz; all rights reserved. For technical support, contact authorized Marantz service centers. Manufactured to meet industry standards for audio performance and safety.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
No sound	Speaker connections/input selection	Check speaker wires; verify input selection; ensure volume up.
Hum or noise	Grounding/cable issues	Check ground connections; ensure cables properly seated.
Distorted sound	Overload/clipping	Reduce volume; check source level; verify speaker impedance.
One channel dead	Balance control/cables	Check balance setting; verify RCA cables; try different input.
No phono sound	Turntable ground/selection	Ensure turntable grounded; select PHONO input; check cartridge.

Service: Contact authorized Marantz service center for internal repairs.