Marantz Mono Amplifier MA500 Manual

The Marantz MA500 is a high-performance mono power amplifier designed for audiophile-grade audio systems. Featuring 100 watts RMS power output, high-current capability, gold-plated connectors, toroidal power transformer, and advanced thermal protection. Compatible with 4-8 ohm speakers, includes trigger input for system integration, and delivers exceptional sound quality for home theater and stereo applications. Below are key sections for safety, features, installation, setup, operation, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Installation 3. First-Time Setup 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Settings 6. Connecting Devices 7. Operation Guidelines 8. System Integration 9. Care & Maintenance 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: High-current mono amplifier, toroidal transformer, gold-plated speaker terminals, trigger input, thermal protection circuit.

Feature	Description
Power Output	100 watts RMS into 8 ohms
Input Connectors	RCA line-level input
Speaker Terminals	Gold-plated binding posts
Power Transformer	Toroidal design for low noise
Trigger Input	12V trigger for system control
Protection Circuits	Thermal and short-circuit protection
Power Switch	Front panel power on/off
Indicator LED	Power and protection status
Impedance Compatibility	4-8 ohm speakers
Cooling System	Forced air ventilation

Installation

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

Position amplifier: Ensure adequate ventilation space around unit.
Connect audio input: Use high-quality RCA cable from preamp or processor.
Connect speakers: Use appropriate gauge speaker wire to binding posts.
Connect trigger: Use 3.5mm trigger cable for system integration.
Plug into AC power: Use included power cord.

WARNING! Amplifier generates heat; ensure proper ventilation. Use appropriate speaker impedance.

First-Time Setup

Power on amplifier; verify proper operation.

Check connections: Ensure all cables are secure and properly connected.
Power sequence: Turn on source components first, then amplifier.
Volume setting: Start with low volume and gradually increase.
Trigger setup: Connect to compatible preamp/processor for automatic power control.
Monitor operation: Check for proper LED indication and sound output.

CAUTION! Always use proper power-down sequence: Amplifier off first, then source components.

Specifications

Power Output: 100 watts RMS (8 ohms), 150 watts RMS (4 ohms)
Frequency Response: 20Hz - 20kHz (±0.3dB)
Total Harmonic Distortion: <0.05% (20Hz-20kHz at rated power)
Signal-to-Noise Ratio: >100dB (A-weighted)
Input Sensitivity: 1.2V for rated output
Input Impedance: 47k ohms
Damping Factor: >200 (8 ohms, 1kHz)
Power Requirements: 120V AC, 60Hz, 350W maximum
Dimensions: 17.1" W × 5.9" H × 15.4" D
Weight: 22 lbs (10 kg)

Controls and Settings

Front Panel: POWER switch, status LED. Rear Panel: RCA input, speaker terminals, trigger input, AC power inlet.

LED Indicators: Green - Power on, Red - Protection mode/standby, Flashing - Fault condition.

Trigger Input: 12V DC, 10mA minimum current for activation. Speaker Connections: Positive/Negative binding posts accept bare wire, spades, or banana plugs.

Connecting Devices

Audio Input: RCA cable from preamplifier or AV processor. Speakers: Appropriate gauge wire to binding posts. Trigger: 3.5mm cable for system control.

Turn off all components before making connections.
Use high-quality interconnects and speaker cables.
Ensure proper polarity: Red to positive, black to negative.
Secure trigger connection for automated system operation.
Verify all connections are tight and secure.

Tip: Use cable management to avoid interference and ensure clean installation.

Operation Guidelines

Designed for continuous high-performance operation.

Power on: Switch amplifier on after source components.
Volume control: Adjust at preamp/processor, not amplifier.
Monitoring: Observe LED status for normal operation.
Thermal management: Ensure adequate ventilation during extended use.
Power down: Turn off amplifier before source components.
Standby mode: Trigger input allows automatic power management.
Performance: Allow 30 minutes warm-up for optimal sound quality.
Load matching: Use only compatible 4-8 ohm speakers.

WARNING! Do not operate without proper load. Avoid shorting speaker terminals.

System Integration

Multi-channel setup: Use multiple MA500 amplifiers for surround sound systems. Trigger control: Connect to compatible Marantz processors for automated operation. Bi-amping: Can be used for bi-amplification setups with compatible speakers.

Care & Maintenance

Unplug before cleaning. Use soft, dry cloth for exterior. Keep ventilation openings clear of dust and obstructions.

CAUTION! Do not use liquids or aerosols. Internal service should be performed by qualified technicians only.

Regulatory Information

FCC Part 15: Class B digital device; complies with interference limits for residential use. CE certified for European markets. Copyright © 2006 Marantz; trademarks of Marantz America, Inc. For support, visit www.marantz.com or contact 1-800-270-2753.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
No sound output	Power/connections	Check power connection; verify input source; check speaker connections.
Protection mode active	Overload/short circuit	Check speaker impedance; inspect for short circuits; allow cooling.
Distorted sound	Input level/connections	Reduce input level; check cable connections; verify source quality.
Amplifier won't power on	Power supply/trigger	Check AC power; verify trigger connection; check fuse.
Excessive heat	Ventilation/load	Ensure proper ventilation; check speaker impedance; reduce volume.

Reset: Power cycle amplifier. If issues persist, disconnect all inputs and test.

Service: 1-800-270-2753; www.marantz.com