Marantz PM 68 User Manual

The Marantz PM 68 is a high-quality stereo integrated amplifier featuring 80 watts per channel, gold-plated connectors, MM/MC phono input, CD direct input, tone controls, loudness compensation, and remote control capability. Designed for audiophiles seeking exceptional sound quality with versatile connectivity options. 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 Modes 8. Audio Features 9. Care & Cleaning 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: High-current power supply, gold-plated RCA inputs, speaker terminals, headphone jack, remote sensor.

Feature	Description
Power Output	80 watts per channel (8 ohms)
Phono Input	MM/MC cartridge compatible
CD Direct Input	Bypasses tone controls for pure signal
Tone Controls	Bass and treble adjustment
Loudness Compensation	Enhances low frequencies at low volumes
Headphone Jack	For private listening
Speaker Selector	A/B speaker outputs
Remote Control	Infrared remote operation
Power Switch	Main power on/off
Input Selector	Source selection (CD, Tuner, Phono, etc.)

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Place on stable, vibration-free surface.

Connect speakers: Use high-quality speaker cables to A or B terminals.
Connect audio sources: Use gold-plated RCA cables for CD player, tuner, etc.
Connect phono: Use dedicated phono input for turntable.
Plug into AC power outlet.

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

First-Time Setup

Power on amplifier; allow warm-up time for optimal performance.

Select input source: Rotate INPUT SELECTOR to desired source.
Adjust volume: Start at minimum volume and increase gradually.
Set tone controls: Begin with flat response (12 o'clock position).
Speaker selection: Choose A, B, or A+B speaker outputs.

CAUTION! Always turn volume to minimum before powering on/off to protect speakers.

Specifications

Power Output: 80W + 80W (8 ohms, 20Hz-20kHz)
Total Harmonic Distortion: 0.008%
Frequency Response: 5Hz-50kHz (+0/-3dB)
Input Sensitivity: Phono MM: 2.5mV, CD: 150mV
Signal-to-Noise Ratio: Phono MM: 86dB, CD: 102dB
Tone Controls: Bass ±10dB, Treble ±10dB
Power Consumption: 220W maximum
Dimensions: 440 x 385 x 125mm (W x D x H)
Weight: 9.5 kg

Controls and Settings

Front Panel: POWER, INPUT SELECTOR, VOLUME, BASS, TREBLE, LOUDNESS, SPEAKERS A/B, HEADPHONE JACK.

Remote: POWER, VOLUME UP/DOWN, MUTE, INPUT SELECTION, TONE CONTROLS.

Input Selection: CD, TUNER, PHONO, AUX, TAPE. Tone Controls: Bass and treble adjustment (±10dB). Loudness: Compensates for Fletcher-Munson curve. Speaker Selection: A, B, or A+B outputs.

Connecting Devices

Audio Sources: CD player, tuner, turntable, tape deck, auxiliary devices.

Turn off amplifier before connecting devices.
Use high-quality shielded RCA cables.
Connect turntable to PHONO input only.
Match cable colors (red-right, white-left).

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

Operation Modes

Supports various listening configurations and source inputs.

Source Selection: Rotate INPUT SELECTOR to desired source.
Volume Control: Adjust to comfortable listening level.
Tone Adjustment: Use BASS and TREBLE controls as needed.
Loudness: Engage for enhanced bass at low volumes.
Speaker Selection: Choose between main or secondary speakers.
Headphone Use: Automatically mutes speaker outputs.

WARNING! Do not operate without proper load (speakers connected).

Audio Features

CD Direct: Bypasses tone circuit for pure signal path. Loudness Compensation: Frequency response adjustment for low-volume listening. Phono Stage: High-quality MM/MC phono preamplifier.

Care & Cleaning

Unplug before cleaning. Use soft, dry cloth for exterior. Use contact cleaner for controls if needed.

CAUTION! Do not use chemical cleaners on front panel. Keep away from moisture.

Regulatory Information

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
No sound	Speaker connections/volume	Check speaker wires; ensure volume not at minimum; verify input selection.
Distorted sound	Overload/clipping	Reduce volume; check source signal level; verify speaker impedance.
Hum or noise	Grounding/cables	Check cable connections; ensure proper grounding; separate signal and power cables.
Remote not working	Batteries/obstacles	Replace batteries; ensure clear line of sight to sensor.
One channel silent	Cable/connection	Check RCA cables; swap channels to isolate issue; clean connectors.

Reset: Power cycle amplifier if issues persist.

Service: Contact authorized Marantz service center for technical support.