Marantz PM KI Pearl Manual

The Marantz PM KI Pearl is a high-end integrated amplifier featuring Ken Ishiwata's signature tuning, dual mono construction, high-current power supply, toroidal transformer, gold-plated connectors, MM phono stage, and multiple analog inputs. With 100W per channel into 8 ohms, this amplifier delivers exceptional audio performance for discerning audiophiles. 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 Connections 6. Connecting Audio Sources 7. Operation Guide 8. Phono Stage Setup 9. Care & Maintenance 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Dual mono construction, toroidal power transformer, gold-plated RCA connectors, MM phono input, source direct mode, tone controls, headphone output.

FeatureDescription
Power Output100W per channel (8 ohms, 20Hz-20kHz)
InputsPhono (MM), CD, Tuner, Aux 1, Aux 2, Tape
OutputsSpeaker A/B, Tape Out, Headphone
Frequency Response5Hz-100kHz (+0/-3dB)
Signal-to-Noise Ratio100dB (line inputs)
Total Harmonic Distortion0.005% (20Hz-20kHz)
Damping Factor200 (8 ohms)
Input Sensitivity200mV (line), 2.5mV (phono MM)
Tone ControlsBass ±10dB, Treble ±10dB
Power Consumption400W maximum

Installation

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

  1. Position amplifier: Ensure adequate ventilation (minimum 10cm clearance on all sides).
  2. Connect speakers: Use high-quality speaker cables to Speaker A/B terminals.
  3. Connect audio sources: Use gold-plated RCA cables for CD player, turntable, etc.
  4. Connect power cord: Plug into appropriate AC outlet (100-240V, 50/60Hz).
  5. Connect headphones: Use 6.3mm jack for private listening.

WARNING! Amplifier is heavy; use proper lifting technique. Ensure adequate ventilation to prevent overheating.

First-Time Setup

Power on amplifier; allow 30 minutes warm-up for optimal performance.

  1. Source selection: Rotate input selector to desired source (CD, Phono, etc.).
  2. Volume control: Start at minimum volume and gradually increase.
  3. Speaker selection: Choose Speaker A, B, or A+B as required.
  4. Tone controls: Set to flat position initially; adjust to preference.
  5. Source direct: Engage for pure signal path bypassing tone controls.

CAUTION! Always turn volume to minimum before powering on/off to prevent speaker damage.

Specifications

Controls and Connections

Front Panel: Power switch, input selector, volume control, balance, tone controls, source direct, speaker selector, headphone jack.

Rear Panel: Power cord input, phono input, CD input, tuner input, aux inputs, tape inputs/outputs, speaker terminals (A/B).

Input Selection: Rotate knob to select source (Phono, CD, Tuner, Aux 1, Aux 2, Tape). Volume Control: Large rotary knob with smooth action. Tone Controls: Bass and treble ±10dB adjustment. Speaker Selection: A, B, or A+B outputs. Source Direct: Bypasses tone controls and balance for pure signal path.

Connecting Audio Sources

Phono: Connect turntable with moving magnet cartridge to PHONO input. CD Player: Connect to CD input using high-quality RCA cables. Other Sources: Use AUX inputs for additional components.

  1. Turn off amplifier before making connections.
  2. Use high-quality, shielded interconnects for best performance.
  3. Match cable colors (red-right, white-left) for proper channel orientation.
  4. Ensure secure connections to gold-plated terminals.
  5. Keep signal cables away from power cords to minimize interference.

Tip: Use cable ties to organize wiring and prevent tangling.

Operation Guide

Daily operation procedures for optimal performance.

  1. Power sequence: Turn on source components first, then amplifier.
  2. Input selection: Rotate knob to desired source.
  3. Volume adjustment: Start low, increase gradually to desired level.
  4. Tone adjustment: Use bass/treble controls to suit room acoustics.
  5. Source direct: Engage for critical listening sessions.
  6. Speaker selection: Choose A, B, or both depending on setup.
  7. Headphone use: Automatically mutes speaker outputs when plugged in.
  8. Shutdown: Turn volume to minimum, then power off amplifier first.

WARNING! Never operate without proper load (speakers connected). Avoid extreme volume levels.

Phono Stage Setup

Proper configuration for turntable connection.

  1. Cartridge compatibility: Designed for Moving Magnet (MM) cartridges only.
  2. Input sensitivity: 2.5mV optimal for standard MM cartridges.
  3. Ground connection: Connect turntable ground wire to ground terminal.
  4. Loading: 47k ohm input impedance, 100pF capacitance suitable for most MM cartridges.
  5. Gain: Sufficient for standard MM output levels (3-8mV).

NOTE: Do not connect Moving Coil (MC) cartridges directly to phono input.

Care & Maintenance

Unplug before cleaning. Use soft, dry cloth for exterior. Avoid chemical cleaners.

Ventilation: Ensure adequate airflow around unit. Dust regularly with soft brush.

CAUTION! Do not use liquid cleaners. Keep away from moisture and extreme temperatures.

Regulatory Information

CE compliant; meets European safety standards. RoHS compliant (Restriction of Hazardous Substances). Copyright © Marantz. For support, visit www.marantz.com or contact authorized Marantz service centers.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
No sound from speakersVolume minimum/speaker selectionIncrease volume; check speaker A/B selection; verify connections
Distorted soundOverload/clippingReduce volume; check source signal level; verify impedance matching
Hum or noiseGrounding/cable issuesCheck ground connections; ensure proper cable routing; verify phono ground
One channel silentBalance control/cableCheck balance setting; verify RCA cable connection; swap cables to test
No powerPower cord/outletVerify power cord connection; check outlet function; ensure power switch on
OverheatingVentilation blockageEnsure adequate clearance; check for dust accumulation; reduce volume if excessive

Service: Contact authorized Marantz service center for internal repairs.

Support: www.marantz.com or local authorized dealer

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