Marantz Service Manual MA700

The Marantz MA700 is a high-performance monaural power amplifier featuring advanced circuitry, robust power output, and professional-grade components. This service manual covers technical specifications, circuit diagrams, troubleshooting procedures, calibration instructions, and maintenance guidelines for qualified service technicians. Below are key sections for technical overview, specifications, block diagrams, adjustment procedures, and service information.

1. Technical Overview 2. Specifications 3. Block Diagrams 4. Circuit Description 5. Adjustment Procedures 6. Troubleshooting 7. Parts List 8. PCB Layouts 9. Safety Precautions 10. Service Notes

Technical Overview

The MA700 monaural power amplifier utilizes high-current discrete output stages, toroidal power transformer, and advanced protection circuitry for reliable performance in professional and high-end audio applications.

ComponentDescription
Power TransformerToroidal design for low magnetic leakage
Output StageDiscrete transistors with high current capability
Protection CircuitryDC offset, overcurrent, and thermal protection
Input StageBalanced and unbalanced inputs with selector
Power SupplyDual rail supply with large filter capacitors
Heat SinkExtruded aluminum with forced air capability
Binding PostsHeavy-duty 5-way speaker terminals
RCA InputsGold-plated unbalanced inputs
XLR InputsProfessional balanced inputs
Power SwitchMain power with standby function

Specifications

Block Diagrams

System block diagram showing signal flow from input to output stages.

  1. Input Selector: Chooses between balanced (XLR) and unbalanced (RCA) inputs
  2. Input Buffer: High-impedance input stage with gain adjustment
  3. Voltage Amplifier: Differential amplifier with current mirror load
  4. Driver Stage: Class A driver for output transistors
  5. Output Stage: Complementary triple Darlington configuration
  6. Protection Circuit: Monitors DC offset, current, and temperature
  7. Power Supply: Toroidal transformer with bridge rectifier and filter caps

NOTE: Refer to schematic diagrams for detailed component values and connections.

Circuit Description

Detailed explanation of major circuit sections and their operation.

Input Stage: JFET input differential pair with current source load provides high input impedance and low noise. Balanced inputs use instrumentation amplifier configuration.

Voltage Gain Stage: Cascode configuration with constant current source for high bandwidth and linearity. Local feedback networks determine gain characteristics.

Output Stage: Complementary symmetry with triple Darlington pairs for high current capability. Emitter resistors provide current sharing and thermal stability.

Protection Circuits: DC servo circuit maintains output offset below 10mV. VI limiter protects against short circuits. Thermal sensor shuts down amplifier at 85°C.

Adjustment Procedures

Factory calibration and adjustment procedures for service technicians.

  1. DC Offset Adjustment: Measure output terminals with no signal, adjust VR101 for <10mV DC
  2. Bias Current Adjustment: Measure voltage across emitter resistors, adjust VR102 for 25mV
  3. Gain Matching: Verify both channels within 0.1dB using 1kHz test signal
  4. Protection Threshold: Verify protection circuits activate at specified limits
  5. Thermal Calibration: Confirm thermal shutdown at 85°C heatsink temperature

WARNING! Use isolation transformer when servicing live circuits. Discharge power supply capacitors before working.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
No outputProtection circuit activeCheck for shorted outputs; measure DC offset; verify fuse integrity
Distorted soundBias current incorrectAdjust bias current per procedure; check output transistors
Excessive humGround loop/power supplyVerify grounding; check filter capacitors; inspect rectifier diodes
Intermittent operationThermal protectionCheck fan operation; clean heatsink; verify thermal sensor
Channel imbalanceGain mismatchMeasure and match gain between channels; check input selector
Protection LED litFault conditionReset amplifier; diagnose specific protection circuit

Parts List

Critical replacement parts with manufacturer part numbers.

Part NumberDescriptionQty
MA700-001Main PCB Assembly1
MA700-002Power Supply PCB1
MA700-003Toroidal Transformer1
MA700-004Output Transistor Set2
MA700-005Driver Transistor Set4
MA700-006Main Filter Capacitors4
MA700-007Thermal Sensor1
MA700-008Front Panel Assembly1
MA700-009Binding Post Set2
MA700-010RCA/XLR Input Board1

PCB Layouts

Detailed printed circuit board layouts with component placement and trace routing.

  1. Main Amplifier Board: Top and bottom layer views with component designations
  2. Power Supply Board: Rectifier and filter section layout
  3. Input Board: Balanced/unbalanced input circuitry
  4. Protection Board: Protection and control circuitry
  5. Grounding Scheme: Star grounding implementation details

NOTE: Use exact replacement parts to maintain performance and reliability.

Safety Precautions

Essential safety procedures for service personnel.

DANGER! Lethal voltages present in power supply section. Qualified personnel only.

Service Notes

Important service information and common repair procedures.

Warranty Service: Record serial number and date of service. Use only genuine Marantz parts.

Performance Verification: After repair, verify specifications meet original factory standards.

Documentation: Update service records with detailed repair information and test results.

Technical Support: Contact Marantz technical support for schematic updates and service bulletins.

Service Centers: Authorized service centers listed at www.marantz.com

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