REVIEW MARANTZ CD73 CDPLAYER
This is a front-loading player with a horizontally spinning disc. As a result, the height has been maintained to a minimum of 80mm, while the width (415mm) and depth (300mm) are 'full size'.
The disc drawer is mechanically complex: when you click the open/close button, the drawer slides out as the front tilts forward and the disc-clamp panel comes up at the same time.
Green illumination allows the disc to be seen during play through the top and front windows. An enlarged display screen has numbered green lights ranging from 1 to 15 indicating the total number of tracks on the disc, with amber lights underneath indicating the track currently being played.
Aside from playing a disc from start to finish, there is self-explanatory rewind, fast forward, 'next program,' repeat, and pause functions. Programming tracks (up to 15) in any desired sequence is accomplished by pushing a select button the requisite number of times (or holding it down until the required track number is displayed on the display) for each track and saving it in memory by pressing a 'preset' button.
This takes a little time to set up for a difficult sequence, but it works flawlessly—and the entire process can be set to repeat endlessly. Individual tracks in a sequence can be canceled or repeated, with the visual display displaying the specific tracks in the saved program at all times.
The arrangement of the controls along the lower edge of the front panel is reasonable, but mastering the versatile features available will take some experience. Except for the removal of any real-time indicator, the state of play is always clearly displayed.
Because no sound is heard when fast-forwarding or rewinding, trial and error must be employed to locate a cue within a track—the fast wind operating for as long as the button is held pressed, and play resumed when the button is released.
In terms of features and displays, the Marantz CD-73 falls somewhere in the middle. It gets excellent points for easy functioning and a sophisticated appearance—it has the appealing finish of the current Marantz 'separates,' such as the PM350 amplifier and ST450 tuner.
The rear panel connections contain the standard phono sockets for audio output, as well as receptacles for an optional infrared remote control kit. A two-pin connector is used for power, and a mains cable and phono leads are included.
The operational tests were quite good, and the measurements were superb. For example, frequency response was within 0.2dB, distortion was never greater than 0.0015 percent, and noise and crosstalk were kept below -90dB.
