Marantz America just announced that it is supporting the launch of its highly anticipated KI Pearl Hi-Fi components with an elegant hardcover coffee-table book (MSRP: $29.99) and specially created dual-layer SACD (MSRP: $49.99) which celebrate the 30th anniversary of its European Brand Director, legendary audio designer Ken Ishiwata. The book and SACD can be purchased together in a special 30th anniversary boxed set (MSRP: $74.99) or separately at select Marantz retailers. Like the upcoming KI Pearl units, including the SA-KI Pearl SACD Player (MSRP: $2,999) and the PM-KI Pearl Integrated Amplifier (MSRP: $3,599), the anniversary books and SACD are available in limited quantities only. (A limited number of the SA-KI Pearl units have already been released to Marantz retailers, with availability of the PM-KI Pearl scheduled for September 2009).

Both the book and CD offer unique insights into the life and work of Ken Ishiwata. The richly informative book not only spotlights Mr. Ishiwata's extraordinary career and his many achievements, but celebrates Marantz's commitment to making "Music Matter," which is exemplified in the KI Pearl Products. The meticulously engineered SACD features the music of well-known singer Katelijne van Otterloo, chosen by Mr. Ishiwata as a fellow perfectionist who understands emotional involvement in music. It contains 12 classic jazz numbers such as 'Summertime', 'Misty' and 'Girl from Ipanema,' each exemplifying Mr. Ishiwata's passion for music and reflect his ongoing quest for audio perfection. To create strikingly realistic and richly detailed stereo imaging, the hybrid SACD combines the music of 100% acoustic instruments with a simple sound stage.