These days, it hardly makes sense to add a new component to your hi-fi system if it doesn't do high-res and streaming. But what to do with all of those old-school Compact Discs that you just can't be bothered to rip to your NAS? That's where something like Marantz' M-CR612 comes in.

An update of the soon-to-be-four-year-old M-CR611, the new M-CR612 features support for Sound United's HEOS wireless multiroom streaming platform and Amazon Alexa/Google Assistant/Apple Siri voice control, as well as a few upgrades like support for 5.6 MHz DSD.

More details directly from Marantz:

Marantz, manufacturer of the world's most musical-sounding audio components, today announced the Marantz M-CR612 compact network CD receiver. The feature-rich Hi-Fi mini system is ideal for passionate listeners looking for a simple solution without sacrificing the beautiful soundstage and imaging typical of Marantz components. The M-CR612 offers streaming capabilities with HEOS, Airplay 2 and Bluetooth alongside a built-in CD player for exceptional reproduction of any audio collection. Powerful enough to drive two pairs of loudspeakers with independent volume control or a single pair with double the output power, the M-CR612 encapsulates 65 years of Hi-Fi expertise in a superbly crafted, easy-to-enjoy package.

"Music enthusiasts want easy access to as much content as possible without sacrificing performance, quality or adding boundaries to entry. This is especially true in an age where content can be accessed by simply asking a voice assistant," said Emmanuel Millot, global brand director at Marantz. "The M-CR612 delivers that unique musical Marantz sound listeners love, while also offering voice-accessible streaming and multi-room listening capabilities. If you're looking for a compact Hi-Fi source without compromising on performance and features for a smaller listening space, this networked CD receiver is an excellent choice."

Networked Flexibility
The M-CR612 enables users to easily stream content from their favorite sources, including TuneIn, Pandora, Spotify, SiriusXM, Amazon Prime Music, TIDAL, local file content and more via the HEOS app, AirPlay 2 and Bluetooth. The network receiver will also play CDs, WMA/MP3 (CD-R/RW) and features an AM/FM tuner for added listening flexibility.

In addition, users can connect their TV or cable/satellite set-top-box to one of the two digital audio inputs to enjoy full dynamic range digital audio playback of their favorite movies and TV shows. It can also automatically wake when sensing an audio signal from the television and be programmed to work with a TV's remote for volume, mute and source selection.

Access & Control Music with Your Voice
Enjoy effortless voice control and total flexibility from the leading voice agents, including Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant or Apple Siri^[1]. The M-CR612 will play users' favorite music, turn up the volume, skip to the next track, switch inputs, and much more by simply asking. For added flexibility, users can switch between voice agents, or pick a favorite to use regularly.

Hi-Res Listening with Ample Power Delivery
The Marantz M-CR612 decodes hi-resolution audio ALAC, FLAC and WAV lossless files up to 24-bit/192-kHz, as well as DSD 2.8MHz and 5.6MHz tracks, ensuring users have access to their largest files to enjoy music as the artist intended. It will also play CD, WMA/MP3 (CD-R/RW) and features an AM/FM tuner for users who play music from a variety of sources. Power and connectivity to suit your audio preference: 60W x 2ch (6 ohms), or 4x 30W for speaker A/B with individual volume setting with the option to connect a pair of audiophile bi-amp compatible speakers as well.

Designed with the modern audiophile in mind and crafted with superior materials that elevate audio quality. Fully optimized to reproduce the best audio performance possible, the compact signal paths reduce distortion and improve sound. Premium passive and active components amplify precision sound and audio quality.

Small, Yet Beautiful Footprint for Easy Placement
Listeners can place the M-CR612 anywhere they like with its compact chassis, which features upgraded cosmetics including a durable acrylic top plate cover. Deluxe vertical lighting accents on the front panel offer four user-selectable choices to perfectly match your taste. The front panel features a clear, legible three-line OLED display.

The Marantz M-CR612 Network CD Receiver ($699) is currently available at all authorized Marantz retailers and online at us.marantz.com.

Additional Resources
• Visit the Marantz website for more product information.
• Check out our Audio Player Reviews category page to read similar reviews.
• Marantz ND8006 Network CD Player/DAC Reviewed at HomeTheaterReview.com.