Marantz - Project D-1 ((new))
One of the most unique features of the Project D-1 is its manual . Because mastering levels fluctuate drastically between different recording eras and musical genres, many CDs do not utilize the full bit-depth potential of the 16-bit container.
| Specification | Detail | | :--- | :--- | | | 1998-2000, 430 units (500 announced), 100V Japan-only model | | DAC Chip | 2x Philips TDA1541A S2 (Double Crown) per channel | | Frequency Response | 5Hz-20kHz ±0.5dB (fs=44.1kHz) | | Dynamic Range | 98dB or more | | S/N Ratio | 100dB | | THD | 0.005% (1kHz) | | Channel Separation | 96dB (1kHz) | | Digital Inputs | Coaxial (BNC), Optical, Balanced (XLR) | | Analog Outputs | Balanced (XLR), Unbalanced (RCA) | | Power Consumption | 38W | | Dimensions | 440 × 134 × 364mm | | Weight | 17.0kg |
The Marantz Project D-1 is a high-end turntable that competes with some of the best devices on the market. Here's a brief comparison to other popular turntables: marantz project d-1
A comparison with other legendary R-2R processors from that golden era, such as . Share public link
By using two chips, the D-1 achieves a fully balanced digital-to-analog conversion process, significantly improving channel separation and signal-to-noise ratios. One of the most unique features of the
This chip is a 16-bit monster. In an era where 1-bit Bitstream DACs were becoming cheap and plentiful (promising "smoothness"), Marantz stuck to multi-bit. The TDA1541 S1 offers vanishingly low distortion (-95dB) and incredible linearity. Purists argue that no modern Delta-Sigma chip has ever matched the organic "flow" of this chip.
At the core of the Project D-1 lies its most famous feature: a pair of legendary Philips TDA1541A S2 "Double Crown" DAC chips. The TDA1541A is an icon in the audio world, a true 16-bit multibit DAC known for its incredibly musical and natural sound. The "S2" or "Double Crown" designation was reserved for the absolute best of the best—chips that passed the most rigorous, multi-stage selection process to guarantee superior performance. In a time when other manufacturers were moving towards cheaper and more compact 1-bit solutions, Marantz sourced these rare, high-grade chips and implemented them in a dual-mono configuration, dedicating one chip per channel for optimal channel separation and soundstage definition. Here's a brief comparison to other popular turntables:
The D-1 is famous for its rendering of vocals. There is a richness and "wetness" to the midrange that makes digital music feel alive.
The Marantz Project D-1 is undoubtedly a significant investment, with a price tag to match its premium features and performance. However, for audiophiles seeking a high-end turntable that can deliver exceptional sound quality and precision engineering, the Project D-1 is an attractive option.