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The Marantz MCR603 Melody Media brings together their popular mini system with the latest in streaming music technology.

At first sight, the Melody Media MCR603 looks like other Marantz mini systems. This is no bad thing when you consider how highly rated systems such as the MCR502 are. Where rivals offer around 20 watts of power the Marantz doubles this with a power output of 40 watts (8 ohms). This gives it far greater punch and depth of bass than many of its rivals. Another advantage of that extra power is that it gives you the opportunity to have an extra pair of speakers in another room or bi-amp your system for an even more expansive sound. Added to this, the digital amplification uses digital filters to tailor the sound to your personal preference.

Marantz make some of the best CD players, so it's little surprise to find the MCR603 comes equipped with a superior quality deck. Furthermore, it will also play MP3 and WMA music files. Coupled with this is a front-mounted USB socket that's perfect for plugging in your iPod, MP3 player or other digital media device. A choice of DAB, DAB+ or FM gives you access to a wide range of local and national stations.

Complete convergance of all your media!

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Impressive stuff so far, but dig a little deeper and you'll see a whole range of hidden benefits. The MCR603 is one of the first hi-fi systems that's compatible with Apple AirPlay. With AirPlay you can send your stored music on your iPhone or iPod Touch straight to the hi-fi - no dock or cables required! AirPlay is cost option on this model. With an Ethernet connection you can also connect the M-CR603 to your home network hub and enjoy a wide range of advantages. Accessing Internet radio gives the choice of thousands of radio stations from around the world. Napster is also supported, meaning that you never need buy another CD again! Thanks to DLNA certification, you can also stream music from your PC or NAS (Network Attached Storage) system, allowing the Marantz to control and playback your whole library of music.

It's not just in sound quality and features where the Marantz tramples it competitors, but in terms of looks, too. The smoothly contoured aluminium case is perfectly set off by the gloss black lid. Thanks to intuitively grouped controls, such style doesn't come at the expense of ease of use, either.

For a mini system that makes the most of both old and new music formats, the MCR603 is the consummate all-rounder.

• 60 Watts x 2 channels into 6 ohm RMS