AirPlay is now available as an upgrade to some models of network-capable Denon and Marantz A/V Home Theater Receivers. While AirPlay can stream photos and video as well as music, these receivers will only stream music directly from iPhones, iPads, iPods and iTunes libraries.
The compatible Denon A/V Home Theater receivers include: the AVR-4311CI; the AVR-3311CI; the AVR-991; and the upcoming Denon 100th Anniversary model, the AVR-A100, and RCD-N7 Network receiver with built-in CD player.
The compatible Marantz models include: the SR7005; the AV7005 Preamplifier; and the upcoming NA 7004 Network Audio Player, and M-CR603 Networked Receiver with built-in CD player.
Owners of these AV receivers can upgrade using the "Features Upgrade" option in their device's menu. Upgrades can be purchased on both the Denon and Marantz websites for $49.99.
It has been possible to stream music from iPhones and iPods by connecting them directly to compatible AV receivers. To use AirPlay the Denon or Marantz receiver must be connected to the same home network as the iPhone, iPod, iPad or iTunes library.
Now you can stream music directly from iTunes on your Mac or PC. Once you have upgraded and connected your AV receiver, it will be listed under the AirPlay icon as an option. Simply choose the AV receiver in the drop-down menu to stream music to your sound system. With the free "Remote" app on your iPhone, iPod or iPad, you can control playback--choosing playlists, songs, skipping, pausing and so forth.
Because AirPlay works wirelessly, it adds mobility to the streaming music experience. That is, you can walk around with your iPhone, iPod or iPad and send the music to the AV receiver from any room in your house.
The other benefit of AirPlay is that the song information --cover art, artist, year, song title -- can be displayed onscreen when the AV receiver's video output is connected to a TV.
Some of the Marantz AV Receivers also have M-DAX 2. This feature makes the iTunes music sound better by calculating the amount of high frequency info used in digital music compression and restoring it to full fidelity. So, not only can you play iTunes easily on your AV receiver, it will sound better than ever on your high quality big speakers.
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