Marantz Model 120

Name: Marantz Model 120
Brand: Marantz

Introduction

The Marantz Model 120 is an FM stereo tuner. Marantz positioned it as a more accessible component in the lineup, for the listener who wanted excellent reception and sound quality but not the absolute top-tier performance of flagship models like the Model 10B. It was a companion to integrated amplifiers and receivers of the era, such as the Model 1060 amplifier.

The Model 120 has a strong reputation for its build, its straightforward operation, and the warm, musical sound of vintage Marantz gear. It is not as technologically complex or as visually striking as some of its contemporaries. It is widely regarded as a reliable and sonically pleasing workhorse. Collectors and enthusiasts seek it out to build a period-correct system with that Marantz tonal character.

Specifications

Category	Specification
General
Type	FM Stereo Tuner
Tuning Range	88 MHz to 108 MHz
Usable Sensitivity (IHF)	2.0 µV
Capture Ratio	3.0 dB
Selectivity	60 dB
Signal-to-Noise Ratio	70 dB
Harmonic Distortion (Mono/Stereo)	0.3% / 0.5%
Stereo Separation	35 dB at 1 kHz
Physical
Dimensions (W x H x D)	16.5" x 4.75" x 13" (approx.)
Weight	18 lbs (approx.)
Finish	Brushed aluminum faceplate with blue backlit dial, walnut side panels
Technical Features
Tuning	Flywheel-driven analog dial with tuning meter
Multiplex Decoder	Phase-Locked Loop (PLL) stereo decoder
Outputs	Fixed & Variable audio outputs, 300-ohm antenna terminals
Indicators	Tuning meter, Stereo indicator lamp
Power Requirements	117V AC, 60 Hz, 25 Watts

Historical Context

The Marantz Model 120 was introduced in the late 1960s, a period of explosive growth for high-fidelity stereo components. It arrived after the Model 10B, and it gave a broader market a more practical and affordable FM tuner. It put the Marantz name, and the quality that came with it, into more living rooms. FM broadcasting was maturing at the time, with more stations offering high-quality stereo programming, and the Model 120 was timed to catch that market. It helped build Marantz's reputation for excellent, reliable mainstream components as well as exotic statement pieces.

Design Features

The Model 120 has the classic Marantz look of the era: a substantial brushed aluminum faceplate dominated by a large, blue-backlit tuning dial with a smooth flywheel tuning action. The layout is clean and functional, with a centrally placed signal strength/tuning meter and a prominent stereo indicator lamp. Build quality is excellent. The heavy steel chassis provides shielding and reduces microphonics. The walnut wood side panels match other Marantz components, so a rack looks unified. The Phase-Locked Loop (PLL) stereo decoder was a modern advancement for its time, and it gives stable, quiet stereo reception with good separation. Both fixed and variable audio outputs are fitted, which makes it flexible to connect to various amplifiers.