Ruby owner here (integrated first, followed by SACD player): I’ve been extremely pleased with both pieces, but especially the amp, as I’ve shared in other posts here & on Hoffman’s board.
I did not audition the MF; I’m sure it’s a fine unit.
To summarize, I find the Marantz open, fast, non-fatiguing, with a very good phono section & headphone amp. A little while back I switched in an old iron lung power cord (and a new Amazon sourced hospital grade $15 power cord); I continue to shake my head as to just how good this thing sounds. Believe I’m in for the long-haul with this one, I can squander my $$ on other things now...
Looking at both Rubies together as a system, the convenience of a common remote to control the amp & silver disc spinner has grown on me and girlfriend; she’s comfortable using and enjoys listening to the system. (Think long-term, big picture here..) I can use the DAC in the SACD with a streamer. Food for thought, esp with the prices on the amp coming down.
Hope this helps, feel free to pm me with any questions.
I did not audition the MF; I’m sure it’s a fine unit.
To summarize, I find the Marantz open, fast, non-fatiguing, with a very good phono section & headphone amp. A little while back I switched in an old iron lung power cord (and a new Amazon sourced hospital grade $15 power cord); I continue to shake my head as to just how good this thing sounds. Believe I’m in for the long-haul with this one, I can squander my $$ on other things now...
Looking at both Rubies together as a system, the convenience of a common remote to control the amp & silver disc spinner has grown on me and girlfriend; she’s comfortable using and enjoys listening to the system. (Think long-term, big picture here..) I can use the DAC in the SACD with a streamer. Food for thought, esp with the prices on the amp coming down.
Hope this helps, feel free to pm me with any questions.