Marantz SC-7S2 solid state preamp- how good is it?

I’ve heard it under showroom conditions with the 9 monoblocks, and the sound was sublime. The dealer plugged in an Ayre preamp—forget the model—for the Marantz, and the sound suddenly became much more “hifi-ish,” for lack of a better word. Just not as musical or involving. Judging by that experience, I think the Marantz is a winner and worth your consideration.

thanks guys- good comments- the (few) reviews I have read seem to always pair it in the context of a 'full Marantz' system (with the MA-9S2 monoblocks)- was wondering how it was with other amps as well...

Hooper characterized the sound of the Marantz system as sublime-precisely the word a friend used to describe it a couple of days ago.
I don't know what speakers you are using, but with the Dynaudio's (which some refer to as "clinical- sounding")
the synergy seems very good.
In re: other amps, the aforementioned Carver tfm-cb is the only other amp I've heard it with and I've never heard it sound better.

I have owned this Marantz 4 years now and it is without doubt the best solid state preamp I owned or heard in 30 years in this hobby. Does it all and is so balanced and transparent with ultra low noise and distortion. Use it with my K-01 Esoteric SACD player and the McIntosh 402 amp. Speakers Dynaudio Confidence and Quads. Each sound excellent and both totally different technology's. if you can find one used buy it. 70 ohm output means it will work with almost any amp on the market.