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Marantz PM10 class D amp

Hi every one. I am in the market for a new amp.
Because of WAF, I have to go with integrated amps :( , but I just have to live with it.
My speakers are a pair of KEF ref1s with matching stands. My source is the SONY HAP-Z1ES Hi-Res HDD Audio Player.
My interconnects and speaker wires are mostly from AudioQuest.
I have narrow down to the following integrated amps (after a long search):
1. Lyngdorf tdai 3400
2. Yamaha AS3000
3. Marantz PM10 Class D
4. Mark Levinson integrated 383

I could found tons of review for every amps except the Marantz PM10 (very few reviews).
So, if any one has experience with the Marantz, please let me know. What it sound like, and what is its characteristic ??

Also, which amps will be the correct choice for my current set up ?

Thanks so much, it is wonderful to be a part of this audio community !! God bless you all !!
128x128viethluu
fred60
131 posts
 
Depending upon your wattage needs, I would recommend either a Hegel H190 or a Hegel H360 (which I own).  Just fantastic, musical, dynamic, detailed, and resolving amps.  H190 is $4000 which outputs 150w per channel @8 ohms and the H360 is $5700 and outputs 250w per channel also at 8 ohms.  Can drive any speaker.  Read the reviews.
celander's avatar
celander
1,503 posts
 
I would get a nice pair of ATC active monitors, say SCM25A's for about $8kUSD from sweetwater sound. Get rid of the KEF's and forget getting another amp. Think about a preamp with the savings.
celander's avatar
celander
1,503 posts
 
But if you love those KEF speakers, then consider this $4kUSD GaN-based Technics integrated amp that includes a GaN FET driver stage:
https://www.technics.com/us/products/grand-class-g30/network-audio-amplifier-su-g30.html
A review is available at this link:
https://hometheaterhifi.com/reviews/amplifier/integrated-amplifiers/technics-su-g30-network-audio-am...
kalali's avatar
kalali
1,977 posts
 
"How can you make statements in regards to amplifier performance/musicality when you are not using the same speakers to compare them (and maybe not even in the same room)?"

You have a fair point in principle but its certainly better than making statements/comparisons just based on on-paper measurements. If you spend the time to go and listen to different component combinations instead of looking at the specs, then your ears will be able to tell the difference. For example, I have heard the GE Reference speakers paired with other amps/preamps like McIntosh and Rogue tube amps and they sounded nowhere as hyper detailed and dry. Some people may prefer that sound. 
viethluu's avatar
viethluu OP
90 posts
 
You have a fair point in principle but its certainly better than making statements/comparisons just based on on-paper measurements. If you spend the time to go and listen to different component combinations instead of looking at the specs, then your ears will be able to tell the difference. For example, I have heard the GE Reference speakers paired with other amps/preamps like McIntosh and Rogue tube amps and they sounded nowhere as hyper detailed and dry. Some people may prefer that sound.

I agree with you. In real life, there is no way we can have a fully controlled observation. The best we can do is a subjective comparison between different setup. For example, I cannot just walk into a dealer and demand that the dealer swap out multiple amps for a demo if each amps weight more than 100 lbs. There is no way he can swap and carry things around like that. 

Also, using KEF ref1s is my requirement. I am not going to exchange these speakers for anything else. 

I have tried active speakers and like none of them. So, they are way outside of the discussion. 
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