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

has anyone auditioned this reference preamp from Marantz and/or compared it to anything else at the ~$4k used price point? Any comments appreciated on how this stacks up- not may reviews out there...
sutts
phillyb's avatar
phillyb
402 posts
 
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. 
rascerman
12 posts
 

The 7 years I spent with my pair of SC-7S2’s, yes I run then mono, the MA-9S2’s, and SA-7S1 mated to M/L CLX’s with 2 Decent i’s where great sonic times for me. Until I had an uninvited guest come calling well I was out. Would have gone into retirement with these.

As I recall the thing I remember was the appsense of the electronics in the room if you will. Build the whole system you will be happy.

dayglow
1,955 posts
 
I realize the last post was almost 3 years ago, but i'm considering purchasing one. My concern is with the XLR inputs/outputs. Are they reversed? Designed to work optimally with other Marantz gear? My source is a North Star Sapphire which performs best in balanced mode. Has anyone had issues when using non Marantz components with the SC-7S2?
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