2. amps-preamps
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High End Intergraded comparisons, Marantz, McIntosh, Levinson, Luxman....

Ive been trying to listen to higher end integrated amps but its not easy. 

Im looking for owners comparisons. 

 

I had a Marantz PM-KI Ruby that replaced lots of low powered SET gear with high efficient speakers im no longer using. 

I settled on a nice old pair of KEF Reference Model Fours from about 1999-2000. They are very hungry speakers. Very revealing. 

The Marantz Ruby was rather nice in all ways. 

Im trying a marantz PM-10s1 and although i was expecting a Bigger Better Ruby it turned out to be much more than that. I also got it for about 35% off list so it dramatically lowered the price point compared to competitive brands and products. 

I dont really want any DAC in the box. I actually wanted a good phono stage. Id buy a unit with a DAC but I wont be using it and I Do need a phono stage for a Rega with a AT OC9 MC cart. Limits choices based on additional costs. 

The PM-10 has a Much larger soundstage. Larger and tighter focused images. Wide, Tall and Deep. Much more detail and inner detail. Crystal clear presentation. Very tight and deep bass. Punch and slam. Very life-like presentation of instruments and vocals. Not necessarily bright but extended. Im rather happy but also very surprised. 

I feel maybe I should be exploring some other Integrated amps before settling in on this PM-10. Not easy. They cost allot to ship, return. 

The McIntosh MA7900 is an option but its more money than I spent and im not sure how it compares to the Marantz PM-10. Many say they are very similar in sound character. 

The Mark Levinson 5805 is also a bit more money and is said to be more so detailed and brighter. Is that true? Ive read the PM-10 is smoother and richer. I dont want any more detail or brightness. 

The Hegel 390 and MF MX8 lack phono which drives up the cost for me. Im not sure of their character in comparison to a McIntosh or Marantz. 

The Luxman seems to be one to try, the 507uxii but it has much lower power and some say its rather bright with a bass boom. 

 

Appreciate peoples comments based on what you've heard. 

 

steviet
jbhiller's avatar
jbhiller
1,430 posts
 

@steviet,  Thank you for this post.  The subject matter interests me as I am a bit of a tube head, but I bought the Ruby (both integrated and DAC/SACD) on sale from Music Direct--just had to try Ken Ishiwat's final piece, which he said was his greatest accomplishment. The Ruby is nearly outstanding.  

So your post that upgrading in the Marantz line to the flagship is influential to me. If you think it's a big step up from the Ruby I'd like to hear it.  Instantly my mind thinks, I could trade the Ruby (both amp and CD/DAC) back into MD for your Marantz and just use my tube DAC with it. 

@bikesandguitars , Interesting!  I too have a Chinook and I honestly could give it up for the phono in the Ruby.  I've gone back and forth a couple of times between them, critically listening (or trying to!) for differences.  They do have sound differences, but just as you say I could use the Ruby and be quite happy--not feeling I'm giving anything up. That's pretty great. 

david_ten
5,480 posts
 

More examples and options: in the  "High End" Integrateds thread by member @keithr 

 

 

 

 

dmyersmd
16 posts
 

Ypsilon Electronics Phaethon and be done with it.

 

pabs85
53 posts
 

@curiousjim love this, thanks for sharing. I love the tone of the speakers, but the amp is so good that I was hoping it was the speakers that lacked the aggression. In the future it’s an upgrade to the speakers I can now look forward to auditioning. 

larry5729's avatar
larry5729
1,008 posts
 

I have the largest surround receiver Murantz makes.  I certainly would not consider anything Murantz makes as audiophile.  Luxman would be my first pick.  However, they cost $11,000 retail.  I can buy one for $7,000.

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