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Speakers for Vintage Marantz ? Plus other Qs

I recently rescued a Marantz 2265B receiver, which I just had repaired by a competent technician. I'm now looking for used speakers to pair with this receiver, as well as ideas for an appropriate source.

Regarding the speakers, I have a very limited budget of up to $500 CAD, but I prefer to spend much less (~$200). I want something that has good synergy with the receiver, is capable of playing many genres well, and has decent but tuneful bass response. Unfortunately, the speakers will have to be placed very close to the back wall, which is made of brick, as the speakers will sit directly in front of a non-usable fireplace. The receiver is rated at 65wpc, which I assume is a conservative rating.

Given these constraints, I presume the most sensible choice would be vintage speakers ('70s-'80s), high efficiency (88dB+?), medium-sized cabinets, and front ported. Does this sound right? What specs should I look for when determining if a speaker would be suitable? I'm hoping to find something local on Canuck Audio Mart. Vintage B&W? Vintage JBL? What should I be looking for?

Regarding the source, I'm debating between using a tradition CDP, or perhaps integrating some PC audio. I'd really like to figure out how I can incorporate an iPhone 6 dock -- if they even exist -- so friends can simply plug in their phone when they come over for a visit. Any advice? The receiver will sit on top of an Ikea Expedit cabinet -- the one that everyone uses to store vinyl records -- so if I can fit a laptop in one of those squares, it would be nice if I could connect it directly to the receiver for high-res playback. I just don't know anything about the state of PC audio, or how it can be incorporated into vintage 2-channel setups.

Any advice would be greatly appreciated!
jferreir
rar1's avatar
rar1
1,782 posts
 
I used Marantz 2240 and 2216B receivers over a 10 year period from 1997 to 2007. I never bought into using vintage speakers with vintage receivers. I always used modern speakers and a CD player.

I had the best results with the Rega ARA (now RS1), NHT SB2 (now Classic Two) and Wharfedale Diamonds (both 9.0 and 10.1).

Speaker placement was always on a shelf or top of a bookcase and near to a rear wall.

Understanding how expensive audio can be in Canada, especially in shipping and import charges, take a look at these Polk bookshelves which may just work for you. A few years back, I had auditioned these speakers and liked them quite a bit.

Polk RTI A1

Polk RTI A1 Review

Rich
chrshanl37
835 posts
 
Yes different I agree but I didn't say that. I said no better. Audiophiles often equate different as better. I didn't recommend the ADS because they are vintage but because they are simply better made than anything that is currently selling new in that price range plus they are easy to drive. To each their own.
yakbob
470 posts
 
I own a few restored vintage Marantz units (1060, 2230 and 2245) and have run a number of speakers with them. I had the 1060 paired with a set of Design Acoustics PS-10s for a long time. The PS-10s we're built in the 80s and can be had in mint condition for $300 or less (usually found on the evil auction site). I had mine jammed right up against the wall with no I'll effects. They're sealed and feature a 10" down firing woofer. Most PS-10s (I also recommend their slightly bigger brother PS10a) have either had their woofers refoamed or woofers replaced with matching spec Dayton drivers. I've used both and Dayton drivers are better. Buying a set with replacement woofers shouldn't be seen as a downgrade.

Overall a nice smooth sound that compliments the Marantz nicely. If you can find a pair with the adjustable tweeter, all the better.
mesch
3,496 posts
 
Several speakers were recommended that have not heard, and therefore can’t comment on. That said, I owned a pair of Sound Dynamic 300ti for 15 years and they are a great speaker and a great deal if one could buy a pair in good condition for under $300. Wish I never sold mine. Regarding the Pioneer speakers, I own the SP-22bs and think they are great for the $130 asking price. They have a forgiving tonal balance and project a good soundstage with great imaging. I doubt the soundstaging character of these speakers can be appreciated when listened to while they are sitting on a shelf amongst an array of other speakers. Doubt either speaker would be at their best against the wall. I also have a pair of B&W 685s that are front ported and do work against the wall. They do come up used on AG from time to time.
rlwainwright
1,904 posts
 
Having sold what is now "vintage" equipment back in the day, I can promise you that the ADS L710 speakers are excellent speakers with well made cabinets and very good drivers and crossovers.

If you can find a nice pair in your price range, you should snag 'em. I think you'll be very happy with the sound quality...

-RW-
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