Portal Audio Panache or Marantz PM8004

Cannot speak to the Portal unit as i have not heard it. From what i have read, it would indeed be worth consideration. The Marantz I own, and it is great. I use it in a secondary system. It is not quite my primary system McIntosh MA6600, but darn good. It could easily serve as my main amp. Having as many features such as remote, headphone and HT pass through and phono input I value. I appreciate gear one can grow into if need be.

Beyond features of course is the sound coming out of it. It is sweet, well constructed, handsome, it is very, very good.

Post your result. Happy hunting.

I've owned the Panache and have listened to the Marantz. Soundwise, they are both excellent with the Portal a bit warmer sounding while the Marantz a bit more neutral. I'd give the edge on detail to the Marantz.

The real difference IMO is in the features, as you point out. Because the Marantz includes the remote and a phono stage for around the same price as the Portal, I'd go with the Marantz. I think you could probably even find a PM8004 for significantly cheaper than $800 if you're patient. You may also have a hard time finding a used Panache--there just aren't that many of them out there.

I have the Panache and think it sounds great, and do not miss the features at all. In addition, if you listen to headphones, the headphone jack on the Portal is connected to the main amp and is as good as many headphone amps selling for the price of the Panache.