Current Reference Marantz PM-11S3 Integrated vs Previous Reference MA-9S2 amps for SQ
 

Any opinions on how the current Marantz Reference PM-11S3 integrated sounds compared the the previous generation Reference MA-9S2 mono amps? It does not seem that Marantz will be coming out with new Reference amps. Thanks!

[ame=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nri9QICjtR0]Marantz PM-11S3 Amplifier Review by AV LAND UK - YouTube[/ame]

Review video.

Thanks Tommy!

I saw that and think the new unit will be great.

Too bad Marantz is not continuing their Reference series.

Are you considering a second system? The PM-11S3 and SA-11S2 will make some very economic and great sounding combo. Throw in a pair of used GM/GE and you're set.

apologies, i can't answer the OP specific question but i do have a pair of MA 9S2, running B&W 800D. Sweet..contrary to what some have said, the Marantz are plenty tight on the low end, very nice definition, no fatigue at all, they seem to manhandle the 800D no problem. The top end is a little recessed..am thinking of trying to remedy that with some different cables. Anyway, i would guess the PM11s3 would sound similar, as long as you're not driving power hungry speakers with a difficult load to loud volumes. Not sure what the PM11s3 goes for, but you should be able to get a pair of the MA9S2 for well below 8k now.

Haven't listened to this piece, but did a little spec surfing. The PM11S3 will output 200w@4ohms and has one transformer for both channels. The MA9S2 will output 600w@4 ohms and being a mono-block has twice the power supply. It's probably better to compare the PM11S3 to the SA11S2 stereo amp, also discontinued. :tears:

Hi Tommy,

Price-wise the MA9S2's are not that bad for what you are getting. I have never heard a bad word about them and I have always wanted a pair for the heck of it. It probably will not happen, but I am considering the new Reference integrated and cd player for another system. I have it on good authority they are AWESOME!!!

Thanks Todd. I appreciate you feedback. I love the look of the gear too.

Joe, I think you're better off with a used Dartzeel integrated, or the rumoured integrated/dac. I don't want you to have to sell the new Marantz combo 2 months down the road :D

Ha!

:64714-slap:

I'm listening to the new Marantz S3 combo in my office right now. Dayam it's hard to get any work done in here :D

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