Marantz KI Pearl Limited Edition

[Face]

Originally Posted by Dj_AmTraX

I didn't realize the CD player has Digital In.

Both the SA-15S2 and Pearl do.

[Dj_AmTraX]

I heard that the Pearls aren't selling as well as they had planned.

[jdandy]

DJ.......Perhaps the SA-KI Pearl SACD Player would have seemed more attractive to perspective buyers with balanced outs in addition to the RCA outputs, and a coaxial digital input in addition to the single toslink optical digital input. I don't look at the player as that special when balanced outputs have been omitted.

[JT3]

Originally Posted by Dj_AmTraX

I heard that the Pearls aren't selling as well as they had planned.

Curious where you heard that, although I would likely agree. And for the most part I think Marantz did a good job of marketing them, their special EU website is really cool. Not a single negative review on either unit, and really for the money they're outstanding units.

That music direct combo package is an excellent deal, they probably should have done that from the beginning.

It is my opinion they operate optimally together.

[cmalak]

JT3...how long have you had the Pearls (i remember you posted pics when you first got them a few months ago I am guessing it was)? Do you find that the integrated amp has enough juice to drive the Ushers with ease? I believe the BE718 are rated as 87dB sensitivity but when Sterophile reviewed the unit, John Atkinson's measurements found them to be closer to 85dB sensitivity. But his measurements also showed that they stayed above 6ohms throughout the bass and midrange frequencies, dipping below 6ohms briefly in the treble region (looks like between 2.5kHz and 4kHz). There is a combination of 5.7ohms and -41 degrees electrical phase angle at 2.5kHz that presents a bit of a tough load for the partnering amp that prevents it from being rated an easy load for partnering amp according to JA. Just wandering what your experiences have been with the Marantz Pearl amplification? From your comments above, I am guessing you are enjoying them which is as it should be

Here's a link to the measurements section of the review on Stereophile: Stereophile: Usher Audio Technology Be-718 loudspeaker

[Still-One]

I think part of that is until recently Ken Ishiwata received very little press in the US. In Europe his name is well know as the British rags have reviewed several Marantz units that he has tweaked for the UK market.

[Tonepub]

I didn't have a problem driving my Magnepan 1.6's with the Pearl. It's a nice amp...

[tdelahanty]

Originally Posted by Masterlu

I have always liked the looks of Marantz gear, but went right to McIntosh

I think you made a wise decision, especially if resale value is an issue. I love the Marantz gear too and owned a ton of it. It was my gateway to highend audio when I was very young. Always wanted a 10B tuner. Very fond memories !

[JT3]

cmalak, thanks for the info. The Usher's do have a reputation for being power hungry, but the Pearl has no trouble driving them. Physically it's quite a robust integrated.

[Still-One]

Originally Posted by Dj_AmTraX

I heard that the Pearls aren't selling as well as they had planned.

They are listed in the Music Direct flyer I just received for 30% off. Under $5k for both.