MarantzModel 50 Pure Analog Stereo Integrated Amplifier (70W x 2) (Black)

This is solid and sounds very good. Be aware, it is heavy in weight. It has no DAC.

Pleasantly surprised by the sound quality. Prior to purchasing the Model 50, I used a Rotel RC-1570 connected to a Crown XLS-2500 amp. I was never fully satisfied with the sound this combo gave me, and auditioned a Model 30 integrated a few months ago. It sounded amazing, but I struggled with the 3,000 dollar price tag.I considered trying the Model 40, but I already had a DAC and a network player, so I didn't need an integrated with those functions. When I saw the Model 50 I hesitated to pull the trigger due to the 1800 dollar cost. All analog and still costing that much? But after listening to it several hours a day and swapping my Rotel/Crown combo back into my system to compare, I can say that the Model 50 is an amazing performer.The Model 30's 70 watts per channel push my Kef R7s without an issue in a medium-sized room. A solid MM phono preamp is built in, and will handle any MM cartridge (or high output MC) under $500 with ease. I compared it with the Cambridge Audio Alva Duo and Schiit Mani. The Marantz MM input bested both those. Too bad the Model 50 didn't have the solid MC preamp that the Model 30 does, or I could have gotten rid of my Luxman E250. Oh well, that is the only option I wish that the Model 50 came with.Bass from the Model 50 is authoritative and deep. The sound is warm and the soundstage is huge. Marantz is known for their warmer sound, but the Model 50 has plenty of sizzle when it needs it. Beautifully open and clear highs, a nice warm midrange, and solid bass. Who could ask for more?Multiple analog inputs, and the binding posts for the speaker look like they could be on a 300-watt per channel high-end amplifier. There are two sets in case you want to bi-wire.Just overall a really nice performer, so much stronger and capable when compared to the PM8006. It's a keeper for sure.

I bought the Model 50 after owning the Model 30 for about 2 years. I have no complaints and can highly recommend this amp. I use it in a smaller room than my main system. The amp drives a pair of KEF LS50 speakers with KEF KC62 sub. More than enough power and the sound met my expectations. There are good alternatives with built in DACs at this price point, but I like the simplicity of this unit. It does only one thing, but does it really well.

I tried this amp out on my system to see if it might be worth it to replace my Arcam. I stream through a Wiim and a Schiit Mani Dac, also have a turntable, tv audio, and Zu Omen II speakers. I did an A/B and it just wasn't better to me. I preferred the Arcam. This still retails for $1,800 and the Arcam when new was $1,500 (not that price dictates quality) The Arcam SA20 is now available on Amazon for $999. I'd say go that way. It has a built in DAC as well if you want to plug a tv in via optical or coax. This Marantz would need a DAC in between.

Sounds just as sweet driving my vintage 70's rebuilt Epicure 201 speakers as the 70's Marantz 3200 pre-amp and 140 power amp combo did back in da day! Marantz got this right, but obviously not for everyone because no internal allowances for digital medium and the stiff price. Just pure analog pleasure!

Solid state at a much higher level inputs and outputs like the older vintage units. Marantz hit the mark on this and I believe this unit can go toe to toe with many tube units. One reviewer gave this 3 stars I cannot see a Class G Arcam coming even close to this in sound. Sorry I can't believe that I think the grading should be the other way around. This Marantz probably runs in Class A for at least 10+ Watts the old Adcom GFA-545 ran for 15 watts in Class A before it blended with B. Arcam Class G really !!!! Most people won't play this unit that loud to blend ! I bet everybody listening to this Marantz Is in pure Class A. ZuOmen Speaker Is a great speaker but pairing it with an Arcam Class G is like having your ears drilled out. I opted for the Omega Super 7 Speakers over the Zu also very efficient but way less bright or in your face. The ZuOmen sounds best when paired up with a tube amplifier. Some people may say it doesn't have a DAC but that's a good thing you can use whatever DAC you want to even American manufactures.