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Marantz MM7025 or Rotel RB1510 amp to augment a Marantz PM8004

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I currently use a Marantz PM8004 integrated amp with a pair of Monitor Audio RX-2 speakers and Paradigm sub. I do like the sound of the system but I often find myself wanting a more cleaner sound. The Marantz PM8004 integrated amp is an excellent sounding stereo. So PLEASE do not get me wrong about this. But it's inherent sound characteristic is it's very laid back.

Having a NAD C326BEE as my second system I often I find myself wanting some of that charateristic in my main system. I have tried the NAD's amp section on the Marantz PM8004's preamp. Excellent sounding but it is a little to bright for my wife to enjoy. What I have found it the Marantz PM8004 does have an EXCELLENT preamp section.

So what I was thinking of was using a separate amp like the Marantz MM7025, or possibly the Rotel RB1510. But I fear that the Rotel may be bright and the Marantz may be the same as what I already have.

I prefer the fact the the Marantz will be a cosmetically matching system.

And I would prefer the Marantz to be at the very top end of my budget - $700.

Any recommendations or thoughts before I pull any triggers????

charles

Follow Ups:

RE: Marantz MM7025 or Rotel RB1510 amp to augment a Marantz PM8004 - dvb 15:06:45 10/13/12 (0)
I'm coming to these threads long after the fact, but I am very surprised that you are finding the amp part of the NAD 326BEE bright - most of the professional reviews describe it as on the "dark", perhaps the result of biasing its sound towards the bass. That is also my perception.
RE: Marantz MM7025 or Rotel RB1510 amp to augment a Marantz PM8004 - slippers... 14:59:24 06/03/12 (1)
Seems like you really have a problem with the sound of your gear. You think it sounds to laid back, and wife think NAD/Marantz sound bright. So I think you need to find something with a sound in the middle. Personally I like Marantz..especially the reference gear, but that stuffs way out of your price.
- The MM7025 is built from the Reference series SM-11 amp - airtime 16:49:39 06/03/12 (0)
  the 7025 is the reference series SM-11 amp, only scaled down to 130 watts. It uses the same circuits and caps as the upgraded reference series. Just comes in black instead of the beautiful champagna chassis
  
  charles
After years of listening and comparing I've concluded - Otis 14:35:09 06/03/12 (2)
a few things about each of the mentioned brands --

that I like NAD preamp sections but detest their amps.

That (for SS) Rotels are pretty good all-arounders, and

I don't like Marantz's at all, soundwise. They do have a nice appearance though.

And lastly, that it's 'ok' to prefer one thing or another.

Not much help, but I wish you well with the experiments. :)
- Rotel leads for sound - Marantz for looks - airtime 15:08:59 06/03/12 (1)
  I appreciate other opinions and welcome them with an open mind. I'm not brand dedicated (or blind).
  
  I agree with a lot of what you are saying. The Marantz "house sound" is a more laid back style.
  
  While I enjoy and agree with your assesment of NAD, for the price those little buggers are hard to beat.
  
  I have found the following:
  
  1- NAD C326BEE preamp used with the Marantz PM8004 as an amp:
  It's grainy and seems to lack focus. I have a feeling that is because of the Marantz, being I've tried the NAD on a few other pieces and NEVER had that problem.
  
  2- Marantz PM8004 preamp used with the NAD C326BEE amp. I did like the sound but the NAD was far too bright. Although the imaging was fantastic and crystal clear - it did leave you with listening fatigue after an hour or so. Actually my wife can't stand that combo. Also I find it lacks a real sense of midrange.
  
  3- I find the preamp section of the Marantz PM8004 to be quite good. I've tried it with a number of othe pieces and it consistently sounds good.
  
  I think I am leaning towards the Rotel amp.
  
  charles
  - Yep, Rotel is very good. - Otis 19:13:23 06/03/12 (0)
    They're reliable, powerful, and do almost everything right. You could do MUCH worse. Mrs Airtime's opinion shouldn't be discounted, so the Marantz/NAD pairing is a loser for this purpose.
    
    For a few other off-beat ideas, there are modern 'value' amps like the Behringer, an H/K, or something class D or T (won't drive sub though) or perhaps a semi-vintage McIntosh.
    
    You've got lots of fun ahead, that's for sure!

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