Product Description
New Tri (Bass/Mid/Treble) tone control for more flexible sound adjusment, marantz original metal speaker terminal SPKT-1 x2 pair, Fully discrete current-feedback amplifier, Fully discrete constant current feedback phono preamplifier, marantz HDAM-SA3 circuits, Double-shielded large capacity toroidal power transformer, marantz custom tuned power supply capacitors, Short power line layout, High instantaneous peak current capability, Audiophile-grade semiconductors throughout, Separate input buffer for exclusive CD/for common other inputs, Speaker A/B switching, "Power Amp Direct" input, Pre outputs, Source Direct mode, Gold plated terminals, Triple layer bottom chassis, System Remote, Detachable Power codeReviews
5.0 out of 5 stars Marantz PM8004 Integrated Amp, November 7, 2010
This review is from: Marantz PM8004 Integrated Amplifier (Black) (Electronics)
This is an impeccable amp, especially at this price range. I picked one up from my local retailer for $750.00 when they were supposedly having a buy it at our cost sale and it is a great value for that amount. I have heard Rotel, Peachtree, Bel Canto, Denon, Onkyo, Classé, NAD, Yamaha, and many other integrated amps, but this amp stands up to, and in most cases, exceeds every one of those in sound quality. Unless you are talking about a high dollar monoblock or tube amplifier from a manufacturer such as Mcintosh, I am going to recommend this Marantz PM8004 all day. I am obsessed with electronics, I have tons of technology in my collection, but at the moment I have this Marantz hooked up to a pair of Revel F-12 floorstanding speakers for my music and I could not be more pleased. You won't find a better amp in the 700-1100 dollar price range, I have tried.5.0 out of 5 stars Marantz PM8004, February 21, 2011
By
charles meyer -
This review is from: Marantz PM8004 Integrated Amplifier (Black) (Electronics)
I have been most active with vintage Marantz gear for over 20 years. But the last few years I have been enjoying new gear.The speakers I used were both full range 10" woofer three ways as well as a 2.1 setup using a 6.5" woofer DIY monitor with a powered sub. The first thing that pops out at you is how stylish and well built the 8004 is. The feel and look just scream quality and class. It is not just another "black box" stereo. This amp has personality and looks. Marantz seems to be getting back to it's roots of making good looking gear like their big 70's receivers. As well as going back to the Tritone tone controls.
After both the honeymoon and break in period I did some serious listening on both sets of speakers. I was quite taken with the clarity, detail and 3D like imaging. But it does differ from many other new amps as described below.
The treble is very nice. Not beamy or harsh but very smooth and airy. Easy to listen to with no listening fatique.
The midrange and upper bass is were this beast seems to come alive. A tremendous amount of detail, force and Razor sharp dynamics in the midrange. This amp had dynamics and clarity in spades!!!!! Here is were the major differences begin.
The bass is very lush and full. This amp has NO problem in the bass department when using either a powered sub or a passive three way speakers with a 10" woofer. The bass is strong, dynamic and Very well controlled. Not boomy or slow. but well balanced.
The overall sound I would describe this amp as: "very full and dynamic sounding and made for listening". Reminiscent of the sound of the big 70's receivers. But again with far more clarity and razor sharp dynamics.
I use my Marantz 8004 almost entirely for classical low level listening. So detail, clarity and imaging at low levels are my main needs. The 8004 carries it off without missing a beat. At low levels this amp maintains it's great dynamic sound.
I really can not say enough about this amp other than that I am very happy with it. And I consider myself an audiophile. If you are reading this a trying to decide between two amps, and the other amp is cheaper, my advice is save up and get the Marantz 8004
1.0 out of 5 stars bad sound, December 20, 2010
This review is from: Marantz PM8004 Integrated Amplifier (Black) (Electronics)
I am disappointed by the Marantz PM 8004. First, the sound lacks punch and clarity. One important thing to know is that, given this amp is far from giving a balanced sound, the result will be catastrophic if you use it with a CD player from another brand. I am surprised the other reviewer wrote it sounds better than Classé given that Classé amplifiers are high-end, balanced amplifiers.
Second, the amplifier makes a huge slam after around 7 seconds after you turn it on. In the manual, they say it is normal.
Finally, it is impossible to adjust volume using the remote control: pressing very slightly on the "up" volume button leads to a significant increase. The result is that you will have to stand up and go to the amplifier each time you want to adjust the volume.
My advice is to listen to this amp before you take a decision, and realize you will have to move a lot if you want to change the volume.
EDIT: after some verifications, I have just discovered that my amp sends less sound/power to the left channel than to the right, which results in the right speaker being louder than the left one. The PM8004 is on its way to the customer service for repair... awful product.
Read More Reviews...
