Marantz Model 50 Pure Analog Stereo Integrated Amplifier (Black)

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.

Excellent amplifier!!! Great sound

This is an amazing sounding amplifier for serious music listeners. The sound is warm and spacious with wonderful details and clarity. The analog amp is from the golden age of HiFi and I honestly thought I'd have to spend hundreds of dollars on some 40+ years old audio amp to get that sound. Paring it with a tube pre-amplifier gives you both the warm sound of tubes and the power of solid-state. Some reviewers stated the high price but honestly at $2000 this amp is very affordable in the analog world. The alternatives are higher by several thousands.

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.

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