Marantz TT-15S1 Turntable and Perfect Vue Dustcover Review w/ Upscale Audio's Kevin Deal

***IMPORTANT NOTE: PERFECT VUE DUST COVERS NO LONGER AVAILABLE WITH THIS PRODUCT
www.upscaleaud...
This stunning acrylic turntable comes with a Clearaudio Virtuoso cartridge and a Clearaudio Satisfy Black tonearm. The AC motor is physically isolated in the plinth, and the support feet are robust, offering good isolation. Wonderful value for money!
***IMPORTANT NOTE: PERFECT VUE DUST COVERS NO LONGER AVAILABLE WITH THIS PRODUCT.

[@mmdusa]

You have to love Kevin's passion and commitment. Both to the products he sells and to his customers. I live in TX and I still prefer buying from him. Thanks Kevin!

[@kaseylearner9462]

Thanks for the cool video/review. You have to ask yourself why the Marantz TT-15s1 has been selling so well and getting such high marks even after 10+ years of being in the market (with no big changes to the original specs). It is because this is both an outstanding turntable and a tremendous value. Quick observations (in no special order): 1. This looks amazing in most lighting, but lit from underneath, it's memorizing. Friends and family now want one! 2. The cuing lever is a little quick on the draw - no sliding right as a few others reported, but I'd like a little slower decent. 3. Directions were clear - set up not bad at all. While more complicated than the Fluance RT85, it really bonded me with the turntable and its operations. This is a musical instrument so a little care initially (and in maintaining it) will pay off over the years. 4. Adjusting the legs can set the motor lower; I just adjusted/leveled the isolation platform to spec and never had to mess with the feet (they are hard to turn initially, so do this before assembly not after). 5. Dead quiet motor and beautifully balanced platter. With the motor isolated you have to really look at the TT to see that it's actually working. I put a tiny USB LED lamp behind the motor pulley which helps visually see the TT is on. 6. I used a remote power supply to activate both the motor and LEDs. Works great! 7. Just ordered the AT Safety Raiser (AT6006R) to help extend the stylus life and avoid the inevitable rush to the TT after the last song ;-) 8. Last but certainly not least - the SOUND is amazing! Detailed clear, clean presence, yet not cold or thin. The bass is not over emphasized like some TTs I listened too yet comes through exactly where you expect it in the song. Yes Virtuoso Wood V1 has a very delicate stylus, so we handle it with great care.

[@nazaholicable]

Regarding your second point, the cue lever allows you to choose how to lower it onto the record. With a little practice involving how you hold the black tip of said lever, you can bring it down without a bang.

[@ptg01]

Great points ! What I am very curious on is how flexible it is at accepting other cartridges like Hana, Ortofon ? I can't tell how heavy and how tall a cartridge it can handle based upon VTA adjustability and counterweight. Would appreciate some feedback as I love to tinker with different cartridges if I can...

[@MrCatalysis101]

A pity you forgot to mention Ken Ishiwata’s recent passing. Anyway I’m intrigued about these dust covers you’re introducing. I need a reasonably tall one for my Nottingham Analogue turntable.

[@abguy4]

I'm not a Vinyl Head, but I just soo much enjoy your videos - I watched the whole thing

[@jeffhunter4395]

I feel the same way,I really dig this guy and would love to buy /support his company,but I just can't afford anything he sells 😭😭😭

[@abguy4]

OK, in the essence of full disclosure; I sorta listened to Kevin wax-on about 1930's technology upgrades, (no offense guys, I get that, really, I do ), but I mostly just lusted over his classy back-up singers -- you know those $30K Tannoy Canterburys . IF ever I have $30k just going to rot in my pocket..............................O well............@@jeffhunter4395

[@arthursoto4285]

I've built a system over a three year period that I am really proud of now. It's an awesome hobby for gormandizers

[@torchbox]

Can’t say enough good things about this turntable. After getting upgrade itch - I upgraded to Clearaudio magnetic bearing for this turntable which took it to another level. After few years I replaced it with Clearaudio Ovation.

[@jerryandlisa27]

We’re did you get the bearing

[@jerryandlisa27]

Were can get the bearing

[@gerardopadilla4393]

??????????

[@torchbox]

@@jerryandlisa27 I called Musical Surrounding who are the US dealer and they ordered it for me from Germany. It took awhile but I thought it was worth it.

[@jerryandlisa27]

If you don't mind me asking how much was the bearing

[@nazaholicable]

Hi Kevin I truly hope you get the chance to read this post. You were kind enough to reply to my query about whether putting an isolation platform under the turntable was strictly necessary. I took your advice and went ahead and placed a £190, SSC isolation platform, (German brand) under my Marantz TT15S1. The improvement in sound is well worthwhile. Bass is deeper and more natural. The souund is clearer too. All the best from UK.

[@Baerchenization]

Why is there a mat on an acrylic platter, while the wisdom is that you do not need one?

[@robert71457]

Because they can! 😄😛

[@k.thompson8549]

I got mine for £749, it was a demo model from the Heathrow HiFi show 2004, used by Mr Ishiwata (RIP). Had a 5mm acrylic cover made to my spec for £140, looks great! :).

[@nazaholicable]

Spectrum is green

[@olegariomartinez6807]

I just received the Parasound JC3 that I bought from you. I want you to know that Cat took great care of me and the packaging of the product was incredible. Thank you so much. I will be buying more from you in the near future.

[@kentonkirkpatrick5225]

I purchased a really nice SS amp from Upscale (4-5K range). The idiot in the shipping department put the amp into the "big plastic shipping bag" ass-first, rolled up and taped the bag closed. The idiot at the receiving end (me) overestimated the strength of the tape and bag when cutting it open. My razor blade went through the tape and bag, like a hot knife through butter, and left a nice scratch on the faceplate of my like-new amp. Please shipping idiots, put the component in head-first so if anything gets scratched, it will be on the back panel. Thank you.

[@AF-rd2vf]

I bought the ZMF Auteurs from you this week and just want to thank the guys for taking care of me.

[@user-zx1ir7jt4c]

Excellent videos. I've never ordered from upscale but it's coming. They seem like one of if not the best hifi dealer in America. Can't wait to find out!

[@kij100]

I'm not really a fan of modern tables but I love the look of this one. Does anyone know what the differences are between this and the tt8001?

[@arthursoto4285]

I have been waiting for more reviews on this turntable

[@jerryandlisa27]

Im glad I got mine on sale at Abt new for 1200 . The price has gone up to 1,799 mine is still new in the box .

[@cyclistman6358]

Japanese design with German fabrication. Great combo, just like the new Toyota Supra GR!! I really like my Marantz TT with my Parasound JC3 Jr phono stage.

[@peace-yv4qd]

I have this TT. I've been in the market for dust cover ever since I purchased the Marantz. I'll look into the cover. Side note. The Maestro is significant upgrade to the Virtuoso.

[@damomendo8249]

Can you describe the difference that the Maestro makes over the Virtuoso, please?

[@peace-yv4qd]

@@damomendo8249 I would describe the difference as more a soundstage and more detail when listening to the record. Because there are other factors like the amps you are using and associated components wether it could make a difference to the overall sound is dependent on those factors. Room acoustics also play a significant factor. Hope that helps.

[@damomendo8249]

@@peace-yv4qd Thank you for the reply. I will investigate further. I am a bit concerned this turntable is unforgiving on playback of 'average' record pressings. I wasn't planning on listening to classical or Pink Floyd. I have decades of Funk, Soul, R&B, House, Jazz, Electronic, Reggae, Disco, Pop, and everything inbetween. I highly doubt 90% of the thousands of records are of audiophile quality. I fear the Marantz & cartridge may reveal too much!

[@kentonkirkpatrick5225]

Can you make a dust cover for my VPI Classic II? Thanks and Happy Holidays!

[@jerryandlisa27]

Im going to install a 1000 dollar cart on my Crowsley with that make a a 1000 dollar turntable?

[@jerryandlisa27]

@@saint6563 lol i have the Marantz tt15s1 and a pioneer pl630

[@AudioElectronicsChicago]

Pretty turntable 😍

[@AmazonasBiotop]

What now at 8 min it is German precision. Great to have precision tools around you!😀

[@louisperlman8030]

Back in the day, the folks at Linn would have told you that a really good turntable with a budget cartridge sounds better than an ok table with an expensive one. My LP12 came with the $50 Basik cartridge, which sounded better than the $200 cartridge on the Bang & Olufsen turntable the Linn replaced. Having said that, the Hana ML cartridge I bought from Upscale Audio recently is awesome.

[@nazaholicable]

I own the TT15s1. It looks and sounds great. Music for grown ups. I agree wirh you about the importance of the cartridge. Anyway, I have one question... should you read this... and get back to me. Do you think it necessary/better to site the TT on an isolation platform. I have a glass hifi rack. The TT is currently sitting on the top glass shelf.

[@upscaleaudio]

It can always be helpful to have a good base. Esp if you don't have concrete foundation.

[@Whatisthis94]

Better than the volare for the money?

[@jean-francoisbiassou7654]

I have a question ?🙋 Yamaha HS8 Studio Monitor in White Pair with Sub + MARANTZ PM6007 Integrated Amplifier Are those are enough to setup and play my MARANTZ TT-15S1 ? To Anyone please help🙏🏿🙏🏿

[@brainache555]

“Winter” in southern california....

[@mallenbiker]

Not that it's too cold, but its raining here in SoCal. Given how many sunny days we get, it doesn't make much sense to ride in the few days of rain

[@epi2045]

Damn I love this guy.

[@edg5367]

300 clips for a dust cover?? Really

[@raynewcomb337]

yes

[@adambrown8867]

My price appropriate logic says a $1k cartridge is overkill on a $1.5k turntable. It would be fine on a $3k turntable including the price of the cartridge. I count the turntable, the arm, & the cartridge as close to equal thirds as possible in cost to be price appropriate for eachother. Meaning for instance, a $4.5k deck, deserves a $4.5k tonearm, which deserves a $4.5k cartridge; creating a $13.5k turntable.

[@Baerchenization]

Marantz does not pay 1000 bucks for the cart, that would be YOU... that's how that works. And same goes for the tonearm, so this common wisdom does not apply here.

[@AmazonasBiotop]

Ducati and precision? Great that we have different perceptions. 😀

[@annenominous7220]

Does the cartridge come already mounted on the tonearm? is it pre-aligned? thanks.

[@peace-yv4qd]

I have this Table and no it has to be installed and aligned. However it's not very difficult. If I can do anyone can. Also a great upgrade is the Maestro cartridge, makes a world of difference.

[@pnojazz]

Wow, increased $350 in 2 years?

[@ptg01]

When i started following this TT, it was around $1200. Today (2024), it is at $1800.

[@keithokeeffe8500]

Cool

[@LaGataNegra3073]

This acrylic cover is 300 dollars. But this acrylic looks a lot more like glass for 400 dollars. Actual Glass cover. 75dollars

[@rhenrhree1816]

That’s not a dust cover, that’s a damn house.

[@knockshinnoch1950]

Sorry but THAT dustcover has to be the most clumsy unstylish lump of plastic I've ever seen.

[@RumblestripDotNet]

Child PLEASE!!!! You are in Orange County, CA, it's not like it was 7ºF with the windchill like in Detroit today.

[@jerryjohnson4625]

Mr 420 , lol. Pretty turntable

[@janssenscaballes]

my biggest misbuy ever. nor me nor my dealer could set it up. still rusting there in a corner

[@jerryandlisa27]

You can set it up it’s easy

[@jsmctch]

Whoa!!! A piece of plastic, let me lose my mind over it..... There is a used car lot somewhere missing there salesman. BTW I rode my Harley yesterday... in the North East!

[@jsmctch]

@Club Soda I was referring to the over the top review of the dust cover.

[@cartofgiant]

Kevin has a 18 t housand dollar Rolex on ,, we know how he can afford the watch

[@phildarmon]

If you put a $2000 cart on a $500 table....

[@MrSTAYUP33]

mr 420 sleeping again lol

[@jefferychamberlain9808]

come on man, this thing looks like shit, with a cheap belt

[@vinylman6580]

People' you do "NOT" need to spend this ridiculous amount of money for a good Turntable/Cartridge. Do your research! Fluance makes fantastic products at good prices! Just a friendly suggestion!

[@user-zx1ir7jt4c]

You think this is expensive? You haven't taken a spin around the hifi world lately have you?

[@grattanvaz1614]

What salesmanship.. I dont see anything special about it. On top of that you have to arrange for a dust cover. In fact the turntable looks like a toy. Pretty cheap looking.

[@Mike_Jones68]

I get what your saying...that said, i am in mrkt to upgrade myself tt wise. And while looking for items around $3k or more even i get the same impression - tho u do have say vpi prime, or mmf 9.3 in my book look aways from toyish. But it is odd when looking all over u would need to spend north of $6k to get something build wise that looks appropriate. I know that may be a material way of thinking and it shld just come down to sound quality, but still if i spend $3k it still shld look build wise appropriate