Review! The Marantz PM8006 Integrated Amplifier!

[@chrisr1897]

This review is spot on! One thing though not covered is reliability - super important.. I bought my 8004 early 2011, so 8 years ago, and it's been on 24/7 since then... still super quiet, not a cracking sound when turning the volume control, works like it is new out of the box. I can't say the same about arcam alpha, which lasted a couple years, NAD 315 which lasted a couple months, Adcom 5300 and pre 710 wich lasted about a year...

[@82ivaylo]

Thanks for the information. Reliability is important.

[@andrewcrossley2448]

Made in Japan and with superb components. Built to last, as it should be….

[@TrainFlood]

How does the 8004 compare to the 8006?

[@simonworthington-eyre3525]

I love Marantz equipment, this review slightly downplays how good this amp is, it is spectacular. Personally I am stoked with my MCR611 and Q Acoustics Concept 20 speakers!!

[@JPWinters]

Just want to say for people reading the Source Direct on my PM8006 doesn't behave in this way. The difference is very subtle. It cleans up the bass a bit. It also adds just a small touch of sparkle on the high end. The separation of instruments marginally improves with Source Direct on. I would say I prefer Source Direct on, but the unit sounds good either way.

[@MaceoLaban]

Same for my PM 7005

[@BridAnderson]

This is the same with my Marantz pm6007 (I think maybe Zero Fidelity has a faulty source direct). I have the pm8006 arriving tomorrow and can't wait to hook it up and play some tunes. 👍

[@andrewcrossley2448]

Tried it on and off with a range of recordings. I’d say it’s speaker dependent. My MAs have high resolution c cam metal dome tweeters. Pure direct can appear a bit too revealing. Not an issue with very good sound sources and vinyl. Definitely tightened up the bass which is useful as I have a REL sub connected to each channel in stereo pairing. For things like organ music, source direct is superb. It sounds like you are in the church etc. it can definitely tell me the quality on a violin especially for solo material. For choral it does emphasise the sopranos more but improves the stereo soundstage. For plain old rock, it’s excellent…Money from DSoTM streamed in hi res lossless is amazing. Same for Dreams and the Chain from Fleetwood Mac’s Rumours. There is stuff in there that I never heard before, even from my great vinyl deck.

[@paulalanputnam4592]

Love how you explain sound with words. It makes things so much easier to understand for someone with almost no technical background like me. Thanks for your vids.

[@earlyetman5588]

My money would be on the Marantz lasting 20-50 years, the others not so much…Never owned Marantz until I bought a PM8004, then a PM6006. I must say that they are great, well built units. I have owned massive amounts of esoteric/high end equipment over 35 years. My recommendation is speakers first, amplification, everything else (IMO). I truly enjoyed my McIntosh, Krell, Bryston, YBA, Pass, Classe’, Arcam, audio jewelry, but the Marantz works beautifully for my (older) ears now! I my opinion Krell and Bryston sounded the best, McIntosh was the prettiest by far! Marantz seems to meld these attributes together to make an enjoyable Hi-Fi experience. It’s like your favorite sofa, easy chair, recliner, etc, comfy and delicious. Please enjoy your audio journeys!

[@markwilson0077]

Monster review man! Love the comparison section..thanks Sean!

[@christianvongoller2307]

I have the Marantz 5005 amp and love that unit. Yeah, sure I am ready for the PM8006, but my budget isn't ready. lol I am glad that Marantz and some other companies have not forgotten about those of Us that can not afford the super high end, but love good quality, good sounding equipment!

[@jeffreyjoshuarollin9554]

I feel your pain dude.

[@boezinter7013]

Would love to see a rega brio review and comparision against the Marantz PM 8006. Thanks for the reviews!

[@42itous1]

And the rega elex r.

[@donalddeorio2237]

Last year I upgraded my av pre-amp from a Rotel to the av7005, it was a big improvement, though I did get 18 years out of the Rotel. Marantz does make a great product, good quality, and used at $350 for a $1500 preamp

[@SwapanDas]

Thank you for your nice review! Unfortunately, you didn't say anything about the phono-stage of 8006!

[@HerrFinsternis]

It's a good phonostage, very good in fact. I paired it with the goldring E3 which I think plays well with it. All of this feeds into a pair of Lintons. It's not a combination that is talked about, at all, but I have a lot of old records which weren't necessarily pressed well and needed something that could handle both that without emphasising "the mess", and good recordings as well. I think it works well. The goldring gives the music some room to breath and both the Marantz and Lintons have a low noisefloor and add some gentle warmth to the presentation. It walks a good line between smoothing over a messy recording and giving detail. Tonecontrols are excellent. I have adjusted them to fit my room and rarely feel the need to readjust them. To illustrate, I have base at +1, treble at -1 and mids at +2. Sean is right and the Marantz is a bit thin in the mids, but the tonecontrols are more then capable to compensate to taste. Some songs do shine at neutral settings I noticed, "nothing compares" and "sombody that I used to know" for instance. I use source direct on songs like that and it's fine. Sean described it as a loudness button for treble but mine doesn't do that all. Not in this paring in my room anyway. Long story short, good phono stage that plays well with a relatively cheap cartridge 👌

[@SwapanDas]

@@HerrFinsternis Thank you so much for your detailed reply. I know someone in my known circle having Marantz 8005 or 8006...he lives far away... someday need to visit his place to audition it.

[@gordonkam178]

Great review. I have a 8005 paired with Fritz speakers and I can listen all day without fatigue.

[@christianvongoller2307]

and that's what it's all about. Cut your gear on, pick out some great tunes and boom, You just enjoy the music. That's what this is all about!

[@adn7000]

Hi thanks for the review, if we compare it to PM6006 is there any noticeable difference? Thanks !

[@warfam_clan6933]

Great review. I don't think there is anything wrong with tone controls. Gone are the days where people are looking down on products that have them. Marantz are a big hitter in the Hifi world and they wouldn't put them on there if they thought they weren't necessary. Also, audiophiles these days are also starting to dabble with tone adjustments. Check out Steve Guttenberg's review of the Schiit Loki. Nicely done!

[@HerrFinsternis]

Yes I don't understand the animosity towards tone control, it's not like we all live in the manufacturers listen room. An amp in a living room should probably have tone control.

[@nitinkanchan5294]

I specifically look for an amp with tone controls before buying. Not all recordings sound great especially the older ones.

[@Corca]

Really appreciating the "bonus comparison section" in your reviews. Helps us audioheads to finetune targeting the sound we are after. Keep up the good work and thank you!

[@pradeeppradeep-oj6wu]

Very good review . Was waiting for it , now I will buy pm8006 .

[@StevenSchmitt]

Thanks Sean! Being new to this whole audio thing, you've really helped me learn a lot, and I'm very grateful.👍

[@Lx655321]

First of all, i am not a native speaker. So pls forgive if my english is not perfect. I drive a pair of omnidirectional Duevel Venus with the PM8006 and it sounds wonderful. My previous Setup, a vintage Marantz 2270 with Duevels smaller Planets, was a perfect match. For the first time i experienced the meaning of great dynamics. Absolutely fantastic! However, the little omnis where not a perfect match for the PM8006. Although the sound was quicker and more detailed, it lacked some of the warmth and more sadly the dynamics where not as good. It was not bad sounding in any ways, but i wanted a more voluptuous sound and to "make dynamics great again" ;). Now with the Venus the PM8006 is a perfect match. The sound is warm and intimate. The dynamics are great again - showing the slightest variance in volume. With good recordings - not only jazz or classical music - you can hear and feel the attack and upswell of Instruments. Every stroke of a guitar has a different intensity (unless it's played by a robot). This is especially true with good vinyl recordings. And i must say: The phono stage on this IA is superb (in my ears) and at least on par with my 2270. Okay, i have no other comparison. But when i played Diana Krall Live in Paris i thought i was in hi-fi heaven ;) Can't imagine how a phono stage could do better. With my Dual 1249 and AT440mlb cartridge it's powerful, very detailed and with excellent dynamics. I have the same great recording digitally on DVD and couldn't tell the difference. I agree with Sean, that the direct-button can give more highs and sometimes make the sound thinner. But its depends on the speaker. With the Planets this is true. But with the Venus i always leave it on because they are so well balanced, that every little change on the tone controls sounds like an imbalance. Oddly enough, when i turn source direct off with tone control in neutral position, the mids seem to stand out a bit more (better). Have to think about it ... Btw. The Venus are two way speaker with 4 ohm (with dips below) and 88 db sensitivity, which some say is difficult to drive. Luckily Marantz is known for their conservative power rating. Measurements statet continuous 100 W into 8 ohms with dynamic headroom up to 128 W. Long story short: I am totally satisfied with my PM8006 and can recommend it to every music lover! :)

[@lockness3723]

Good review. I had the PM 8005 which I traded in for a Pm14 S1 SE. The store did not have a PM14 in stock to listen to but I ordered it based on the more or less good value of the PM 8005. The first PM 14 went it o protect mode as soon as I hooked it up at home. This was due to the salesman removing speaker cables on the amp without turning it off after he demoed the amp at the audio shop. That amp went in for repairs and I was blamed for the fault. I had to pay another $444 NZ dollars for that repair. Took about 2 and a half months to get it back. Lasted for 7 days and then went back into protect mode. It was then replaced at no cost with another PM14. Very poorly designed protection circuits on the Marantz line. Sound wise the PM8005 in my opinion is a better bang for buck amp than the PM14. I still have the PM14. It is in it's box being used as a doorstop :-) I wanted a amp for my bedroom as my mail amp is a Yamaha A-S2100. The Yamaha is superior to the PM14 in all comparisons. 23kg of high end sound at a mid-level price. I will never part with the Yamaha. My second system now is an old 1982 Accuphase pre-amp and an 1989 Accuphase P-11 power amp. The Accuphase and Yamaha are cut from the same cloth. They have the famous PRAT (pace, rythym and timing). The PM14 on the other hand is not as dynamic and seems lack lustre with inefficient speakers. Great to put you to sleep. I tried selling the PM14 here in NZ on our local online auction at a $1000 dollars below retail and no takers :-). Will just keep it for now and probably sell it in 30 years time at the $3500 price I want. In 30 years time that will be the equivalent of 30 packs of cigarettes here in NZ :-). I agree with you about the coloration of Marantz amps. The PM 8005 was good when the source direct was not on and the treble set at -1 and the mid set at +1 and base left neutral. The PM 14 also sounds a bit better when the tone is engaged. Keep up the good honest reviewing.

[@baskapteijn]

Same experience with my PM7001KI. In/output protection is really bad. Off-course isn't smart to keep the Amp powered and mess with the cables but still... cheaper amps will easily survive this.

[@lockness3723]

@@baskapteijn I hope that salesman at Soundlab in Auckland has learned his lesson on disconnecting amplifiers. A lesson that I literally paid for.

[@tomwebb7091]

Couldnt disagree more with the OP. I had a Yamaha AS3000 for a year or so and it was poor build quality for the money, the side cheeks were cheap the front and top panels felt abit loose and ringy. The sound quality was even worse, matter of fact with no colour or life, it literally made everything sound clean but dull. The Marantz 8006 at nearly a quarter the Rrp sounds better, smooth, warm, expansive leaning towards an emotional connection much like a good valve amp. It also was built well for the price. The PM series are even better. Same goes for the CD/Sacd players... the Yamaha 3000 Sacd player had Awful timing, bass was totally off point and it sounded grey. The Marantz SA-15 S2LE in AB comparison was far superior, more colour more life more emotion better bass and less than half the price!

[@andrewmanus5686]

I know a guy that went from parasound separates to this and in his room he prefers this over the parasound

[@mikehanks1399]

It's a great time to be into audio. We have so many choices among some very good products and at fairly reasonable prices. I guess I'm not a purest because I would not own an amp without tone controls. They have made all the difference in almost every audio system I've ever had, including my most recent one when I dumped all of my vintage stuff and bought all new modern components for my main sound room. I really like the addition of a midrange control. That's a nice touch. Back in the day (!970's) that was a common, even an expected feature. My Sansui has three and the Pioneer has two bass and two treble level adjustments. In my experience, a little tweak of those control can do wonders for the overall sound of a system. Another great review. By the way, Under Armor HQ is just up the road from me and I'm going to put in a good word for you.

[@larryhoffman7471]

Any chance you could compare this unit with the Yamaha A-S801, which is in the same price range?

[@utsavshah7227]

Checkout his A-S801 review. He compares them at the end.

[@dbulkley62]

Source direct bypasses the tone section and provides the purest uncolored signal to the listener, it doesn’t add or detract anything from the signal.

[@MrPrathamesh1991]

Agree! I use source direct when I am listening to Vinyl Records.

[@h2ophilter]

Loved my 8005. Wish it had balanced inputs though...

[@williammay8413]

Great review....thanks for your take on these pieces of equipment .

[@Doeve1985]

Nice review! I’m myself really happy with my PM6006/NA6006/Dali Zensor 7 setup.

[@maxrider2887]

I want to switch Yamaha r n602 to Marantz pm6006 uk + was Oberon 7. Is it worthy upgrade

[@skylordsrebornpvpreplays5795]

@@maxrider2887 probably

[@maxrider2887]

Skylords PvP Replays Yamaha 80wpc & mara 45wpc . Can Marantz run oberon perfectly

[@killahtomata]

I sold my Yamaha as1100 to get an pm 8006...its a cheaper amp but it fits better to my elacs...and the phono stage is really good!

[@SzymonMelewski]

I want to get as1100 for my opticons but have no where to audition the amp. Can you comment on how Yamaha sounds vs 8006, please?

[@killahtomata]

The yamaha is sure the better amp(its truly a natural sound amplefier) with a dream buildquality. But in my room with hard floor the jet5 tweeter was little too bright... the pm 8006 works well in my room and i like the marantz sound. Its really a matter of taste!

[@khallgrimsen]

killahtomata does this mean that the 8006 is less fatuiging thna the as1100? Im looking for a amp thats good for my tinnitus. Sweet treble is a must.

[@killahtomata]

@@khallgrimsen yes, in my room with the 244.3 elacs and the as 1100 it was little fatiguing... (i also have tinnitus). But i would always try the as 1100 first at home to see how it fits in your setup....

[@patricj951]

Thanks for a detailed and valuable review! I am an owner of Rega Brio/Apollo setup since soon 1,5 years ago. First I got KEF Q350 but replaced them with R500 at the 30% sale this year. I am generally very satisfied with my stereo system. I found it ok to have an amplifier without tone controls because it feels audiophil like. With a perfect recording tone controls are not needed. The problem is that the most recordings are not... And many are bright and with weak bass(Which can be a problem because KEF has a pretty bright tone). The most radio channels have weak bass. Here I realise that there are A LOT of situations when just a slight increase of bass and decrease of treble had made a significant improvement and made the listening more comfortable and enjoyable. Therefore I find Marantz 8006 very attractive. It's also good looking. Have you any experience of Rega Brio, and if so: how would you describe a replacement of Rega Brio to Marantz 8006? Would I go a step down in quality? And is the 70w per channel at 8ohm of 8006 stronger than the 50w per channel of Brio? As we know the stated power is not always comparable between different brands and models.

[@ZeroFidelity]

The Brio - PM8006 would be a side step. The Marantz will offer a cleaner midrange, stronger bass, and a smoother top end. Imaging will be wider. Power will be the same. The Brio will have more texture in the mids, slightly cleaner bass, and bit grittier in the top end. It's tough for me to say which you'd prefer.

[@patricj951]

@@ZeroFidelity Thanks for reply! You confirm what I understand from reviews that Rega Brio is a very competent amplifier despite the "only 50w". But smoother top end and opportunity to compensate for different recordings makes the Marantz very attractive. I will consider it!

[@jamesindrihovic7247]

I watched it twice.your so good at this you helped me make my decision to consider buying this amp .thankyou.

[@MrChris-zb2bs]

The headphone jack is no joke on this amp. It can drive my 300 ohm HD650 headphones with authority at only the 9 o'clock position.

[@spiritualarchitect4276]

At last!!!! This is what I have been trying to find out ~ what amp will drive expensive headphones without the need for an external headphone amp.

[@JohnSmith-zl8rz]

Please review the new PM6007

[@JosephTongret]

I'm really interested in the Peachtree Audio Nova and Decco integrated amps. I'd love to see you review them if you ever get the opportunity! Thanks for posting this review!

[@dennislehman3897]

Joseph Tongret I have the Peachtree Audio Novo 150 version II mated to Zu Audio Dirty weekend Omen Mark II speakers. This combination sounds fantastic. I Stream music to the dedicated input for Apple devices and let the internal Dac And Amp do the rest.

[@bgeneto]

You were the first to notice the "source direct" button detrimental effect on sound quality, congrats! Soundstage is reduced and voices get sibilant. The same happens with my PM8004.

[@tomwebb7091]

Source direct turned on is always better... the simpler and less processed an amp sounds the better.

[@idc7305]

Great review! Thanks. Hope the folks at Rega send you the Rega Brio amp for review one day.

[@markchan9984]

This PM8006 go with Denon dcd1600, a perfect match, sound amazing

[@scottlowell493]

Q: "What's inside the Marantz?" A: Actual power components that A/v receivers lack. 100 watts x 2 channels into 4 ohms (20-20,000 Hz) NOT "100 watts x 2 measured at 1khz"

[@lelins300]

Yes a toroidal transformer ensuring reliability even if one pushes something more than its boundaries. 👍

[@munmunyee]

Thanks for the review Sean! This was made a year ago, but I'm shooting my shot anyway. How would the 8006 pair with Wharfedale 4.2s compared to something similar like the Cambridge Audio Azur 851A?

[@82ivaylo]

I have a Marantz KI Pearl Lite, PM7005, PM8005 and now the PM8006. Just great amplifiers to my ears.

[@kringtheking2657]

Big difference between the 7005 and the 8005/8006 ? Going for a used one, maby 7003 or 8003

[@82ivaylo]

@@kringtheking2657 There"s no big difference between the three amps. But the PM8006 is the best sounding amp of the three. The PM7005 sound better when the DAC is turned off.

[@kringtheking2657]

@@82ivaylo ok, im using external dac. Maby just gonna use the dac for cd. I have pm5005 now but thinking about getting pm7005. Pm8006 is very expensive here ^^

[@82ivaylo]

@@kringtheking2657 Years ago i had the PM6004. It was nice amplifier, but the PM7005 is class above.

[@kringtheking2657]

@@82ivaylo sound quality or mostly powerwise ?

[@rlwings]

We finally get a Marantz review from you and then you go and lose your voice! Lol... Just my luck... Good review bro!... I have the Marantz SR7012 AVR and the amplification is sophisticated and beautiful. For an AVR, it's amazing. Times are changing. Marantz makes some of the best sounding AVRs for music.

[@ZeroFidelity]

Yep. Marantz has been one of my go-to recommendations for multi-channels enthusiasts who are looking for an AVR - and want something that's good for music playback as well as handling HT duties.

[@jeffadams9699]

Thanks again Sean! I was going to ask about how close this integrated is compared to their mid level AVR’s like the 7012 or 6012? I just finished off my 7.2.4 Atmos theater and need to upgrade my AVR to accommodate this new set up. But two channel music is of utmost importance. I do a lot of two channel listening in this room. And I already love Marantz, I have the NR-1508. But am seriously considering the 6 or 7012. I don’t think I can go wrong with either one.

[@ZeroFidelity]

@@jeffadams9699 Yep. I think you'll be good either way. Dunno how the 8006 compares to any of em'.

[@jeffadams9699]

I dunno either but I am going to speculate very very similar. Same amplification and so on. So that’s why for the theater and my ZU’s, the SR 6012 is most likely the choice there. However for my Maggy LRS’, that I should have next week, still up in the air on amplifier and a pre for them although the IOTA stack is high up on the short list.

[@dynodin81]

Randy Levine awesome' I’m looking at the sr7012 to replace my Onkyo for HT system but I also want it to sound good with music as well with my JBL 530s.

[@JasonGS919]

I own this preamp, and my experience with source direct is completely opposite of your experience. With source direct enabled, the treble sounds muffled, which isn’t necessarily a bad thing. It doesn’t sound aggressive, like the “center of the presentation,” as you described. Supposedly, source direct provides a clearer signal path; however; to me, the music sounds better when it’s disabled.

[@geoffwalmsley3066]

ihave listened to hifi for years and we all like different things,you have to buy What Sounds right for you,i never understand when reviewers say Things like thinner side of neutral,What does that mean? if you haven't listened to the master track How can you come out with such statements,buy what sounds right for you, These guys don't have better hearing than the rest of us and sometimes forget that the enjoyment is in the listening.

[@Chiroman527]

Geoff, yes very well said. I would agree with your assessment about which side of neutral the sound is. Sound from audiophile equipment is a subjective , personal preference thing. But with Cory measuring the two Amps with the same speakers is what one wants to hear. I guess if one unit delivers more bass or midrange or treble vs the other , it would be apparent no matter what speakers were used ( with the right specs). Hearing is in the Mind of the beholder..... For the record, I am looking into replacing my NAD 1300 Preamp which is now showing wear and tear of the phono input. I'm entertaining either this Marantz unit , or an equivalent Denon or perhaps a newer NAD eqivalent. My 1300 is hooked up to a NAD 2600 AMP. I presume with Preouts on the Marantz, I would be abke to connect it to the Amp. Cory, thx for presentations.

[@MrChris-zb2bs]

I use tone controls for music because I want more bass and rolled off highs. I use source direct for movies because the dialogue comes through clear without overwhelming bass when the action hits.

[@hushpuppykl]

A slight V-curve always goes down well with the general public. Nice in depth review. 👍👍 Would love to see you review some tube amps. Will be great to hear how you describe their performance. 😬

[@ZeroFidelity]

There's at least one spiffy tube amp that's in the pipe-line. :)

[@hushpuppykl]

Zero Fidelity ... that’s great! Can’t wait to see the review. Don’t care if it’s high end brand, China brand ... it’s just fun to watch your reviews. I got my hands on a used Cary Audio SLP-05, it’s awesome. Got it for a steal 😬

[@ZeroFidelity]

@@hushpuppykl - Nice. I used to have a Cary SLI80 back in the day. Enjoy the SLP-05!

[@dustinwongphotos]

I'm pretty new to HiFi. Walked into a local store 6 months ago, and was shown a system based around the 8006 (paired w wharfedale 230s). After looking around I settled on it and I've been enjoying everything. I also started watching a lot of reviews and one thing I like about yours is that I feel like I have a good sense of what you are hearing. I think it's mainly from good use of language / terminology on your part (the videos where you explain the jargon were very helpful). Anyways, long story, but this review has allowed me to benchmark what I'm hearing w what you are describing, so that's really cool. I'll have to listen for any increase of treble upon source direct. I was drawn to this bc of the clarity, sound stage, imaging and base. So your impressions seem inline with mine - which I also find neat. Great content all around.

[@ZeroFidelity]

Welcome to great sound, Dustin! You're certainly off to a badass start.

[@surfmorworkless]

Just getting into hi-fi stuff. I’ve always loved listening to lots of music. But just getting into stuff that’s a little more expensive. Been looking between Yamaha and Marantz integrated amps. I’m really liking what I’m hearing and reading about this one. May go with this. Thanks for the review.

[@kkoller8952]

Great Review...I've been an audio enthusiast since I was 14 and I've seen a lot of so called " Purest Companys" come and go but there is a reason companies like Marantz and McIntosh are still around! They just sound like Music and are built like tanks! One thing you forgot to mention is that the 8006 is built in Marantzs Reference factory in Japan...Marantz Japan can trace its lineage all the way back to the late 60s early 70s when Superscope owned Marantz and moved some of the Manufacturing to Japan. I'm currently running a Japan built Marantz 8012 receiver in my main system. It uses amplifier modules similar to the ones in the 8006 and has a massive power supply. It replaced an older 6009 receiver.....a night and day difference in sound quality! Very musical , perfect match to my Revel Concerta speakers....best sounding AV receiver I've ever owned and equals the quality of some of my vintage separates that I run in other systems!

[@82ivaylo]

The PM8006 is built in DENON factory in Shrakawa, Japan. It's DENON's factory since 80's.

[@kkoller8952]

@@82ivaylo I guess that's what Marantz calls their Japanese reference factory since Denon and them are basically the same company now!

[@wiebl5266]

thank you for doing the comparison, it really helped to give me a sense of what I want. Most ot all is the way you describe it, really grasped the distinctions that you were trying to make. Great job. Thank you. I procrastinated on the PM8006 for more than a year. Now I'm seriously going to look into it and most likely buy it. I wonder would it pair better with Klipsch, S400 or ELAC uf5? Hope you are sleeping well.

[@dustinwongphotos]

I'm curious how it sounds w the S400s. Those seem like they are special speakers, but perhaps they need the right amp to power them.

[@carlosdiazmaroto6439]

saludos yo tengo los linton 85 y hacen una pareja estupenda

[@yippie6862]

I'm so happy you're reviewing this. Made in Japan! Not bad considering the price. It's interesting what you said about the source direct button. That was exactly what I heard too.

[@ZeroFidelity]

Glad to know I'm not alone!

[@bugpack6]

I have the 8004 and the source direct does not do this. It cleans it up a hair. Strange the newer one does this.

[@yippie6862]

@@bugpack6 That's interesting. I had the 8005 and I found the same as Sean described in the 8006. I think all three are essentially the same amplifier with minor tweaks. It could just be overall system dependent as well. Cables, Speakers ect.. all contributing to how revealing the source direct is. Or there may some real differences in the three amps.

[@chrisr1897]

Same here, i have the 8004, i hear what Sean talks about except for the source direct button...to my ears, it cleans up the overall presentation a bit, tilts tonal balance a bit maybe, not in the treble but in the upper-mids, and it sounds dryer. On totem hawks, the noise floor is reduced with source direct engaged for a more forward sound.

[@MrRAW1968]

I have the PM Pearle Lite, the one before the 8000 series. Agree on most of the review but source direct does work very nice in my system with a NOS DAC and von Schweikert speakers. It's not making it brighter but more natural sounding to my ears.

[@scottyo64]

Great review and loved the bounse section. Very cool that you did both units. While I love my Marantz AVR (SR7012) I don't like it for 2 channel music listening. I wonder how closely related the AVRs and the integrated amps are?

[@JJTeam-yr6tb]

Same.

[@revysledbum]

If you had to choose between a schiit Vidar or the pm8006 what would it be?

[@ZeroFidelity]

The 8006.

[@revysledbum]

@@ZeroFidelity Thanks. I have been thinking about getting this or maybe dual shiits. I like the idea of cheap mono blocks, but I'm in Canada and the Marantz is easier to get and probably would sound just as good. I run Klipsch speakers, so I don't need a ton of watts. Currently have an old Marantz sr-48 its almost 20 years old so Im sure the 8006 would be a good upgrade.

[@jeffadams9699]

Wow. That’s saying a lot. I have heard great things about the Vidar but I actually heard the Vidar two years ago at RMAF and was not moved by it. It wasn’t bad, it just did nothing for me.

[@Taffy84]

@@revysledbum It's $1599.00 CAD on amazon Canada. I think the Cambridge Audio CXA80 at $1299.00 CAD is the better deal. It includes a DAC with 4 digital inputs and 4 analog inputs and also has 10w more power.

[@revysledbum]

@@Taffy84 Thanks, Ill look into that. I have a external DAC already. Kinda just want a simple amp. I like that the Marantz has a direct Amp input. I like the Vidars because they have Balanced inputs. My DAC has Balanced outputs and built in volume control so you an use it as a preamp.

[@chaindrive98]

Great review. I don't see any reviews around Cambridge Audio. It will be interesting to see a comparison to those as the folks that consider Marantz will consider Cambridge Audio and NAD as well, at similar price points. I'd love to see some of the latest CAs budget and mid-range amplifier offerings here.

[@saliwanpl1832]

With source direct, we lose some warmth, but we gain great detail and resolution of the treble. The instruments are well displayed. I tried many times without source direct turned on and it was very reminiscent of my cambridge but lacked this accuracy and madness in the higher registers. It is possible that with bright speakers it will be bad, or the source of the sound is also very important in all this cd/dac

[@stewutah-mando]

I would think the Outlaw RR2160 would be a much better integrated: an A/B with more power ,digital inputs, two sub outs, Internet radio, FM/HD radio tuner, etc. I love mine with RBH speakers. "THE OUTLAW AUDIO RR 2160 STEREO RECEIVER FLAT OUT SOUNDS BETTER THAN ANY RECEIVER OR AMPLIFIER I'VE HEARD FOR ITS $799 ASKING PRICE." - Steve Guttenberg, CNET

[@Kruptosman]

But its difficult or impossible to get hold of of if you are in the UK like me

[@chrisr1897]

Not only the review is spot on, but i re-discover this integrated with source direct disengaged.... It is more "organic", softer... Midrange comes out more... It's like having two integrated in one! Thanks again for the in-depth and accurate review..

[@carlosdiazmaroto6439]

saliendo del source direct piensa que pasas a un ecualizador y decides como quieres escuchar tu musica .

[@mzondi1970]

Definitely like the looks of the Marantz. I wasn't too mainly CDs so the quality can go either way I don't have any high end CDs just off the shelf music sounds like a good amp to pair with my elac 6.2

[@carlosoliveira-rc2xt]

The tone control points seem to be well chosen.

[@amb3cog]

Jeez dude! Thought you were gonna pull a hammy at the end there. 😂😂😂 Great review man. Seriously. Very thorough. Not my bag, but I can see that piece being enjoyed by a lot of people. And it sure is pretty. It's a shame you didn't get to test the phono preamp, because the way you describe the voicing makes me think it might sound really good playing records. If, they put a decent phono Pre in there of course.

[@Strravigor]

Thanks for this good review . I listened it with kef R3 it was quite good , what speaker would be good for jazz, classic,funk, trad music ?

[@davidperkins4139]

worth noting that there's no DAC built into the 8006, so that is an extra cost over the IOTA to factor in. Also, it really should have been a comparison between just the SA3, not the stack, seeing as the performance numbers are about the same with just the single IOTA. If the 8006 isn't the clear winner between the two, the IOTA is an easy champ. 500 bucks, same output as the 8006, and has built in DAC. Unless I'm missing something?

[@HowieHaigh]

The SA3 is 'only' 45 wpc into 8 Ohms, still plenty enough for me though! Also of note is the sub out on the IOTAVX and the option for the Bluetooth adapter with aptX.

[@davidperkins4139]

Howard Haigh I was thinking of the 4 ohm output when typing that, so thanks for the clarification there. 4 ohm output is almost the same.

[@joedavenport3263]

EXCELLENT REVIEW.

[@richardblaauwgeers4349]

Awesome review sean!

[@amazoidal]

Better design for cooling than the Marantz power amps which use a "fan tunnel".This should play all day without a heat problem.

[@ZeroFidelity]

Yep. In fact, both the Marantz and the Iotavx exhibit good thermal behavior. The Heed runs mildly warm, but that's by design and was meant to be left on 24/7.

[@amazoidal]

I still use a Marantz 19 from 1974. Huge heat sinks that take up each side. With only 50wpc, you could run this thing all day at full power and it only gets a little warm.

[@danielvandergriend9724]

hey mate great review. Have you tried the Music fidelity m5si ? was curious to know your thoughts on it. thank you

[@deputy3690]

Great review as always Sean. Would you recommend this Marantz or a Denon that is equal in price and power paired with the Kef LS 50's? Or, the IOTA VX stack? I mostly listen to jazz, chill/electronic and also a good amount of vocal stuff. Your recommendation would be much appreciated!

[@Gioxtream]

WHEN USING THE AMPLIFIER IN "POWER AMP DIRECT MODE"...... CAN YOU STILL USE THE BASS,MID, AND TREBLE CONTROLS AT THE SAME TIME??? I AM ASKING BECAUSE. SOME AMPLIFIERS ON DIRECT MODE BLOCK THE USE OF THE BASS,MID, AND TREBLE. PLEASE LET ME KNOW.

[@WarinPartita6]

Big​ thanks, Sean​

[@CaptainCrunch823]

I also found this to be on the forward side of neutral with elevated treble. Thankfully it has tone controls and sounds pretty good for the price, but I ended up returning as I didn't think it matched well with my LS50's.

[@victorpirsoul3979]

I have the Q150's paired with the NAD C 316BEE and, in my humble opinion, they compliment each other very well.

[@ZeroFidelity]

Yeah. I def. think there are better matches for the LS50's than the Marantz at this price. What did you end up with ?

[@CaptainCrunch823]

@@ZeroFidelity Ended up going way outside of my budget with a PSAudio DirectStream Jr DAC and don't laugh...but a Crown XLS 2502 class D amp:) Your best bud Zeos (careful, if you say his name 3 times he will appear) apparently uses these amps in his living room and I was surprised to learn that a lot of people have found it to be a good pairing with the LS50's. Super happy with the setup but may try some PS Audio M700 monoblocks in the future.

[@ZeroFidelity]

@@CaptainCrunch823 - I'm waiting to bust the PS Audio stack from their boxes. Gunna have to do it sooner rather than later. Meanwhile, I'm glad you've found something that's made ya happy!

[@tothemax324]

@@CaptainCrunch823 Mate class D today punch clarity way above some A/B amps and having both class D mono"s and class A in my rack I now find A/B middle of the road

[@thetrumanshow4791]

Truly awesome review! Love Marantz! Now, please please please, review the Marantz ND8006. Thanks!

[@rkumarblr1]

Do you think the PM8006 is suitable to pair with the Heritage Linton, the need being warm neutral sound with deep bass, clear vocals and separation and good dynamics.

[@ewengallacher1163]

Thanks, real helpful review Sean. Having now reviewed both, how did the PSA Sprout 100 compare sonically to the 8006?

[@ZeroFidelity]

That's an interesting comparison. The Sprout has a thinner, cooler presentation. The Sprout has the advantage of being significantly more compact, being a true full-featured product, and showcases superior bass control. However, bass aside, I do believe that the Marantz has the edge in every other way. A bit more dimension and solidarity to the sound. A bit more natural ness in the mids. A bit smoother on top. Better imaging. Honestly, given the huge difference in price, this is probably how it should be.

[@spiritualarchitect4276]

@@ZeroFidelity Mr. Fidelity, could a headphone amplifier be connected to the Marantz PM8006 (or Yamaha A-S1200) using it’s “Pre Out”s? If so, would an A-B switch box be needed to add a sub-woofer? Or can the Marantz “Audio Out Recorder” jacks be used for an external amp or sub? Can the Yamaha "Line Out"s do the same?

[@neilfox4626]

Nice review. I would love to hear comparisons with the Marantz and Rega Brio and NAD C368. Of course there is no end to possible comparisons.

[@anonmouse956]

I'd like to see a Rega Brio review just to see if the WhatHiFI people are insane with their love for the item.

[@giangvu7902]

Great review buddy. I have the PM 8005 and I tend to agree with your assessment. Thanks for the videos!

[@mzondi1970]

I was curious I've been watching your videos for quite some time what kind of rock music do you actually listen to so I can base what you say on what might relate to what I was into if that makes sense

[@mrkitewine7700]

Thanks for this review. I’m seriously tempted to go for the PM8006; it seems to be easy to live with and has the functionality I’m looking for. I’m just waiting for lockdown to end so I can actually audition it with a variety of speakers.

[@kellyrossman6032]

Sounds better than my restored 2325 . Use it daily with Cornwall iv . The sound is fantastic

[@NickP333]

Great review as usual, Sean. I’ve also like the fact that Marantz adds a mid knob. One of the amps I’ve been running in my rig is a vintage but fully refurbished Marantz 2220B integrated in my system into Tekton Pendragons. Would you say this amp still retains that classic Marantz sound, or is it just a different animal? Also, it’s not a big deal cuz I know you’re not really a vinyl guy, but I’d love to know how the internal phono pre sounds on that amp. I could of course add an external phono stage if need be, but that just leaves an unused input. I’d love it if you got your hands on something like a Rega P1 or ProJect debut Carbon TT and even an ok cartridge to see how the phono stages stack up in these integrated amps you review. Thanks again for the great review, Sean.

[@MrChris-zb2bs]

I also have a 2220B and have recently purchased a PM8006. I run a Marantz 6100 with an Ortofon 2m Blue through the phono stage and I'd have to say it sounds amazing. I would say the PM8006 sounds more like a vintage Sansui than a vintage Marantz, but it does have the dark bassy sound of vintage Marantz, but with the Sansui mids and highs.

[@pinkypoohable]

Excellent review. But I would have loved if you show sound samples in the end. After all sound perception is subjective. It's personal interpretation varies between people. What your opinion about the product may differ from other people. A video/sound sample would give everyone their own interpretation about the sound from their listening perspective.

[@mikethebeginner]

It’s not a “phono out,” or a “phono output stage,” whatever that would be. It’s a headphone jack. It’s labeled “phones,” short for headphones, not “phono.”

[@michaelphillippi4676]

Have you ever reviewed the Onkyo MC-5000R ? If no, could you test it some time. I like the dual meters.

[@jackspade7234]

Good review and thanks for opening it up - I can't believe they ran a wire over the heatsink! I can hear stereophiles all around the world saying 'thats shabby'.

[@michaelgilligan4556]

Hi love your review on the marantz amp. I own a similar amp (pm 7003) which has similar.specs and sound. From your experience what amp would make a suitable upgrade in sound in comparison. I would be looking at second hand on eBay. Maybe a little more articulate in bass and less aggressive in treble at times. I have it paired with marantz cd 6005 and Def tech monitor 65 speakers. Streaming is supplied by echo dot to RCA inputs when needed

[@DSupremeLounge]

I had an 8005 and didn’t think it had enough power to truly push 4 ohm speakers.. This may have subtle improvements, but I’d get a used musical fidelity m6i or used Parasound Halo integrated before this.. my 2 pennies

[@tomaszmichewicz7867]

Hi there. Need your advice please. Is it worth to connect this amp, to my Yamaha 3070 av receiver to enhance music in stereo?

[@ronnyangell665]

Hi Sean! How about a review on one of the Atoll Integrated amps? Would love to hear your opinion on them!

[@panblue43]

Hi! Very nice amp, I love marantz amps.Adjustable mid was on my marantz pm2245 last time.. great! I owned pm2245, sr520, pm52se, pm80, and now I use pm7005. Amazing sound, and I think 8006 is above... The pm7005 and pm8005 made in Japan, I think it is important thing. The 8006?

[@sickjohnson]

Thanks for all the cool content Sean! How did you feel the PM8006 would compare to some classic Marantz integrated amps, as in do they still hold up or more of a shadow? Personally I have always been a fan of Marantz ...but mostly for their home theater Amps.

[@ZeroFidelity]

I'd need to have some nice vintage pieces here in order to say for sure. There's no question that vintage products used much better chassis materials. Sound however? That's a whole different thang.

[@morrsmusic]

excelent video. is this model good enought for a bowers and wilkins 703 s2 speakers?

[@carravagio16]

nice review, would be great if you get your hands on a Rouge audio Sphinx intergraded and review it

[@Andrea-qx6rf]

Dears. What kind of loudspeaker do you suggest. I have Marantz PM 8006 and CD Player Marantz CD6007. It is positioned in a little area so I would like to purchase loudspeaker of bookshelf or better to positioned them on stand. I hear first Jazz, fusion music and Big Band Jazz Music

[@rizalahmad4207]

I wonder if the pm8006 will exhibit the same characteristic as the source direct (elevated treble) when configuring it as power amp direct.

[@JPWinters]

I put the Marantz PM8006 head to head with the Yamaha A-S801 & Audiolab 6000a and it beat them both. I am skeptical the IOTA stack sounds better considering A British Audiophile says the SA3 & PA3 sound different. Why would I want my left & right speakers to sound slightly different?

[@elbebe1000]

Thank you.

[@brandtagone8487]

Thank you. I have used this amp now for 6 months and like it much. I am curious with your take on the source direct feature. For me it has the opposite effect as described. When pressed it by passes the balance and tone adjusters and calms the treble even when balance set at the neutral (straight up) position. The treble also does not seem as augmented as reported. I can only assume it has to do with speaker pairing. Currently I have it paired with heresy 4 and relt9i. This is the 3rd pairing the 1st and 2nd were Boston acoustic towers 90s and cerwin Vega 10" tower also 90s. Interesting indeed. Thanks man!

[@pseudoty]

I have had mine for a year now, and you are correct. If you activate “Source Direct” = the blue light is on then it bypasses the tone controls and balance settings. I find this gives a good sound when listening to analog vinyl. Interesting to see the MSRP on this unit went up $300 this summer.

[@carlosdiazmaroto6439]

saludos el marantz con los parlantes linton 85 he de decir que los graves son impresionantes y los medios dulces como la miel sin embargo los agudos algo cortos pero la sinergia es como el cielo y la tierra...

[@brandtagone8487]

Well I moved and now the room which has hardwood floors with a rug in front of my heresys and now the button does brighten everything up. I now must adjust treble and mid range down.

[@carlosdiazmaroto6439]

saludos de Carlos al final de todo depende de lo que estas escuchando y como se hizo la grabacion de la pista es como un platode cocina a veces sale salado y otras dulce asin son las grabaciones .@@brandtagone8487

[@Franklin3792]

I just hooked it up... It don't play loud on aux and tuner input... I can turn it all the way up... no distortion... ON cd it will play loud..

[@marcinandrzej9024]

Very good amplifier marantz pm 8006 !!!!

[@loubano]

Hello Mister Zero Fidelity and All, Thank you very much for your great review. I owned a NAD 320BEE (+ChromeCast Audio & Spotify) and Concept 20 Q acoustic speakers and I would like to update my System. I am really hesitating between : > Marantz 8006 (More Power, but much more ?) > Marantz PM7000N (Better quality streaming from Chromecast audio ? But less power than 8006 but a lot ? sound may be better on Spotify because of internal DAC compare to 8006) > For speakers, it would be only bookshelf (no more room at home)…Focal 906, BW 606S2 or wharfedale EVO 4.2 For the Amplifiers, I really need your (and all HiFiman who want to help me :P) point of view, advices and the amplifiers that you would pick up if you need to choose. Thank in advance for your help, advice and Time. Best Regards Cedric

[@loubano]

Great Review, thanks a lot !!!!

[@martynj-c4965]

Hi I'm not sure if you're familiar with Focal speakers but I'm looking for a good amp to run them. I have recently bought the older Focal Chorus Jm Lab 726S speakers which i was going to run through my Denon AVR amp but was advised for quality of sound from the Focal speakers not to but to get a dedicated amp. Can you help advise? I play a lot of genres but rock / AOR / heavy metal are predominantly the main genres ...but i like everything really ... audiophile groups were "aggressive" and "argumentative" so any advice? Thank you

[@hubert-williams3379]

Sir, I just purchased this amp.. the feet under neath seems to be unequal on the front left and rear right.. Q: are the feet adjustable?

[@andresaraiva81]

My system consists of Marantz PM 8006 and ND 8006, Wharfedale Linton 85, and I'm thinking of connecting a Marantz MM 7025 or Advance Paris BX-1 or Advance Paris X-A160 EVO. Would this be viable and compatible ??? What do you think of my idea ???

[@mnyshrpknvs]

Any plans to review Denon's Flagship Integrated Amp? I am curious as to how it stacks up against this Marantz.

[@ZeroFidelity]

It's a possibility. Perhaps later on in the year. :)

[@shuttlebadminton24]

Should I go for a modern-day stereo amps or pick a vintage amps? Experts please advice.

[@juliangst]

What does source direct so on the Marantz? I always thought It only bypasses the tone controls, but you said that the treble gets more aggressive with that function.

[@charlesb3801]

I believe you are correct. It be brings everything back to neutral. It does nothing to increase treble.

[@mikeos1]

@@charlesb3801 so the "reviewer" was talking rubbish!

[@hubpaq]

mikeos1 no the neutral is not necessarily neutral depending on each company,. Or amplifier