Why Are Vintage Marantz Receivers So Expensive?

[@jonm3255]

Nice video! As a guy in the 55-64 demographic that started buying stereo equipment in 1982, I will add the Marantz receivers were always on the wish list but to expensive for a middle class college kid. A few of the wealthy kids had them in college, but more ofter Technics, Kenwood or Pioneer were in a dorm room. Adjusted for inflation, the vintage Marantz are not really that expensive now, and us old farts have money and love nostalgia.

[@BTW...]

LOL " ...and us old farts have money and love nostalgia." And age related hearing loss! Most of them also claim vinyl records sound 'better' and spend a fortune for marginal benefits to a younger listener.

[@foobarmaximus3506]

@@BTW... Vinyl is not debatable. It's better because of physics, and that is beyond dispute. Whether you can hear the difference or not is a different matter.

[@rauldemoura2417]

We used to comb the pawn shops. My (then) wife found this one and called me. I don’t remember what I paid for it, but I have had it for DECADES!

[@dnate697]

Oh well. I was Stationed in Germany and like Military folks from all of the services turn turned Millions of folks into Audio Lovers, not Audiophile who I call Audiophools. Most New school Receivers just can't provide the Full Range Power. I love to use my HK 730 (Before on Ch died) with 30 watts pushing the Optimus Mach Ones harder than a New Denon was advertised as having 3 times the Power. I'm Audiophile but I'am an Audio and Music Nut!

[@user-dy2zy8rd2t]

@@dnate697 The Realistic Mach ones were more efficient speakers than some others.They were ok,but the drivers in them were on the "inexpensive" side,which are usually made to be more electrically efficient,and work with lower-powered units.And the HK's usually used direct-coupled wideband amps which made the music sound clearer,(which some might interpret as being "louder"as opposed to capacitive-coupled circuits.The Denon may have had a different way of rating their output power,as well.Newer receivers tend to skimp on the power supply,and use amp "package circuits"(IC devices)as opposed to the older units,which had bigger trransformers, heftier power supplies,and discrete "transistor-on- heatsinks" circuits to handle the power on demand.

[@Hapfletcher]

This is great information for me. I have a 2270 I have had since 1970s. I still have the original marantz box and that box is inside the original marantz shipping box. I also still have the original plastic sheet cover for the face plate and I also still have the original marantz wood case still in a marantz shipping box..also all the warranty papers and sales receipt..

[@Fdt172]

So how much did it cost?

[@dr.jamesolack8504]

@@Fdt172 Bought one in 1975-76 for about $700. That was like $3,500 today. Wound up selling it about 10 years ago for $900. Every time I see one, I want to kick myself in the ass! If you can find one for $1500, grab it! You won’t be sorry.

[@nopnj]

You were wise to hang on to it all. I did not have your foresight. However, I got back in the fold about 6 years ago and am glad I did.

[@savagedick1462]

@@dr.jamesolack8504 900 isnt too bad, you probably made good use of the 900 then.

[@dennislynch4783]

Couldn't agree more......vintage Marantz holds their value primarily for it's sound, owned several.......but they have a unique appearance that screams Marantz!

[@SinnerSince1962]

I once had a 2285B. I say "once" because I sold it when bills came knocking during my kids' school years. It was the best sounding receiver I've ever owned, hands down. And at that time, I had owned about everything you can imagine. It's still number one in my memory, and I'm saving to buy another one now.

[@ErosGalaxia]

Didn’t realize Marantz were getting expensive. I bought a model 4430 like 2-3 years ago in pristine condition from an older gentleman for $180. Worth every penny for sure.

[@jmad627]

Good for you! A good buddy of mine sold a Pioneer SX 1250 for a profit at $200 around 10 years ago. He’s kicking himself for selling it now. I recently bought a near mint Pioneer SX 780 for $500 with an eye that it’ll increase in value as I enjoy playing it.

[@rogertycholiz2218]

Amedeo ~ The older gentleman just wanted to get rid of it not knowing it's value. He probably needed the cash.

[@billbradleymusic]

Steal!

[@thehistoryprof6750]

I have the Marantz 2245 purchased new in 1975 in the walnut case (and no scratches), including the original Marantz owners manual. Everything still works and it looks like new. Only one repair to replace the on off button spring about 20 yrs ago. So refreshing to see someone younger that appreciates vintage gear such as this. Thank you.

[@todddenio3200]

I bought a 2245 about 20 years ago and cant imagine being without it.

[@tonedriverss8629]

Just picked up a 2245 in mint condition all original , no repairs , never been opened , and working A-1 . It sounds awesome . It is a beautiful piece of superb craftsmanship .

[@thehistoryprof6750]

@@tonedriverss8629 that's fantastic...enjoy !

[@ronbatson1960]

I bought my first marantz system in 1977! Still use it everyday 2285!

[@paididoy]

Wow! That's 85 watts per channel? It should be powerful!

[@preacherjohn9986]

It has more power than that; I've seen them push out 104-108 watts.

[@danmartinez5502]

As the Electronic Buyer I became a Marantz dealer in 1976. I put it in to 8 David's Stores in Wichita Kansas and Tulsa and Emporia Kansas. Better warranty, Better sound, Better quality and they sold like crazy, I currently own a restored Marantz 2250B. Say what you want the Marantz sound is hard to duplicate, Sansui was the closest to Marantz sound in the 70's.

[@fasbos3]

Thanks for the info! I bought my Marantz 2245 in 1975 in Okinawa when I was stationed there in the Marine Corps. I still have it and I no longer live in Detroit, I am in Bellingham Washington. My 2245 quit working around 15 years ago however like what you said I did just take it down to Seattle to have it fixed. Its great once again and I'm glad I got it repaired thanks to Condor electronics.

[@mikeb3603]

Bought mine with my first VA check! Still use it!

[@SuperReyand]

Got me one 2245 few days ago! I also have a 2226 model. Still can’t decide which one i like better! Great piece of gear!

[@kevinyoung2431]

My Marantz Karma. I inherited the 2238B that my father bought new in 1977... my buddy and I had a side hustle, and we used the receiver to power our make-shift mobile DJ kit from 1977 to 1983. I would unhook it from it's place in my parents house, throw it in the trunk of my car and drive off to some remote location in Indiana for the gig. I would bring it home and eventually reinstall it in my parents home, but it would sometimes end up sitting in the trunk of my car for a few days. It wasn't abused, but it wasn't pampered either. With the lone exception of it overheating a bit when we attempted to satisfy about 150 screaming girl scouts at an outdoor event, the receiver performed flawlessly. My family and I moved out of state in '84, and the Marantz saw very little use over the next 40 years. Last year I decided to dig the 2238B out of storage and plug it in, some of the lights were out so I had it professionally cleaned and serviced. It didn't require much cleaning or servicing, and it is now powering my mostly vintage stereo system in my house. My Marantz looks good... it sounds good, and the memories are priceless. I just wish my father was here to listen to it again.

[@widndn]

Hey bro, older guy here, marantz 4300 in 78, still got it, nice content, interesting to listen to.

[@JonPaul]

This is a good video, with clearly stated points on why Marantz are selling at what appears to be exorbitant values. I think he nailed it. I'll share this video. Side note: I've recently traded a refurbed 2230 for the real baby of the line - a 2010. I've now refurbed the 2010, and can't get enough of that cap-coupled sound via Klipsch ForteII

[@sergiogomezphotography]

This old timer could not afford one in 1976 as I was a teen with a low budget for audio. Today I still can’t touch a nice example as the 2275 is $800- $3,000. So my guardian Angel left one for me to pick up from the curb. A little ding in the cabinet, a full clean and Deoxit. Fallowing your videos for cleaning and LED replacement. Velum being cut tonight and by the weekend it will sit top of my shelf . One Happy Marantz owner 😎 Thank you for your videos ! I’ve fallowed them and watched several times .

[@rogexpo9430]

I still have my 2238B that I purchased in 1978. Still works great.also still have a pair of infinity QA speakers purchased around the same time as the receiver and they still sound great too.

[@MD-yp4qc]

I have a Marantz 2270 I bought in 1976. Still sounds great and it looks so good too!

[@paulrose6359]

The 2270 is one of the greatest mass produced receivers ever made. The prices for a clean, gone through 2270 with a wood case is now going for crazy prices.

[@dr.jamesolack8504]

…..and worth every penny…..

[@jesusgavemeaids]

I got a free 2220B from a coworker a couple years ago. Loved it. Recapped it. Ran into a problem on the P700 board which should be a pretty easy fix...I just no longer have access to proper test equipment. My girlfriend wanted to buy me another reciever & I said it's gotta be a vintage Marantz. She got me a 2245. So I found love twice lol. But seriously they're awesome. I don't want anything else.

[@cbrippee]

For me it is nostalgia and the pure beauty and construction of the Marantz and a sound that I think is better. I think another reason for higher prices is some younger generation have discovered what we all knew in the 1970s. In 1974 I bought a Marantz 2220 at a stereo shop in the Saginaw Mall in Saginaw, MI. Anyone remember those stereo shops and sound rooms they had to try out equipment? Unfortunately I gave it to my sister in 1978 after graduating college and buying higher end equipment including bose 901s which I still have. A couple months back I picked up a fantastic deal on a 2265 in Columbus, OH that spent most of it's life well kept and not in use. It did have a service 2 years ago and sounds fantastic - gosh I love it. I have it hooked to my PC and 8 Klipsch and Polk bookshelf speakers hooked to it, 4 on each window sill. Hook them up in series parallel and it stays 8 ohms. Just fills my office with warm sound that I listen to as I work out every day.

[@jefftobin4034]

I think you nailed it. One more thing - popularity breeds more popularity.

[@johnbishop6890]

Being a lifelong Marantz fan, you only hinted at why the Marantz gear was built to last! I still have several receivers and amps thatI’ve had for 40+ yrs, and they are still operating at or near specs even as I’ve gone from a young man to an old man! Even if you have pieces that need repair and are salvageable appearance wise, it doesnt take a fortune to replace the parts to give them a brand new life. Finally, you did speak to the nice appearance of Marantz gear, but the factor that makes vintage Marantz and Pioneer receivers so lovable is the beautiful brushed silver faceplates. How on earth people will spend lots of $ on black, plastic looking dust collectors is beyond me. If i had a wish about this, it would be to have the means to really repair the faceplate dings, scrapes, and gouges that so many vintage receivers suffer from and really restore their beauty.

[@JonPaul]

Regarding the Marantz, there are very very good looking replacement plates available. In limited numbers, not cheap and as I hear - production has stopped and the production equipment is for sale.

[@Managua-f1n]

Good point ! I have change the front plate of my Marantz in black . Still big appeal ! No regret.

[@dandearborn727]

To restore these scratched and gouged face pates is a simple matter, as well as the the silk screen lettering. I can't do this myself but it is not a complicated matter. You will see as time goes on that it becomes economically viable to perform these simple restorations. Keep this in mind when looking at units that have a bit of damage and wear.

[@arthurmchugh5184]

Great to hear you guys talk about the old stereo stuff!! I have 2 marantz receiver and they need to be worked on, can you recomend anyone?😁😁🎼🎼🎤🍺

[@JonPaul]

@@arthurmchugh5184 Totally location dependent.

[@joelane7146]

I bought the Marantz 2275 with the walnut cover back in 1974 I believe it was $649 and $50 for the walnut cabinet. It sounded so good with the Marantz Imperial 7 speakers at a top of the line Kenwood turntable.

[@richclips]

You can replace the lamps with LEDs but you'll need a current limiting resistor, a diode and a small reservoir cap, making sure to limit the current to a sensible level to keep the LED happy. Incandescent lamps of the original spec will look more authentic though :) nice video, 😃

[@erikdenhouter]

At least make sure to buy the 2700°K type LED's, or the light will look as a really hard blue.

[@billbradleymusic]

But-- why?

[@stevenpettinga7400]

My first stereo was a Panasonic AM/FM Turntable that had the pop up turn table, 15 wats per channel and speakers included. (There was a perfect one on Ebay for $320 yesterday, but the cartridge and tone arm were not well suited to safely preserve LPs. ) It was originally $80. During H.S. in 1972, I had my first job and bought Double Advents. Advent large speakers wired in Parallel run at 4 ohms .These speakers are awesome and I still enjoy them. I had to recone the bass cones, for less than $60 for 4.. Then I bought 2 more large Advents, to create triple Advents. The dispersion of the high end over 6' sound like Magneplainers. I added 4 JBL concert tweeters (the kind with the clear blue disperser) using some old realistic separate tweeters circuitry to limit them to being tweeters. The JBL tweeters are quite expensive but oh so sweet, adding the tweeters improved the sound drastically. In 1970, Henry Kloss designed the speakers with a lower high end because LP's, Reel to Reel tapes, and FM started reveling the imperfections in the recording process if the high end wasn't limited. I bought 2 Yamaha750 watt amps to run all of the speakers. I had always loved my Marantz receiver and I found a vintage 2275 that worked well but could not run below 4 ohms. Beautiful receiver, with treble mid, bass, and a useful loudness control and the tuner with the spin dial for radio, You can use the outputs on the back to the other amps to power the speakers. A well built Marantz will stand up to any other make. Like he said, overall it's one of the best looking receivers on the market in the 60's & 70's...and it still is. So, $600 for Advents, $800 for the JBL tweeters, around $700 for the 2 Yamaha amps, $350 for the Technics 1200; so for less than $2,500 I consider it as good as or better than stereo equipment that cost $5,000 to $10,000; or more. I have one of the best sounding stereos ever. Since 1965 bought 2 or 3 albums a a month or weekly and I still do. I'd rather have more LPs than the most expensive strereos you can buy. LPs, I have rediscovered in the past 5 years; sound better and demand attention. I'm glad I always kept obsessive care for my LPs. iPods & even CD players, it's too easy to hit next. I'm glad I got my patience back. My stereo outfit has served me well for over 20 years, and some of it is 40 years old. Vintage is the way to go for the best sound. Steven Pettinga, Indianapolis

[@plumbersnightmare2354]

This video hits the nail on the head! 100% agreement. My Marantz system was stolen in the 1977, so I found replacement period Marantz gear in the 2000's. I now have three mid-70's receivers, a 6300 turntable and 5200 cassette deck--okay, the deck gets little use! Unfortunately, the power transformer in my 2325 cooked, and it is no longer usable. The other gear is still working. Great video.

[@Darwinknows]

I have many different receivers at home and i gotta agree with you. Though Marantzes sound good (depending on personal tastes), i think the number one reason they sell for such high prices is looks. They do look great. No question. I might add that they're also the only American brand that can rival the japanese ones which makes em desirable too.

[@alcameron6071]

American made or Japanese made is really apples and oranges. Let’s get real. The main selling point for Marantz receivers is undoubtably their looks. They looked nice. Are people willing to pay ridiculous prices because of that alone? Obviously so. But beauty is only skin deep. That argument that people are finding them hard to find is BS. Go on eBay and type, Marantz receivers. Your finger will die from exhaustion before you run out of Marantz receivers. Now go back to the top and type in, Kenwood KR-7070 and see how many pop up. When you’re scrolling, don’t blink or you will pass the one or two that are for sale. I think I made my point.

[@rent522]

I have to agree. Marantz have this kind of sexiness to it. Love the look of it.

[@alcameron6071]

@@rent522 No argument there, they do look good but would you be willing to pay three times what they’re worth just because of their looks? I had a Marantz 2230 and some idiot bought it for $550. 30 W per channel! A fool and his money are soon parted, LOL

[@jeffstockton534]

@@alcameron6071 I would've given you 600

[@Gljin40509]

@@alcameron6071 Plenty of Kenwoods on Ebay

[@jenniferwhitewolf3784]

The stuff works.. I never cease to enjoy mine Original Marantz 10b Tuner Superscope era 2220 2270 2375 Modern Era SA-7 SACD/CD player. This year hoping to add a new modern era Blu-Ray/DVD/ SACD/DAC player by Marantz to replace an aging Oppo.

[@saltywalt57]

There are more specific reasons for vintage Marantz pricing. The Model 7 pre-amp, Model 9 amp, Model 19 receiver and the first generation of blue light receivers (2215, 2270) are the last products which Saul Marantz, Sid Smith & Dick Sequerra were directly involved with. Products from the original brain trust are the most sought after. Saul replaced his brain trust in '69 with Dawson Hadley, James Bongorno and others, then left the company. Also, from their first product in the '50's till 1980, Marantz required their dealers to do "Fair Trade" pricing (which was outlawed by Congress). Throughout those years, Marantz products were always higher priced.

[@Audiogeek-kf2ez]

The "fair trade " or MAP pricing was overturned by the supreme court when Kmart wanted to take the distribution system in play out of the equation as they was double mark up. One price to the distributor, them one to the store. Sony want to buy direct from the MFG. In turn, if you did not sell at MAP pricing, the company (Marantz was just one, but almost all audio MFG) would no longer pay for print , radio , or TV advertising. Even back in the 80s with cable taking over the world, ad rates were jumping every month. All I own is Marantz

[@robertl2956]

Well written, my friend. ( I owned a model 9 and a 2270) back in the day. Today i use a pioneer sx1280. Its great. Which do i prefer? I miss my Marantz.

[@williammunny7133]

I bought my first, and second Marantz used a few years back, not really knowing the notoriety of them until recently. I have them both, they're a 2216B, and a 2270 which has been recapped cleaned, and performance checked, just the 2270. As an old school just thought I'd mention it.

[@chrishardey2198]

I payed $350 for mine...about 8 years ago ...i have withdrawls when im out of town to long...love it

[@adventureswithducky4088]

My ex-wife got rid of my 2270 one day when I wasn't home and I never did know where it went. Had that receiver from my teens in the 70s. Just recently I got my hands on a 2285 and it needs new lamps. I'm not too far from Detroit and was wondering if you'd be willing to do new lamps for me, and a general health checkup too.

[@user-dy2zy8rd2t]

Maybe that's why....she's your ex-wife?

[@dinosaursr]

I found a Marantz 2230 and a Thorens TD145 in the trash the other day. My wife was thrilled. They both need a little work but nothing major. Nice projects and your videos are good sources of info. Thanks.

[@HarmonyHomeInspectionServices]

Incredible find. So glad you spared them from the landfill.

[@user-dy2zy8rd2t]

Your wife was THRILLED?? Now THAT'S a NEW one!

[@dinosaursr]

@@user-dy2zy8rd2t 😜 it’s hard to type sarcasm!

[@leamanc]

So glad I bought my 2226 when I did-around the same time you were told your dad’s Marantz wasn’t worth fixing. I had to do a lot to get it up and running. KZbin channels like yours would have helped a lot! But since then, it’s on and pumping out sound about 14 hours every day. It’s perfect and will never be sold.

[@alexmncdoor7130]

My family had a whole deck of those in the 80´s at home in Sao Paulo, Brazil. We would never imagine they were so valuable. They were given at some point.

[@russelljdj]

I've owned my 2285B since 1978. Still sounds awesome. I love it more than anything else. I also put LED lamps. I prefer the soft blue of the fuse types, but the burn out fast so I live with that bright hard blue. Nothing better than Marantz receivers. I had the "wood" case but it just fell apart.

[@augmentedrealities]

I've got a 2285B too :) such a good amp

[@LivingOnCash]

I have a 2275 and I love it. I think I prefer the looks of the Sansui 7070 I had back in the '70s when I was stationed overseas. Maybe it is just nostalgia but I love watching the output meters bouncing around. I'm looking at a 9090 that I might buy and then see which one I like better.

[@jsmorton674]

You nailed it on each and every point! Thanks indeed….. I have a mint Marantz 2230 in the wood case. I would compare it to the "A" model Sikorsky S-76 from the same era which I have several thousand flight hours on. Slightly under-powered but simple and reliable. It very seldom broke down. Got the job done as the Nova Scotia Air Ambulance for many years. The "A" model has now been replaced; basically with new technology. My Marantz 2230 is like the old S76 A. Simple and elegant with the odd quirk but also a thing of esoteric design and beauty.

[@bantalee2002]

I remember staring at a Marantz while at a beer party back in the 70's. Told myself i was going to get me a Marantz setup,but never did though. The sound from a Marantz was noticeably different from all the receivers i have listened to.

[@stevelinahan8022]

Just bought a 2270 on eBay and paired with some AR3s. All vintage. I have to replace the power switch and the tuner string is off the pulleys, (I did that). Now taking it to a repair shop 2 hours away to get it right but cant wait to fire it up. Lost my Marantz 2230 in my divorce 30 years ago. I guess I am still paying for it but have upgraded. Bought my original in college and have been missing it every since.

[@andydelle4509]

I remember in the early 1980s visiting a high end stereo shop and the sales guy said this: "Any manufacture stating their new products are CD ready never were and never will be!" He was saying exactly what you said. If you really want a "CD ready" amp/receiver, look to an upper end 1970s unit. Stereo sales people can say some ridiculous things but this guy was dead on target.

[@chefbillybaroo2056]

Thanks for making this video are used to have a 2252B I wish I still owned it but I moved up to a 2285B for me they’re just about the same for the amount of volume that I can produce where I live but Marantz top of the line for what I can afford I can’t really imagine it being any better but well worth any amount of money that you spend for them just found your channel and I will watch and comment I know this is an older video but I’ve watched a few of your other ones first and you seem to be quite knowledgeable for young man Keep doing what you’re doing I wish you were closer to San Diego where I live I find stuff all the time and wish I had the knowledge that you do AnyWho thanks for producing I enjoyed it

[@doublebarrel9488]

Great video! I have 3 Marantz 2270's connected with Y cables that are driving 3 pairs of speakers. Stacked Large Advents and RTR 280 DR's. It shakes the building I live in.

[@mikeb3603]

Lol . You're awesome

[@RedHotBlueGlue]

I have a Marantzs system that has been sitting unplugged for the last 30+ years. I bought it from the soundman at the Fox Theater here in Visalia CA. I was a teenager and heard Rush -Tom Sawyer and just couldn't believe how amazing it sounded. Anyway, I saw this video and it has inspired me to get the system out and plug it in. I have the 2245 receiver, the 3800 pre amp, and the 250m amp in a wood case. I also bought all four Imperial 9 speakers that had chains bolted to them that were hung above the stage. It came with about 75 feet of Monster cable. I made the mistake of selling 2 of the speakers about 20 years ago, but I kept the best 2 and they are in sad shape from being in the storage shed. The components are in great looking condition, they are in the house, and hopefully still in working condition when I get to hear them again. Sorry if this is off topic, as I said, I was inspired....

[@TimBee100]

You may need to get them recapped. The capacitors tend to leak.

[@roberte.andrews4621]

Saul Marantz was, first of all, an artist and graphic designer. Other manufacturers concentrated on the internals. Marantz made the components look good, feel good to operate (ergonomic controls) and sound better than most of the competition. Marantz also had more premium capacitors, transformers and switches than most audio of the time. 40 years from now, none of the current crop of audio products will be running, but I'll bet you'll be able to enjoy the sound of many an "antique" Marantz. No, I don't have any Marantz equipment for sale. I wish I did!

[@robhowarth77]

I have a Marantz 170 DC power amp, with a Marantz 3200 pre - amp. Sound is utterly amazing. For example, I also have 2 Pioneer amps and when I play Travelling Wilburys, it is only on the Marantz that you are able to hear the creaking of the rocking chair ! Astonishing !

[@MYDOGBUD]

I have a modest Marantz collection..9 receiver's, 4 scope tuners, best models, 4 matching component stacks , tuners,preamp, amp(s) cassette decks and those wonderful EddMay Marantz speakers that still sound incredibly good..ehhh think 14 pairs including the super rare M series but I also have. McIntosh, Krell ,several 80s line stage rolling racks .Vintage Avery Fisher Tube ect....I'm a audio junky but I'm getting older and really need to sell off some gear

[@theman36]

I own a 2252b. One previous owner. It’s in my bedroom and I absolutely love it! Every time I think I should upgrade, one listen is always telling me to shut up. It’s a glorious piece of equipment. What makes it sweeter? Bought it on eBay in 2002 I believe for only $75. Beautiful condition and I told him I’d take beautiful care of it. And I have.

[@reinkansman1081]

I would own nothing but a Marantz from 1970 when I bought my first one. Thanks for your stance on this subject.

[@rauldemoura2417]

I think you spelled it out clearly, and concisely. Myself, and my Marantz 4240 thank you.

[@Errr717]

I have been holding on to my Marantz Twenty Two that I bought on my first Navy Med cruise in 1970 cause it does look good. And the tuner knob is a blast to use. LOL I'm keeping my 20th Anniversary Edition Miata, and my 1967 XR7 Cougar.

[@solice8844]

I have a Marantz 2270 that I bought together with JBL L100 speakers in 1974. This year I added a pair of ESS AMT1a pyramid speakers to enhance the system with all 4 speakers playing. But just like you I had a 1968 XR-7 Mercury Cougar 390 GT 4-barrel carburetor, with sequential tail lights, pop-up hidden headlights, style-steel wheels, select-shift automatic transmission, tilt-steering wheel, and lots of other goodies. That was luxury combined with racing power!

[@johnbowick7109]

I’ve got a new vintage audio guy to watch. Recently got back into vintage audio. I’m a JVC guy cause that’s what I bought with my hard earned $ at age 13 in 1978. And yes I know a lot of people don’t care for them as much, their average wattage is less than others and they aren’t bringing as much $, but that’s a good thing for me since I’m buying more than selling for now. It’s like I told the guy over at audioholics that my 60 watt, 44 year old JVC amp sounded way better than my brand new 100 watt Yamaha surround receiver in both 2 channel and all channel mode. He said I had a budget SS receiver. All I know is the SS costs $700 and the JVC cost $300. Anyway, I was an Avionics Tech in the Navy and I’m going to try to start doing some more serious repairs on this equipment. So far I’ve only done some voltage alignments, contact cleaning and LED lights. Do you seriously pressure wash some of your receivers as opposed to flushing with contact cleaner? I realize the cleaner is more costly. I would think that even with oven baking it might not get all of the water out of some of the components.

[@odysseus521]

Great video. If you can barely lift it, it's worth fixing. I refurbished my 2385 and I'm back to using it everyday. Sounds and performs like new. Hopefully my grandkids will have enough interest in taking my whole system over.

[@billwalck1324]

I've had a 4400 since new. Took it out of the system several years ago because it did not have video switching ability like the VSX-95 I replaced it with. Have loved it for every minute I used it. I sent it to United Radio in Syracuse NY for a complete refurb even though I didrnot have a use for it presently. Why? Because it deserved it. Equipment this beautiful just has to function flawlessly. Just begs to be loved. Quadradial 4 channel @ 50 watts/channel or stereo at 125 watts/channel, built-in Dolby with level meters, 3 function green screen oscilloscope, absolutely dead-quiet when no signal on line, what more could you ask for? Oh yeah, video capability, damn!!!

[@murphysheros100]

I had my 4300 Quad stolen back in the day. It's a monster. Bought as a demo in the late 70's. Still to this day, it drives me crazy. The one i bought was a demo model. New, it cost 1200.00. Was half price at $600.00. At that time it was a no brainer. Your channel brings me back to those good ol days. Maybe I'll hit you up sometime. Love the ch, keep up the great work. Btw, I'm still looking for my 4300. A man can dream....

[@mr.longtrail9960]

Try looking around yard sales on the other side of the tracks. You usually get your stuff back. ;)

[@davidclancy5374]

I still have my 4270 quad with a 140 power amp for rear channels I also have 4 HD880 tower speakers all bought brand new in mint condition! Nothing sounds as good as my vintage Marantz so powerful and warm. I will never sell it will be passed down to my kids. I have the walnut cabinet for my receiver too

[@bryede]

In the '70s there was an all out receiver war going on so you certainly can't assume that one brand is going to sound better across the board. They all took each other's designs apart and improved on them. The tax is only worth it if you need that look. Otherwise, I'd wait and see what turns up affordably from Pioneer, Sony, Sansui, Kenwood, etc.. and give it a listen.

[@Enigma758]

Spec's mattered and were advertised!

[@simonhansen6713]

The FM receiver is a unique design. The caps are said to have as near to a tube-amp sound as possible, with a reverb built in. Maybe I'm biased because I have a nice 2270.

[@pathfinderdiscovery9395]

I just bought a Marantz MR 220 an it’s perfect condition, I gave 150 bucks for it an it’s only 21 ways per channel but is just as powerful as my newer 2000s model Sony 300 watt surround sound system , im getting a cassette deck soon to match the 220 and I can’t wait

[@richardwestmoreland4796]

Thank you for this short but very precise video. I found it to be very interesting as I am considering a purchase of a vintage receiver/amplifier in the not too distant future. Your no b.s. straight to the point approach is just what I like and consequently I thought a subscription was in order. You come across as someone that knows what you are talking about and in a manner that coincides with my own preferences. I will check back periodically to see what else you have to say in regards to audio equipment. Thanks again.

[@buzzcrushtrendkill]

I'm happy that Marntz, Pioneer, Sansui receivers get all the attention and thus the high prices. Not the vintage components that I like best which are still reasonable buys.

[@andrewbird57]

Yep. When I was 22-23 in 1979-80 I bought a used Marantz 2270 from my friend in San Diego, CA. I like music, but I have never been an audiophile. Back then, I thought Marantz was the top of the line. That may or may not have been true. But without question they were the best looking receiver to be found anywhere. All the people I knew who I considered cool had Marantz. They had really cool ads too - you've probably seen a few. My friend, who was an audiophile, wanted to upgrade to a new Pioneer. So he sold me his old Marantz. I think I paid about $100 for it. I loved having it my living room. I had a turntable hooked up to it and at times a cassette deck and a reel-to-reel. I used it for about 20 years. As the way I listened to music changed, I stopped using the Marantz, and in 2003, when I was making a long-distance move, I decided to give it to Goodwill. It was just really heavy and I decided not to move it. I didn't think it had any value. I thought it was old technology. Recently, I discovered you can stream music through old receivers - a friend about my age uses a streaming device on his old Sansui. I'm retired now, and the idea appealed to me. I would love to have an old Marantz back in my living room again. I still love the way they look. My old 2270 had a wood case. I also loved the blue lighting. So I looked on Craigslist the other day in Sacramento, CA, where I live now. I was shocked to find an old 2270 was going for $1,700. I was also surprised to see how many of them are still available. I guess it's a good thing, so many of them are being restored and preserved because of the value they hold. But I'm not going to spend that kind of money for one, as much as I love how they look. I also owned an NA Mazda - a white 1991. Way back in the day, I owned several MGBs and Triumphs. I got my license in 1973 and those cars were cheap then. I also owned five Mustangs - two '66s, a '68, a '69 and a '70. I sold my last one - the '70 - in 1985 for $2,500. Anyway, I think you nailed it when you said a big part of the appeal of a Marantz is its aesthetic. It certainly was for me. But also, their ads, which I would see in print media, were really effective. I enjoyed reading them, and they convinced me that owning Marantz meant you were cool.

[@kennethm.380]

You nailed it. Hope you got your miata. I drive a 2006 NC. I’ve owned all generations. The NC believe it or not is the best of the bunch. I also own several Marantz receivers. Great video!

[@messageoflove1969]

Many years ago I threw out a Marantz quad receiver… because the volume control was scratchy. At the time I had zero knowledge of receivers and didn’t know that it could easily be fixed with a little Deoxit.

[@Alpha1545]

You are right. My friend found my 2020B in a dumpster! I know how to fix them so that's how I ended up with it. Also one thing about Marantz that you forgot is the separate tone controls for each channel. I know not all Marantz receivers had them but my old 2275 did. I don't recall seeing that feature on other receivers. I imagine there are others I just only remember seeing that feature on Marantz. Thanks for the videos I enjoy them.

[@rickcunningham5581]

Good video on marantz tax. Use to be at one time 1965 mustangs in people's yards and were scrap or sold for almost nothing. You want see that today. Even some used unrestored condition are worth thousands!

[@numptification]

Here in Scotland in the 1970s Marantz was available through the Comet electrical warehouses. They stood out amongst the other models because of their build quality, their beautiful analogue tuning scales and most especially, their fly-wheel weighted tuning. A flick of a finger could send the tuning indicator from one end of the scale to the other. They were the pinnacle of receiver design, even more beautiful than Yamahas. I am not surprised that they are popular. They really do deserve to be.

[@TimBee100]

My inexpensive Toshiba had a tuner flywheel that could do that, too.

[@BTW...]

The weighted dial wasn't useful when the listener never changed the radio station. Perhaps the 'weight' had a lasting psychological effect... a con job to make people think the extra weight justified the extra price paid.... with a bit of denial thrown in for good measure.

[@davidcarter1738]

Ok,old guy here,65 in May.Youre spot on man.I bought up a bunch of these things recently and theeennn,none were available.go figure

[@JoshuasRecordings]

I got really lucky with my Marantz 2270. I got it from the recycler as you mentioned. A younger girl was about to throw it away. I asked if it worked she said she didn't know and I took it. That was about 4 years ago. It ended up working great and all I needed was dial lamps. I will never sell it. As for Miatas, they're out there pretty cheap. Just need to look.

[@scottw550]

I have a 2225 sitting in the original box in storage, while I listen daily to a 2285B in my bedroom. I don't like commercials so I wear headphones, and then take them off for a couple of minutes when they come on. The Marantz 2285B was about $750 in 2000, now they are triple that on eBay.

[@harrycallahan686]

I have the Marantz 2325 . Lost power in 1997 and repaired in 2022. I have Klipsch kg 5.5's and Klipsch KLF 30's. I should probably hook it up and give it a go. Just seeing the lights back on was good enough for now. I bought the replacement LED lamp kit but haven't had that done yet.

[@Alpha1545]

I am in agreement with you. I have an old 2020B and I drive a pair of Cerwin vega DX-5's and the receiver works just fine with them. I can only tell you from my experience with the different brands that I have used in the past. To me the Marantz amp was always cleaner sounding than the kenwood's pioneer's Sansui's etc. I by no means are knocking the other equipment but I could tell, hard to explain, but you can tell after you use all kinds of other equipment.

[@petercamacho1462]

just to keep you informed we are all watching your videos brother keep Marantz Rocking us old heads love your thoughts on Marantz rocking my2265B

[@docjeffry]

I don't know how my parents could afford a Marantz 4300 in 1975. Still have it and it is on the restoration bench.

[@billbradleymusic]

My father handed down the marantz because I wanted it. It is a beautiful piece of work. Heavier than hell. But as a kid I just loved the color and the dial. You've convinced me to learn and make it great again. It still plays BTW... But is lacking in the sonic area. Luckily Dad was an electrician and showed me the ropes as a child. Cant wait to get into it.

[@denniswaske]

was at my local record shop, that also carries some new and vintage gear. had a marantz 2225 ( a low powered 25 watt per channel reciever). was always curious about the marantz mystique so got it, even though it was low power. in my office , had a sony 100 w surround from the 90's(?) and some klipsch rp600 speakers. upon changing, the sound improvement was immediately noticeable and could add a turntable. the low power is not a problem in the 11'x12' room, don't blast music anyway. all the inputs, tone controls, in an entry level receiver. the only thing i don't like is the speaker terminals.

[@patrickingalls5954]

Just had my 2235 tuned up. Have it running into a pair of Scott quadrant 101 and a pair of Pioneer HPM100 speakers. Only 38watts a channel but it shakes the house. Run my Pioneer PL71 turntable into it. Bought the Scott speakers in 1976 and the PL71 turntable in 1977.

[@jeronunkoffunk9437]

Coool video sir, didn't realize you're a fellow metro Detroiter, have had different generations and variations of the marantz receivers 👍🏾👍🏾👍🏾🔥

[@arnoldschloss9634]

Absolutely agree with your assertions on these components, same as with the mid 70's Sansui's. Is there anything built today that will play great 40-50 years from now, with minimal to no service?

[@JonPaul]

Sure, a refurbed Marantz will certainly last that long. So will a Sansui, if you remove that OEM glue that turns conductive and corrosive after 30 years.

[@johnbishop6890]

No

[@weaselsuit]

I’m 54. I recently acquired my first Marantz (A very basic 1515) for $200. Another $200 to get it up to snuff. So for $400, I have this Marantz. Now, I was using a Yamaha amp/receiver. For probably 20 years, and was always pretty satisfied with it. This newly acquired Marantz sounds probably 10x better! It is so punchy, and it fills up the room like my Yamaha never could. I’ve been listening to records waaay more than I was before. So please believe the hype. I don’t have the top end model, but the sound is infinitely different and infinitely better…

[@R3TR0R4V3]

Love me some Marantz gear. I have a nice 2230, which I use _daily_ but I'd love to get the bigger 2270, at least, if not bigger than that. I'd love to have the quad 4440 with the built-in scope someday too, but one thing at a time I guess. 🙂 LED's are the only way to go nowadays.. Never had a problem with mine, other than indicator lamps being too bright, which I remedied with a resistor on each LED.

[@dlmad4561]

I love my 2270 I have other more modern stuff but , when I want to sit back and listen to great music the Marantz is it ..

[@MarvinHartmann452]

I'm an electronic technician with 40 years of experience, and the shop who told you "it's not worth repairing" surely had other reasons. The only thing is that most of people like me have a month or so of backlogs. I'm one of the only shop in my area that touch vintage stuff, and since at least 10 years ago, the demand is crazy. Also some parts are backorder until January, which isn't helping.

[@rayinpau.s.a.6351]

I have collected Stereos well over 40 years now , And I have owned many of the Marantz Amp's & Receivers . All of them were pure power . even the smallest Amp's would power a good set of speakers with no problem . Preference is the only difference as Kenwood , Pioneer , Technics , Etc. Etc. All Company's made very good Audio Gear !

[@johnmiller3394]

I got lucky and found a Marantz 2275 from a thrift store in perfect working condition for 20 bucks

[@markrichards3747]

Calling a 30 watt Marantz receiver underpowered compared to a 50 watt Pioneer, Kenwood etc., is an incorrect statement. Marantz was notorious for under rating their amps while most other companies were overrating theirs. Brand new my 2238 was pushing 62 watts in the right channel and 60 watts in the left. Look at the Marantz/Sonos comparison video on this channel. The Marantz actually tested considerably higher wattage than stated by Marantz. They do look great but they also perform wonderfully. The gyro touch tuning mechanism is a work of engineering art. And Marantz was built to last and built to repair. My 2238 is still original and gets daily use. The only issue is the lamp on the fine tuning meter burnt after four plus decades. They just plain work.

[@leamanc]

So true! My 2226 has to be putting out 50 or more watts per channel. With four speakers hooked up, it gets louder than I ever need it to. And, most importantly, it retains clarity at any volume…although I assume using vintage Marantz speakers helps a lot in that regard.

[@85rockhound]

I have a Marantz 2235B receiver I bought in 1976. Love it.

[@gordsnieder4046]

If you have used it regularly it is overdue for cap replacement!

[@85rockhound]

@@gordsnieder4046 I have. Sounds great!!

[@n2unl748]

Mom purchased mine for me when I was 12yrs old. Still have it and will be passed down to my son. Used every weekend.

[@Palaemon44]

I have an early seventies Marantz receiver in the garage that I had bought while in the Air Force but it is one of the quadrophonic models which seem to be worth a lot less than the stereophonic models. I recall I paid about $300+ for the receiver itself, and another $100 or so for the SQA decoder plug in card when that became available. I now use a Pioneer home theater receiver in a Dolby Atmos setup. It sounds great for movies but for music it somehow doesn’t sound as nice as a dedicated music system with full range speakers.

[@philipketchum1407]

I think we are seeing a Marantz bubble right now. The prices are heading into crazy prices. The bubble will eventually bust.

[@andydelle4509]

I don't understand why an LED wouldn't work for the stereo indicator. The only conclusion I can come up with is that the old lamp was part of a circuit and not just an indicator lamp. But that would be a very unique design. LEDs run on DC current. The voltage just has to be higher than the junction voltage of the LED which depends on the color. A simple resistor then limits the current to 10-20ma for most LEDs. Some will work on AC, like dual color red/green. AC makes a yellow glow by alternating between green and red. If you can post the stereo indicator section of the service manual I can then see what is going on.

[@JayRCela]

Thanks for the video / I used to work in HiFi retail the late 70's early 80's and always liked Marantz.

[@johndublyoo2553]

They sound even better than they look and the build quality is superb hence they still command good prices given their age.👍👍

[@limegreenthecolor]

I have Marantz 2226 I bought new, as a teenager, at Service Merchandise in the mid 70's. I use to like turning it on in a dark room and looking at the nice blue glow of the face plate...one of the main reasons I chose the Marantz instead of a Pioneer.

[@rogertycholiz2218]

limegreencolor ~ That nice blue McIntosh glow!

[@limegreenthecolor]

@@rogertycholiz2218 Yep, kinda like the blue glow of a lot of McIntosh receivers.

[@michaelowens944]

Best receiver I ever had bar none. Also best FM reception I've had I live in a fringe area.

[@geraldpattonsr662]

Marantz are great.i got mine in 1975 and its still works and sounds great.wouldnt give it up at no cost.

[@larryfisher7056]

I have a 2220 that I bought at the base PX in Iwakuni Japan in 73. It runs a pair of pristine JBL Decade 26 and is perfect for my den.

[@jamiesmith6838]

Interesting. "Marantz Tax". They do look unique. Original styling. I only differ from the Marantz praise with Sansui original G-series Recievers. G-2000 to their G-2200. Best looking and sounding receivers ever! Also Marantz have that conservative power rating. Head to head soundwise, Sansui "G" receivers are superior. The brushed gold faceplate with soft yellow lighting screams elegance to me. I will admit that 2330b is very desirable! I still would not take it over say a Sansui G-2200 or a G-9000. But, it remains on my bucket list! However, Marantz were built like tanks! Superior to the reliability of Sansui. Some Sansui amplification came become unstable over time, too often incompetent repair shops can't restore to satisfaction? But, I can't enjoy listening to anything else once it's restored correctly! So, the "Marantz Tax" for me is unfounded? I like using the analogy of the Ferrari to the Honda.. Exhilaration vs dependability. Easy choice for me.

[@smitty9398]

I have a Marantz SR5013 that is about three years old or so. It is not vintage but I really like it. I used to have the HK Citation 11 and 12 that I tossed out years ago that I really wish I had not. The new stuff does not have the tape loop, I miss that. And the DRM nuisance too.

[@gregmccurry5619]

I have the marnetz 2245 and I believe the same set of speakers behind you. those are excellent speakers.

[@AUTISTICLYCAN]

More reasons there is a Marantz Tax. The Marantaz internal design is reasonably simple, straight forward and repair friendly. The Marantz face plate is a single sheet of stamped metal with holes in the right places. Marantz achieves great sound quality and high watts per channel with a minimum of complexity compared to Pioneer's SX series of high Watt Per Channel receivers. The Marantz form factor is smaller than similar receivers hosting the same Functions and Watts Per Channel. Marantz Receivers have simple button, knob, slider, connection interfaces. Most Marantz receiver electronics are logically laid out with quick and easy to diagnose failure points.

[@foobarmaximus3506]

I bought the higher end Pioneer and Kenwood devices based on power, looks AND distortion. TDH is important to me, because I do not like noise. The high-end Pioneer and Kenwood Super Eleven had much lower TDH rating at max power, which means you can turn the volume up and never hear that crappy noise. The SX-3900 had < 0.005% THD at 120 watts (non-switched) per channel. Marantz has never made a receiver that good that I know of. And that is performance you can hear in your living room.

[@christopherhines2718]

he is spot on why marantz vintage prices are high,but the again the prices of pioneer recievers,is a similar story.normaly the market for audio in general is less in the summer as everyone wants to be outside,winter best time to sell audio.But covid lock downs,has caused people to stay inside. so good market prices the entire year,for two years.however you pay a high price for a vintage amp,say in euros 150-200.good looking condition outside,but capacitors inside past their sell by date.so it sounds ok or maybe not.A full rebuild costs a lot of money,new capacitors and re-alignment. the new parts are many,but thats not the biggest expense,thats the labour rates at todays prices.so to get the oldie to sound like it was new,you could expect your restored amp to cost 450-550 depending on what amp it is. then it will sound good,but a newer amplifier say a couple of years old,second hand.will sound a whole lot better.for that money you could buy a musical fidelity class a.Then there is no contest. i bought in netherlands the 2008 remake of the musical fidelity a1,new 750 i got for 350,and sound quality i cannot describe how many times better than even a fully restored old marantz.But it looks not as impressive,as an old marantz. the situation with audio is very similar to classic cars,a good one cost more,you buy a modern car for the half of the money it will outperform your old classic,hands down. the only way realy that these old amps are cost effective is if you have the skills,to restore it,for only the cost of the new parts,because you can do it yourself.saving the labour cost. so it realy depends if you buy to get the best sound quality,and can live with the fact,it looks boring.or you go for an amplifier that looks like like the flight controls,of an older airplane. The truth is all those switches,and knobs,and controls puts a lot of extra components in the signal path and degrades sound quality at the output.It just depends on what you want!

[@Arational]

Kind of the same way I regret selling my '72 Mini. At least I still have my Marantz 2235b (In it's box for the last 17 years) Going to watch a few of these videos before I power it up.