marantz 11s2 sacd player modifications

I have a Marantz SA-11S1 with a tube buffer stage. Call Chris Johnson at The Parts Connexion (pcX). This mod was called his Ultimate tube mod, and cost around $3200 as I recall.

I bought mine already modded, so I can't really give you a before/after experience. However, I can say that I like the way this unit sounds, and it has beaten many more expensive units, IMHO.

Cheers,
John

I would have to disagree with you here MrT. I've heard the Marantz SA-7S1, and it is on the warm side of neutral, especially when you put it up against the competition, like Esoteric, EMM Labs, Cary, etc.

Yes, you may find a sweeter presentaion with Audio Aero products, or you may even want to try Kevins new DAC.

However, as far as one box players go, the Marantz is definitely not on the lean side of neutral....even in stock form. If you think it is, you really need to listen to more CDP's.

As for me, vinyl is my format of choice, and my modified Marantz SA-11S1 is a CDP that I can listen to and enjoy, which does not cause my ears to bleed. I've heard the stock SA-7S1, and it is a great CDP, I prefer my player, but neither unit would I call harsh or aggresive as many higher priced CDP's that I've heard.

Cheers,
John

You can have the best of both worlds Mr.T. I also am a tube fan over SS. I run tube pre and amp, though I do use a SS phono stage. I find my Marantz SA-11S1 with the Ultimate Tube mod by Chris Johnson from pcX was the best digital one box solution I've heard in my 35 years in the hobby.

Yes, I've heard better digital, for a LOT more $$$. I decided long ago to spend most of my expendable income on analog though, not digital. I did find that Chris' mod on the Marantz allowed me to listen to digital without grinding my teeth. So when I'm in a lazy mood, I can just pop in a cd and listen to music now. FWIW, I've sold many more expensive CDP's and seperates for my current CDP.

Cheers,
John