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How about the SA-15S2 ?
the model #'s for Marantz SACD players confuse me???
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Guys-
can I get an opinion on the SA-11S2 ?
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I have heard several models of Esoteric players, they are a very different animal from the Marantz players, IMHO.
The Esoteric are very resolving and articulate, a bit too analytical for my tastes though.
I am a fan of vinyl, and the Marantz players allow me to listen to digital music without grinding my teeth.
The 7S1 is an older, discontinued CDP. It was the most expensive model that Marantz ever produced. It listed for $6500 - $7000 and was discontinued about 4 years ago. You can find them used for under $3K.
The top current Marantz model is the SA-11S3, which lists for $4000.
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lynott-
I have only heard the Esoteric SA/DV- 50/60 series. Still, I really enjoyed the sound and presentation. I have read that the DV-50s is one of the best and budget friendly. I would love to demo a X-01 or X-03, as well as, any "SE" / "Limited" spinners. |
Interesting lynott-
is the SA-7S1 a current spinner or older machine? |
I've owned the X0-1, 5, and 7 Esoterics, and they were/are all excellent spinners, particularly the X0-1 (in my case, modded). That said, my Marantz SA-7S1 is a cut above in the musicality department. It just has a way of disappearing into a soundstage (I know that's a weird phrase) that has eluded the Esoterics in my room. But I'm really splitting hairs. The Esoterics are fabulous machines. |
Many Thanks! for sharing guys-
I really enjoy Esoteric spinners and I did not want to (potentially) miss a better player in Marantz. Happy Listening! |
KJ, When I bought my sa11s1, the dealer suggested we change out the two primary fuses. I readily agreed and he took care of it after I had it for a couple of weeks. I could tell the difference right away. I bought my sa7 used and the previous owner had already change out all the fuses. Again, according to him, it made a big difference. All I know is it was one reason I bought his player in stead of somebody else's. I've never regretted that purchase either. There are a myriad of companies you could go to for fuses. Its really your call. |
I have the SA-11S2--great player for both SACD and Redbook. I can only echo the comments of the previous respondents in this thread (sound and build quality beyond reproach). I have not jumped on the fuse bandwagon, but this thread has me considering it. . . any recommendations from other owners?
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Second note; the SACD is not dead, either. Happy Listening! |
Much Thanks! guys. I concur as above, the CD, is not dead. I wanted to get a census on wether or not you guys like the Limited/Special Editions, that are made every so many years, by chief designer Ken Ishiwah. |
I'd also like to add that I replaced the fuses in both my Marantz Reference integrated and SACD player and it does make a difference, for the better.
All the best,
Nonoise |
The Marantz Reference players are special. I've had my SA-7S1 for a LOT longer than I've owned any other previous digital player. As others have stated, if you're looking for a sharp, hyper-detailed sound, look elsewhere. But if you want a player that gets all the fundamentals of the music right, and presents them in an amazingly coherent, musical whole, then the Reference players are an excellent choice, particularly on the used market.
Oh, and lest you think these players aren't detailed, rest assured: they deliver BOATLOADS of detail--but that delivery is so natural and so relaxed (in a good way) that it makes many other comparable players sound forced and hurried.
The fuse suggestion is a good one; it does make a significant difference. And these players, though built like the proverbial Panzer, do respond well to quality isolation. |
I have two Marantz SACD players, the 11s! in one system and the flagship 7s1 in my main system. I've had both for several years. Obviously, I've been happy with them. One thing I would suggest is that you upgrade the fuses in either player. It made a big difference for me in the focus and breath of the soundstage. As others have said, Marantz gives you a full rich sound and a player that is built like the proverbial tank. |
I've have the Marantz SA-15S2b and really like what I hear with it. I didn't know a SACD player could make redbook sound so much better than on a regular CD player. Before the Marantz, I had a Consonance CD player that played just standard redbook (no over/upsampling) and thought the world of it, but the Marantz had much deeper and better articulated bass, richer (more fuller and developed) mids, and extended highs. All of it amounted to greater presence. Before anyone flames about streaming and that the CD is dead, the best digital I've heard was a few shows ago at Newport and it was in the MSB room when I listened to what I thought was the best PC audio at the show and it was "just" a CD playing. One can go on and on about the limitations of CD and what can go wrong but it doesn't mean that it necessarily will go wrong. Luddite that I am, I'll eventually dip my toes in the PC water, but as for now.....
All the best, Nonoise |
I have been using a Marantz SA-11S1 with Ultimate Tube mod from pcX for over 8 years now. Great CDP! Like barrysandy says, very musical, not one of those sterile, analytical sounding units.
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I'm using the SA 7S1. Really great sound for SACD/CD if you're not the type that likes an analytical sound. Have had no problems over the years that I've owned it. Built like a tank. Reasonable prices used. Haven't really felt compelled to upgrade. |
