Marantz 30 for Harbeth Compact 7 ES 3


I’m considering replacing my vintage gear with a new integrated amplifier. I’d grateful for input on the Marantz 30. My speakers are Harbeth Compact 7 ES 3 with a REL s/812 subwoofer and my source is Innuous Pulse. I mainly listen to jazz, rock and acoustics. I’m also considering a Luxman 505z as there is a dealer near me. But I think the Luxman would be overkill. Any input would be much appreciated. Thanks. 

hugo1

No matter what you buy, keep the old, at least for a wee bit.  I have had issues with people insisting they needed what I have, I sell or give away to them, and spend the next extended period finding replacement for the exact thing sold.  Granted I believe I have made a fair amount of people very happy.  Everything has its own signature sound.  For example, had a friend that really missed the sound of his Sansui receiver, I found one.  He hooked it up and was immediately back in high school.  I have done this with amps, cd players and especially speakers.  If you just don't care for what you have, then sell it and move on.  Guessing by what you said, you love what you got.  Good luck.   

I have the Compact 7s and P3ESR and have also owned the Super HL5+.  They sound nice with Line Magnetic and Sugden gear.  I'm using a Simaudio 600i with the P3ESR.  I think the Compact 7s are the goldilocks speakers in the Harbeth lineup.  They are likely to convey the characteristics of whatever you power them with, whether that's the sound of tubes, class A , etc.