Marantz Ruby PM KI amp vs Accuphase e-480 or e-380


So... does the Marantz "economies of scale" trump here? Can they make just as good of luxury product for cheaper than the more "boutique" brand? Sound quality -wise, is the Ruby PM KI amp just as good or better (though without the features) as the Accuphase e380 or e480...?

My preference is detailed but perhaps on the warm side of neutral...

Could run either of ’em w a bluesound node going through the Ruby SACD player dac, so consider that the source(s).  Just consider that to be my inputs, into the Ruby and/or Accuphase amps, to control that point.  So the question is about the amps. 

And btw... I know there are plenty of other choices... but let's keep this discussion focused to my question at hand; I've heard all the arguments for all the other possible amps in this world, and I'm down to these two for the purposes of my question; I'm not interested in hearing about a bunch of other brands.

Another related thought, although it would likely void the warranty, if I bought an Accuphase, say the 480, in Japan ... could it be easily "rewired" to be American power (110/120) ? A high end repair shop ought be able to do that for a couple hundred bucks I’d think, or am I mistaken.

curtdr

Showing 2 responses by pureofheart

@wadia150 May I ask how you connected the REL subwoofer to the PM-KI? Is any component getting warm at the touch? According to Marantz, the PM-KI was not meant to have a subwoofer connected to it. 

This is their reply when I contacted them (Marantz). Even the guy from Rythmic subs warned me about connecting subs to Class D amps.

Thank you for contacting Marantz Support, we value you as a customer and appreciate the opportunity to be of assistance!
The PM-KI Ruby is not a Fully (or true) Balanced amp. Only the PM-10 in our Reference line is Fully Balanced.

We do not recommend connecting a speaker level sub to this unit as it may cause damage to the amp channels. Unfortunately, the PM-KI Ruby is not designed to handle a sub. It's designed to be used with 2 speakers connected only.

If you have any further questions please feel free to contact us again. 
Thank you for contacting Marantz Customer Support.  Have a great day!
Regards,
Anthony
Customer Support
Denon | Marantz
Sound United North America