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Marantz SA-15S2b, thoughts & opinions

Hey there everyone.
I'm on the fence on purchasing a new Marantz SA-15S2b SACD player and would like a little feedback. I'm not interested in PC, streaming or downloads so please keep the chatter on the SACD player :-)

I've heard the previous version just last week and was really impressed with it. That was with CDs only and CDs will be my primary source of music. After seeing the price of SACDs out there and the wide range of opinion on the sonics, I'll tread lightly if and when I buy any.

Any criticisms or raves are appreciated and please don't be put out if I don't respond to any or all responses as I just need opinions. Alternate suggestions need not apply since I really don't see myself buying another RB CDP. My tastes currently run to world jazz, vocals and acoustic, including small piece chamber music. My amp is a Burson integrated that mostly runs in Class A and my speakers are Tonian Labs TL-D1s with all cabling by Mapleshade and I listen in the nearfield. That should sum up all parameters and help narrow down any responses. And, I definitely will replace all fuses with HiFi Tuning ones or better which will improve sonics and allow me to hear further into recordings.

After talking to Marantz headquarters over in NJ and picking their brains, it appears this unit came out in June/July of 2011 and will be current for the next few years and there will be no discounts given at years end but I may have an authorized online dealer willing to negotiate a bit, but it's a long shot.

Thanks, in advance,
Nonoise
nonoise

Showing 3 responses by tomcy6

tomcy6's avatar
tomcy6
2,623 posts
 
Congratulations NoNoise! I hope you enjoy the Marantz. I think you will. Let us know in any case.

I'm a disc spinner myself. I like having something physical to keep and I like to have the art and liner notes, even if I need a magnifying glass to read them.

I like the sound of the SACD format too. My SACDs are mostly rock and jazz and I'm away from home right now, but I could probably come up with a few recommendations if you're interested in those genres.
tomcy6's avatar
tomcy6
2,623 posts
 
As you know, I'm sure, the Marantz players get excellent reviews in the magazines and from owners. The problems I see are that digital players are improving rapidly and downloads could put the brakes on new SACD releases at any time.

If you're not easily swayed by the latest and the greatest reviews, the Marantz might work for you.

Music Direct has a 30 day return policy but their website sounds as if they're getting a little tired of the try it and return it type of customers. You could talk to them and see if they are willing to take a chance on you.
tomcy6's avatar
tomcy6
2,623 posts
 
"Question of Balance" by the Moody Blues is a really good sounding SACD. Shelby Lynne's "Just a Little Lovin'" is too if very laid back covers of Dusty Springfield songs might interest you. The Dave Brubeck you got is a good one.

Give me some time, I'll think of more.
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