I've owned the Panache and have listened to the Marantz. Soundwise, they are both excellent with the Portal a bit warmer sounding while the Marantz a bit more neutral. I'd give the edge on detail to the Marantz.
The real difference IMO is in the features, as you point out. Because the Marantz includes the remote and a phono stage for around the same price as the Portal, I'd go with the Marantz. I think you could probably even find a PM8004 for significantly cheaper than $800 if you're patient. You may also have a hard time finding a used Panache--there just aren't that many of them out there.
The real difference IMO is in the features, as you point out. Because the Marantz includes the remote and a phono stage for around the same price as the Portal, I'd go with the Marantz. I think you could probably even find a PM8004 for significantly cheaper than $800 if you're patient. You may also have a hard time finding a used Panache--there just aren't that many of them out there.