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In the Forum: Audio Discussions
In the Thread: Marantz MA-9S2 Monoblock Amplifiers
Post Subject: Playback in the Real WorldPosted by Paul S on: 10/30/2023

Amir, the Marantz MA 9S2s are the subject of this thread, and I chose to keep using this amp because it was consistently acceptable to me with different sources and driving vastly different speaker loads, including giant (Sound Lab A1) electrostatics. I think it saves time to know pretty well what you want in terms of sound as you “audition” gear, and one has to be careful about gear that is “impressive” on first hearing. You cite a number of component pairings, including amplifiers vs. speakers. Yes, it is hard to juggle the variables involved in a multi-driver, “FR” speaker, including the amp or amps to drive it. It seems funny to put it this way, but Romy’s pairing of DSET and massive horns is actually meant to be a sort of shortcut to optimal playback, just as my own solution is meant to be my version of a “good compromise”, in an effort to “balance” sound and system complexity. Clearly, there are simpler, cheaper solutions for anyone willing to put in the effort to think it through and work it out over time. I have mentioned several times that it is much easier to put together a system that puts out less range and power than mine does, and I think most people are well served to consider a “limited” approach, especially apartment dwellers and those with smaller listening rooms that are easier to charge. I do “get” Audio Note (and the like), and I actually “endorse” the notion, if not a particular product. In any case, it’s personal, after all. And even in cases where someone wants more power, I think it’s generally “easier” to split off LF.>>


Best regards,

Paul S

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