Sure. I think it is a nice unit to use in building a modestly-priced system, or for a second system. As is the case with anything else, you need to use care in choosing the other components you want to use with it. I tried it with a pair of custom-made speakers built in an MTM configuration (SEAS drivers and Revelator tweeter) and found the performance to be pretty good. Ultimately, I obtained much better results by using smaller monitor speakers.

The unit I owned was purchased to demonstrate speakers in situations where it fit a potential customer's budget requirements. It may have just been my ears, but I was never fully satisfied with the low-level performance or dynamics. But the story doesn't end there....

I gave the unit (as well as some speakers, etc.) to my sister and brother in law, who are both amateur musicians, sing and are very active in their local community theater. They are absolutely thrilled with it.

I think Buddha uses one and likes it quite a bit. Of course, Buddha also likes a cold, wet toilet seat.

That is a good choice for many applications. There are an awful lot of variables when one tests and auditions different components. I have owned numerous Marantz components, and have never been disappointed. In the case I was describing I was trying to match the Marantz up with a specific vendor's line of speakers, and wasn't always pleased with the results.

At the end of the day, it is always best to do an in-home demo, where you can use your room, your music and your other components. That shouldn't be a problem with the Marantz or the Music Hall. Another one you might consider is the HK 3480, which is a stereo receiver as opposed to an integrated.

Happy listening and good luck.

Hola!

I'm in n' out this week, and not the good kind.

I use a Marantz PM7200 for my computer rig. The computer spins the discs, then the output goes to the Marantz, then on to a pair of Infinity Intermezzo 2.6's. The 2.6's have their own bass amp, so I'm really only driving the tweeters with the Marantz.

I've been very happy. I listen very nearfield, and the amp is quiet quiet quiet. It's got a sweet sort of sound, and listening close in, I feel I get loads of detail. Sometimes I have to stop and say to myself, "Wow, that's some good detail."

Even sitting two feet away, the amop and speakers image quite well. Sometimes I have to stop and say to myself, "Wow, that's some good imaging."

Mostly, it images between the speakers, but I'm so close, the speakers cover about 120 degrees in front of me. I think it would have to have phase problems to image outside the speaker arc...

I've never used to phono pre or the tone controls, so I can't comment yet.

It also has two sets of selectable speaker outputs, so my next project is to drag an old JBL two channels in one enclosure speaker set and hook them up for some outside boogying.

Anyway, very pleased with the unt. I don't work it that hard, but I like what it does in my situation.

I'll be back Monday, cheers!

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Thanks for the info, I bought the Music Hall a25.2 and am awaiting delivery.

Russ, I am curious as to what speakers you'll be driving with the a25.2?