Review: Marantz PM/CD 5005 Integrated Amp/CD Player

Review is Live:

Marantz PM5005 ($499) and CD5005 ($399)

http://www.avrev.com/home-theater-p...05-integrated-amplifier-cd5005-cd-player.html

 

Nice review. I've got the Marantz PM6005/CD6005 and I'm loving the combo, really great value for the money I paid.

 

Nice review, Serving; concise!

The 5000 series is, in my view, the sweet spot in the Marantz line. Those two and a pair of Wharfedale speakers in the same price range, and you're set! Audiophile music playback for well under US$2k. We do live in a golden age of audio!

 

Spot on.

 

Thank you. Great combo...digital inputs on player?

 

Yes, that model includes the digital inputs.

 

Amazing.....

Have you seen the HD-DAC1, $799?

 

I did not see that, just looked that up. That's interesting as I really enjoy listening with a headset. That looks like one sweet unit.

 

Check this out...fixed or variable RCA Output, remote, 192khz and DSD, if you care...and incredible build quality.

I have one in house now.

 

Wow, sounds incredible. I'll have to demo one soon, and hear it for myself. Are you hearing a big difference compared to plugging a headset directly into the amp?

 

I have not used the headphone amp.... not much of a HeadFi...but I will eventually plug in my Grados.

 

Enjoyed the review... I can believe it, I have the PM6004 and it has exceeded my expectations consistently. My first amp was a Marantz as well - certainly great price/performance ratio.

 

Thank you kindly. Yes, I can't imagine someone hearing the PM amps and not thinking they cost a lot more.

 

Nice review of some very affordable pieces. I would say that for anyone shopping in that budget arena to consider spending just a bit more for the 6000 series.

I owned the CD5004 and have had opportunity to run the matching amp with Wharfedale Diamond 10.1'a and although OK, the CD/PM6004 are remarkably better for just a bit more change. Truly the sweet spot in the lineup in my opinion. I presently have the CD6004 and have owned the SA8004 as well.

 

You are right, not much more for the 6000 series...although the amps are generally based on the same circuit...with more power as you move up.

 

Another nice review Andre! I was looking at the SA8005 as it plays SACD, but then I realized the few SACD's I have are all Hybrid. If the CD5005 is as good as you say it is, then I've just saved myself some good cash.

 

Hey JV!!! Thanks man. Well, remember the SACD layer of most properly mastered discs will sound better than the Redbook layer, and...the SA8005 also is a multi input DAC to boot.

 

Valid point. I might have to still go with the SA8005 then or possible the UD7007 as it can play BD-A. I'm pretty sure I want a Marantz unit to match my PM-KI-Pearl Integrated.

 

Ah...still jealous...love the Pearl gear...gorgeous looking and sounding.

 

Listening to the DAC now...it is remarkable. With the PM5005 and Harbeths and a Simaudio MiND streamer via coax.

I will use the USB input down the road with a SOtM server.

 

Assuming it's the same mastering!

 

Consider the CD6005, it can be had on sale now and it has some nice upgrades and is a great player for the money.

 

I have the SA8003 and love it. I don't think you could go wrong with a SA8005.

 

assuming is is a well done SACD with a true DSD layer, yes.

 

Nice review - makes me want to get a Marantz system!