Κώστας Φ.
Truth hurts. Here's a teddy bear.
- Μηνύματα
- 8.978
- Reaction score
- 895
O...Reference ολοκληρωμένος της Marantz, στα $4400, υπό δοκιμή στο audioholics.com.
Kαλές μετρήσεις και αξιοσημείωτο efficiency για ενισχυτή τάξεως Α/Β (65%).
Specifications:
The PM-11S1 is nearly impossible to open up, but we were able to get a look at the internal components and see what makes this ~60 lb beast tick. Of first note, the entire chassis is champagne-finished and copper-plated. And I mean it is PLATED. Even the chassis screws are copper - making for a very rugged, yet elegant, look. The PM-11S1 utilizes fully balanced pre-amplifier section, which doesn't just slap on XLR inputs and route neutral to ground. The dual mono-block power amplifier design assures that the unit can operate in either stereo or mono "bi-amplification" mode. I suppose if you don't feel one of these monsters is enough for your system you can always grab another. The PM-11S1 also employs Marantz' new HDAM® SA2 system. HDAM stands for Hyper Dynamic Amplifier Module, an ultra high-speed buffer amplifier that can operate at 0 dB unity gain with an unparalleled slew rate of 200 V/micro-second. These buffers are on all inputs and outputs of the unit. This is a proprietary technology developed by Marantz to ensure smooth signal transfer to and from the PM-11S1.
The volume is controlled by a Wolfson WM8816 high-precision linear system and a floating control bus system allows multiple units to be synchronized for use in a multi-channel environment. Even the LCD display is designed with zero noise technology to ensure nothing interferes with the sound output.
The interior layout of this integrated amplifier is magnificent, with huge heatsinks radiating out from the center, and sandwiched carefully between the ventilated top and bottom covers. This allows for optimal heat dispersal and is the reason this behemoth requires no internal fan system. Two large capacitors and the remaining electronics circuitry fill the remaining space. Airflow is primarily vertical through this amplifier, since there isn't a lot of wasted space within the chassis itself.
Editorial Note: Under the Hood
This amp has it where it counts. The PM-11S1 inherits its design from the venerated SC-7S1/MA-9S1 preamplifier/monaural power amplifier separates of days passed. It features a massive hybrid toroidal transformer which takes up residence towards the front of the unit, just behind the input selection knob. Marantz, not particularly concerned with size reduction or cost, opted to utilize a choke input system power supply circuit to increase power factor (real power) of the system. This amplifier is designed to "double down" - doubling its output as the loudspeaker impedance drops.
...
I've spent a lot of time with the Marantz PM-11S1 and I can say it's one of the most beautiful pieces of gear I've come across. The measured power this integrated amplifier exhibits told us that Marantz plays fast and loose with its stated power specs - but in the consumer's favor. Its styling is unique to Marantz and really makes a statement in your reference system that says this is a serious piece of audio equipment. The $4000+ price tag means that this integrated amplifier is not for those looking for a bargain product, but rather for consumers looking to have the best as well as a showpiece that works almost as much as a piece of furniture as it does an audio component. The difference is, if you push an Italian sports car to its limits too often you'll likely end up in the shop. With the PM-11S1 - it'll just beg you for more. The Marantz PM-11S1 comes highly recommended from us to those brave enough to whip out their credit cards and take this 60+ pound box home with them. It's been nice driving this Italian sports car of an amplifier for these past several weeks - I'm certainly not looking forward to waving goodbye and driving back home in my Jeep.
Full Review
