Marantz 8b reissue on ebay

[Geoman076]

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=3026853499&category=14973

I just recently began my tube amp learning process (I posted the "where do I start" thread), but I know that these are a popular choice. Just in case anyone is interested.

[Dan C]

Did Marantz reissue this amp at one time? When? Didn't Vac do a faithful reissue of this in the mid-90's?

"Pics soon!!"??
I don't understand why he posted photos of the tube boxes, manual and power cord but not the amp.:rolleyes:

Dan C

[Gary]

Yes, they DID reissue it once (in the '80's?). I know a place that has one for sale... looks just like the original.

How much, do you ask?

As much as possible. :rolleyes:

I wonder if it SOUNDS like the original?

[Geoman076]

That was quick! As soon as the pictures were posted it must have sold. "Buy it now" at $1995

[Gary]

Very popular and pricy, I guess.

Based on Steve's comments, I think I'd still prefer my McIntosh!

[Jeffrey]

Originally posted by Gary

I wonder if it SOUNDS like the original?

Hi,

If it's anything like the reissued Mac stuff, the answer is ........ Hell No! :)

-Jeffrey

[Dean De Furia]

Jeff,
Actually, I've read where the reissue sounds almost exactly like the original because they used the exact same circuit as the original. The reissue Mac stuff made subtle "improvements" to the circuit which made it sound different/not as good. I suspect you would be hard pressed to hear the difference between an original and reissue Marantz if the same output (Mullard) tubes were used. The reissue has an on/off switch and detacthable power cord , too.

[Jeffrey]

Originally posted by Dean De Furia
Jeff,
Actually, I've read where the reissue sounds almost exactly like the original because they used the exact same circuit as the original. The reissue Mac stuff made subtle "improvements" to the circuit which made it sound different/not as good. I suspect you would be hard pressed to hear the difference between an original and reissue Marantz if the same output (Mullard) tubes were used. The reissue has an on/off switch and detacthable power cord , too.

Hi Dean,

Those reviews sound like Marantz did a MUCH better job than McIntosh on the reissues. Most people will tell ya that the McIntosh reissues are not close to the originals. Have you heard a Marantz reissue played side-by-side w/ an original? This is probably the only fair test.

-Jeffrey

[Dean De Furia]

Jeff,
To be honest, no. I formulated my opinion based on the dozens and dozens of posts at Audioasylum.com. I'm on the lookout for a good used 8b to complete my "trio" of vintage amps!

[Jeffrey]

Originally posted by Dean De Furia
Jeff,
To be honest, no. I formulated my opinion based on the dozens and dozens of posts at Audioasylum.com. I'm on the lookout for a good used 8b to complete my "trio" of vintage amps!

Hi Dean,

Well, that's usually a real good place for this kinda knowledge. Since ya already have two nice vintage amps, i'd probably wanna score an original 8b....... but that's just my approach to this thing of ours. :) Which pre do ya have paired w/ your 240 and how is that working for ya? How would you describe the sound of that combo? Have ya tried a vintage McIntosh pre w/ your 240?

Enuf questions.....for now, :)
Jeffrey

[Dean De Furia]

Hey Jeff,
I've got a Conrad Johnson PV-7 Pre hooked up to the Mac. It has enough sweetness while still not going overly syrupy. Remember the Mac has a lot of that 'ole tube magic and sometimes a vintage pre will just put it over the top. I'll tell you this, this combo is fantastic except for the very low bass which is a little flubby. I did have a Dynaco PAS-3X hooked up for a short while, but I still prefer the CJ.
As far as the Marantz, I would take either an original or reissue as long as it's mint and it's price is reasonable.