Oh my god, this comparison is just what I needed. Now considering my brighter speakers I'm in the team 70s, also for added value of multiple inputs (especially phono) and now playing display on TV. Thanks a lot John.
The Stereo 70s would be my selection here primarily for it’s ability to support two pairs of speakers but most importantly for its ability to display track information on my TV. Thanks again John for another great review!
Good on you for your "Roon ready" announcement policy. I have an M1 and love it. LOVE it. I'm sure you've heard this before - i am still confused about "no DAC" vs. "Direct Digital Amp." Digital goes in and analog comes out to the speakers. Sounds DAC-y to me!
I feel like the pre amp mode is also a great addition to the 70s. "You can even use the Stereo 70s in conjunction with a higher-end external amplifier by setting it into pre-amp mode."
I understand new school products like the M1 (being from the iPod generation), but I have also had my brains 🧠 blown to smithereens by all this 70s hifi stuff i have been collecting. The Stereo 70 is neither old school nor new school to me. If I were Marantz, I would design an old school integrated that fit the WC-22 or WC-2 wood case from the superscope era that people are still making. Go back to your roots, Marantz!!!!!
70s vote here, and John I very much respect your honor in not reviling the launch date. This shows your a person of character and can be trusted with information. That quality is very rare in today’s society ✌️
I own the stereo 7S and I couldn’t be more happy. It’s power, soundstage, functionality, and versatility to matching speakers is optimal. Looking forward to Roon readiness and improved bass management. I run the S70 with a pair of red Sonus faber lumina 2 Amator and the smallest REL subwoofer in white in a mid to large room. Total bliss! Sublimely detailed forward set up. I can hear everything.
70s - I actually just purchased the Cinema 60 to pair with my TV and passive soundbar with the hope to expand to an Atmos setup. Will have separate tube amp and mains for 2 channel music
This comparison is what I have been waiting for! I would like to listen to both amplifiers to make the final decision but would probably choose Model M1 as - at least on paper - it better suits my needs. Thanks for another great video!
I think another benefit with stereo 70s is the pre-amp out which enables experimenting with different power amps in the long run. Something that m1 buyers would not be interested anyway, so they might serve different folks which are fine. Would be interesting to hear from others on how much the pre-amp contributes to the sound when having external amp.
I own the 70s and really enjoy it for its duel purpose hifi and movies set up with SVS ultra bookshelf and SVS sb2000 sub The only issue I have is when watching movies sorry should say streaming movies eg Netflix Amazon ect the dialog is heard to hear as the audio stream is compressed so much Ideally the cinema 70s with a centre channel would be the go but I haven’t the room to fit a centre channel so I would really like to give the M1 a go because it has a Dolby decoder and you can adjust the dialogue enhancer which I would love to hear but no one has reviewed the functionality as of yet except for Andrew Robinson who talked about the filters included If it performs really well in the dialogue enhancer function it could be a year from me
You may have already done so, but manually switching to Stereo audio tracks in Netflix resolves a great deal of this issue. If you have a Google Chromecast w/TV, you can turn off surround sound tracks globally and stick to linear PCM.
Stereo 70s...I currently have a KEF LS50 Wireless II and fondly remember the analog sound of my setup... when I owned a Marantz amp or Musical Fidelity
I like your detailed yet clear review, you clearly give the sound styles of amplifiers , i would be buying 70s for the fuller sound of my old songs, nice review. S
The M1 looks so stylish. I became quite excited that you’re trying out the Q Acoustics with the M1, then immediately disappointed when you said it’s not a good paring lol
I own the Stereo 70's but I have been a long term Marantz user for years. I love all the new and vintage marantz. Currently eyeing up the upcoming Model 10 reference series amp.
I have owned a Stereo 70s for 10 days, brought it back to the dealer and traded it in for the Model 40s. Though i really liked the connectivity i kept having troubles with the HDMI-CEC after much tinkering and i thought the sound was lean compare to my old marantz 8006. So i would choose neither (but it is a different price class)
Over the last few weeks, I've watched numerous reviews of the M1 and have been getting curiouser and curiouser as to whether it would be good for me. I'm so glad you did this comparison. I had completely forgotten about the 70s. At the same price point, I think I would go with the 70s given how you characterized the differences in sound. Thanks mate.
Good video and thanks for reiterating the fairly limited effect amps have on sound(subject to power), particularly in this case as they couldn't be more different in respect of the technology. I'd love a vid on explaining the connection of subjective description vs technical. Such as class A amps having warmth or weight due to distortion at certain frequencies etc vs good quality Class D amp such as purifi based amps being more transparent/accurate and neutral in presentation. It seems some of the subjective description around amps sound is overblown and also raises the question do you want your amp colouring the sound or having a signature as that means you have no option of actually hearing the music as intended. Maybe its best leaving the colouring of sound to eq, speakers and pre amps/tubes etc
Where do I get my free Stereo 70s? I like the extra input options, and the now playing information. Excellent video as always. And seeing as I recently saw a bit of grief in the comments concerning the bloopers, I just want you to know I appreciate them. They help me face my day, knowing I'm not alone. 😀
Marantz M1. Bought it a few days ago and like it very much. However i’m curious about the Model 60N. Have had de PM7000N before which i quite liked except for a sound that was not that clean compared to ‘better’ amps. The M1 is really good. Better sound than a powernode plus you’ve got all the settings to adjust, like a receiver. In a small nice package.
Hi John, does the 70S provide HDMI surround sound decoding & level adjustment? If not, you're stuck with a stereo downmix with the center & surrounds mixed into fronts with no way to adjust levels. A surround sound AVR provides those adjustments & is a much better option for a 2.0 or 2.1 HT system & likely less expensive than the 70S. I checked the Marantz website & could find no info?
New to Ht - looking to get a 5,2 ( ALREADY have speakers n subs for years) looked at sites n picked out Onkyo R250 / Anthem mrx - 740 / marantz Cinama 50 = ANY suggestions/< 1 to 3,000 - WANT to hook up phone or Dap - with alexia - n TV N MOVIES -???? ANY INPUT APPRECIATED. ✅️💯💯💯💯
Stereo 70S is for me, simply for that more natural sound and extra feature it brings for the curious listeners to look-up to what is playing, giving context to the music playing.
The stereo 70S would be my choice. I'm old, 1949 model. We do have a TV between our speakers. It's a 2.1 setup. Built to Spill - Very cool! Thanks! Paul H. Huntington Beach, CA
If (when?) my SR6007 dies, I would have to pick the Stereo 70s. TBH, I have a stereo only setup with no TV attached, but I got a screaming deal on the SR6007 when it was closed out. Just a 2.0 setup (tried Bi-Amp but didn't make enough of a difference with my B&W speakers). What I do require is an analog input (have a separate Pho tube phono amp), a coax for my Sonos Connect, a toslink for my Marantz CD6005 and a zone 2 pre-amp out - feeds the input on the Sonos - so I can listen to my vinyl anywhere in my house. And a network connection and AirPlay.
Is there a reason not to go for the cinema 70s if you want a stereo setup? I dont need 5.1 but maybe adding a center speaker to the stereo system for movie nights would be nice. Otherwise, stereo for music and movies are enough. Or would the stereo 70s deliver better performance for music?
Really happy of this comparison since they are my actual dilemma! I was first going to keep my old Rotel and add a WiiM Ultra but no Airplay is a killer for me so… Stereo 70S or M1? Now that I saw this comparison, I will go for the 70S. Thanks John, you really help me out with this one. 👍
Model M1 gets my vote - has wife approval factor 😅 I always enjoy your thoughts and wait for it………the bloopers at the end 🤣🤣 thanks John for another excellent video 🙏🏻🙏🏻
I have the Slimline Marantz Cinema 70s AV Receiver used for Surround Sound and its Pre-outs to Arcam Stereo Amp that has AV Bypass, so you get Best of Both Worlds, Separate Music & Movies Setup
M1 for me. We live in exciting times! Love your content John. I was wondering though (controversy warning), is there a lot of love for the blooper reel? I guess some people like to peer behind the curtain...
I purchased the 70S to use in a 2 channel home theater setup and I love the flexibility it gives me, for music I think my previous amp (Rotel A12) was punchier than the Marantz but they both sound great with my kef 350’s. The 70S is great with my LG C2 tv and Oppo 105 for my movie collection, and I don’t care about the streaming because I have my own music collection and tastes.
I bought the Stereo 70s to replace my NAD 320BEE and I love it. No way I'd pick the M1 even it was free. I wouldn't be caught dead in skinny jeans either :))
I’m considering the M1. Currently, I use TIDAL with Roon. If I use TIDAL Connect, does this will match the sound quality of using TIDAL with Roon? Do I need Roon? I only listen streaming music, btw.
m1 upstairs in the office and 70s with TV and vinyl downstairs. I need to rob a bank...in the meantime I will survive with my Old Technics and my Wiim amp upstairs. Great review. Marrantz are one of the few old brands that have not gone to poop.
M1. I paid for two of as them as it happens! Virtual surround is superb .. and that alone is worth a lot for me. Ditch the soundbar. I think it’s useful to point out what the m1 has that the 70s doesn’t have..
Stereo 70s for me. My reasons are largely aesthetic - what can I say, I'm shallow 🤷🤷 Great video John, I love the "extra" information videos you make (not that you need my "blessings" - 😂) 👍😁👍
The 70s would be my choice. I have the perfect setup for it as I can use it in my office to supply quality sound, but also connect my games consoles to my monitor that doesn't have enough HDMI sockets, and currently uses a 20 year old logitech computer speaker setup. I have been looking at some of the older slim Marantz Cinema amplifiers for this, but I don't need the surround sound in here, so the 70s would be the perfect addition really.
Stereo 70s for rock and classical music. And I don't often touch my knob, but if I'm close to the amp and want it louder or quieter, I'd much rather turn the dial than stab at capacitive buttons.
Stereo 70s vote here. John, you're no plonker and, I respect your desire to let the manufacturers announce their own shipping and availability dates.
Oh my god, this comparison is just what I needed.
Now considering my brighter speakers I'm in the team 70s, also for added value of multiple inputs (especially phono) and now playing display on TV.
Thanks a lot John.
The Stereo 70s would be my selection here primarily for it’s ability to support two pairs of speakers but most importantly for its ability to display track information on my TV. Thanks again John for another great review!
Good on you for your "Roon ready" announcement policy.
I have an M1 and love it. LOVE it. I'm sure you've heard this before - i am still confused about "no DAC" vs. "Direct Digital Amp." Digital goes in and analog comes out to the speakers. Sounds DAC-y to me!
A subwoofer walked into an audiophile bar. The bartender said, "We don't servo your kind here."
You’re missing… but if you’re happy like that, then continu without that delightful low bass presence.
I feel like the pre amp mode is also a great addition to the 70s. "You can even use the Stereo 70s in conjunction with a higher-end external amplifier by setting it into pre-amp mode."
70 S for me. Whilst here, just like to say tier 1 RUclips content. Thank you for all the videos, reviews, podcasts etc....keep going John.
I understand new school products like the M1 (being from the iPod generation), but I have also had my brains 🧠 blown to smithereens by all this 70s hifi stuff i have been collecting. The Stereo 70 is neither old school nor new school to me. If I were Marantz, I would design an old school integrated that fit the WC-22 or WC-2 wood case from the superscope era that people are still making. Go back to your roots, Marantz!!!!!
70s vote here, and John I very much respect your honor in not reviling the launch date. This shows your a person of character and can be trusted with information. That quality is very rare in today’s society ✌️
Dont get too carried away, lol He forgot what is was anyway
I own the stereo 7S and I couldn’t be more happy. It’s power, soundstage, functionality, and versatility to matching speakers is optimal. Looking forward to Roon readiness and improved bass management. I run the S70 with a pair of red Sonus faber lumina 2 Amator and the smallest REL subwoofer in white in a mid to large room. Total bliss! Sublimely detailed forward set up. I can hear everything.
Do you think that someone who listens to mostly acoustic music could get away with the Lumina 2's without a sub ? Thx.
Looking forward to upgrading from my old Onkyo to the Stereo 70's when I can. It's just gorgeous.
This is the comparison video i have been wanting someone to make thanks.
The 70s for sure.
Good video. Smart comparison
Hi John thanks for the heads up on Built to spill, just checked them out on Spotify really impressed & the 70s for me if only for looks alone.
Marantz 70s , thanks. Great little addition to the previous review John
Would pick the 70S for sure.
Roon Ready is an absolute must have for any streamer that I would consider.
70s - I actually just purchased the Cinema 60 to pair with my TV and passive soundbar with the hope to expand to an Atmos setup. Will have separate tube amp and mains for 2 channel music
70s for me. I love the tone controls and DAB radio. It's a lot more flexible. I have owned a 70s for around 12 months now and love it.
absolutely love the out takes
This comparison is what I have been waiting for! I would like to listen to both amplifiers to make the final decision but would probably choose Model M1 as - at least on paper - it better suits my needs. Thanks for another great video!
I think another benefit with stereo 70s is the pre-amp out which enables experimenting with different power amps in the long run. Something that m1 buyers would not be interested anyway, so they might serve different folks which are fine.
Would be interesting to hear from others on how much the pre-amp contributes to the sound when having external amp.
I own the 70s and really enjoy it for its duel purpose hifi and movies set up with SVS ultra bookshelf and SVS sb2000 sub
The only issue I have is when watching movies sorry should say streaming movies eg Netflix Amazon ect the dialog is heard to hear as the audio stream is compressed so much
Ideally the cinema 70s with a centre channel would be the go but I haven’t the room to fit a centre channel so I would really like to give the M1 a go because it has a Dolby decoder and you can adjust the dialogue enhancer which I would love to hear but no one has reviewed the functionality as of yet except for Andrew Robinson who talked about the filters included
If it performs really well in the dialogue enhancer function it could be a year from me
You may have already done so, but manually switching to Stereo audio tracks in Netflix resolves a great deal of this issue. If you have a Google Chromecast w/TV, you can turn off surround sound tracks globally and stick to linear PCM.
70s look beautiful and sound lovely and very clean !
Stereo 70s...I currently have a KEF LS50 Wireless II and fondly remember the analog sound of my setup... when I owned a Marantz amp or Musical Fidelity
Thanks for the heads-up on HEOS Tidal Connect John. I can honestly say that I heard about the update from you. 70s for me. 👍
I like your detailed yet clear review, you clearly give the sound styles of amplifiers , i would be buying 70s for the fuller sound of my old songs, nice review.
S
The M1 looks so stylish. I became quite excited that you’re trying out the Q Acoustics with the M1, then immediately disappointed when you said it’s not a good paring lol
Appreciate you doing this video. I've been looking at both and am now leaning towards the Stereo 70's.
Stereo 70s. Need a volume and input selector on my amp. I’m not messing with capacitive tapping when the volume needs changing.
I own the Stereo 70's but I have been a long term Marantz user for years. I love all the new and vintage marantz. Currently eyeing up the upcoming Model 10 reference series amp.
I love your reviews, thank you for your work. I'd take the M1 out of these two and tweak the sound by component matching if needed.
I have owned a Stereo 70s for 10 days, brought it back to the dealer and traded it in for the Model 40s. Though i really liked the connectivity i kept having troubles with the HDMI-CEC after much tinkering and i thought the sound was lean compare to my old marantz 8006. So i would choose neither (but it is a different price class)
Over the last few weeks, I've watched numerous reviews of the M1 and have been getting curiouser and curiouser as to whether it would be good for me. I'm so glad you did this comparison. I had completely forgotten about the 70s. At the same price point, I think I would go with the 70s given how you characterized the differences in sound. Thanks mate.
Good video and thanks for reiterating the fairly limited effect amps have on sound(subject to power), particularly in this case as they couldn't be more different in respect of the technology.
I'd love a vid on explaining the connection of subjective description vs technical. Such as class A amps having warmth or weight due to distortion at certain frequencies etc vs good quality Class D amp such as purifi based amps being more transparent/accurate and neutral in presentation.
It seems some of the subjective description around amps sound is overblown and also raises the question do you want your amp colouring the sound or having a signature as that means you have no option of actually hearing the music as intended. Maybe its best leaving the colouring of sound to eq, speakers and pre amps/tubes etc
Where do I get my free Stereo 70s? I like the extra input options, and the now playing information. Excellent video as always. And seeing as I recently saw a bit of grief in the comments concerning the bloopers, I just want you to know I appreciate them. They help me face my day, knowing I'm not alone. 😀
70s would be my choice. Thank you for this review! 👍
For free the M1. Great content John. Really happy to hear you and Michael together on the podcast. Great synergy with you both.
Marantz M1. Bought it a few days ago and like it very much. However i’m curious about the Model 60N. Have had de PM7000N before which i quite liked except for a sound that was not that clean compared to ‘better’ amps.
The M1 is really good. Better sound than a powernode plus you’ve got all the settings to adjust, like a receiver. In a small nice package.
Stereo 70S for the win. Great job Mr. Darko!
70s for me - phono capability swings it along with a sound more conducive to jazz (eg Matthew Halsall, Jasmine Myra, Poppy Ackroyd)
Great video as always John 👏🏼. M70s for me. More features as well as closer to the sonic performance I’d prefer.
M1 for desktop use and EDM!
Stereo70s. Thanks I like this vid. The side by side works really well here.
Hi John, does the 70S provide HDMI surround sound decoding & level adjustment? If not, you're stuck with a stereo downmix with the center & surrounds mixed into fronts with no way to adjust levels. A surround sound AVR provides those adjustments & is a much better option for a 2.0 or 2.1 HT system & likely less expensive than the 70S. I checked the Marantz website & could find no info?
New to Ht - looking to get a 5,2 ( ALREADY have speakers n subs for years) looked at sites n picked out Onkyo R250 / Anthem mrx - 740 / marantz Cinama 50 = ANY suggestions/< 1 to 3,000 - WANT to hook up phone or Dap - with alexia - n TV N MOVIES -???? ANY INPUT APPRECIATED. ✅️💯💯💯💯
I‘d likely go with the 70s. But right now I‘m using a Cambridge Audio CX81, which I‘m very happy with.
I would take the model 70s all day for its old school look and it's class ab amplification.
Stereo 70S is for me, simply for that more natural sound and extra feature it brings for the curious listeners to look-up to what is playing, giving context to the music playing.
Stereo 70s for me as I'm an old fella!
Hey John, you're looking well, must get after a bit of bicycling myself.
M1 for the win. Form factor is cool. Brand name is epic.
The stereo 70S would be my choice. I'm old, 1949 model. We do have a TV between our speakers. It's a 2.1 setup. Built to Spill - Very cool! Thanks!
Paul H.
Huntington Beach, CA
70S -A/B sound and almost full screen video- is it still ?
Awesome Review Sir!
If (when?) my SR6007 dies, I would have to pick the Stereo 70s. TBH, I have a stereo only setup with no TV attached, but I got a screaming deal on the SR6007 when it was closed out. Just a 2.0 setup (tried Bi-Amp but didn't make enough of a difference with my B&W speakers). What I do require is an analog input (have a separate Pho tube phono amp), a coax for my Sonos Connect, a toslink for my Marantz CD6005 and a zone 2 pre-amp out - feeds the input on the Sonos - so I can listen to my vinyl anywhere in my house. And a network connection and AirPlay.
Is there a reason not to go for the cinema 70s if you want a stereo setup? I dont need 5.1 but maybe adding a center speaker to the stereo system for movie nights would be nice. Otherwise, stereo for music and movies are enough. Or would the stereo 70s deliver better performance for music?
Really happy of this comparison since they are my actual dilemma! I was first going to keep my old Rotel and add a WiiM Ultra but no Airplay is a killer for me so… Stereo 70S or M1? Now that I saw this comparison, I will go for the 70S. Thanks John, you really help me out with this one. 👍
I like the compactness of M1, but I also like the retro feel of the 70s. But the connexion to a TV is definitely a big plus, so 70s it is.
Model M1 gets my vote - has wife approval factor 😅 I always enjoy your thoughts and wait for it………the bloopers at the end 🤣🤣 thanks John for another excellent video 🙏🏻🙏🏻
Stereo 70s for me...just for the sheer beauty of it.
If watching TV or a streaming service like Netflix, in your opinion, which amp would do a better job at low to moderate volume levels?
Stereo 70s without a doubt. In the US Marantz is selling a refurbished Stereo 70s for US$599!
They sell new for 660€ in Europe now.
I have the Slimline Marantz Cinema 70s AV Receiver used for Surround Sound and its Pre-outs to Arcam Stereo Amp that has AV Bypass, so you get Best of Both Worlds, Separate Music & Movies Setup
Cinema 70 is great on its own, especially with a nice power amp !
Stereo 70S for me, would love to one.
M1 for me. We live in exciting times! Love your content John. I was wondering though (controversy warning), is there a lot of love for the blooper reel? I guess some people like to peer behind the curtain...
My preference (blind, as not heard either) would be the 70s.
I purchased the 70S to use in a 2 channel home theater setup and I love the flexibility it gives me, for music I think my previous amp (Rotel A12) was punchier than the Marantz but they both sound great with my kef 350’s. The 70S is great with my LG C2 tv and Oppo 105 for my movie collection, and I don’t care about the streaming because I have my own music collection and tastes.
I bought the Stereo 70s to replace my NAD 320BEE and I love it. No way I'd pick the M1 even it was free. I wouldn't be caught dead in skinny jeans either :))
Is is worth going for even cheaper Cinema 70s? It does have room correction, other than that i don't think i will go more than 2.1 channels.
I’d go for the 70s mostly because I prefer having tone controls, and I’d use the phono stage .
SNL- Everyone is talking about my tight pants...my tight pants...I got my tight pants on.
Now when tidal connect is in I could consider both. The HEOS app was a dealbreaker after living with my Denon avr
Stereo 70s for the now playing feature
M1
Tough call! Probably M1 for my space, but either seems to have their place!
Stereo 70s for me. Great comparison thank you.
70s because of the old school A/B amp.
M1. I just stream Roon radio based on my preferences. Don’t need a display or knobs. I control everything from my Roon app on my iPhone.
I’m considering the M1. Currently, I use TIDAL with Roon. If I use TIDAL Connect, does this will match the sound quality of using TIDAL with Roon? Do I need Roon? I only listen streaming music, btw.
m1 upstairs in the office and 70s with TV and vinyl downstairs. I need to rob a bank...in the meantime I will survive with my Old Technics and my Wiim amp upstairs. Great review. Marrantz are one of the few old brands that have not gone to poop.
I chose a Cinema 70s (close cousin to the Stereo 70s) and it's lovely as a 2-channel.
Stereo 70s, for me please. Thanks for the video.
70s looks so good. I'd probably take the M1 as I am all about kallax-fi.
M1. I paid for two of as them as it happens!
Virtual surround is superb .. and that alone is worth a lot for me. Ditch the soundbar.
I think it’s useful to point out what the m1 has that the 70s doesn’t have..
Based on your review I’d go for the STEREO 70s 😊
Stereo 70S, please! (I'm v. Old Skool).
70S…..it looks exceptional.
the side by side comparaison we needed... send both for free i'm not decided yet !
70s for its classic looks
Very tough choice. I wish the Stereo 70s had a high-pass filter!
M1 due to lack of space by the TV. Also would mostly use it with TV as source.
I would Take the M1 because of the Subwoofer Integration.
I’d choose the 70s on it’s looks alone. But I’m still a kid of the ‘80s.
Stereo 70s for me. My reasons are largely aesthetic - what can I say, I'm shallow 🤷🤷
Great video John, I love the "extra" information videos you make (not that you need my "blessings" - 😂) 👍😁👍
I would have jumped on the m1, love more smart compact solutions
The 70s would be my choice. I have the perfect setup for it as I can use it in my office to supply quality sound, but also connect my games consoles to my monitor that doesn't have enough HDMI sockets, and currently uses a 20 year old logitech computer speaker setup. I have been looking at some of the older slim Marantz Cinema amplifiers for this, but I don't need the surround sound in here, so the 70s would be the perfect addition really.
Keep it like a secret is one of the best albums every made.
70s. More versatile for a living room.
Stereo 70s for rock and classical music. And I don't often touch my knob, but if I'm close to the amp and want it louder or quieter, I'd much rather turn the dial than stab at capacitive buttons.
I'll take an M1 please. Thanks. Good review.
WiiM amp for me❤😊
Hi John,
I would choose the 70s.
Cheers!