Marantz vs. Pioneer Receivers

I own Marantz imp 6 and imp 7 speakers and a 6200 turntable,
and have a pioneer sx-1080 and a sansui 8080. the sansui sounds better direct and the pioneer with an mxr eq sounds great. I would have gone with a Marantz if the stereo shop would of sold those in 1978. I also had a sansui seven. I bought new in 1974 and it also sounded better than a pioneer.

I agree with Kinsekd although it does not answer your question. I prefer the vintage Yamaha units over either Pioneer or Marantz but Marantz is my second choice if you are not including McIntosh vintage in this comparison.

Marantz was killer when playing back real rock but I always felt it was somewhat lacking with more subtle music. It was sort of either play it loud or forget it. Could have been my mentation at the time.

Marantz hands down.

Jsman is correct
Marantz easily wins

I have both a Marantz 2325 and a pioneer sx-1980 hooked up to a beautiful pair of Jbl 4344's and hpm 1500's. I first had the 2325 and I was stunned in its performance. I then bought the 1980 and it fails on all levels. It's going up for sale and I'll put back the best I've heard..!!!