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Vintage Receivers vs. Modern MidFi

As I was looking at classic tuners from Marantz I started to notice their receivers and I've become very interested. I'm curious what people here think about the comparision between these 'classic' receivers and modern midfi equipment. I've been considering an NAD c340 or Jolida 102b matched with a classic Marantz tuner or my current FT-11, but when I considered replacing my FT-11 I thought 'why not consider replacing my whole deal with one of these vintage receivers'. The more I look at these receivers the more I am struck by their beauty. I am too young to have ever owned one of these new, but I must admit that I am very drawn to them. In the end though it is about the sound, and I want the best I can afford. I've got about $600 to spend on tuner and amplification. So, should I get a classic Marantz(or McIntosh?) receiver or stick with my NAD/Jolida + Magnum/Classic Marantz combo, and how do these two paths match up sound wise? Your advice, concerns, confessions, and/or recommendations are warmly welcomed. Oh ya, if it matters I'm using AE Aegis speakers. Thanks. Carter.
mailman199
chelillingworth
309 posts
 
I have tried out some vintage Scott equipment. I have been using a 1961 Scott 333 integrated that kills the Audio Refinement complete I previously had ($1000) this Scott can be had for $150. It would be perfect for your small speakers. But always listen before you buy.
brianmgrarcom
1,317 posts
 
Carter, there is a Discussion Forum for vintage audio at www.audioreview.com. There are others that also are drawn to the look of those old receivers. If you go to that Web site, look up a user called BeatleFred, he knows a lot about the old receivers. I believe that you can get some good deals on some old receivers, but I also believe that there is equipment today that outperforms it, and rightly so. Although, for the most part, only low-end receivers have been produced for years, so in that arena a older high-end receiver may out perform many receivers of today. Magnum Dynalab's new receiver is the only high-end receiver that I know of and IMO it would easily outperform the vintage receivers, but then again it would cost you much more. BTW, your FT-11 is destined to be a classic!
patriot
24 posts
 
Carter, I agree with Brian and would keep the FT-11. I do hear where you coming from -- I have always wanted a old reciever/system and have looked around the net. However, I go back to the purpose of the system and for me it's the music. I am currently using the NAD 317 which I feel is one of the best Integrateds on the market for the money ($600). I had the C340 which was great, but wanted more power. I like the NAD because of it's heritage and design philosophy. I have also owned a Mac Integrated ( 5200?), and it was decent but could not hold a candle to today's Integrateds IMHO. Good luck.
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