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Re: Marantz 2220 or Rega Brio

Very different animals! I

The Marantz is much older (73-74) includes a tuner, is rated at 20W and has a classic 70's look that most people love. Because of its age and the number of controls, its more likely to have problems but if it's working well, it will likely stay that way and will have a pleasant unfatiguing sound that you can listen to all day.

The Brio is much newer (90's), is compact, has no tuner, is rated at 35W, probably has mor inputs available (which can be important) and has minimalist controls. I bought one second hand a few years ago because I loved its simplicity. That model Brio is the easiest amp to operate manually in a dark room that I've ever used. Over time however, I found that my Brio gave me listening fatigue and I ended up giving it to a friend who needed a small amp and who has been very happy with it.

If all else was equal, I would view the extra controls of the Marantz as a disadvantage because the extra switches and controls in the signal path create more potential for problems but if its working fine now, I would not worry too much about this.

You really need to listen carefully to both, preferably on your speakers and in your room. With the Marantz, I would listen for any problems due to its age. With the Brio, I would listen for any edgyness in the treble that you think may bother you long term.

BTW, I'm surprised that they are the same price. I would have expected the Marantz 2020 to be no more than half the cost of the Brio.

David


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  • Re: Marantz 2220 or Rega Brio - energyandair 03/4/0719:30:55 03/4/07 (0)


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