Unlike previous decades when being an audiophile meant spending plenty of money to achieve a good sound system, amplifiers today such as the Marantz PM6007 and Denon PMA-600NE are more accessible to budget buyers.
Both options are great on your wallet, and provide similar listening experiences. The Denon feels comfortable to operate and the DACs have their separate power supply that allows it to minimize its weaknesses and improve its strong points. On the other hand, the Marantz includes a subwoofer output that can accommodate the needs of people who want to increase the low-ends in their stereo setups.
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Denon PMA-600NE vs. Marantz PM6007 – How do they compare?
Features
The main aspect that stands out in the Denon PMA-600NE is its disabling of digital circuits, resulting in a true analog experience when listening to your music. However, that does not mean it neglects digital inputs, due to its inclusion of an in-built DAC system, as well as a single coaxial and two optical inputs. This will allow for optimal sound quality regardless of the source in use.
In terms of output, it has a line-level RCA analogue pair, and shares the same headphone jack size as the Marantz PM6007 – with a terminal of 6.35mm, while the Marantz headphone jack is 6.3mm. In the Denon, the loudspeaker connections are through its binding posts and a single RCA jack that accommodates the line-level mono subwoofer.
The aesthetics in the Marantz PM6007 are the same as previous models that came before it, which is disappointing if you are looking forward to improvements. Despite this, though, the overall look is a well-constructed one that will give you plenty of traditional hi-fi appeal, even though it has a high number of dials that can prove distracting to a minimalist enthusiast.
The two amplifiers are similar in appearance but the Denon PMA-600NE wins due to its inclusion of various ports that allow connection of several outputs.
Design
The Denon PMA-600NE has a great design, although it has a challenging read-out for users with poorer eyesight. Additionally, it implements plenty of shortenings of the signal paths and showcases enhancements in its mechanics to improve the dissipation of vibrations. These improvements extend to its inclusion of improved feet, as well as using high-quality components like its electrolytic capacitors.
In the Marantz PM6007, expect a new DAC AK4490 chip that replaces the Cirrus Logic that was a mainstay of its predecessor, and allows it to convert digital audio files. The inclusion of a sharp roll-off and a slow roll-off complements the chip to allow you to play music from any source that connects to its single coaxial or two optical inputs. Unlike the Denon, it emphasizes the circuitry to enhance its signal-to-noise ratio and boost performance in its analog inputs.
The Denon wins here due to its improvements in circuitry and overall design that make it easy to operate.
Sound output
The Denon offers rich and full sounds throughout its soundscape, especially in the middle area. Its digital inputs are enough to provide you with a comfortable listening experience. However, the signal range is quite limiting, because they are set up carefully to prevent excessive opening up of the soundstage in the digital output – the analog output is more superior because of its increased clarity and detail. Due to its design and audio output, it is best to combine it with speakers that produce slightly warm or neutral sonic output.
The Marantz offers a boost in performance, with a sonic output similar to its appearance – balanced, full, and smooth. The spaciousness is also worth noting, and it is quite an agreeable performer, but it sacrifices rhythmic punch and clarity for tightening up its bass. This results in a more energetic performance that has greater textures in the output, despite its lack of rock-solid delivery in its vocals.
Both amps deliver impressive performance, but the Denon PMA-600NE edges out the Marantz due to its greater clarity in both vocals and instruments.
Denon PMA-600NE vs. Marantz PM6007 – A comparison overview
Denon PMA-600NE
Denon states that the PMA-600NE is aiming for the beginner music enthusiast, with the NE in the name being an acronym for ‘New Era’. It comes with a wide range of features that make it ready for both MC and MM phono (vinyl), thanks to its two Toslink optical connections and one RCA coaxial electrical input. It also includes an internal aerial that allows it to receive Bluetooth signals, and four line-level RCA analog input pairs.
- Includes MC and MM phono input
- Comes at an affordable price
- Deep lows in the sound and full medium soundscape
- Very busy design
Marantz PM6007
When using this amp to listen to music, you will notice its standout smoothness and clarity regardless of whether you are listening to digital files or an audio CD. It also includes an AK4490 DAC that allows it to decode digital audio with high accuracy, and its ability to create a spacious, energetic soundstage is impressive.
- Solid build and durable design
- Very good audio performance
- Broad connectivity options
- Comes at a budget-friendly price
- Lacks USB and Bluetooth connectivity
Conclusion
Both the Denon PMA-600NE and Marantz PM6007 are great options if you want good-quality amplifiers on a tight budget, and provide a pleasing, rich audio listening experience.
Verdict: So, which is better? Denon PMA-600NE or Marantz PM60007?
The Denon PMA-600NE is our winner in this review, as it offers the most value for money in its feature set and sound output without sacrificing on clarity.
FAQs
Can I use the Denon PMA-600NE to power my standing speakers?
Yes, and the setup process is quite easy and effective especially when you add a subwoofer, regardless of the brand of speakers you use.
Can I connect a CD player or turntable to the Marantz PM6007?
Yes, it has a set of dedicated digital connections for a CD player and for turntables.
