Marantz CD6003 - headphone amp

[admin_exported]

Apologies if this is in the wrong forum - I’m not sure if it’s hi-fi or headphone related!

I’m due to collect a Marantz CD6003 on Friday, primarily for headphone use using its own headphone amp. However, the Ken Ishiwata interview re the forthcoming CD6004 states ‘Oh, and we've also improved the headphone amplifier: it now sounds much better than before.’

So, is the headphone amp on the CD6003 particularly bad, or is it just relative? Obviously I could add a headphone amp at some future point (ie when funds allow) but in the meantime I’m hoping that the CD6003 will be a vast (and noticeable) improvement from what I’ve currently got?

Cheers,

Ian

Sony CDP-XE200, Denon PMA250SE, Mission M60iSE, Denon TU-260L, Cambridge Pacific interconnects

 

[eggontoast]

What headphones are you hoping to use with it ?

 

[Anonymous]

Primarily Sennheiser HD600 and also Sennheiser PX100.

 

[Sizzers]

The Marantz has a fairly decent headphone out for easy to drive cans such as Grado's, for example.

However, although I've not heard the HD600's from what I've looked up so far the Marantz isn't going to drive them to a satisfactory level (simple to check by taking them along to the dealer). Either way I would get an amp.

The CD6003 is a fabulous player IMO but personally I'd wait a while until the 6004 is out to see out that compares. I won't be looking for one myself but can't wait to have a demo.

 

[caesar44]

The HD600's are more forgiving with sources, i think your marantz will be able to drive them without a problem.

 

[Anonymous]

Thanks all,

Got my CD60003 this afternoon, whipped it out of the box, connected it up and plugged my HD600's in (too impatient to run it in first) and initial impressions are wow! I'm hearing subtle bass melodies in places I didn't even realise had a bass line, and the level of detail is amazing, particularly mid-range vocals. I've only tried the CD's headphone socket so far, I'll try the amp out of curiosity, and then will run it in properly.

Only problem now is upgradeitis.....amp first, then interconnects............etc, etc

Thanks for all the advice!

Ian

 

[Russell Finch]

I have a cd6003 and a pair of HD600s too. I also have the digital outs of the CD6003 connected to a DACmagic and Rega Ear amp. The Marantz is a lot warmer and fatter sounding than the DAC/Rega. Most of the time I prefer the DAC/Rega though - it has more sparkle and clarity at the top end.

 

[Russell Finch]

I have a cd6003 and a pair of HD600s too. I also have the digital outs of the CD6003 connected to a DACmagic and Rega Ear amp. The Marantz is a lot warmer and fatter sounding than the DAC/Rega. Most of the time I prefer the DAC/Rega though - it has more sparkle and clarity at the top end.

 

[whatsername]

Hi Ian, Sorry if this is not relevant, but I'm new to this. Can I ask did you try your ipod Nano 5gen with the Marantz CD6003? I have been afraid to try it, as the booklet said it was only tested up the the Nano 4gen.