Rotel RA-04 or Marantz PM6002?

[admin_exported]

Hi, I have recently recieved an unexpected £500 and am looking for a new amplifier. I have decided to go with either the Rotel RA-04 or Marantz PM6002. I have already had the Rotel and loved it, but after reading What Hifi? found that the Marantz PM6002 and CD6002 are supposed to work well together. But just how well and with what speakers????
I currently have Monitor Audio BR2s and Chord Carnival Silver Screen (and am going to purchase the CD6002 and Debut III at the same time as the amp.), so I guese what I am asking is; has anybody had any experience with the Marantz CD6002, Marantz PM6002 or Rotel RA-04 and the Monitor Audio BR2s with Chord Carnival Silver Screen Speaker Cable.
I have searched the forums and seem to get contradictory opinions, I would book to listen to the combinations but I don't have enough time and the nearest Hifi specialist is quite a journey away. Any help would be more than welcome and much appreciated.

 

[Anonymous]

Well I haven't heard this config, but I will say that I think the NAD C325BEE is a much better amp than the Marantz, esp with my speakers anyway...

 

[the record spot]

The Marantz will give you a good open and crystal clear sound, no shortage of power, but at £500 for an amp, you could do better. The new Marantz range is out but you might get a deal on the excellent PM7001-KI. I'm a big fan of Marantz kit and can't recommend them highly enough.

 

[Anonymous]

I would go for the rotel, I have it with monitor audio rs1 speakers and it is a great combination. as far as how the marantz cd player will go with the rotel I couldn't say but I think someone on here has that combo. I your budget of £500 for the amp or for both the amp & turntable.

 

[Anonymous]

Regarding Marantz gear, I was told y'day by staff at my local Sevenoaks store that their prices are going UP from Feb.

 

[Anonymous]

PM7001-KI

NAD C352

Arcam Alpha 9

Any of these will go well with the BR2's but personally having got the set up and having read lots of other forums, it seems like C352's and the BR2's' are recommended as an excellent match.

To be honest though if you have a preference to buy new and it is a choice between the RA-04 and 6002 then demo each.

 

[Anonymous]

Hi, thank you all for your advice, seeing the ammount of different combinations and comments that people have offered I think that I may have to make time to try them out. (Just to let you know m1rfy, I would say the £500 is just for the amp. I was considering a more expensive amp. than the Marantz/Rotel but thought I may need to upgrade my speakers then. I'm not too sure though.) Thank you all again for your advice, I will let you know how it goes.

 

[Anonymous]

Curious as to what you decided in the end - 6002 or another amp?