Description
Marantz SC-9 Esotec. Marantz SM-9 Esotec. Exclusive Version. Fully revitalized.
In 1937 Nozomu Matsumoto created the first magnetoelectric speaker in Japan, and a year later, in Tokyo, he registered the company under the name Fukuin Shokai Denki Seisakusho. In 1961, the company’s name was changed to Pioneer Electronic Corporation. However, the breakthrough came in 1962, when the company entered the Tokyo Stock Exchange and created the world’s first stereo system with speakers in separate housings. Four years later, Pioneer opened branches in the USA and in Europe. In 1978, the company created one of the best-known and most powerful receivers in its history SX-1980. Pioneer can also be proud of great successes in the world of auto-moto, as it introduced in 1975 the world’s first automotive stereo subassembly, then in 1984 a CD player and GPS navigation in 1990. The company also played a major role in the development of DVDs, plasma TVs and technologies Organic LED display (OLED). The company is currently part of Pioneer & Onkyo Corporation.
The SM-9 is the flagship stereo power amplifier from Marantz, introduced in the early 1980s and designed as the perfect companion to the SC-9 preamplifier. It represented the pinnacle of the company’s engineering achievements, combining immense power with the precision and musicality characteristic of Marantz designs from that era. Delivering 150 watts per channel into 8 ohms, the amplifier is built around a full DC circuit and employs transistors with an exceptionally high cutoff frequency, resulting in outstanding performance across the entire frequency range. The Low-TIM technology was also implemented, effectively reducing intermodulation distortion and ensuring a natural, dynamic sound. The dual-transformer design, together with large filtering capacitors, guarantees stable power delivery and excellent channel separation. Refined details-from high-quality speaker terminals to the classic, elegant front panel-highlight the character of this model.
To this day, the Marantz SM-9 is admired for its transparency, spacious soundstage, and exceptional control, making it one of the most sought-after components of the “golden age of audio.”
The SC-9 is the flagship preamplifier from Marantz, introduced in the early 1980s and designed as a reference component for the most demanding audio systems. It embodied the essence of Marantz engineering expertise-combining the highest precision of electronic circuits with the elegant, minimalist styling characteristic of that era. At the time of its release, it was regarded as one of the finest solid-state preamplifiers on the market, created for audiophiles in pursuit of absolute purity of sound and complete control. The SC-9 stands out for its meticulous attention to detail. Its audio path, built with carefully selected FET transistors and premium-grade components, ensures wide frequency response and exceptionally low noise levels. Separate power supplies for the audio and control sections minimize interference, while a robust transformer and large filtering capacitors guarantee stable and transparent performance under all conditions. Functionality was tailored to meet the expectations of the most demanding users-the preamplifier features an advanced phono stage with adjustable settings for both MM and MC cartridges, a precision low-noise volume control, and an extensive array of inputs and outputs for seamless integration with other high-end components.
To this day, the Marantz SC-9 is admired for its natural, coherent, and highly detailed sound. It combines transparency and dynamic presentation with the characteristic warmth of Marantz, making it one of the most sought-after preamplifiers from the golden turn of the late 1970s and early 1980s.
The enclosures have undergone complete revitalization and are crafted from rosewood. The wood finish consists of Chinese oil produced from natural oils, combined with natural turpentine-based beeswax. The metal elements of the enclosures have been thoroughly cleaned and refinished using the automotive “wet painting” technique. The units have been fully inspected and serviced and fitted with new aluminum feet.
This is a collector’s set. The devices are in perfect condition.
The devices have been fully reviewed and serviced.
– the units were disassembled and thoroughly cleaned
– cleaning and maintenance of switches and potentiometers
– cleaning of circuit boards and removal of cold solder joints
– inspection and replacement of electrolytic capacitors
– adjustment of parameters in accordance with the service manual
– replacement of screws
Technical specifications ? Marantz SM-9 Esotec
– power output – 2 x 150 W at 8 Ohm
– frequency response – 1 Hz – 100 kHz
– total harmonic distortion – 0.01%
– input sensitivity – 1.5 V (input)
– damping factor – 100
– signal-to-noise ratio – 120 dB
– dimensions – 47.5 cm x 19 cm x 34.5 cm (W x H x D)
– power supply – 100V (voltage step-down transformer included)
– year of production – 1982
– manufactured in Japan
– weight – 25 kg
Technical specifications ? Marantz SC-9 Esotec
– stereo preamplifier
– frequency response – 20 Hz – 20 kHz
– total harmonic distortion – 0.004%
– input sensitivity – 0.2 mV (MC), 2 mV (MM), 150 mV (line)
– signal-to-noise ratio – 70 dB (MC), 88 dB (MM), 104 dB (line)
– output sensitivity – 150 mV (line), 1.5 V (preamplifier output)
– dimensions – 47.5 cm x 19 cm x 26.5 cm (W x H x D)
– power supply – 100V (voltage step-down transformer included)
– year of production – 1982
– manufactured in Japan
– weight – 13 kg