Marantz Model 1090 (1978–1980)

A silver stereo console amplifier made by Marantz from 1978 to 1980. It delivers 45 watts per channel and has a smooth tonal balance suited for vinyl and digital sources.

Overview

The Marantz Model 1090 is a stereo integrated amplifier built from 1978 to 1980. It was sold as the "Marantz Model 1090 Stereo Console Amplifier." The finish is silver, and a built-in phono stage handles MM cartridges. It was made for high-fidelity playback from both vinyl and digital sources, with a rich midrange and effortless dynamics. Its exact place in the Marantz lineup isn't documented. It was sold as a console amplifier, which suggests it was meant to fit into a larger audio system.

Specifications

Power output	45 watts per channel into 8Ω (stereo)
Frequency response	10Hz to 60kHz
Total harmonic distortion	0.1%
Damping factor	45
Input sensitivity	1.8mV (MM), 180mV (line)
Signal to noise ratio	76dB (MM), 88dB (line)
Output levels	775mV (line), 1.5V (Pre out)
Speaker outputs	Two speaker outputs
Dimensions (metric)	416 x 146 x 301mm
Dimensions (imperial)	16.4" × 5.7" × 11.9"
Weight	9.5kg (20.9 lbs)
Color	Silver
Years of manufacture	1978–1980
Original price approx.	698 DM

Reception & Use

The Model 1090 has a user rating of 3.7 out of 5 from six reviews. Reviewers describe a smooth tonal balance, rich midrange and effortless dynamics, and consider it well suited to both vinyl and digital sources. Owners have talked about its value in online forums, with questions about pricing showing up as early as 2008 and running into 2024.

Collectibility

Restoration is common on the Model 1090. Units are listed as "fully restored" or "serviced recapped," which points to capacitor replacement as a routine maintenance step. A speaker terminal upgrade kit is sold commercially, so the original terminals look like a known weak spot. Service manuals are easy to find and get referenced across enthusiast communities.

eBay Listings

Marantz MODEL 1090 vintage audio equipment - eBay listing photo 1

Marantz Model 1090 Console Stereo Amplifier

$850

See all Marantz MODEL 1090 on eBay

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