Marantz Model7mkIII
The Marantz Model 7 — the "mkIII" designation appears in the archive's records, though period sources generally refer to this unit simply as the Model 7 — is one of the most important pieces of audio hardware ever built. It came to market in late 1958 and remained in production for over twelve years, an extraordinary run that saw more than 130,000 units sold at an original price of $385 (roughly $3,200 in 2016 dollars). Those numbers alone tell you this wasn't a niche curiosity; it was the most popular preamplifier of its time, and it earned that status on merit.
The front panel carries no model number — just the inscription "Marantz Stereo Console," with "Stereo" in fancy script. The layout was designed by Saul Marantz himself, who brought a background in drafting and graphic arts to the task: a row of four distinctive toggle switches flanked by four control knobs on each side. The unit offered dual phono inputs, two tuner inputs, and — presciently — a TV input. Its 12AX7-based phono stage became one of the most studied tube circuits in hi-fi history, influencing DIY projects and commercial designs long after production ended.
The Absolute Sound (2016) noted that the Model 7 was a breakthrough in preamplifier design at its introduction, and paired with the Model 8 power amplifier (1959, 30WPC), it represents the peak of Saul Marantz's tube engineering. Both components are considered among the finest tube gear ever made, with original units now commanding astronomical prices on the secondary market — current listings show examples offered in the tens of thousands of euros. Known specifications are thin in the record: frequency response 20Hz to 20kHz, dimensions approximately 391 × 155 × 261 mm. The Model 7K appears as a variant in some collectors' accounts, and a Model 7C control center also existed, but the differences between these versions and the base Model 7 are not well documented.
Similar items on eBay
No exact Marantz Model7mkIII listings are live right now — these searches show current Marantz and similar vintage audio gear on eBay:
As an eBay Partner, we earn from qualifying purchases. This helps support our independent vintage technology research.
Related Models
- Marantz 1530L
- Marantz 3600 (1976-1977)
- Marantz 3800 (1976-1978)
- Marantz 4100 (1976-1978)
- Marantz 4430 (1972)
- Braun AUDIO-1 (1965)
- Braun AUDIO-250 (1965)
- Magnavox Component Systems (1972)
- Acoustic Research AR (1967-1976)
- Acoustic Research 11