Marantz PM-80a (1993–1995)
The Marantz PM-80a is a stereo integrated amplifier. It was the Japanese-market successor to the well-regarded PM-80, and it was produced from March 1993 to 1995 at ¥75,000. It came in gold and black, with the black version designated PM-80a BL. A rare export version was sold as the PM-80II.
The PM-80a has a dual-mode output stage. In pure Class A it delivers 20W + 20W into 8Ω. In Class AB it steps up to 100W + 100W into 8Ω. The final stage uses large MOS FET transistors in parallel push-pull for high current drive. Total harmonic distortion is rated at 0.005%, frequency response is 10 Hz to 100 kHz (+0, -1 dB), and the high-level signal-to-noise ratio is 111 dB.
The internal design is a full three-amplifier configuration. The pre, tone and power blocks are each independent, and each uses HDAM-style circuitry. The pre-section is integrated with a copper-shielded four-gang active volume attenuator, which Marantz claimed significantly improved signal-to-noise in real-world use. The power supply uses a large Marantz-branded transformer and custom-ordered ELNA electrolytics (2 × 15,000 µF), plus a noise-killer element for the output and voltage-amplifier supplies. Die-cast side panels stiffen the chassis. The 80a dropped the processor loop and third tape input found on the earlier PM-80.
The PM-80a was the basis for a range of later Marantz models, including the PM-88SE, PM-88aSE, PM-90, PM-99SE, and the export SM-80, PM-80SE, and PM-82.
The archive has no professional review of this model on hand. No issue of Stereo Review or Hi-Fi News covering the PM-80a has surfaced in the sources. What exists is enthusiastic owner commentary, mostly from Russian and Asian marketplaces, praising its "special timbral sound" and noting that it "sounds much more expensive than it costs." Typical asking prices in recent Russian listings run from 40,000 to 47,000 ₽, with one Malaysian listing at RM2,500. It is a Japanese-market 100V unit, so North American and European buyers need a step-down transformer.
Known Specifications
- Class A output: 35W + 35W (4Ω) / 25W + 25W (6Ω) / 20W + 20W (8Ω)
- Class AB output: 140W + 140W (4Ω) / 120W + 120W (6Ω) / 100W + 100W (8Ω)
- THD: 0.005%
- Frequency response: 10 Hz – 100 kHz (+0, −1 dB)
- S/N (high level): 111 dB
- Inputs: 3 line, 1 phono, 2 tape
- Outputs: 2 tape, 2 speaker channels
- Dimensions: 454 × 165 × 380 mm
- Weight: 17.5 kg
- Power consumption: 250W
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