Marantz PM-88aSE (1994–1995)
The Marantz PM-88aSE was an integrated stereo amplifier produced from April 1994 to 1995. It was priced at ¥90,000 in Japan - a 15,000 yen premium over the standard PM-80a it was based on. Marantz had launched the PM-90 and PM-99SE as its top models, but the "80" series sold so well that the company went back and gave it the full "SE" treatment. The result was a PM-80a stripped of its processor loop, third tape input, and tone controls, then rebuilt with every upgrade in the book.
Inside, the 88aSE kept the PM-80a's MOS-FET output transistors and HDAM modules. The real differences were structural. The chassis was copper-plated to keep high-frequency impedance below that of the internal wiring. The top plate was three times thicker than standard. A toroidal transformer replaced the regular EI type, with its case filled with a resin and inorganic compound for vibration damping and heat radiation. Die-cast side panels locked the whole thing together, and solid aluminum knobs replaced the usual plastic. Even the heatsinks were black-anodized.
Power output was rated in two modes: 20W + 20W in Class A, or 100W + 100W in Class AB into 8 ohms (120W into 6 ohms, 140W into 4 ohms). Total harmonic distortion was rated at 0.008%. Frequency response was 10 Hz to 100 kHz (+0/-1 dB) via CD with Source Direct engaged, and signal-to-noise ratio was 111 dB on high-level inputs. The front panel carries a 4-gang active volume control to prevent signal-to-noise degradation at low listening levels. Inputs are one phono, three line and two tape. It draws 220W (per audio-database.com; The Vintage Knob lists 250W max.) and weighs 17.5 kg.
Documentation beyond the specs is thin. No period reviews from Western publications have surfaced, and no service manual appears to be circulating. What the record shows comes largely from Japanese sources and the Vintage Knob's retrospective coverage. Used prices have appeared around US$659, and the unit was made in Japan.
Known Specifications
- Class A: 20W + 20W (8 Ω per audio-database.com; The Vintage Knob lists 2x 20W at 4 Ω)
- Class AB: 100W + 100W (8 Ω), 120W + 120W (6 Ω), 140W + 140W (4 Ω)
- THD: 0.008%
- Frequency response: 10 Hz – 100 kHz (+0/-1 dB, CD, Source Direct)
- S/N ratio: 111 dB (high level)
- Inputs: 1× phono, 3× line, 2× tape; Outputs: 2× tape, 2 channels speaker
- Dimensions: 454 × 165 × 380 mm; Weight: 17.5 kg
The Vintage Knob (April 1994) noted the 88aSE was visually a PM-80 stripped of its processor loop and tone controls, but internally a thoroughly upgraded machine - a worthwhile 15,000 yen premium over the standard model.
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