Marantz Model 7 Stereo Console (1958-1966)
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1958 saw the introduction of stereo records and although stereo had been around for a while in the form of binaural tape players and experimental broadcasts, this was the first time it was available to the general public as a whole. Within months, the leading amplifier manufacturers had stereo amplifiers on the market. The Model 7 (7C with case and 7R in rack-mount version) was Marantz's first stereo product, and is considered by many to be Saul Marantz's most famous creation. Over a quarter of a million units were produced (including variants), which must rank it as one of the most successful high-end audio units ever.

A direct descendant of the mono Model 1 "Consolette", the Model 7 was a self-powered, all valve stereo preamplifier, built to a high level of quality. Inputs were provided for microphone, phono 1, phono 2, tape-head, FM-AM, FM (multiplexed), TV and auxiliary. Output levels were adjustable.

Considered by some to be the ultimate valve stereo preamplifier and others as overrated and requiring a total 'gutting and severe modification to be competitive with today's equivalents, the Model 7 is nevertheless highly sought after and fetches large sums when offered for sale. Prices can vary from $1,500 for a shabby, but complete and mostly functioning unit, right up to $4,000 for a mint condition example.

Post script:

In 1964, Saul Marantz announced:

"Only when the development of solid state electronics has reached the stage wherein it can match the dependability and performance of Marantz-designed vacuum tube circuitry will our equipment be transistorised".

That time obviously had arrived in late 1965 when he said:

"After 2 years of research, we know that at last a transistorised component can perform with the established quality we demand".

This announcement heralded the arrival of the all solid-state 7T Stereo Console and the end of the valve Model 7.

Almost identical in appearance and specification to the Model 7, the 7T had the following new features:

  • two front panel jacks for tape record/playback
  • front panel headphones jack
  • centre channel output
  • tape play/tape copy switch

The Model 7T was priced at $295 but today does not command anywhere near the price of its vacuum-tubed predecessor.


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Photographs courtesy of Barry Nachman