Plays both SACDs and CDs gorgeously.

SACD default mode is multi-channel, so must be switched before use as 2 channel SACD player. If not, there is a whole bunch of music missing. Since the mode can be switched with the remote, this really isn't a big deal.

This SACD/cd player replaces a Rega Jupiter transport and a Musical Fidelity A324 upsampling dac.Is it as good as the Rega/MF combo? Better!This is one of the best audio purchases I have ever made. I expected SACD performance to be very good, and it is. Through the Marantz, SACD seems to be everything claimed. It reminds me of a LP played on a good turntable using a moving coil cartridge such as the old Denon 103D.What is really surprising about this player is its performance on redbook CDs.Believe it or not,it clearly outplays my Rega/MF combo.It is cleaner,smoother,has a stronger bottom end,presents more low-level detail, and instrumental timbres are engaging indeed. In short, it isn't just the best cd payer I've ever owned, its the best I've ever heard.

Similar Products Used:

Magnavox,Adcom,JVC,Audio Alchemy,Rega, Musical Fidelity

Sweet - Sweet - Sweet !!!

You've got too be kidding !!!

Was looking for a SACD player for a new system I was building. I wanted a audio only unit. Everyone was pushing me too a DVD unit. I held out a purchaced this. It's the best thing since sliced bread. Treat yourself and get it if you can find one.

Similar Products Used:

Denon DVD-2900

Clarity, highs and lows are truly superb

No level volume control

Astonishing SACD player I have ever heard.

Similar Products Used:

Pioneer DV858Ai

Sound.

Kind of slow loading up.

I'm an old vinyl junkie who mostly thought digital sucked, but when I put the Marantz SACD player into my system all that changed. I don't know if it's the component or the SACD format, but the sound that comes out of the machine is wonderful. Big, bountiful image. Sweet, pure, nuanced tone. No edginess. No distortion. In every parameter except perhaps three-dimensionality, the SACD is equal or superior to my vinyl rig. Via the Marantz, CD's can still sound pinched, hashy and gray, but I guess that's just the limitation of the medium.

Build quality. Smooth sound. Very articulate rich and inviting sound.

TOC reading takes a while. Maybe symptomatic of SACD in general though.

I purchased my SA-8260 about 2 1/2 months ago. So far my experience has been only with 2-channel SACD (my receiver doesn't have multi-channel inputs). I must say that the sound with 2-channel SACD is superb. I can't believe that the difference between regular CD and SACD is so dramatic. If anyone is interested in an SACD because they love music, this is the player to get. You must hurry though, Marantz has discontinued the unit and there are very few left. What I really like about this unit is that it is an audio only unit. That means there is no coloration of sound for video circuitry. I could go on and on but what would be the point. Very soon, I am going to upgrade my receiver so that I can get multi-channel inputs. When that happens, I will probably post an update. Happy listening!