7

About the 7

The Marantz Model 7 is a classic stereo vacuum-tube preamplifier designed by Saul Marantz. Its three-stage phono circuit—using six ECC83/12AX7 tubes, three per channel—became known as the “Marantz circuit.” The front panel provides two phono inputs, two tuner inputs, microphone, tape-head, auxiliary and TV inputs, along with source selection, volume, balance, stereo/mono operation and tape monitoring. Separate stepped tone controls are provided for each channel, and selectable phono equalization supports RIAA, old Columbia LP and early 78 records. Published specifications include a frequency response of 20Hz–20kHz ±0.5dB, approximately 80dB phono signal-to-noise ratio, 64.5dB phono gain and 22.5dB high-level gain. The Model 7 is a preamplifier and does not contain a power-amplifier section.