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Speakers for Vintage Marantz ? Plus other Qs

I recently rescued a Marantz 2265B receiver, which I just had repaired by a competent technician. I'm now looking for used speakers to pair with this receiver, as well as ideas for an appropriate source.

Regarding the speakers, I have a very limited budget of up to $500 CAD, but I prefer to spend much less (~$200). I want something that has good synergy with the receiver, is capable of playing many genres well, and has decent but tuneful bass response. Unfortunately, the speakers will have to be placed very close to the back wall, which is made of brick, as the speakers will sit directly in front of a non-usable fireplace. The receiver is rated at 65wpc, which I assume is a conservative rating.

Given these constraints, I presume the most sensible choice would be vintage speakers ('70s-'80s), high efficiency (88dB+?), medium-sized cabinets, and front ported. Does this sound right? What specs should I look for when determining if a speaker would be suitable? I'm hoping to find something local on Canuck Audio Mart. Vintage B&W? Vintage JBL? What should I be looking for?

Regarding the source, I'm debating between using a tradition CDP, or perhaps integrating some PC audio. I'd really like to figure out how I can incorporate an iPhone 6 dock -- if they even exist -- so friends can simply plug in their phone when they come over for a visit. Any advice? The receiver will sit on top of an Ikea Expedit cabinet -- the one that everyone uses to store vinyl records -- so if I can fit a laptop in one of those squares, it would be nice if I could connect it directly to the receiver for high-res playback. I just don't know anything about the state of PC audio, or how it can be incorporated into vintage 2-channel setups.

Any advice would be greatly appreciated!
jferreir

Showing 1 response by yakbob

yakbob
449 posts
 
I own a few restored vintage Marantz units (1060, 2230 and 2245) and have run a number of speakers with them. I had the 1060 paired with a set of Design Acoustics PS-10s for a long time. The PS-10s we're built in the 80s and can be had in mint condition for $300 or less (usually found on the evil auction site). I had mine jammed right up against the wall with no I'll effects. They're sealed and feature a 10" down firing woofer. Most PS-10s (I also recommend their slightly bigger brother PS10a) have either had their woofers refoamed or woofers replaced with matching spec Dayton drivers. I've used both and Dayton drivers are better. Buying a set with replacement woofers shouldn't be seen as a downgrade.

Overall a nice smooth sound that compliments the Marantz nicely. If you can find a pair with the adjustable tweeter, all the better.
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