Marantz PM6007 VS Rotel A8: which budget stereo amp is best for you?

If you're looking for an entry-level stereo amplifier as your first step into a decent hi-fi system, these two five-star models from Marantz and Rotel won't have escaped your attention.

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Marantz has an enviable record in dominating the budget stereo amplifier market for over a decade with its PM6000 range, of which the 6007 is its latest refinement of a winning formula. Rotel's A8 is brand new, but also the current What Hi-Fi? Award-winner in this price bracket.

Both amplifiers have different philosophies and priorities in what they offer to a listener, and in this head-tohead, we take a deeper dive to explore the features, connections, build quality and overall sound quality between these two fine products. We compare the two integrated amps side by side and weigh the pros and cons to ensure you make the best choice for your system's needs.

Rotel A8 vs Marantz PM6007: Price

The Rotel A8 launched in the summer of 2024 at £399. We tested the Marantz PM6007 at £499 when we originally reviewed it back in August 2020. Its price has changed a fair bit since then - we have seen retail prices from £420 to £349 - but at the time of writing you can pick up the Marantz for just £399, the exact same price as the Rotel A8. We haven't seen any deals on the Rotel A8 just yet, whereas the PM6007 has had plenty of discounts in recent months. If you see it drop any lower in price, it's worth pouncing on.

*WINNER: DRAW*

Rotel A8 vs Marantz PM6007: Build & design

At this budget end of the market, the most sensible way a brand can keep costs down is by using the same casework or chassis. So it's no surprise that not only has Marantz stuck to the same casework and design as it has had for many generations of its PM6000 range, but also that the new Rotel A8 immediately put us in mind of the company's excellent budget models from the 2000s.