The Marantz 2252 stereo receiver, produced from 1975 to 1978, is one of the iconic Marantz receivers of the 1970s. With an output of 52 watts per channel and a total harmonic distortion (THD) of 0.1%, this receiver is known for its warm sound signature and quality construction.
The 2252 was introduced during the company’s post-Superscope era, which focused on good performance at a consumer friendly price. It retailed for approximately $460 in 1977 and occupied the mid-range tier of Marantz’s receiver lineup, positioned between the 40-watt 2238 and the 65-watt 2265. Unlike the later 2252B, which featured circuit refinements to achieve 0.05% THD, the original 2252 retained a discrete component layout. The 2252 also has the slider balance control as opposed to the 2252B’s conventional knob. Here is a picture of the 2252B for comparison.
The 2252’s brushed aluminum faceplate, blue backlit tuning dial, and fluorescent signal meters epitomized the mid to late 70’s Marantz industrial design. Its 440mm width and 137mm height allowed easy integration into stereo racks, while the optional WC-122 wooden cabinet added a bit of warmth to its utilitarian aesthetic
The Marantz 2252 competed with Sansui’s 6060 and Pioneer’s SX-850, offering superior tuner sensitivity and more power than the 40W Sansui 6060 but less than the 65W SX-850.
Specifications
- Power output: 52 watts per channel into 8Ω (stereo)
- Frequency response: 20Hz to 20kHz
- Total harmonic distortion: 0.1%
- Damping factor: 45
- Input sensitivity: 1.8mV (MM), 180mV (line)
- Signal to noise ratio: 76dB (MM), 88dB (line)
- Output: 775mV (line), 1.5V (Pre out)
- Dimensions: 440 x 137 x 365mm
- Weight: 14kg
Tuner
The Marantz 2252 tuner has a number of features:
Dual-Gate MOSFET FM Front End: This design, shared with higher-end models like the 2325, improves FM tuner sensitivity and reduces intermodulation distortion.
Phase-Locked Loop (PLL) Multiplex Decoder: Integrated circuit (IC) technology in the FM stereo decoder enhances channel separation and noise immunity.
Class-AB Amplification: The symmetrical driver stage with thermally coupled differential pairs provides a stable 52W/channel into 8Ω, with a damping factor of 45 ensuring tight control over speaker bass response.
Reviews
- “Sweet sounding marantz with plenty of power.”
- “Punchy Bass with good mids and highs.”
- “The Marantz 2252 has more power than anyone would ever need in a living room.”
- “Tuner section is great. Plenty of power and great looks, what’s not to like?”
- “Its a fantastic sounding stereo, not too weak, not over the top, its just right.”
The 2252’s regulated power supply utilized a rectified ±40V rail filtered through 10,000µF capacitors.
Driver Section (P700 Board)**: Unlike the 2252B’s consolidated PCB, the 2252 employed a discrete symmetric driver assembly.
A steel-reinforced frame minimized microphonic effects, a contrast to later cost-reduced models.
Issues
The 2252 is definitely resilient. Many people have mentioned using the 2252 for 40+ years and only needing basic servicing. However, there are some known issues.
- Scratchy Potentiometers: Oxidation in volume and tone controls. Pretty common in all old receivers and just requires some electrical contact cleaning with DeoxIT.
- Bulb Failure: The original dial lamps frequently burn out. They can be replaced with original replacements or upgraded to LED. You can find replacement LED’s on eBay.
Its modular design, which simplifies capacitor replacements. Its dual speaker outputs and pre-out/main-in jacks provided some useful flexibility. The rear panel also accommodates an FM quadradial output jack, an AUX input, Phono input and 2 Tape input/outputs as well. It has 1 switched and 1 unswitched 120v outlets.
Overall, the Marantz 2252 is an excellent receiver. The classic Marantz look combined with quality build construction and, most importantly, a great sound make it a keeper.
