Hi all,
After discussing this with Doug over the past couple of years, I was able to get an "ACM" 661. I can only compare to the ACM671, as I wanted to get something smaller, but still have a good quality "all in one".
Well, I have used it a few times now, and here are my initial impressions:
1. The metering (LCD, not LED) is awesome! Very smooth with cardiods or hypers
2. Very quiet deck (low noise floor)
3. I believe the transients, detail, and imaging are right up there with the ACM671. Perhaps the ACM671 has a tiny bit more width to the soundstage, but this ACM661 is pretty sick.
4. I question if I put a V2 or PSP-2 in front of the deck, if it would make a noticeable difference. I did not think that it enhanced the ACM671.
I really like having an all in one, but getting more towards D-6 (vs. D-5) size. I do not think I am missing out not running a pre and/or A/D in front of this thing.
On another note, just did the 2.03 firmware update, and easy download and procedure from the marantz pro website.
Lastly, before doing the update, I got a "Card err 1" message (Lexar pro 16 gb card). I pulled the card out, and put it back in, and the problem seemed to be fixed. Anyone else get this? Perhaps the 2.03 update resolves this issue.