How does marantz typically do with the m80's?

Well, generally you hook up a source, then the receiver amplifies the sign... what? oh.

But seriously, what I've heard is that Marantzes handle the M80s just fine.

It really depends on a variety of factors. How loud, how far a listening distance, pre-amp settings, source material, what other speakers are hooked up to a receiver? There are several conditions and a combination of which can lead to shutdown with the M80's.

Any receiver can power any speaker if you listen at lower to moderate levels in a small to medium sized room. The Marantz will be fine under those conditions. It is during loud and sustained listening sessions and perhaps demanding source material where you might run into problems. This is the same with every receiver brand.

Marantz is made by the same company as Denon and I suspect you would find some similar components inside. I would be surprised if a Marantz couldn't handle M80s just as well as a Dneon.

I have always thought of Marantz as an upscale Denon, kind of like what Acura is to Honda.

That was my impression to Jason. I haven't heard of any problems with Marantz/m80 combinations but figured I'd ask.

David, I view Marantz as a somewhat over-priced Denon, but it does just as well with M80s and other speakers as other similar receivers of the major manufacturers. Those anywhere in the 100 watt area can certainly drive the M80s to very high listening levels at typical listening distances.

Meant "too" in the above post. I think the denon 3312 looks like an excellent receiver.

Sure it is, but the 3311 is essentially identical and the factory refurb is available at eCost for $500.

I haven't noticed anything new on the '12s vs. the '11s to justify buying new, just keep in mind the 38XX series was replaced by the 43XX series, not sure if it means a whole lot but I suspect the circuitry is set up better in the 43XX and higher versions, again I am not sure if there is enough difference in quality of the components and layouts ie. P/S, caps etc. to justify the added cost Denon charges for the 43XX series.

John's suggested refurb at ecost looks to be a pretty good deal. I have used ecost before and the transaction went very smoothly.