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New Yamaha integrated amps

Just a few days ago I checked the Yamaha site to see if they really were releasing a new S lineup. I read somewhere (maybe Reddit or here) that they were going to release updated S series integrated amps. Well, I checked again tonight, and voila! There they are---the new A-S1200, 2200 and 3200 (flagship). I'm in the process of looking for a new integrated and the 2100 was on my radar. I'd like to see what's different on these. I bet the older models will have some sweet deals. Has anyone seen or heard them yet! 
bluorion

Showing 6 responses by willland

willland's avatar
willland
846 posts
 
Why would anyone buy a Yamaha amp when you can purchase a Parasound integrated?

What does that actually mean?  Don't get me wrong, I am a Parasound fan, but why not a Yamaha?  As mentioned above, these Yamahas are solid pieces with great build quality, including the discontinued first generation, lowest on the totem pole model I own, the A-S1000 with it tipping the scales at 48.5lbs.

Bill
willland's avatar
willland
846 posts
 
I'm not sure why Parasound is put down sometimes. 

My question is why Yamaha is put down sometimes.

Bill
willland's avatar
willland
846 posts
 
"Question: will changing transformers increase power output?"

Not necessarily.  Transformers, power caps, output transistors, all contribute to power rating.  Of course amp design topology also.

"feet for better vibration absorption."

The feet on all these beastly Yamaha analog integrated amps, from the older A-S1000(which I have) to A-S3000 are all solid chunks of metal.  The top two models(2200, 3200) now have chrome plated brass feet.

Bill
willland's avatar
willland
846 posts
 
I saw those the other day.  Very nice indeed.

"I'd like to see what's different on these."

One thing that is different, at least with the 1200 and 2200, they each now have a toroidal transformer instead of an EI.

"I bet the older models will have some sweet deals." 

I am hoping for a blow out price on an A-S1100.

"A used A-S2100 just went for $1200 here...super deal." 

Wow, no joke there.

Bill
willland's avatar
willland
846 posts
 
" I'm not convinced the move to toroidal transformers is a good one. The best attribute of the current crop of Yamaha integrateds is the bass extension. It's my suspicion that some of that is attributable to the EI transformers."

You may have something here.  Maybe that is why Luxman still uses EI transformers in their integrated amps.  With that said, the 3000 series has always had a toroidal and from much of what I have read, bass drive capabilities is not lacking.

Bill
willland's avatar
willland
846 posts
 

Here we go again.


Bill

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