I don’t normally post, but I can speak with experience on this topic, so I’ll jump in. I’ve had a bunch of vintage pieces, and still have quite a few. Receivers are certainly more popular from that time frame. Based on your request and my use, I would recommend a Harmon Kardon 330c. Not a lot of power, but if your speakers are reasonably efficient, it should play nicely. I’ve compared this unit in stock condition, to quite a few higher powered units, and other brands, and it’s always been way better. Warm but clear, nice deep bass, and visually not as over the top as others from that time frame. They don’t fetch much money, as everyone is looking for Marantz, Pioneer, and Sansui. The 430 is reported to be even better, but I have no hands on experience with it. Good luck on your search. For what it’s worth, with the right speaker pairing and source, the 330c can be very satisfying. I have wondered more that once why I continue to spend more money on gear that doesn’t sound that much better.
Recommended cheaper vintage SS Integrated Amps?
I’ve been pondering trying a vintage SS integrated amp for a while. Which brands *in general* aside from the obvious Sansui do you recommend, or specific models? Looking for that warm, mellow vintage sound I read about, which I know is very brand (or even down to model) specific
Three that I’ve found from a reputable vintage dealer are: Marantz 1070 (not recapped), Kenwood KA-3500 (recapped) and Pioneer SA-5800 (not recapped). Any thoughts on these? I know the Marantz 1070 is well liked but what about the other two?
Side question: should ca. 1970s amps be recapped? I’m getting different opinions on this but I would say yes given their age (electrolytics of this vintage aren’t nearly as robust as current ones)
Three that I’ve found from a reputable vintage dealer are: Marantz 1070 (not recapped), Kenwood KA-3500 (recapped) and Pioneer SA-5800 (not recapped). Any thoughts on these? I know the Marantz 1070 is well liked but what about the other two?
Side question: should ca. 1970s amps be recapped? I’m getting different opinions on this but I would say yes given their age (electrolytics of this vintage aren’t nearly as robust as current ones)