Had a Pioneer sx1010 many years ago and loved it so when I had a chance to acquire an sx850 a while back for $200, I grabbed it and was liking it. Then about a year ago a local guy offered up a Philips fa950 integrated for $50, so I said what the heck and bought it just for kicks. To my surprise, it bettered the sx850 and not by just a little bit. A lot better sound in every way. Sold the Pioneer for $300 and haven't looked back. The Philips works perfectly and sounds great for SS. (My main system is tubes). I know we're talking integrateds and I'm comparing with a receiver, but I think sometimes the nostalgia from the "glory years" influences our ears somewhat..
The Golden era of Japanese integrated amps, are we missing out?
Maybe it’s just me but.....
I just threw together an el cheapo system with a Sansui A-2100 integrated at its heart and diminutive Wharfedale Diamond 220 speakers.
And I still cannot get over just how good and right it sounds.... All for $240 total shipped!
So this got me thinking about the golden era of Japanese equipment and while tuners , tape decks and turntables appear to have large followings and a large knowledge and fan base, I do not get the same vibe on integrated amps?
Are there devotees of these amps out there?
I very rarely hear anybody talking about them and so many can be picked up for peanuts, I mean $75 shipped in perfect working order and decent cosmetics( and built in mm phono to boot!).
Are they likely to be the next " big thing" or?
Thoughts?
I just threw together an el cheapo system with a Sansui A-2100 integrated at its heart and diminutive Wharfedale Diamond 220 speakers.
And I still cannot get over just how good and right it sounds.... All for $240 total shipped!
So this got me thinking about the golden era of Japanese equipment and while tuners , tape decks and turntables appear to have large followings and a large knowledge and fan base, I do not get the same vibe on integrated amps?
Are there devotees of these amps out there?
I very rarely hear anybody talking about them and so many can be picked up for peanuts, I mean $75 shipped in perfect working order and decent cosmetics( and built in mm phono to boot!).
Are they likely to be the next " big thing" or?
Thoughts?