2. amps-preamps
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Vintage Amps - Pleasantly surprised

A while back, i was given a non-functional Sansui AU-666, which I recently had restored for sh*ts and giggles. Hooked it up to Rega Aras in my bedroom, using a computer source with a basic NuForce uDac.

Honestly, i was not expecting much out of this combo. However, I am blown away by the sound quality i'm getting out of this extremely modest setup. It shockingly possesses much of the desirable 'audiophile traits' one would typically hope for. I'm not saying it's perfect, but for a 40 year old piece, i'm utterly stunned.

And considering the entire setup cost less than 450 bucks, including stands (excluding computer, but which i had already), i could not have asked for more.

Anyone else with this kind of experience using vintage gear?
loose
stewie
187 posts
 
Same experience with my restored Kenwood Supremes, 600 and 700m. Beautiful aesthetically and sonically.
weseixas
519 posts
 
Agree on the sansui stuff and will add , Sony, give there seperates a listen, you will be suprised.

regards,
iraj
1 posts
 
Don't mean to hijack the thread, but I'm using a Nikko Beta 30 preamp while I wait for a new Emotiva I've ordered. My problem is powering the subwoofer. The Beta has two outputs, but the myriad of buttons and labels don't tell me how to get both outputs working at the same time. I'm unable to get any signal to the Krell channel for the subwoofer. Does anyone have a manual for this model, or any suggestions to getting a signal to the subwoofer.

Thanks. IJ
pubul57
3,712 posts
 
03-19-11: Buconero117
HiFiharv, I think your wrong, they have learned something in the past 50 years. What? How to take your money in the name of 'hi-end'

So true, though you can still navigate your way to great sound with new gear without falling into the $$$$ trap.
dayglow
1,890 posts
 
Maybe not vintage to some but the Yamaha MX-1 gets my vote. Produced between 1992-97 it retailed for $1200 put out a conservative rating of 200w/ch/8ohms and is a true dual mono amp. NOTE that the power cord is captive, I would get that updated and have the capacitors checked. Auditioned the amp(several times) about 15 years ago and was shocked by the sound quality driving the ML Aerius. The Yamaha was superior to the best Sunfire(Carver) and Adcom in the store. The sound reminded me of Classe or better MAC gear at the time. The MX-1 now sells for around $500 mate it with a Classe pre(47.5-50) with phono section($1500)and you have a killer set up. I doubt any (new)$2000 intergrated would be competitive.
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