Modern Versus Restored Vintage SS Amp Sound Quality?


 

I'm considering buying my first restored SS integrated amp (Sansui, etc.). It'd be. fully re-capped, problem transistors replaced, etc., good as new operational specs. I couldn't find much insight searching the forum (ditto AudioKarma). Has anyone compared vintage SS amps versus comparable modern amps? What was the result? If we assume modern SS gear is largely neutral with subtle differences, and easy to drive speakers, what can I expect as far as *general* sonic differences? Or is it highly dependent on the brand of the vintage amp? I've read a lot of disparaging remarks against 1970s Japanese SS gear for being bright, sterile, lean, etc. due to excessive and poor global negative feedback application ("the distortion wars") but I never read about it here, which I find odd that no brand(s) of vintage SS gear are known for that sonic issue

greg7

It depends greatly on the amps. My Thresholds SA/1 or Krell KSAs are great amps even compared to modern amps. Old tubes are also good. Old SS mid level gear will likely not compete with modern amps.

problem transistors replaced...

Good luck finding those for old gear. You blow the transistors and most stuff is junk. 

General knowledge: Mass market vintage equipment was not that good. There are exceptions but they are rare. There is so much really good modern stuff it just doesn't make any sense to put any money into repairing old gear.