Great top 5 , my first Sansui was an AU777 that a neighbor gave me for nothing last year !!!, his dad had passed & he was clearing out his workshop , the label on it read Good Condition $25 !!! a very old label . Now I have an 8080DB & a 9090 both in mint condition , gotta love the Sansui lines . Keep the kool content coming .
I use my sui au 717 to drive 4 speakers. 2 leak sandwich 600s and 2 celestion ditton 44s (mk 2) they play my music the way I like to hear my music. Heavy warm round and clean👍🌚 I also use a realistic graphic equalizer which is not needed with music pressed/recorded properly but I play a lot of reggae and some of the presses coming out of Jamaica (studio one 7" especially) need a lift. Turntable I use is a Garrard 401 (SME arm) and a audio technica AT LP 1240 (ortofon concord stylus) for cutting and scratching in the mix🌚
Great stuff! Have you heard the AU-999 with the great mods the smart folks in the audio community have shared over the years? It's not even funny how much better these modded 999's can sound. Truly a legendary amp.
I enjoy these top 5 videos very much. The only Sansui I own is a Model 5050 receiver in mint condition that I bought for 75 bucks. Only 30 watts per channel but it has plenty of power. If you need a kidney, I will trade for that AU20000!
One of the reasons Sansui is it for me? The look ! It’s art to me, beside the quality build. But you got to remember , that costs money! Like >50% of production cost. I ❤ it !
Agree the au505 is special ( currently using atm) though its actually rated 23wpc. The rating in hi-fi engine is a typo. Loved that you picked out the au sansui series and I thought you did an excellent job showing the variety of these integrated amps. I have a small au 222 which is 18 wpc and that sounds huge. My favourite is the au 666 with matching tuner looks superb and sounds great. Clear and strong. And yes most people think it's new, not made ' June 1970 ' ☺️
My holy grail coming from Japan would be the AU-111 and it sounds fantastic. My next favorite is the AU-9500 as it is a beast and the second best sounding amplifier from Sansui I have listened to but too big and too much sound for my place in Tokyo. I settled with the AU-7500 because it was the best fit for my space. In Japan there is a reason for the loudness switch which helps for playing at low volumes which I use at times. I seriously took a look at the AU-555A but the AU-7500 was just too beautiful to pass up and I found it fully restored at my local second hand store that is practically a vintage museum with 60s and 70s Sansui, Luxman and Micro Seiki I see being exchanged. Enjoyed, domo arigato.
I have a AU-717. I bought it new in 1977 when I got home from college. I have kept it this long because I love the sound it produces. Although it does not get used very much these days, it is in excellent condition. I even still have the rack handles, though they are not installed.
Good informative AU description. I've had my AU 20000 for 40 years now and will never get rid of it. The build quality was very good in the time period. Have had many amplifiers, and I always preferred this amp as the best sounding, in my opinion.
I agree with 717 vol. pot; what I discover that works fine is to turn the pot, left to right vice versa few times before turning on the unit, got rid of the dead spot
Be aware that the 717 will not handle low impedance loads. The 717 will go into protection when paired with something like the KEF LS50 (I know because I tried it).
Very cool. My 1st proper stereo was a mix of Sansui, A-80 Amp which I bought along with a SC-1330 Tape Deck, SR-1050c Turntable and a pair of Speakers.... SP-1001’s I was doing my final year of Fine Art and the Art Technician sold them to me for $50au......That was a bargain in 1991 and still going strong. 🥳 And a few years ago I found the AU 417 which is my main amp at the moment. Love that Sansui stuff 😁🙏
So, I live in Sao Paulo, Brazil, and I want to take my Sansui to be repaired locally. Can you personally vouch for any repair shops local to me? (hahaha)
I bought a couple vintage Sansui amps 10 to 15 years ago when I was in a phase of trying a bunch of different audio gears. My AU-7700 always stayed with me ever since I first plugged it. Its still my main Amp I use for all my Jazz, Rock, Folk, Prog, etc. I never really found anything better to me. I cherish it for years now. Its quite rare to have something, audio gear, car, anything, that we are just completely happy with. Great video. Thanks.
Something magical about the 7700 but only when the loudness is engaged, otherwise music is just flat and lifeless, But with it, everything just pales in comparison. Not only does it sound great, but it's the best looking vintage amp in my opinion. Very classy, they don't make them like this anymore.
Thanks for the video - I also own many Sansui integrated amps/ 👹 Recievers Been wanting to recap my Au717 but been working So much lately No time I'm also a fan Of Nichicon caps FG/KZ/KA 😃
I really enjoy your reviews. It is sad when viewers misuse business contact information for non-business related questions! I have witnessed the same watching some plumbing TH-cam channels for years where they share are their tricks of the trade with viewers, common sense advice and film repairs they are doing for customers from start to finish. All of this for no charge to the viewer (aside from TH-cam ads)... but that is still not enough for some and they call the plumber's business number to diagnose their plumbing problems over the phone. Hello, people??? Now viewers are doing this to Skylabs.... it is a vintage audio equipment sales and repair *_business_* folks, not an audio 'wikipedia' for your questions.
Hello, excellent review, I am also in love with Sansui amplifiers for years, although I have let some go, I still try to keep my G33000, BA5000, AU9500, AU919 and of course the beautiful AU20000 that is a little scratched on the outside but is completely restored on the inside Greetings and thanks for sharing.
Thanks for another great video! Your top five videos are fun and have lots of good information. Totally agree on the looks of Sansui products… even with all the other great equipment I have the G-9000 always seems to draw the most attention !
Really like your “Top 5” videos! Can you start listing them in order in the description? Also, a Top 5 Harman Kardon vintage receivers video would be cool! Thanks!
Thank you for the review..... these 70s amplifiers are built like tanks and can't compare to the 80s staff....so much differences .. I own some A line of the 80s amps .. can't compare..70s are different league ..
I missed out on the classic era of Sansui integrateds, but I picked up an AU-X619R back in the early 90s. Not to be compared with the great Sansuis you describe here, but still a very capable amp. It's never given me a drop of trouble. I've run my secondary system off it for many years now.
How about AU-X1. I`ve had one in my house for a couple of months, never owned one though. I still believe that was the best thing I`ve ever heard. I`ve listened it on various speakers, that amp was never an issue. Since the owner did not want to sell it, the only thing I am sorry about it is that I haven`t stolen that amp and fled the country. :)
Those AU-X1 rarely EVER come up for sale, and when they do there's usually a line of vehicles & people lining up viciously grabbing, crying and tossing wads of bills at the seller.
I bought the Sansui AU-919 when I was stationed in Japan in 1981. Amazing integrated amp! Like an idiot, I sold it or threw it away a few years later when the volume control made a crackling noise when I turned it. Still the cleanest and super fast response amp I ever owned to this day…Shit!
The AU-919 is probably the best Sansui ever made. And audiophile piece of joy that just a few can beat today, and ask yourself how much money you need to spend to beat that AU-919... I mean, it's profane!
It's been 50 years, but I believe I bought the AU505 new in 1973. It was paired with some Ohm speakers and a BSR turntable. No power per se, but it did sound good!
I bought an AU-517 back in the early seventies I still own it play it almost every day......ALAS after 50 years it is slowly losing it's OOMPH.... it needs a recap and the dreaded Volume knob is scratchy but in it's heyday it has taken out 2 speaker cabinets a Ultraliner 12 inch split the top from one side... and blew out a 10 inch Tannoy front face ( which was funny at the time it was my brother's speaker.....) Mom was wrong I didn't go deaf!!!!!
You made a great point!! The techs need to be in the zone so to speak. You need that focus. (you can mess things up real easy) Awesome subject today!! Love my new t666 from Japan! Thanks!!
If I could get my AU -7900 working properly, it would be one of my favourites as it has so many features and is so versatile. Maybe Sansui was trying to push the limit with power and switches on a medium size platform. But I can't seem to keep it out of the repair shop. I gave up looking for parts for my 777a which was the first in the family. On the frame look of the AU-999 era, people installed stereo systems inside their walls. This was a popular trend in the '50s and '60s, but faded out in the '70s. The early AUs were designed to look "great" as wall mounted systems. The other consideration was to have a flush fit with a wooden frame which was an available option with the amps of this period.
@@daniel_cardenas It overheats in the back just being on, not even pushing a load. Something to do with bias voltage control. Maybe a Sansui specialist can fix it, but those guys are hard to find. It has defeated a number of generally competent electronics technicians. Mine only functions as a pre-amp until I can find someone who really knows what he is doing.
That preamp with the A-7900 was excellent and could outperform many separates. The sound!!! and versatility topnotch. It had enough to drive 3 more power amps. I know as it was the ♥ of a system I built in a large bicycle shop. It went into 4 equalizers and the into its power amp a Mitsubishi, Yamaha and Sony . People used to come in play the pinball machines and listen to what I was playing. The sound stage was very real, lifelike and as big as a real stage. Everyone liked it including a couple of professional concert cellists well one worked there too. Unfortunately it needs all the controls worked on too...not an electronics friendly environment. That Sansui power amp and Mitsubishi were beasts ran until closing and cranked for 6 more hours or so until I left. I even had a good 150 vinyl records on hand which took a a bit of ingenuity to avoid the base feed back. Oh yeah the cinder block wall covered with railroad ties...well that was fortunately right behind everything. When I was done working I'd grab a chair put it 18 feet back into the middle of the room... toke up and play an album . Could not do that in my apartment. Amazing everything was there including many things that I didn't know was on the album. The Sanusi and Mitsubishi provided the main stage. The Yamaha vocals from a 5.25 inch(some of those Aiwa inexpensive all in ones had excellent drivers 75 watts and never blew them good sound too) time aligned tweeters (one inch silk domes with a nice waveguide and a 3uF poly cap) two way and the Sony firing back at that wall...sweet !
@@stevengagnon4777 My good news is I found someone back in March to fix the AU-7900. I got it back about six weeks ago and it is working like new. He found what many missed. It is currently doing light duty in the bedroom right now. My house is a mess and I don't know when I will be able to set things up the way I'd like but here's hoping. Thanks for the comment. Question: As per 3 power amps, Did you have yours hooked up to Pre Amp out, Tape 1 out and Tape 2 out?
@@eighteenin78 used the preamp out from the A-7900 and treated it like a separate. Yeah I had a total of 4 power amps running off the AU-7900 pre out. I see were the same age I was born in 1960. I had gone to college so I fond this way because I needed to save my funds. One of those Sound Craftsmans just wasn't happening. There's some irony here didn't finish that Chem E degree was 12 credits left and had to sit out , a tough program and was always at the cut. Anyway went to work as a bicycle mechanic and never left the trade so still always had limited funds . I can also make a mid priced bicycle ride like as my boss said " like a wet dream " .Never forgot that one but always way better than it should great for business....the sales team just put the costumer out on a bicycle I built and it usually sold and on to the next costumer. Worked out great for the owner he put it into real-estate...I'm broke and starting over. P.S. don't break a perfectly good pelvis it's definitely not the same as a hip replacement. But I do have a titanium acetabulem and high tech ceramic bearing now and fortunately some real good surgeons that did an excellent job. Thank God for that. I'm glad your AU-7900 is back in action now too. Bless You! Oh one more point that way (between the preout and power amplifier ) the preamp from the AU-7900 acts as a master control for the whole system. I also put an EQ with a volume control in the path from the preout to the input to the power amplifier. That gave me a way to dial things in since the power amp from the AU-7900 and Mitsubishi DA-7DC did not have any volume controls. The Yamaha and Sony were recievers with a dead tuner so I went in through aux with those and integrated amplifier obviously the same. And I did use an EQ with those too. And the first thing I did with the smaller speakers was engage the subsonic filter and kick the 32 Hz fader on the EQ all the way down. I've got a similar thing going in a basement now . Two fronts and a rear that first clean watt is pretty loud. 0.3 is about were it's often at . The hidden advantage. It's a hobby so that time spent tinkering...
@@stevengagnon4777 Sorry to hear of your mishaps and misfortunes. I picked up the 7900 in '07 for about Cdn $150 in a used equipment shop. It was never quite right which is maybe why it was so cheap. Carted it around from one techie to another but none could figure how to fix it. It gave me intermittent service but mostly sat on the shelf. When I was 10 we bought our first Sui amp, the AU 777a. That was a great amp and gave us years of service until it went bad in the mid 90s. Dad also bought a AU 20000 in 78? Which I still have but have only recently fixed. Picked up a 3900 around the time of the 7900, and gave the 777a away as a dead brick. So I have three in my current stable. Finding a service technician who knows his stuff in Maritime Canada has been an unending saga of frustration. This is the first time I've had all three in top form. I bridged the gap with Yamahas which have been reliable enough for me. Started a couple of threads on the troublesome 7900 on AudioKarma back in '08. But didn't find their Sansui Brain Trust to be as helpful to me as I could have hoped for. I am not broke but with the way prices are going up, I cannot justify spending big bucks on the dream system I never had. I don't want to outlive my retirement money. And I never had a good chance to AB compare brands of amps, receivers, and speakers, so although you could call me a Sansui guy it is more of an arranged marriage than personal experience! Cheers.
I have the au222, au555a and au717. All have been fully restored along with leestereo upgrades. Without a doubt the lower power, cap coupled amps have a really nice 'warm' sound.
I have the AU-717 and TU-717 both with rack handles. They are mounted in the Sansui GX-5 rack along with a Sansui SC1110 cassette deck. I recapped the amp (big job). You are correct about the volume control.
OCD balance knob, never thought of that. I spent your intro determining what albums are in the shop. LZII, Remain in Light, Escape. Anyone else? I wrote a tech book 20 years ago and fielded 1000s of questions, looking for free advice. You want to help but there's only so much you can do. Thanks, enjoyed it. Agree, blackface Sansui design is beautiful.
Well well well! In The mid 70ties I traded my AU-55A for helping me to by a new stronger RECIEVER - The Harman Kardon HK679 R. Reason I wanted a RECIEVER and a stronger and I sought The sound from my AU-555A was to Soft and I didnt had The money to buy The Tuner to The Sansui. But I never liked The faceplate style and quality of The outside of The 670 but the quality of 670 inside was good. But I couldnt stop remeber my beloved 55A. I think it was so beautyfull on outside and The inside - and that fantastic looking Tuner - mmmmmmm❤️❤️❤️❤️😀👍. But since I got retired I had The oppurtunity to buy some of my old dreamgear back. So I have BAUGHT a 2 track High speed Revox B77, a 4 track Revox A77, A Lenco L 75! Like forward to before! So suddenly The only gear I had before I could rebuy WAS now an old AU - 555A. And at no time I found one in good condition but just like you I said to my self dont care about The money so get it before somebody else find it. So it was kind of expensive. But The condition was as new from The store. So now I can use my old setup exactly excluding my speakers! Why not The speakers? Because I used speakers of my own design that are no more. And TWO Phono i puts is exelent so I can connect my L 75 with The Shure M 75 eliptical needle and my still going strong Thorens TD-160 with my unique ma Micro-Acustics 2002-e cartridge from mid refurbished and cleaned. 70ties. Im in heaven. ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️😀👍
I have an au-719 I bought at the navy exchange in 1979 or so. And it’s matching tuner. I still use them both almost every day for over 40 years. Who knew the handles were worth so much. May use them to finance a new turntable. I have 4 sets of handles, or should I say black gold! Love watching your channel, keep ‘em coming.
Just got my au20000 and tu9900 up and running after years of problems. Awesome sound! What a beast. Running 4 B&W Matrix speakers. Thanks for your insight.
wow, as a hi-fi dilettante i had no idea that era of sansui was such a respected line! i randomly bought an AU-D5 (and the tuner!) with some big-ass technics speakers for like $40 at a thrift store almost two decades ago and have used it forever, it's loud and proud. unfortunately it also has that thing with the volume pot where it's a dual ganged pot for L-R, and at low volumes it favors one side more than the other. there's an ebay guy selling a special calibrated dual pot replacement for like $100 but i can't be bothered more recently i scored an AU-D9 for pretty cheap and that thing is a monster! through some nice new big polk tower speakers it's just deep, clear and limitless
So difficult to find these days Sansui Integrated. Unless you want to purchase from Japan direct (No Thank You, 100V and too close to Ocean). Own a TU 717 so In search of a AU-717, appreciate tip on Balance.
I own Sansui 555, 555a, 7700, 7900, 9500, 999 and sansui 8 receiver. Surprisingly my favorite one is the 7700, not as “harsh” as 7900 and 9500 but now as mellow as the triple series. Im quite surprised that you like 7700 as well
I enjoyed your video on the Sansui integrated amps. I owned one on the list, AU 717, great Amp. Had to get rid of it for a McIntosh. Got my hands on another Sansui, an AU-G99X. Own it to this day and sounds awesome.
Will vouch for your comment about the 717. Had one in a post production studio setting for about 5 or 6 years until the volume knob got so bad we had to keep the balance control in a 3 or 9 position. Wasn’t worth it to us to repair. Can’t say I’m sorry I didn’t keep it.
I had the AU-717. I thought it was amazing, and better than any more modern amp I owned. Funny to know it's near the bottom of your top 5. It really makes me want to hear the ones you rank higher.
Happy New Year ! Another great video! I love all the choices ! I would consider my self lucky to get my hands on one of them ! My fave would be the AU-505. I must say you have a really great way of taking control of your shop and your channel and setting some boundaries! Always a pleasure to watch. Thank you !
Great Video! I'm a fool for the AU Series, but as a kid the Good Stereo Equipment were always separate units! Amplifier, Tuner, Turntable! Only the JC Penny's, Sears & Roebuck's etc! Had all the crap combined in one! Not real stereo systems but they sounded okay! I've purchased the AU-7700 & TU-7700, and a pair of LM-330's AU-5500 & TU-5500 with LM-220's. Both are Japanese Versions 100 volts. Not the most powerful or the top of line but I love the sound, the looks and can be ran in separated mode so if you want to run the sound through mono blocks or an equalizer if you wanted? I know equalizers are for idiot & Irish Setters! Squirrel!!!.....? CMTFU! Like your channel & videos, I need to stop by your shop the next time I drive up from H-Town too Chicago to see my peoples! Be Cool!
I have a Sansui AU-20000 integrated amplifier with the TU-9900 tuner on top of it. Looks like the day it was made without a scratch on it. It is being used as the rear channel amplifier, to work with the *_massive_* Hitachi SR-2004 they are both sitting on which is being used for the front channels. Speakers are Sansui SP-Z99 and Kenwood KL-9090X. AU-20000 has bass, mid, treble controls, high and low filters (all defeatable), but no loudness switch! I believe AU-20000 has six output transistors and SR-2004 has eight. I will upload a photo of these devices to my TH-cam Channel, and try to link it here.
I have the CA-3000 preamp, had the CA-2000 and BA-2000 set. They look gorgeous and attracted my attention due to aesthetics. CA-3000 remains with me for 10 yrs now. I paid $1250 shipped from Japan. It was paired with two Hitachi HMA 8500 MKII amps, one of the cleanest on paper. It sounds natural to my ears. I obtained the CA-2000 and B-2000 for a good price and flipped them. It sounded way different with that amp than to the Hitachi. The signature was completely different. I had a more enjoyable sound but I question it's accuracy in tone. I wished I kept it longer now to really test it more cause I only listened for 10 mins that was it. Just bought an AU-6600 on the way from Japan. I assume it will sound similar to the AU-7700? Or is that wrong.
Love your shows man. I'm currently run a Sansui SX1130 coupled with JBL LX 66 towers sounds great.. Where do you rate the Sansui Au9500 ? I have read good things about them but I trust your skilled judgement. Thanks from cold London with warm Sansui sounds..❤
The Definition Series CA3000, BA5000 was unceremoniously left off the list and I'm completely heartbroken 😢. How could you be this insensitive. I'm probably going to need some strong meds, a few yoga and meditation classes and a mental health day. 😅
I much preferred the sound of the Heathkit AR1500a over the Sansui's from that era. Had a Sansui AU-8500 but it was no match for the Tonal quality Heathkit. Sansui always sounded a 1/2 octave too bright.
I was a service bench tech from 1977 to 19805 and seem Many good and not so good sound systems. I owned a few. I had that model Sansui AU-20000 and I will stand by my opnion that was the best sounding unit I owned. I am sorry I sold it. We do foolish things and that was just one of them I regret. I used as a preamp into a Base 1801 power amo and extremely high end speakers. It served me well for about 10 years.
Hi, I’ve just come across your youtube on your 5 favourite Sansui amplifiers. I have the AU710 which you did not mention. I live in the UK. I take it the AU710 is the same as the AU717 due to it looks identical or was the AU717 made for the American market,
Sansui built great amps. I have a 555a and a 317II. Not exactly high end. But these things beat every amp in the higher mid range that I can compare them with. It's sad how such a company was forced to change their philosophy (built better stuff) under the pressure of capitalism. These amps bring joy and excitement. They were made for music, not for money. And if you want to spend that money: there are options too. The story of audio and capitalism is tragic.
Hi Kevin thanks for your video. My question my tech replaces the pot volumen my Au719 with a 100komhs por instead of the unobtainable 150komhs I think this can have an effect over the sound . What will be the consequences ? Thanks for your response.
I own a Sansui AU-666. The dark lord of intergraded amplification. Cost me $200 in a thrift store. I kinda prefer my SX680 tho. The au666 sounds as dark as it looks.
Great Video, I love Sansui and have some spectacular examples in my audio stable! I really wanted to commend you on the intro, I have a FB audio group and had to do the same. The bigger it gets, the more people are reaching out to me with questions that I just don't have time for.. The whole purpose of the group! Cheers from Canada!
I have an AU 20000 I’ve owned since I bought it new in 1977 in Okinawa. Can you recommend an expert to go through it and refresh it for me? I live in CT. Thxs
I had a sansui au 3300 driving Jensen LS IV speakers. Although it was only rated at about 30 watts per channel, it was capable of putting out a lot of clear undistorted sound.
@Skylabs Audio: Thanks for the videos, much informative. In this session I missed the AU-9500. It's not the most powerful amp but yet very good. Sansui said they lost money for every sold item. The last of it's kind. I bought the 9500 from my neighbour 3 years ago for just 150$. He used it only for one year, from new, and then stashed it in a cupboard. It was in a marvellous shape and sounded perfect. I hit the jackpot. -Have you listened to it and have some thoughts about it? I usually have it connected to a Thorens TD-125 Long Base with a 3012, also bought for 150$ in 1988, and a Goldring Electro II. I love jackpots! (My Systemdek S-II is also a affordable turntable with a Rega RB-300.) Spring salut for your show from Stockholm.
Great video. I picked up a pair last year - AU-505 and TU-505 - both all original and in great condition. In their current state yes they are very tubelike. I listen to the setup daily, paired with various bookshelf speakers, including JBL 4312b’s.
I have AU 6900 and AU 517 and both of them are of great sound and great condition. I have been proposed to change them with AU 717 or AU 20000 but I don't really find any reason, what is your opinion?
How could you not include rocky road? Ha ha Any time you make a list of the best something, someone will say you messed up because you did not include X or Y.
I love my AU6600. It has a lovely warm sound. Very tube like. It's not powerful enough to drive my current speakers but I'm keeping it for later when I can put a second system up.
I have an AU6600 as well- first piece of equipment I bought, back in 1977. Haven't used it in close to 20 years (switched to 5.1 home theatre) but I will never let it go.
recent owner of a 7700. bought from a audio enthusiast 20+ years younger which is refreshing. found the speakers outputs were put in backwards from last servicing as balance was 180. though not great at soldering; a necessary task as short common negative wires wouldn't allow an easy flip. all good now and happily enjoying a great piece of hi fi history running some rare kirkseater 100 monitors!
I have to say, I own a Toshiba SA750 AND have been thrilled with how it sounds. When I opened it I was surprised by the build quality. I use the unit with my TV downstairs for movies and also streaming music via Tidal and a TV app. It 's powering make large late 90's Athena Speakers. This combo is a lot of fun and makes for a great casual listening system. People should look for the SA750 IF they want a less pricey solution for a vintage system. Great looks also
AU 20000 is one of the best integrated amp ever made, the only one i consider maybe even better is Kenwood Supreme 600, 650 ... and Accuphase e405:)
The AU-9500 Must be in the list !!!
Great top 5 , my first Sansui was an AU777 that a neighbor gave me for nothing last year !!!, his dad had passed & he was clearing out his workshop , the label on it read Good Condition $25 !!! a very old label . Now I have an 8080DB & a 9090 both in mint condition , gotta love the Sansui lines . Keep the kool content coming .
I bought an AU 888 for $10.00 Cdn and my AU 555a for $1.00. I had the 888 recapped and it sounds AMAZING. I will never get rid of either of them :) .
Recently had my sansui AU 717 re capped. (The dreaded sui glue) cost me around £600. Money well spent. Brilliant brilliant brilliant amplifier.
I use my sui au 717 to drive 4 speakers. 2 leak sandwich 600s and 2 celestion ditton 44s (mk 2) they play my music the way I like to hear my music. Heavy warm round and clean👍🌚 I also use a realistic graphic equalizer which is not needed with music pressed/recorded properly but I play a lot of reggae and some of the presses coming out of Jamaica (studio one 7" especially) need a lift. Turntable I use is a Garrard 401 (SME arm) and a audio technica AT LP 1240 (ortofon concord stylus) for cutting and scratching in the mix🌚
Great stuff! Have you heard the AU-999 with the great mods the smart folks in the audio community have shared over the years? It's not even funny how much better these modded 999's can sound. Truly a legendary amp.
I have a au 217 mark II and it's great I love it the look and the sound. Great video, saludos from Uruguay.
I enjoy these top 5 videos very much. The only Sansui I own is a Model 5050 receiver in mint condition that I bought for 75 bucks. Only 30 watts per channel but it has plenty of power. If you need a kidney, I will trade for that AU20000!
One of the reasons Sansui is it for me? The look ! It’s art to me, beside the quality build. But you got to remember , that costs money! Like >50% of production cost. I ❤ it !
Good stuff! That AU-505 is one of the most musical amps I've heard and still a bargain. Currently enjoying a recapped AU-777a as well.
I'm a big fan of the Au 9500
I agree on the AU-717 volume pot. But man it's a great sounding amp! And build quality is incredible.
Agree the au505 is special ( currently using atm) though its actually rated 23wpc.
The rating in hi-fi engine is a typo. Loved that you picked out the au sansui series and I thought you did an excellent job showing the variety of these integrated amps.
I have a small au 222 which is 18 wpc and that sounds huge. My favourite is the au 666 with matching tuner looks superb and sounds great. Clear and strong. And yes most people think it's new, not made ' June 1970 ' ☺️
I have a AU 222 in my bedroom and love the clarity/warmth. It plays louder then the specs. Great little amp. I will never sell it.
My holy grail coming from Japan would be the AU-111 and it sounds fantastic. My next favorite is the AU-9500 as it is a beast and the second best sounding amplifier from Sansui I have listened to but too big and too much sound for my place in Tokyo. I settled with the AU-7500 because it was the best fit for my space. In Japan there is a reason for the loudness switch which helps for playing at low volumes which I use at times. I seriously took a look at the AU-555A but the AU-7500 was just too beautiful to pass up and I found it fully restored at my local second hand store that is practically a vintage museum with 60s and 70s Sansui, Luxman and Micro Seiki I see being exchanged. Enjoyed, domo arigato.
Estoy totalmente de acuerdo contigo.
I have a AU-717. I bought it new in 1977 when I got home from college. I have kept it this long because I love the sound it produces. Although it does not get used very much these days, it is in excellent condition. I even still have the rack handles, though they are not installed.
Woow 1977😂and I bought mine 2023😂😂😂😂😂
Good informative AU description. I've had my AU 20000 for 40 years now and will never get rid of it. The build quality was very good in the time period. Have had many amplifiers, and I always preferred this amp as the best sounding, in my opinion.
I agree with 717 vol. pot; what I discover that works fine is to turn the pot, left to right vice versa few times before turning on the unit, got rid of the dead spot
Be aware that the 717 will not handle low impedance loads. The 717 will go into protection when paired with something like the KEF LS50 (I know because I tried it).
I have a 101, 666, 2400 and a 517. The 517 is the best sounding amp I've ever owned.
Very cool.
My 1st proper stereo was a mix of Sansui, A-80 Amp which I bought along with a SC-1330 Tape Deck, SR-1050c Turntable and a pair of Speakers.... SP-1001’s
I was doing my final year of Fine Art and the Art Technician sold them to me for $50au......That was a bargain in 1991 and still going strong. 🥳
And a few years ago I found the AU 417 which is my main amp at the moment.
Love that Sansui stuff 😁🙏
So, I live in Sao Paulo, Brazil, and I want to take my Sansui to be repaired locally. Can you personally vouch for any repair shops local to me? (hahaha)
Ahahahahahahaha! Of course!
Congrats on the AU-20000. That's a score for the record books. I have an AU-317 and matching tuner. Sansui really made great stuff back in the day.
I always wanted to try the au317. I'm just curious what speakers have you used with yours. ?
@@jeffk2503 I use it with a pair of B&W Matrix 1s, but I've used it with ADS L780s. Both worked well.
I bought a couple vintage Sansui amps 10 to 15 years ago when I was in a phase of trying a bunch of different audio gears. My AU-7700 always stayed with me ever since I first plugged it. Its still my main Amp I use for all my Jazz, Rock, Folk, Prog, etc. I never really found anything better to me. I cherish it for years now. Its quite rare to have something, audio gear, car, anything, that we are just completely happy with. Great video. Thanks.
Something magical about the 7700 but only when the loudness is engaged, otherwise music is just flat and lifeless, But with it, everything just pales in comparison. Not only does it sound great, but it's the best looking vintage amp in my opinion. Very classy, they don't make them like this anymore.
@@EJ-lh5su Well no. It depends on speakers. I have one 7700 as main amp and it really delivers on zero settings.
AU 999 owner and proud of it. it's 54 years old and still top of the line. Paired up with 4 Sansui SP 2000 speakers and sounds great.
Thanks for the video - I also own many Sansui integrated amps/ 👹 Recievers
Been wanting to recap my Au717 but been working So much lately No time I'm also a fan Of Nichicon caps FG/KZ/KA 😃
I really enjoy your reviews. It is sad when viewers misuse business contact information for non-business related questions!
I have witnessed the same watching some plumbing TH-cam channels for years where they share are their tricks of the trade with viewers, common sense advice and film repairs they are doing for customers from start to finish. All of this for no charge to the viewer (aside from TH-cam ads)... but that is still not enough for some and they call the plumber's business number to diagnose their plumbing problems over the phone. Hello, people??? Now viewers are doing this to Skylabs.... it is a vintage audio equipment sales and repair *_business_* folks, not an audio 'wikipedia' for your questions.
LOVE
Hello, excellent review, I am also in love with Sansui amplifiers for years, although I have let some go, I still try to keep my G33000, BA5000, AU9500, AU919 and of course the beautiful AU20000 that is a little scratched on the outside but is completely restored on the inside Greetings and thanks for sharing.
Thanks for another great video! Your top five videos are fun and have lots of good information. Totally agree on the looks of Sansui products… even with all the other great equipment I have the G-9000 always seems to draw the most attention !
Really like your “Top 5” videos! Can you start listing them in order in the description? Also, a Top 5 Harman Kardon vintage receivers video would be cool! Thanks!
Second the HK video... definitely interested in one of those
A top 10 list would be even better !!!!
Thank you for the review..... these 70s amplifiers are built like tanks and can't compare to the 80s staff....so much differences ..
I own some A line of the 80s amps .. can't compare..70s are different league ..
Thanks for running down the history of the change from tubes to solid state.
My brother RGA turned me on to Skylabs Audio and I'm hooked. Keep doing what you do. And thank you!!
As always, your logic is spot-on....
I'm so sorry people are calling you for non business reasons... That's annoying and doesn't pay your overhead...
Thank you, Karen. Every yin has a yang, it seams.
I missed out on the classic era of Sansui integrateds, but I picked up an AU-X619R back in the early 90s. Not to be compared with the great Sansuis you describe here, but still a very capable amp. It's never given me a drop of trouble. I've run my secondary system off it for many years now.
How about AU-X1. I`ve had one in my house for a couple of months, never owned one though. I still believe that was the best thing I`ve ever heard. I`ve listened it on various speakers, that amp was never an issue. Since the owner did not want to sell it, the only thing I am sorry about it is that I haven`t stolen that amp and fled the country. :)
Those AU-X1 rarely EVER come up for sale, and when they do there's usually a line of vehicles & people lining up viciously grabbing, crying and tossing wads of bills at the seller.
I bought the Sansui AU-919 when I was stationed in Japan in 1981. Amazing integrated amp! Like an idiot, I sold it or threw it away a few years later when the volume control made a crackling noise when I turned it. Still the cleanest and super fast response amp I ever owned to this day…Shit!
The AU-919 is probably the best Sansui ever made. And audiophile piece of joy that just a few can beat today, and ask yourself how much money you need to spend to beat that AU-919... I mean, it's profane!
It's been 50 years, but I believe I bought the AU505 new in 1973. It was paired with some Ohm speakers and a BSR turntable.
No power per se, but it did sound good!
I bought an AU-517 back in the early seventies I still own it play it almost every day......ALAS after 50 years it is slowly losing it's OOMPH.... it needs a recap and the dreaded Volume knob is scratchy but in it's heyday it has taken out 2 speaker cabinets a Ultraliner 12 inch split the top from one side... and blew out a 10 inch Tannoy front face ( which was funny at the time it was my brother's speaker.....) Mom was wrong I didn't go deaf!!!!!
You made a great point!! The techs need to be in the zone so to speak. You need that focus. (you can mess things up real easy) Awesome subject today!! Love my new t666 from Japan! Thanks!!
Great list, man!! Keep the awesome content coming! 🔥🔥🔥
I wish my audio sales were all buyers like you on the AU-20000 purchase, easy breezy.
If I could get my AU -7900 working properly, it would be one of my favourites as it has so many features and is so versatile. Maybe Sansui was trying to push the limit with power and switches on a medium size platform. But I can't seem to keep it out of the repair shop. I gave up looking for parts for my 777a which was the first in the family.
On the frame look of the AU-999 era, people installed stereo systems inside their walls. This was a popular trend in the '50s and '60s, but faded out in the '70s. The early AUs were designed to look "great" as wall mounted systems. The other consideration was to have a flush fit with a wooden frame which was an available option with the amps of this period.
@@daniel_cardenas It overheats in the back just being on, not even pushing a load. Something to do with bias voltage control. Maybe a Sansui specialist can fix it, but those guys are hard to find. It has defeated a number of generally competent electronics technicians. Mine only functions as a pre-amp until I can find someone who really knows what he is doing.
That preamp with the A-7900 was excellent and could outperform many separates. The sound!!! and versatility topnotch. It had enough to drive 3 more power amps. I know as it was the ♥ of a system I built in a large bicycle shop. It went into 4 equalizers and the into its power amp a Mitsubishi, Yamaha and Sony . People used to come in play the pinball machines and listen to what I was playing. The sound stage was very real, lifelike and as big as a real stage. Everyone liked it including a couple of professional concert cellists well one worked there too. Unfortunately it needs all the controls worked on too...not an electronics friendly environment. That Sansui power amp and Mitsubishi were beasts ran until closing and cranked for 6 more hours or so until I left. I even had a good 150 vinyl records on hand which took a a bit of ingenuity to avoid the base feed back. Oh yeah the cinder block wall covered with railroad ties...well that was fortunately right behind everything. When I was done working I'd grab a chair put it 18 feet back into the middle of the room... toke up and play an album . Could not do that in my apartment. Amazing everything was there including many things that I didn't know was on the album. The Sanusi and Mitsubishi provided the main stage. The Yamaha vocals from a 5.25 inch(some of those Aiwa inexpensive all in ones had excellent drivers 75 watts and never blew them good sound too) time aligned tweeters (one inch silk domes with a nice waveguide and a 3uF poly cap) two way and the Sony firing back at that wall...sweet !
@@stevengagnon4777 My good news is I found someone back in March to fix the AU-7900. I got it back about six weeks ago and it is working like new. He found what many missed. It is currently doing light duty in the bedroom right now. My house is a mess and I don't know when I will be able to set things up the way I'd like but here's hoping. Thanks for the comment. Question: As per 3 power amps, Did you have yours hooked up to Pre Amp out, Tape 1 out and Tape 2 out?
@@eighteenin78 used the preamp out from the A-7900 and treated it like a separate. Yeah I had a total of 4 power amps running off the AU-7900 pre out. I see were the same age I was born in 1960. I had gone to college so I fond this way because I needed to save my funds. One of those Sound Craftsmans just wasn't happening. There's some irony here didn't finish that Chem E degree was 12 credits left and had to sit out , a tough program and was always at the cut. Anyway went to work as a bicycle mechanic and never left the trade so still always had limited funds . I can also make a mid priced bicycle ride like as my boss said " like a wet dream " .Never forgot that one but always way better than it should great for business....the sales team just put the costumer out on a bicycle I built and it usually sold and on to the next costumer. Worked out great for the owner he put it into real-estate...I'm broke and starting over. P.S. don't break a perfectly good pelvis it's definitely not the same as a hip replacement. But I do have a titanium acetabulem and high tech ceramic bearing now and fortunately some real good surgeons that did an excellent job. Thank God for that. I'm glad your AU-7900 is back in action now too. Bless You! Oh one more point that way (between the preout and power amplifier ) the preamp from the AU-7900 acts as a master control for the whole system. I also put an EQ with a volume control in the path from the preout to the input to the power amplifier. That gave me a way to dial things in since the power amp from the AU-7900 and Mitsubishi DA-7DC did not have any volume controls. The Yamaha and Sony were recievers with a dead tuner so I went in through aux with those and integrated amplifier obviously the same. And I did use an EQ with those too. And the first thing I did with the smaller speakers was engage the subsonic filter and kick the 32 Hz fader on the EQ all the way down. I've got a similar thing going in a basement now . Two fronts and a rear that first clean watt is pretty loud. 0.3 is about were it's often at . The hidden advantage. It's a hobby so that time spent tinkering...
@@stevengagnon4777 Sorry to hear of your mishaps and misfortunes. I picked up the 7900 in '07 for about Cdn $150 in a used equipment shop. It was never quite right which is maybe why it was so cheap. Carted it around from one techie to another but none could figure how to fix it. It gave me intermittent service but mostly sat on the shelf. When I was 10 we bought our first Sui amp, the AU 777a. That was a great amp and gave us years of service until it went bad in the mid 90s. Dad also bought a AU 20000 in 78? Which I still have but have only recently fixed. Picked up a 3900 around the time of the 7900, and gave the 777a away as a dead brick. So I have three in my current stable. Finding a service technician who knows his stuff in Maritime Canada has been an unending saga of frustration. This is the first time I've had all three in top form. I bridged the gap with Yamahas which have been reliable enough for me. Started a couple of threads on the troublesome 7900 on AudioKarma back in '08. But didn't find their Sansui Brain Trust to be as helpful to me as I could have hoped for. I am not broke but with the way prices are going up, I cannot justify spending big bucks on the dream system I never had. I don't want to outlive my retirement money. And I never had a good chance to AB compare brands of amps, receivers, and speakers, so although you could call me a Sansui guy it is more of an arranged marriage than personal experience! Cheers.
I have the au222, au555a and au717. All have been fully restored along with leestereo upgrades. Without a doubt the lower power, cap coupled amps have a really nice 'warm' sound.
And now Sansui make washing machines 🤣
I have the AU-717 and TU-717 both with rack handles. They are mounted in the Sansui GX-5 rack along with a Sansui SC1110 cassette deck. I recapped the amp (big job). You are correct about the volume control.
OCD balance knob, never thought of that. I spent your intro determining what albums are in the shop. LZII, Remain in Light, Escape. Anyone else?
I wrote a tech book 20 years ago and fielded 1000s of questions, looking for free advice. You want to help but there's only so much you can do.
Thanks, enjoyed it. Agree, blackface Sansui design is beautiful.
Well well well! In The mid 70ties I traded my AU-55A for helping me to by a new stronger RECIEVER - The Harman Kardon HK679 R. Reason I wanted a RECIEVER and a stronger and I sought The sound from my AU-555A was to Soft and I didnt had The money to buy The Tuner to The Sansui. But I never liked The faceplate style and quality of The outside of The 670 but the quality of 670 inside was good. But I couldnt stop remeber my beloved 55A. I think it was so beautyfull on outside and The inside - and that fantastic looking Tuner - mmmmmmm❤️❤️❤️❤️😀👍. But since I got retired I had The oppurtunity to buy some of my old dreamgear back. So I have BAUGHT a 2 track High speed Revox B77, a 4 track Revox A77, A Lenco L 75! Like forward to before! So suddenly The only gear I had before I could rebuy WAS now an old AU - 555A. And at no time I found one in good condition but just like you I said to my self dont care about The money so get it before somebody else find it. So it was kind of expensive. But The condition was as new from The store. So now I can use my old setup exactly excluding my speakers! Why not The speakers? Because I used speakers of my own design that are no more. And TWO Phono i puts is exelent so I can connect my L 75 with The Shure M 75 eliptical needle and my still going strong Thorens TD-160 with my unique ma Micro-Acustics 2002-e cartridge from mid refurbished and cleaned. 70ties. Im in heaven. ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️😀👍
No 919? That's crazy!!
You guys are really upping your graphics game. Love it. I also enjoyed the old, familiar noise of airport traffic going over the WDM.
I have an au-719 I bought at the navy exchange in 1979 or so. And it’s matching tuner. I still use them both almost every day for over 40 years. Who knew the handles were worth so much. May use them to finance a new turntable. I have 4 sets of handles, or should I say black gold! Love watching your channel, keep ‘em coming.
Just got my au20000 and tu9900 up and running after years of problems. Awesome sound! What a beast. Running 4 B&W Matrix speakers. Thanks for your insight.
wow, as a hi-fi dilettante i had no idea that era of sansui was such a respected line!
i randomly bought an AU-D5 (and the tuner!) with some big-ass technics speakers for like $40 at a thrift store almost two decades ago and have used it forever, it's loud and proud. unfortunately it also has that thing with the volume pot where it's a dual ganged pot for L-R, and at low volumes it favors one side more than the other. there's an ebay guy selling a special calibrated dual pot replacement for like $100 but i can't be bothered
more recently i scored an AU-D9 for pretty cheap and that thing is a monster! through some nice new big polk tower speakers it's just deep, clear and limitless
hai... 1970s sansui,,,, super sex tech
So difficult to find these days Sansui Integrated. Unless you want to purchase from Japan direct (No Thank You, 100V and too close to Ocean). Own a TU 717 so In search of a AU-717, appreciate tip on Balance.
I own Sansui 555, 555a, 7700, 7900, 9500, 999 and sansui 8 receiver. Surprisingly my favorite one is the 7700, not as “harsh” as 7900 and 9500 but now as mellow as the triple series. Im quite surprised that you like 7700 as well
What is so harsh about the 7900 over the 7700? Please help I am choosing betten many Sansui models, 919 is in my head too.
I would also like to know what you mean when you say “harsh”
My goodness Kevin, how could you possible not mention the AU-Rocky Road.😛 Happy New Year. I'm going to miss Jeff Beck. Peace.
I've just acquired a mint condition recapped AU555A. It sounds incredibly good
I got one .The sound is so sweet
OCD here. No shame. Would drive me crazy. Sansui sound. So good. Arguably superior. Golden Era Royalty.
Update Prime Hifi Conor G utuber master restored and resto modded my au717 !!
OMG !! Video review b4 after coming soon !!
Nice video, thanks. Hope you had a great holiday season for sales in the shop.
I enjoyed your video on the Sansui integrated amps. I owned one on the list, AU 717, great Amp. Had to get rid of it for a McIntosh. Got my hands on another Sansui, an AU-G99X. Own it to this day and sounds awesome.
Will vouch for your comment about the 717. Had one in a post production studio setting for about 5 or 6 years until the volume knob got so bad we had to keep the balance control in a 3 or 9 position. Wasn’t worth it to us to repair. Can’t say I’m sorry I didn’t keep it.
I had the AU-717. I thought it was amazing, and better than any more modern amp I owned. Funny to know it's near the bottom of your top 5. It really makes me want to hear the ones you rank higher.
Hi Kevin, happy new year and great choice to start the year of with this list.
Happy New Year !
Another great video! I love all the choices ! I would consider my self lucky to get my hands on one of them !
My fave would be the AU-505.
I must say you have a really great way of taking control of your shop and your channel and setting some boundaries!
Always a pleasure to watch. Thank you !
Thank you!
Great Video! I'm a fool for the AU Series, but as a kid the Good Stereo Equipment were always separate units! Amplifier, Tuner, Turntable! Only the JC Penny's, Sears & Roebuck's etc! Had all the crap combined in one! Not real stereo systems but they sounded okay! I've purchased the AU-7700 & TU-7700, and a pair of LM-330's AU-5500 & TU-5500 with LM-220's. Both are Japanese Versions 100 volts. Not the most powerful or the top of line but I love the sound, the looks and can be ran in separated mode so if you want to run the sound through mono blocks or an equalizer if you wanted? I know equalizers are for idiot & Irish Setters! Squirrel!!!.....? CMTFU! Like your channel & videos, I need to stop by your shop the next time I drive up from H-Town too Chicago to see my peoples! Be Cool!
I have a Sansui AU-20000 integrated amplifier with the TU-9900 tuner on top of it. Looks like the day it was made without a scratch on it. It is being used as the rear channel amplifier, to work with the *_massive_* Hitachi SR-2004 they are both sitting on which is being used for the front channels. Speakers are Sansui SP-Z99 and Kenwood KL-9090X.
AU-20000 has bass, mid, treble controls, high and low filters (all defeatable), but no loudness switch!
I believe AU-20000 has six output transistors and SR-2004 has eight. I will upload a photo of these devices to my TH-cam Channel, and try to link it here.
Here is them: th-cam.com/video/0N53b7gCdJA/w-d-xo.html
I have the CA-3000 preamp, had the CA-2000 and BA-2000 set. They look gorgeous and attracted my attention due to aesthetics. CA-3000 remains with me for 10 yrs now. I paid $1250 shipped from Japan. It was paired with two Hitachi HMA 8500 MKII amps, one of the cleanest on paper. It sounds natural to my ears. I obtained the CA-2000 and B-2000 for a good price and flipped them. It sounded way different with that amp than to the Hitachi. The signature was completely different. I had a more enjoyable sound but I question it's accuracy in tone. I wished I kept it longer now to really test it more cause I only listened for 10 mins that was it. Just bought an AU-6600 on the way from Japan. I assume it will sound similar to the AU-7700? Or is that wrong.
I have an Au-999 with the matching tuner. The transformer burned up. I also have an AU-717. Needs caps and it does have that pot issue.
Love your shows man. I'm currently run a Sansui SX1130 coupled with JBL LX 66 towers sounds great.. Where do you rate the Sansui Au9500 ? I have read good things about them but I trust your skilled judgement. Thanks from cold London with warm Sansui sounds..❤
Fun topic! Listening to this via a AU-11000. But the best sounding one I've heard is the AU-X1.
The Definition Series CA3000, BA5000 was unceremoniously left off the list and I'm completely heartbroken 😢. How could you be this insensitive. I'm probably going to need some strong meds, a few yoga and meditation classes and a mental health day. 😅
I much preferred the sound of the Heathkit AR1500a over the Sansui's from that era. Had a Sansui AU-8500 but it was no match for the Tonal quality Heathkit. Sansui always sounded a 1/2 octave too bright.
I was a service bench tech from 1977 to 19805 and seem Many good and not so good sound systems. I owned a few.
I had that model Sansui AU-20000 and I will stand by my opnion that was the best sounding unit I owned.
I am sorry I sold it. We do foolish things and that was just one of them I regret.
I used as a preamp into a Base 1801 power amo and extremely high end speakers.
It served me well for about 10 years.
Hi, I’ve just come across your youtube on your 5 favourite Sansui amplifiers. I have the AU710 which you did not mention. I live in the UK. I take it the AU710 is the same as the AU717 due to it looks identical or was the AU717 made for the American market,
Sansui built great amps. I have a 555a and a 317II. Not exactly high end. But these things beat every amp in the higher mid range that I can compare them with. It's sad how such a company was forced to change their philosophy (built better stuff) under the pressure of capitalism. These amps bring joy and excitement. They were made for music, not for money. And if you want to spend that money: there are options too. The story of audio and capitalism is tragic.
Hi Kevin thanks for your video.
My question my tech replaces the pot volumen my Au719 with a 100komhs por instead of the unobtainable 150komhs
I think this can have an effect over the sound .
What will be the consequences ? Thanks for your response.
I own a Sansui AU-666. The dark lord of intergraded amplification. Cost me $200 in a thrift store. I kinda prefer my SX680 tho. The au666 sounds as dark as it looks.
Great Video, I love Sansui and have some spectacular examples in my audio stable! I really wanted to commend you on the intro, I have a FB audio group and had to do the same. The bigger it gets, the more people are reaching out to me with questions that I just don't have time for.. The whole purpose of the group! Cheers from Canada!
I have an AU 20000 I’ve owned since I bought it new in 1977 in Okinawa. Can you recommend an expert to go through it and refresh it for me? I live in CT. Thxs
I have an AU555a in my office, and it's too good for that really, but I do love it.
I had a sansui au 3300 driving Jensen LS IV speakers. Although it was only rated at about 30 watts per channel, it was capable of putting out a lot of clear undistorted sound.
you dont ever talk about Luxman amps in USA ? i think they are better build quality then Sansui , and my LV 117 110 watt sounds amazing
@Skylabs Audio: Thanks for the videos, much informative. In this session I missed the AU-9500. It's not the most powerful amp but yet very good. Sansui said they lost money for every sold item. The last of it's kind. I bought the 9500 from my neighbour 3 years ago for just 150$. He used it only for one year, from new, and then stashed it in a cupboard. It was in a marvellous shape and sounded perfect. I hit the jackpot. -Have you listened to it and have some thoughts about it? I usually have it connected to a Thorens TD-125 Long Base with a 3012, also bought for 150$ in 1988, and a Goldring Electro II. I love jackpots!
(My Systemdek S-II is also a affordable turntable with a Rega RB-300.) Spring salut for your show from Stockholm.
I think they sound excellent!
My 9090 is the bomb
Dang, I was planning to call the shop and bend your ear about which 2270 T-Shirt color would look best on me.... 😉
You can never go wrong with periwinkle blue. :)
@@skylabsaudio I went with Navy. No thanks to you!!!😄
Great video. I picked up a pair last year - AU-505 and TU-505 - both all original and in great condition. In their current state yes they are very tubelike. I listen to the setup daily, paired with various bookshelf speakers, including JBL 4312b’s.
I am the original owner of a AU-G77Xii. To me it's priceless. Love it!
Surprised no mention of midrange tone controls. It is one of their most unique features. (Yes, Marantz had some too.)
I have AU 6900 and AU 517 and both of them are of great sound and great condition. I have been proposed to change them with AU 717 or AU 20000 but I don't really find any reason, what is your opinion?
Only you can make that call. All 4 are great
How could you not include rocky road? Ha ha
Any time you make a list of the best something, someone will say you messed up because you did not include X or Y.
The #1 thing I miss on modern consumer amps is the MONO button.
Great stuff; thank you for this video, brings back great memories.
I love my AU6600. It has a lovely warm sound. Very tube like. It's not powerful enough to drive my current speakers but I'm keeping it for later when I can put a second system up.
I have an AU6600 as well- first piece of equipment I bought, back in 1977. Haven't used it in close to 20 years (switched to 5.1 home theatre) but I will never let it go.
I just got my AU-517 a few months ago. It sounds glorious. It's 65 watts per channel which might not seem like much, but it is LOUD!
I have a couple AU-317s and only turn up the volume a few clicks before I worry about disturbing the neighbors.
recent owner of a 7700. bought from a audio enthusiast 20+ years younger which is refreshing. found the speakers outputs were put in backwards from last servicing as balance was 180. though not great at soldering; a necessary task as short common negative wires wouldn't allow an easy flip. all good now and happily enjoying a great piece of hi fi history running some rare kirkseater 100 monitors!
nope the balance in mine is backwards as well. I think they made it that way.
Geez so much money for a 60 years old amp? For that price i will get much better new amp! 🤷♂
I have to say, I own a Toshiba SA750 AND have been thrilled with how it sounds. When I opened it I was surprised by the build quality. I use the unit with my TV downstairs for movies and also streaming music via Tidal and a TV app. It 's powering make large late 90's Athena Speakers. This combo is a lot of fun and makes for a great casual listening system. People should look for the SA750 IF they want a less pricey solution for a vintage system. Great looks also
The AU 505 is my favourite ice cream 🍦
😂
You make a lot of sense