Review! The Yamaha A-S1200 Integrated Amplifier!
ฝัง
- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 28 ก.ย. 2024
- Keepin' it old school in 2020.
Intro music by: Particle House - 'Sing it Louder'
Link to Product Page. usa.yamaha.com...
An awesome retailer in the US to buy it from:
www.adorama.co...
Finally replaced my trusty 38 year old Yamaha A700 amp (also 100 watts) that I have used since 1982 with the A-S1200 when the old amp finally expired. Have listened to the new amp now for a few weeks from quiet to peak power volumes and have a good feel for the amp's personality.
First off, my old amp was a beast, able to peak at 250 watts per channel into a 4 ohm load. The A-1200 runs out of power and will clip well before my A700. This is at chest thumping house shaking volume levels of course. The vintage A700 was no fooling around in the power department without a doubt, even after 30 years. Run within it's power envelope, the A-S1200 has a muscular effortless and amazingly clean sound. My old amp could have a tiniest bit of "grit" or "edge" to it and it was even more "forward" than the A-S1200, while the A-S1200 is simply incapable of making anything remotely harsh or bad sounding. It simply sounds great until it runs out of juice at stupid high volume levels. Bass is notably crisper and more controlled than my old amp, and the highs are unbelievably light, transparent and clean, as the video described.
The old Yammie was great and that is why I kept using it so long. The A-S1200 takes "clarity" across the frequency range to a whole new level. It works fantastic with my speakers which are warmish sounding power hungry things. It is not remotely "harsh" just "present". The breadth and depth of the imaging is amazing and the amp is dead silent during quiet sections at high volume levels. My large tower speakers (which I designed and built myself) never sounded so good, floating like a butterfly and hitting like a sledgehammer. Mmm - Good stuff...
I am not as young as I used to be and don't need to pound out the wattage like I used to, but I still like full bodied sound at a healthy volume now and then. The A-S1200 is the right amp for this stage in my life. My departing A-700 was the right amp for the party years. I took care of my old friend, gave it to a local vintage audio repair guy. He was quite stoked.
This amp does run amazingly cool vs. my old A700, and it sure is a heavy and deep sucker. The word I would use to summarize the A-S1200 is "clean". I am very pleased with it.
Additional Information:
LF tone control @ 350Hz
HF tone control @ 3.5kHz
Power to headphone jack is: 25mw @ 32 ohms.
A special shoutout goes to The Audiophiliac for helping to make this review possible! Thanks Steve!
But when are you going to start reviewing Steve's shirts?
@@svalbard01 That would be awful! We have two different body types. Let me paint you a clear picture as to how this would play out: First, I'd try on one of the shirts. Soon after, you'll find me appearing on one of those sea-creature rescue videos. You know, the type where a couple dudes rush up to free a seal from a fishing line... only I'd be the seal in distress. A not at all cute seal.
@@ZeroFidelity hahaha
you seem to like Steave's shirts :-)
Zero Fidelity
LOL! Oh man, now that’s funny AF!
Owned the A-S2100 for 6 months paired with the Buchardt S400s and it Kicks. Needs 30mins-1hr warming up time to for really shine. The mid range is crazy good and vocals are a sweet spot. Listen to a lot of electronic also and the presence really trips me out, so much authority and control with a fluidity to the sound that sounds just right. Excellent tone controls also.
Why did you get rid of it James?
Yamaha is a brand that makes very high quality products. You won't get ripped off! I even rode a Yamaha Virago years ago. Musical instruments are also high quality yet affordable. I has the R-N602 and love the features and styling.
100% accurate review . I am owner of as3200 .... blindly take this review as reference and just go for best model of this line ..what ever you can effort. After 2 to 3 months of experience.. the sound , build quality , look and feel makes me think proud .. actually these amps are real thing for our money. Not hype train amps ...do not get into those.. and do not bother about inbuilt dac or streamer or any other options . Best approach to build hifi system .. get analog integrated amp like Yamaha AS series and have separate high quality dac and streamer.
You have the 3200? Dang boi! Enjoy!!!
Nobody does it better. Keep those fantastic reviews coming. Thanks Sean!
That Yamaha is so well built. That's just beautiful thing to see. They have taken no compromises. Really amazing.
Great review Sean. The best of this amp on youtube by far.
I bought the a-s501 after seeing your review of the 801. I feel in music heaven when listening to it on my RP 8000s. Its just so effortless and controlled. Thought these big boys were gonna be like the 501-801 on steriods, sounds like they are a totally different breed from your review.
Glad you're loving the 501! Yep, their high-end integrated amps are aiming for something else entirely.
I went from 501 to 1100 recently. Though the 501 is great, but I'm not going back. Ever.
@@Bob.martens Can you describe how the sound is different?
@@abelfonseca In short: the 1100 (1200) has a LOT more power. That solves the greatest 'problem' of the 501, slow bass response. Things can really get muddy down there. On the 1100 bass is superfast at any volume, but still 'airy'. Some people consider the 1100 lacking in bass attack and body, and they have a point. A Hegel it is not... The 501 is at its core a very old design, using modern components. Upside: it's simple and indestructible. These are the amps audiophiles will be using long after a nuclear holocaust. Downside: not too keen on 4 Ohms. The 501 will oblige when asked, it's just not all that comfortable driving the low resistance. It's still waay better at it than 90% of multichannel AV recievers. A lot of modern 8 Ohm rated speakers dive below 4 Ohms, especially at lower frequancies.
Main point: the imaging is really a LOT wider and deeper on the 1100, almost regardless of your speakers. This amp will teach you what reviewers actually mean when they use those terms.
The 501 is already quite an 'invisible amp', tirelessly neutral, but at times boring. The 1100 is as neutral as they come, but adds next-level detail and an overall sweetness the 501 just has not. The 1100 is so kind to your audio, it's the Tom Hanks of amps. It just NEVER loses it. It's your friend that goes anywhere you want to, and then along the way says: 'Hey, did you notice this? And That? Look there!' Like all Yammies it plays nice with a mean Klipsch.
That is what you pay for. But the 501 is all the stereo amp 99% of people will ever need. My biggest 501 gripe: the sub out with its non-bypassable low pass filter. Who does that? It doesn't even play nice with Yamaha's own products.
The 501 runs as cool as amps get. The 1100 isn't hot like some high-power vintage 'boiler plate' amps, but it gets warm. I guess it is biased to run in class A mode over a wider power range.
I think Yamaha recently killed off the 801 (more power, baby) because it came too close to the 1000-and-up range. That's just my conspiratorial mind.
The 1100 reportedly has a killer phono pre-amp stage like-they-don't make-em-anymore, and I believe the rave rewiews. It's just that I only do digital. Topping E30 on permanent duty. Beats all DACs i tried up to three times the price. The 1100 will reveal the quality, or lack thereof of all your other components. I'll have to treat my room before upping my DAC game.
I used both these amps on Klipsch rp6000 and rp150 (the greatest compact party-animal out there, better than rp500), B&W dm601s3 and vintage DM2a (still magical). The rp6000 are my main set. At night I use Mission M70 for tv. The rp8000's are just too big for my place:)
@@Bob.martens Thank you for that detailed reply! Very insightful.
Nice Job Sean ! 'Pure Analog' 'Pitbull'
Love My AS-1100 after I put a 100 plus hours on those high end 'Mosphetes' the amp did warm up a tiny tiny bit Espically the midrange gave me that somewhat tubbish sound charcter !
Your channel overtime has taught me well bro 😆 The AS-1100 A somewhat netutal sound with a forward or bump to the mid-range crazy bass and dynamics to scare the shit out of ya with 'Muscle' or good weight to the sound 😆 .
30 years of expierence with Audiogear didn't help me much at all when it comes to actually reviewing gear, I will admit , its watching dam good reviewers for a couple of years that helped me to really tune in more , Thanks Sean ! I'm trying hard buddy to up my game but theirs only one way to do that and thats putting in my dues , I know I have alot more work to do but its the journey that's the fun part !
My Polk Audio Lsim 703s paired up really good with Yammy hell of combo
😆 I didn't know they voiced the AS-1200 Differently ? Sean did you not get that impression of somewhat of a Tubbish sound character in the midrange ? Maybe Yammy changed this on the AS- 1200.
This is what i love about the AS-1100 thanks Sean and Thanks Steve the Audiophilliac for helping my Audio Guru out ! 😆 or my GoTo Guy espically when in a jam , thats right pays off to be a ZF 'PATREON' 😊
Dang it ! I edited that essay down also !
Hey man - Thanks for the enthusiasm, as always! Naw, I got more of an open and clear sound from the 1200. Not a tube-ish character. Having said that, I never put hundreds of hours on the unit either. Now... another (possible) contributing factor to the sound could be the transformer. In my experience, EI transformers tend to come with gear that take on a 'warm' sound, particularly in the mids, whereas Toroidals tend to be more clear and linear. Of course, I'm broad brushing things, as its the rest of the circuit that will have the most impact on the voicing/performance of the product. But.... with all things being equal, which in the 1100/1200's case, that's mostly true, I wouldn't be surprised if the Toroidal gives the newer 1200 a cleaner, more open, and even more dynamic sound.
@@ZeroFidelity I still can't figure out why the AS -1100 weighs 4.5 lbs more ?
I have searched and researched the AS-1100 has a 630va El-Transformer vs AS 1200-Toridal 625va idk probly closer to equal weight than that posted
i know theirs less leakage with a toridal and its nice seeing Yamaha moving forward !
😆 and Yamaha told me the AS-1100 was the Basic mid level intergrated well high level to me lol Thanks for quick reply Sean ! Appricate ya alot man !
I didn't know that about El-Transformers 😆 but yeah I would take a 1200 quickly ! 'Atleast i'm earning some Stripes Lmao'
Ohh that was a good 1 Sean ! Inside joke yall !
@@ZeroFidelity If you want a little Tube-ish touch you must listening the Yamaha A-S3000
Tee-Jay The Stereo-Bargain-File seen your breakdown of the 1100, great video and like your passion. I’ve got an A-S2200, only about 17 hours on it currently, I coming from an A-S801. So far my assessments are, theres an immediate auditable difference in the mid range, 2200 is way fuller in the mid range than the 801 is, way more control over the sound too. 2200 seems more holographic and 3 dimensional than the 801 as you can clearly hear the separation of all the instruments with a more robust clarity and detail. 801 is a powerhouse @ 100 WPC, AudioHolics benched it and it way north of 100 WPC, having said that, the 2200 @ 90 WPC seems even more powerful yet than the 801.
All Yamaha integrated amps/one old...20 years and As 701/....and CD-S1000 cd player.They all sound...full...a bit on a sweet side/in a good wey/...sparkeling...big sound picture...full of details/maybe dinamics can be a bit faster/...easy and nice to listen.Realy worth the money....and last forewer...even 20 years does not damage the first one.Such a good products , for the money.Sure...as ussual....taste and space makes all products , good ore less.Yamaha...by my experiance...is realy good.For some exelent......and for some others, not as good.For Yamaha, from me...big like
Allso...big like for your reviews...
All the best from Croatia
Yust keep doing on youtube
Thank you...once more👍🌞🏅🍀🎉🎶
Sean, thanks for the great review. I think a lot of people will miss a big compliment you gave this amp. You said, “yeah, i could be happy with this for a while”. I think that says a lot.
Thank you for the educational video. Its something you just can't get from print media.
Nice I've been waiting for a review of one of these. 👍
The sound of my 1100 changed significantly over the course of a year. It also sounded forward initially (not anymore) i would expect the same to be true of the 1200. Your comments (especially on the headphone output) suggests to me that your unit is probably far from broken in. The headphone input on my 1100 is excellent without any traces of harshness. i know you don't have a year to wait to do a review but i would recommended listening again once it has more time on it.
Hearing the intro music I expected to see Molly Ringwald in the review!
I really, really wanted to rock a neon headband for this review.
I love the retro looking switch gear and dials. My first system had a Nikko pre and power amp which I loved for the way it looked with all the dials, up/down switches and the white on black lettering.
Definitely it's a good amplifier. Please don't let it down. You can spit out anything comes to your mind, that doesn't mean all correct.
So far no luck finding one in Yamaha dealers or audio outlets in my country. Hope to find one in the near future. Thanks for the excellent review.
I have the A-S801 and am very happy with it. However, if I'm going to pay triple the price for the 1100/1200 I expect that it should have balanced inputs and more power. It has neither. VU meters are not worth the extra $2000.
The A-S801 is a killer value. While I respect every persons expectations when it comes to perceived worthwhile investments, all it takes is a few seconds to realize that the 1200 is on a whole other level in terms of internal component quality. It's not even close. Now, whether that 'does it' for you or amounts to performance that you think is worth the extra cash - that's a whole other matter entirely. Personally, I don't give one F about balanced inputs unless the circuit itself is natively balanced. Ditto with the source.
I’m sure the A-S801 is super nice for the money, but it’s far from the same build as A-S1200. Just open it and look inside😄 It’s two completely different levels. Not just VU meters😄
@@1st2mind But why does it have less power for such a price
@@ArthaxtaDaVince777 clean low power is better than dirty high power.
@@WayneKnight_Rider There is hardly anything dirty about the A-S801s power. The Peachtree integrated amp at 2k slam dunks these overpriced yamaha amps. I love Yamaha but not of fan of the 1100/1200 models.
I absolutely love Yamaha, great company.
Very nice review. I own a yamaha a s1200 since the beginning of may. Maybe in the netherlands (europe) it is voiced different, I don't know. Ja it sounds neutral, but for me more leaning to warm, can't really explain, if they say it had some kind of tubes inside, I would believe it. It is an amazing amplifier and suprises me everyday with any kind of music, Rock, pop, Jazz, gospel etc. And you know what? My speakers are elac debut b6.2 which I bought 2 years ago. I know the low price for the speakers related to the expensive amp sounds silly, but man, I'm glad I choose for a new amplifier and not for so called better speakers. Those 90watts really get these speakers going, instead of my amplifier before with also 75watts, on paper not much differnt. The black color is better in real than on picture/youtube and of course it has those nice lighted meters... I did not try headphones, but I do have a recordplayer and the phono preamp is also excelent!
Congrats dude! So you bring up something interesting: I don't know if Yamaha does this, but there are a number of hi-fi companies that will voice their products in accordance to the market that the product is sold in. These companies believe that each market has a different taste in sound, which is why they will break-up the production into into slightly different batches of product - to cater specifically to each market. As you could imagine, that makes searching for consistency in reviews to be rather... troublesome!
Thanks Dan! This persuaded me to buy the 1200 too. One amp was available in Rotterdam. It sounds amazing already just out of the box. High, mid and low sound great! Topversterker voor de komende 10 jaar.
@@Vinylbop @Dan dG Jongens, zouden jullie mij alsjeblieft wat meer kunnen vertellen over de A-S1100/1200. Ik ben in de markt voor eentje in combinatie met mijn KEF R3 (die ik had vervangen voor mijn Monitor Audio Gold 100 4g speakers). Ik hoor ook hele afwisselende reviews voor deze versterker. De ene zegt dat het warm klinkt en volgens de andere heel klinisch/bright. Wat vind jij van jouw 1200 en wat voor een speaker gebruik je er mee?
@@Phoenix_1991 Hoi Ustaleone, in addition to Sean's review, there is also a very nice positive review in the German hifi magazin "Audio" of august. The new 1200 has a toroidal transformer and sounds therefore slightly different than the 1100, for me the 1200 sounds hefty and neutral (very little on warm side). The 1200 certainly sounds not harsh to me. At the time I bought it, it was a bit if a gamble, because it was brand new and not unpacked/reviewed yet. I'm glad I bought it anyway. I am very, very happy with my class amp, very nice build and weights like a little big Bertha with its necessary vu/peak meters ;-) I don't know about the Kef R 3, but those audio monitors, with it's metalic sound, in combination with the 1200 would be interresting with certain kinds of music. Maybe you should take you're Kef's to the shop and hear/listen for yourself.
i have a yamaha d s p 1 from 1993 incredible effects processor i bought thinking i was getting a preamp for the two yamaha m35 amps from the same year i was upset with myself until i got a preamp and put it all together with my jamo towers and klipch 2/15 350 watt subwoofer . long story short people if this equipment sounds this dynamic this full warm and just perfect i can only imagine what this sweetheart is capable of go yamaha
Sean, any more Yamaha or any Rotel reviews in the pipeline? Was wondering about the A-S2200. I've read it has a different sound than the 1200. And Rotel amps, how good is the rb1582? I would like to hear your thoughts on some of the current Rotel amps.
Like the VU meters, sound is amazing.
Hello from Greece. Can you help me? I have a 2-year old pair of Dali Zenzor 5. They sound amazing with my Technics A-SU900. Now, I have ordered the 1200. These speakers are enough? Otherwise what do you think about B&W 603 S2 floor speakers? Note, that this system works on a 10 m2 office. I like the foor standing speakers and do not want to buy self ones. My Dalli Zenzor 5 have paired exaclty in this room. So I wait for your answer. Thank you all!
Awesome review Shawn. Now the question is when will you compare Hegel H190 and Schiit Aegir to these two! :)
My brand. I have the older A-S2000.
I’ve just ordered this amp...running iotavx stack at the moment...keeping my fingers crossed it’s a step up...
Would love to hear an update on this.
@@JoshStephens24 I’ve had the as1200 for a month now and I love it. Super detailed but not fatiguing somehow. Extended sweet crystalline treble. Mids are prominent yet very realistic. Bass is well disciplined, extensive where the recording demands and powerful. Soundstage is wide and deep, real sense of scale here. Uncanny instrumental separation, yet cohesive overall. Timing is fast and the bass doesn’t lag behind the treble as much as I’ve noticed with many amps. Compared with the iota vx stack, out simply, it’s more refined, detailed and powerful. Just gorgeous sound.
Put
giggles - was it just a few days ago You kinda re reviewed the Parasound intern. at approx the same price ? and I mentioned something like at this price they SHOULD be kinda the same, music is music. seems so, that's one reason for tone controls ( with speakers too.) I believe in tone controls as a VERY viable factor. just a nudge one way or the other, not full out 8 db change...
I wish you could review the HEGEL H390 and compare its sound vs Hint 6, JC5, Kinki and this beauty....
haha At some point I will be saying goodbye to almost all of my hi-fi gear, so comparisons may become a thing of the past. But yep, the Hegel 390 would be fun to check out.
Yamaha at it's best! Love it!
Yamaha is one of those companies where you get pride of ownership from having it. Like McIntosh, you just feel proud to own one.
@Jony Ross GASP!!!!
Ok, they are a little pricey.
Jony Ross it may not be for everyone but I personally love the McIntosh sound. It really does come down to individual taste.
@Jony Ross Ok, they make quality stuff but ...yeah, they're sound is kinda dull. I like smooth butthe MA252 crosses over into boring.
Have the 2100 and probably is the last amp I will buy pairs great with my DeVore Gibbons.
Nicely done review. Quick question: Despite having the ability to switch between mm and mc, realistically, is this amp best paired with a mm cartridge?
If you turn the dimmer off before it dimms completely, it will stay at that particular level of illumination.
How does your Yamaha A-S1200 sound through headphones? Do you hear enough bass on older recordings?
How does it compare to the Technics Su-G700?
I was ready to ask about the same, I know Technics is another type of amp. none class-AB, but considering the price and style I was wondering if there is any chance for @ZeroFidelity to review on the SU-G700
Shawn (or anybody really), I've noticed all the Yamaha print on these new amplifiers have dropped the term MOSFET (except for the top of the line 5000). Do you know if they have moved away from mosfet to something else? If you have a press contact with Yamaha, I'm just interested to know. The term is strange in its omission, as it used to mention it a lot.
I confirmed earlier today that it still uses Mosfets. To be honest with you, I was thinking they switched to bi-polar transistors as well and planned on pinning a comment about the change. Turns out, that's not the case. Note: Either way, it's not a big deal to me. Audiophiles get way too wrapped up in certain ideas like servo-control (for subs), mosfets for SS amps, etc.. In reality, what's far more important is how well engineered a component is. Something that you can't necessarily tell by looking at a spec sheet.
@Zero Fidelity: 👍
Cool, thanks for the info.
Great job I enjoy all your work
I moved on from my AS700. The power was great i loved the bass but i found the sound rather dry and the piano highs edgy. I hope the AS1200 improves on this. Great amps.
For $50 extra, Yamaha could make a nice brushed, gold-anodized front panel like Vintage gear. This would transform this black box to something special. Yes. I'm an industrial designer.
That bonus section rap: YOU are the new Eminem : )
Good start. And now digital inputs, so that you can compete with other brands.
Thanks for the review. What do you think about the combination of Yamaha A-S1200 and Wharfedale LINTON Heritage?
Not exciting enough . I own both but use them in different systems
Hi,
I've been watching a lot of your reviews lately and I really appreciate your straight forward approach to talking about gear. I recently ordered a pair of Polk R700s (backordered) and I'll need to upgrade my amp to be able to power them. They're rated at 8 ohms with an 88 db sensitivity but I've seen & read reviews that say they routinely dip below 4 ohms and need fairly high power to perform their best. This amp was high on my list but based on your comments in this video about needing to be matched with high sensitivity speakers, I'm guessing maybe this wouldn't be a good fit for the R700s? I also watched your reviews of the Marantz model 30 and Parasound Halo. I really like the Marantz but it's not super high powered either, whereas the Parasound doesn't really appeal to me for some reason. I guess the search continues.
I am waiting for someone to review the A-S3200
I'm sure it'll happen eventually. Hell, maybe I'll take it for a spin before the year is up. For now, my schedule is jammed the F out.
sweet lookin amp
In my comparison of the 1100 vs original Halo, the Yamaha produced a much wider soundstage, less congestion and lower noise floor. Wonder if these traits carry over to the new models.
The less congestion and lower noise floor certainly applies to that particular comparison. Imaging, to me at least, was fairly similar between the two. The primary difference being: How they project sound out into the room. The Yammy can give the perception of a wider soundstage, but upon further inspection, both are similar. Ones just more...in your face... about it.
Hi there... Beautiful review. Can you pl suggest.. would this AS1200 be able to drive B&w 702 s2 floorstandes?? They r quite a power hungry and I am a bit short in budget at the moment.
Thank you. I was wondering what were the changes with the new models since they look identical to the old ones.
grear review! i know I'm a little late with my comment but… i am thinking about upgrade denon amp to yamaha 1200, on metas/kc62 system… unfortunately i don't have a chance to audition combo… what do you think about yamaha/kef pairing? some say its not a good match…
Enjoy your channel, the amp has been on my radar for a while. I was hoping to pair them with a pair of JBL 4425's or Harbeth HL5 plus.
Unfortuantely I cannot demo any of these, do you think both will be a decent match?
For Harbeths, you'll want to go with the M30.2's. The Supers will be too bright with this combo and tend to sound better with a more refined solution. The JBLS on the other hand, will do just fine! Two ready to rock combos.
Zero Fidelity 🙏🏼
Excelente amplificador.!
Hello Sean. Since you have reviewed Yamaha, luxman and Accuphase just recently, wich one you like the best?
Thanks
Not mentioned or highlighted, the amp is a pure analog design. No DAC, no digital controls. Pure analog (at least from the functional design perspective) down to display and controls.
Mentioned in the video. I simply didn't hold everyones hands on that point in the beginning because it should be rather obvious.
How do you feel about matching the Yamaha as a preamp to the Parasound JC5?
I am tossing up between this amp and the Rotel rotel 1572 mkii. Features are not an issue because I run a separate DAC. On looks and build quality alone, the Yamaha is a clear winner BUT the "unique" tone that is commented on has me worried. Is it a permanent feature or does it diminish with burn in? FYI I am pairing with Buchardt s400 II.
Based on your review, A-S1200 may sound quite different from A-S1100..? I don't think A-S1100 has that kind of fowardness..
Taehee Yoon I totally agree...i own 1100 and its silky smooth. no mid-treble bump. BUT after some hours of burn-in.
Hi Sean, do you think the A-S1200 would pair ok with the Harbeth P3ESR? Thanks.
Oooo Yamaha!
Try a Denon 2500NE, you Will be suprized 😊👍
Thomas Mønsted
Ohhh I'm familiar with that unit. Along with good things to come...
Zero Fidelity please review the 2500ne or 1600ne. Trying to decide between that or the Roksan K3. Don’t have the option to audition so relying on reviews. The Yamaha is not available where I am.
Do you think Yamaha a-s2200 and
Focal Kanta2 is a good combination ???
the front controls are from plastic?
Will this amp pair well with 87 db 80W nom./120W 8 ohm speakers? I just had them made to order at a local audiophile shop here in Bulgaria and they are lively sounding with great imaging/soundstage. But my perfect rebuilt/recapped Marantz 2330 falls short, so I'm on the hunt for an upgrade for under $3000. Over 3K, I'd go Luxman.
It sounds like the philosophy behind the 1200 is very different from the philosophy behind the 301/501/701/801 series, where it seems like Yamaha prioritized “clean” sound and short pathways. In fact one of the common complaints about that series is how almost nondescript and “anonymous” those amps become, with very little coloration. Given that a 1200 can cost more than 3x what you spend on an 801 it would be interesting to hear what sound and performance differences you get for your money. Idk that lots of people playing in the “$3k integrated amp” space are strongly considering Yamaha when they’re cross-shopping old Krells and whatnot. So why would a Yamaha fan spring an extra ~$2k over an 801? And why would a more upscale amp shopper want the 2100 when there are more “exotic” and boutique brands at that price point? I’d love to hear your take on it. The high end Yamahas seem to live in “Acura NSX” and “Ford GT” territory- you’re spending supercar money on manufacturers who aren’t really known for their supercars, so the products had better bring something really interesting to the table. Also makes me think that Yamaha needs something in the $1000-$3000 range that splits the difference between the 801 and 1200. Maybe something with higher end finishing than the 801 but with some less expensive parts than the 1200.
I cannot comment on most of the products in the Yamaha portfolio, but the 801 I reviewed last year had a distinctly warm and easy going character. The higher-end line seems to be aiming for something different entirely. As for it's market position:
It's not even ___close____ to the hi-fi equivalence of an Acura NSX or Ford GT. In fact, quite the opposite. The 1200 is the entry-point into a category of products that feature old school looks, high quality internal components, and an over-built design thats meant to last for many, many years. Compare the price of the 1200 to what you get from Luxman, Accuphase, or McIntosh, and it begins to look like a steal.
As for who would buy it: Quite a few people. The line has been a success for Yamaha. In fact, I can all but guarantee that they sold more integrated amps in that price range than *many* audiophile approved, exotic hi-fi companies.
Now, will there be people who would rather put their money towards something else? Sure. Thats why there are literally hundreds of options available at every major price category available. But for some odd reason, people are getting hung up with the price of the 1200 when it's literally the starting line for products of its ilk.
@Alexander : let me emphasize on “Buying super car from a manufacturer who is not in super car production .”
I see Most Audiophiles targeted brands( which appears on stereophile, absolute sound , whathifi , 6moons ) they like adding modes to old car doing things overly and un mature things without proper engineering. Trying something which doesn’t exist in 1st place .
@@ZeroFidelity Very thoughtful answer to someone who also took the time to make a full but coherent comment - must be why i subscribe. I really appreciate your unwilling-ness to get hysterical
I still love tube amplifier
I own a Rogue Audio Cronus Magnum 3 which is ok but I am not totally sold on tube amps. I am interested in the yahama 1200 and noticed that you recommended the yahama over the Rogue. I would be interested in your reasons for doing so. Thanks.
Rogue makes great gear. The build quality is solid, the reliability is fantastic, and the sound is pretty even keeled. The problem is: Their tube gear tends to sound more like SS equipment than what many people expect from a tube amp (lush harmonic mids. detailed yet smooth highs, with depth for dayssss). To some, that's a good thing. To me, it comes close to defeating the point of buying a tube amp to begin with. The Yamaha, to me at least, doesn't sound like a tube amp. It just sounds like a real confident, kick-ass SS amp that doubles down on what transistors are good at without going too far into the "dry / one dimensional" category. Def. worth checking out if you can.
Do they make anything on this level from any company that’s built with a receiver and with about a 100 watts per channel
I just got the Yamaha a-s 1200. I was wondering if when you turn the bass and treble tune controls you experience a short interruption in the sound? When the bass and treble tune controls are in neutral position and I move them, I hear a "click" sound, then the music stops for a fraction of a second. I have never experienced this with my past Yamaha amps.
That is because the tone control circuitry gets completely bypassed when they are set to 0.
3:34 you touch on the two independent speakers need to be 8 ohms min if wired off the two sets of terminals. But can a 4 ohm single speaker be bi-wired off the two terminals, or does does the single speaker need to be 8 ohm also?. Probably a stupid question but thought I get clarification.
I'll answer this for you then. Two separate pairs of speakers wired off "A" and "B" terminals are essentially wired in a parallel circuit, meaning the overall resistance will already be sitting at 4 ohms with two 8 ohm speakers connected. So bi-wiring a 4 ohm speaker to terminals "A" and "B" is perfectly fine for a single 4 ohm speaker. Sleep easy everyone ;)
Please help. Can i use bi-wiring connection on this amp if my speakers have impedance 4 ohm? (8phm compatible). Speakers model Wharfedale evo 4.4.
How would I use an external dac if it requires Coaxial like a topping s 90 how I I hook it up to this and use that instead of this internal dac ? And how do I disable the internal volume control if I want to use a separate preamp ?
Pretty pricey for only 90 watts/channel. Nice review and I still like the amp but I'd have to be floored to spend that much. Personally I think there are better choices at the price point.
Way too many audiophiles get caught up in watts. Quality over quantity, baby!
I agree with you completely. Having not heard it clearly is my disadvantage to be overly critical of the amp. Like you've said before, it comes down to taste.
FelixtheMetalcat I have an 1100 and when it’s just pushing 1 Watt on my 90db speakers, it’s pretty damn loud.
@Jingle Nuts yup, i fully agree. Like I said, I still think the amp is overpriced, especially if this is the starting point of Yamaha higher end gear. I'll take Rogue Audio Sphinx or Cambridge Audio Azur series for less money and be ahead of the game. The Yamaha is a nice product at $1500....
@@autocrossstar17I'm sure it is and it would be on my speakers also....I just think there are beter choices for less money. Again, it's all a matter of personal taste and since this has no USB/DAC, I guess I'd like to save some cash to buy those necessities.
Well, I've been around Yamaha high end stuff for decades. It can be very good, but it is always pricey. Twenty-five years ago, I used to love their upscale speakers. *"Now, hear that? That sounds like a symphony orchestra."*
Nice review.
I have a a-s2200 paired with Harbeth SHL5+ 40th, the sound is not harsh or to bright at all. I listen to many types of music, the bass and punch is definately there. Perhaps it could be the speaker placement?
I just got an A-S2200 myself. I have budget speakers, but I really like them. KLH Kendall. Waiting for the arrival of my CD-S2100, it’s currently back ordered from Abt electronics, but I should be getting it sometime in the next 2 weeks.
@@nathanjones4039 I found the dac in CD-S2100 a bit hard in midtone, I am very happy with RME ADI-2 FS
Totally agree. I own the A-S2200 as well. I personally don't find it too bright at all. It's very neutral for the entire frequency band, at least for my taste. I do agree with the review that when the recording puts out bass, you will hear it faithfully.
Thanks so much for your helpful review of this and the A-S801! I am so glad I bought the A-S801, as I can see from your comments of this amp that the EQ response would definitely not be to my taste.
Cheers! Yeah, the A-S801 and the A-S2100 are nearly on opposite ends of the tonal spectrum.
@@ZeroFidelity I have the A-S801, what exactly does that mean? How would I know which i'd like better?
@@danbrodersen5838 I reviewed the A-S801 if you want a detailed summary. Long story short: The 801 takes on a warm sound, with a forgiving top end. The Yamaha 1200 is far more resolute, clean, dynamic, and forward sounding. Which one you prefer will boil down to taste.
@@ZeroFidelity Yup, my B&W 704 S2s already have a upper mid bump, so the A-S1200's bump would be overkill for me. I'm grateful, for the A-S801 costs a heck of a lot less and has more power for my power hungry B&W 704 S2s.
@@zaoria123 speakers have tone curves, transistors amps do not. It's not the frequency response that gives a amp it sound characteristics.
Hiya, quick question. - Love the content and the reviews? Would you opt for the Yamaha or the Marantz pm 8006 if you had a choice and found them both at the same price?
I'm getting myself an A-S2100 quite soon. They say it's has a warmer sound than the S-1100. I'd love your opinion on A-2100 and if it worth to pay extra and get the A-2200 and how A-2XXX series stacks up against A-1XXX series (especially the built in phono stage and headpone output differences).
The biggest difference is that the 2xxxx series uses a balanced circuit. So if you're running XLR into the integrated, the difference should be noteworthy and positive!
I’ve the A-S2000 which has a single balanced input. It’s definitely a bump up. There is better separation and an open spacious presenentation that is addictive. The CDS-2000 balanced out, or say a Benchmark Dac3, drive this nicely. On the 2000, Yamaha also does something special to the rca cd input that allows a rca input to enjoy the spacious presentation, like the balanced inputs. I run my phono pre into these and it adds the dimensional magic that the balanced inputs deliver...
I would think that an amp in this class would have a neutral or perfectly flat frequency response without any "color" of it's own.
Can the line in on a amp be used to connect a av receiver?
I do not understand why 2020s amp does not have XLR input!I know I know AS2220 has one, but it`s 1000$ + more for something that becoming standard in 2020yr.
How will this compare with parasound zone master 2350 ?
Good review friend
hello and a happy new year...i am in search of a new amp...My speakers are triangle borea br08...You think it is a good one for these speakers?
Thank you in advance.I listren mostly to vocal jazz ,blues.soft rock. and movies soundtracks
Hi, I just acquired a 1200 and have it paired with some Wharfedale Diamond 10.7 which is their big 4 driver floorstander.
I wanted an amp with a bit more control over the drivers and a more forward and detailed presentation.
This amp really woke up my speakers. So far, so good.
I haven’t heard the Bro8 speakers but I find them interesting for some reason. What is your impression of them?
My guess is that if they project in a very forward way, this amp might push them too far into that direction. On the other hand, if they sound more “polite” like my Wharfedales, it could be a good match.
Pull pull sounds like full bridge per channel.
Curious, how would the Marantz PM8006 stack up again this Yamaha A-S1200 ?
Look to AS801
any chance to review the m-5000?
I always find it a bit frustrating when reviewers don't really test the phono stage of an amp. It's becoming an increasingly important requirement for alot of audiophiles. Come on Sean, buck the trend!
The reviewer in question needs to 1) Listen to vinyl and 2) Be pretty familiar with it to have any worthwhile feedback. I qualify for neither of the two. My focus, as always, is strictly on sound. There are times when I consider throwing away the "about" section of my reviews as it tends to invite more headache than it's worth.
@@ZeroFidelity Fully understand Sean. I suspect most of these modern integrated amplifiers include a phono stage as a bit of an afterthought thereby making a comparison between phono stages probably pointless. Anyone who is serious about vinyl is likely to opt for a separate dedicated phono preamp anyway. I'd still love to see that Triangle Genese Trio take II video.
James Wright I have an 1100 and the phono stage is fantastic. These amps have a reputation for that.
James Wright I have the 2100 and frankly I think the phono stage is just adequate. I prefer listening using my old Trichord Dino instead. Maybe my DV 10X5 cartridge doesn’t pair well with the 2100’s phono stage; too warm and some loss of details, I don’t know.
Safe to say if you have the Yamaha A-S801 (or r-n803) there is no compelling reason to upgrade - correct?
Totally different presentations. Like it warm? Keep the 801. Want it more realistic, the 1200 is on a whole different level.
@@ZeroFidelity Acknowledging and thanks for the response!
How would this receiver sound with Elac UB52's?
I thought A1200 has dedicated headphone amp. It's my model the As1100 that doesn't
My Marantz SR7012 was just pushed an update today. Any idea what it included? Hopefully to allow my Heos Tidal App to play Atmos music! 😉👍
Hi Sean, for the type of amp it is, is it a good match up with the Buchardt S400?
Yup. Very much so.
@@ZeroFidelity thks Sean. Options options options... I went to audition the amp in their demo room (Yamaha speakers) and went away impressed. Problem is I only have budget for this (& DAC), Buchardt upcoming amp, Hyperion or Hegel H190 (if I dare). LoL
@@eddylam224 Lots of options, with each one being distinctly different. For the S400's, if it were my money, I'd boil it down to either the Hyperion+Hestia or the 1200.
@@ZeroFidelity thks again Sean. I'll definitely want to do a TRY AT HOME with Burchardt's own amp b4 finally deciding. Will keep u posted. Great work, I'm so glad u preserved through those early tough yrs. And I really like e exchanges between u 3 bros (Thomas & Jay)
I own an A-S1100, and i see no reason to ever upgrade to another amp.
I have never played my amp over 1 watt, but with 97db/w , i don't have to.
I had the middle model of this 2100 very muddy lacking detail. (with many different speakers)
They forgot the loudness knob.
You can boost the treble and bass at low volumes which is actually what the loudness control would do. I use it a a lot like that and it works just fine
“Dampening” or “damping”? If “dampening” where do you add the water? ;-)
dampen /ˈdamp(ə)n/
This word has two meanings
1. make slightly wet.
2. make less strong or intense.
In music, this word refers to "reduse the amplitude of sound.
Please don't make fun of others when you don't know what you are talking about.
Just search the word on google if you don't believe me
This or hegel190?
Rather have the Parasound HINT for that kinda money. I wonder how many people reach the tipping point because of VU meters? I’m guilty of it.
I have the A-S2200, I actually shut off the VU meters on mine, don't need it, it's just a show.
I can't compare the 2200 with the 1200, since I never heard the 1200. But for my personal taste, the 2200 after warming up (and this is before the break in period as many A-Sxx00 owners said there is), it sounded warm, smooth, crazy detail and transparent, I also want to say neutral but neutral to my taste may not be neutral to your taste, not to mention the speaker pairing. Heck, all of these "audiophile" jargons I used to describe the sound are all subjective anyway; I've read reviews of the same exact equipment sometimes have completely opposite of these audiophile jargons describing them.
Recommendation is to listen to it and compare it with other integrated amps on your own, and check your preconceived notions of non-boutique makers at the door. I see this problem all the time, just because something is made by Yamaha, who also makes mass produced equipment's somehow can't be better than say a Luxman or McIntosh. I personally find it opposite, large companies who chooses to make high end equipment benefits from the resources they have to put into R&D and manufacturing. Companies like Yamaha can afford to put more money into R&D, make special request from component suppliers (not limited to just off-the-shelve components), economy of scale in manufacturing, etc.
Hello my friend. Nice video. I want to learn for this Amp is many different for as 801.Only for music. Thanks.
Yamaha has always made good amps, receivers and integrated amps. I think for the money that they are charging, and if you want more features like bluetooth, dac support and more digital inputs, I would say look at Rotel.
The Ra-1592 will go to toe with this for the same money practically, maybe 200.00 more and you will get 200 watts per channel with more digital inputs, blue tooth and Rotel custom builds it's own torridal transformers and Rotel has a track record for reliability.
Beyond that point Rotel goes into separates and you get into the Rb-1590 amp and 1590 preamp. The 1590 power amp is huge. There are steps of separates before this, but beyond this, you go into their pro line up, which is the Miche line of components. You get more for your money with Rotel than Yamaha.