I just subbed to your channel and am exploring. I was in th US Navy in the 70s. In 1978 our ship was in Japan. All of the monster receivers were on display there at the Navy Exchange. It was Heaven on Earth!
Vintage is my hobby and I own several models of all those three brands since 70s. I strongly agree with you that Sansui is the king. Please continue your videos, with best wishes from USA.
Correct explanation here - I run the Marantz 2275 at my work place paired with Ditton 66… Big space and big sound. Customers usually comment on the sound quality! Good one Mr K..🔈🔊📣
I was introduced to vintage audio by my older brother who one day brought home a Pioneer receiver around 1978 or 1979. We were both in high school. I was mesmerized by the blue lights and silver face plate and the massive sound. And I can't remember what turntable he had. I think Technics. To me it was always Pioneer but I didn't know any better about the other brands. But today, I realize how highly regarded Marantz is mate. I do love your videos man. Keep it going man. I just got my first receiver 2 weeks ago, a Pioneer SX-838, a 50-watt receiver from the mid 1970s. I am very happy and thank you for your expertise and your insights. I am from Michigan, USA. I also have Pioneer speakers and a Technics turntable.
Recently bought a fully recapped Sansui 5000 in its original box on ebay. Compared it with my 9090, AU-317, 717 and G99X, it sounds similar to the 9090, very good and pleasant bass, like listenning Bach on St. Michael's Church pipe organ, in Hamburg. The feeling is, if you turn it off, you gonna miss something precious, and this is a real threat with my wife. Cheers Kev!
I agree with you. Sansui is the best in general terms. I`ve got three different Sansuis, the 8080, the 881 and the 771. All of them share that "soul" in their sound and for me it`s a great pleasure listening them in 2024, some of them in better shape than when they were bought in the 70`s.
Hi Kelvin. I had an Armstrong 625 tuner amplifier in the mid 70’s. 40 watts p/c. Very different from the Japanese receivers. Prior to that I had an Armstrong 521 amplifier with an Armstrong 523 FM tuner. Loved em. I visited the Armstrong factory in Warlters Road Holloway and met the guy, Ted Rule, who designed them too.
I concur that Marantz is the standard by which other receivers of the day are measured. Aesthetics, sound, build quality, are top notch. Of the PMS receivers, it’s my favorite, and I’ve owned and restored several. The apple of my eye being my 2245, that I will never part with, and provides the sound in my man cave via two JBL-L166 Horizons. My second favorite receiver isn’t even in the PMS group. Harmon Kardon was a “hidden” treasure for many decades, However now, vintage buffs are discovering how incredible they are. Same assets as the Marantz as far as build quality and reliability. And a beautiful sound that will rival any PMS receiver of equal power. I have a 330c (which is also not for sale) that I got off my older cousin for $100 in 1974. It’s been serviced once in its life, and runs like new 50+ years later. Great video. Thank you!
Spent the morning on my 881 adjusting and replacing the outputs with fresh transistors. Very good description of similar products made right. Thank You.
Not forgetting late 60s & 1970s Sony , these were not as flashy as some but understated with good build quality and sound . Yes , quality big speakers are a must to get the most out of them
I am lucky enough to own a Marantz 2250B, Sansui 881, Pioneer SX850… to my ears the Marantz sounds just a tad bit better but all 3 all great stuff. Great video !!!
Love my nad 3020 with kef uni q floor standing speakers in my lounge which has a lovely warm sound but I also have a kenwood 20 watt 3100 amp from 1975 that I picked up for 20 quid and gives such a warm yet precise sound. Use it in my bedroom. Love these vintage amps. Kelvin you are star and I love the way you describe the different sounds.
My ‘78 Kenwood KR9600 at 160watts and weighing in at 55lbs certainly was a contender during the Stereo Wars. A massive rack handled beauty with 4 VU meters and crazy good tuner. I found it curbside on a bulk garbage night. Now cleaned and serviced it’s driving my LS3/5A brilliantly but, as you put it, I’m very cautious with the weighted chrome volume knob. Bought a Sansui AU9900 on your recommendation. Can’t waits to get it back from service for comparison.
I had a Marantz 2325. Absolutely beautiful beast. I didn’t prefer its sound so I sold it. I kept my Sansui G7500 and Sansui AU 717 which I very much enjoy. Currently keeping my eye open for a Sansui AU 20000.
The 20000 are out of sight for me because its price are overrated in my oppinion, even being the most beautiful integrated amplifier ever made. Have 717, 317 for a reasonable price nowadays. Good luck!
@@iuriryzewski2648 The 20000s I see on the market are outrageously overpriced and imo only a fool would pay those asking prices. If I see a reasonably priced one I will jump on it but I think that will be a long time coming.
Realistic was another great brand as well. Speaking of buttons and switches, I still miss equalizers with all the lights. I had a Denon Eq and I regret selling it to this day.
Different strokes for different blokes. I tried 70's Marantz and sold them on, sounded muffled to me despite having been recapped by myself. My fav. is Yamaha CR-1000, anything Sony from 1970-73, anything Akai. I am lucky that these are the cheapest too. Of course coupled with British 60's/70's KEF's :) which are dirt cheap too.
Right on, Andy! My entire system including speakers (ULM’s) is early 70’s top tier Sony, with my second system being a Sony FA30ES & XA20ES player paired with KEF Concerto, and it sounds simply incredible, even compared to modern high end.
I've listened to many brands back in the 70's. My want list was more expensive than I could afford. Same with the speakers as well. I ended buying the Yamaha CR- 820, back in 1979 and still own it. The Akai Quadrophonic Receiver with 4 X 100 watts blew my mind. No one ever discusses the Bose Receiver with the SPATIAL CONTROL function, at 100 + 100 watts. I do own a Sansui 120 + 120 and it's a beast.
These are interesting and knowledgeable responses. For at least 5 (+) years Marantz, Sansui & Pioneer vintage receiver popularity has priced many of us out of the market. So you look around and listen and search. I have couple of Akai receivers, b&o beovox 3800, Philips cd (TDA1541 dac) all bought pretty cheap because they are running under the vintage radar. Sony es equipment was a bargain for ages- FA3es, CDPxa2es built like tanks, sound pretty good, will last forever.
I still have Marantz 2385, a glorious 60 lb boat anchor. What you say about Marantz sound is right on the mark. It may be good paired with big box speakers for playing hard rock at club levels, but I mostly listen to classical music, with which Marantz sucks. I keep this monster because of its looks and my effort restoring it. Used to have Yamaha 1000, some Pioneers and Onkyos, but didn't like them either. My vintage receiver discovery is the humble Kenwood KR710, 720, 725, and 730 line. These are my reference receivers for classical music - detailed, refined, neutral, very musical. They stand their ground even against tube amplifiers. And they look elegant.
Thnxs Kelvin, ive only owned one reciever. A Akai mated to a pair of Mordant Short "Festival" speakers. It was a long time ago now but the music sounded very characterful with that combination..As always keep em coming, and let the music play ..😻
Good one! In the late 70s i had a Technics amp and record player. Sounded good to me. I remember though that my bigger brother had a B&O receiver that looked very cool but I am not sure it sounded eny better.
Thanks for another interesting vid. I certainly wouldn't disagree with your choice of Sansui, sound is a very personal thing. I run a second system with a Luxman R1120 powering a pair of Tannoy D700s and it never fails to engage. I believe music was mastered to be played on very different sounding kit than we have now, hence the above "classic" system to play my golden oldies. One oddity of the Luxman (for the time) is having the choice of MM/MC cartridges with separate inputs, handy for those (like me) wishing to avoid modern phono stages with period equipment. I think Trio/Kenwood from the 70's are worthy of mention too. Sadly, they seem to have slipped into HiFi obscurity in recent times.
Hi Kelvin, my favorite is Onkyo tx 2500, I have tested it with many speakers and find it to be an excellent playing receiver. Thanks for the great videos!
Sansui has been a performer for my ears. Marantz,Yamaha,Pioneer have passed through my room but Sansui stayed. Waiting on tech to finish Optonica SA 5905 so I can give it a try.
Spot on re room size fella, just big enough for a Sonis speaker lol...i've just acquired an amazing Akai AA-1175. The couple were lovely she had bought the amp in Tottenham court rd with her first salary payment. My old technics SA-5370 receiver was in my mums house for over 30 years. It's been refurbished and sounds fabulous.
My first amp was a second hand Rogers Cadet, replaced years later by the Rogers Raversbrook, l also had an old Leak amp feeding speakers that I’d assembled myself. I remember getting quite a good sound on my then very limited budget.
Ciao Kelvin, i like this video, it talks of the sensations i had with these 3 brands, another super receiver was Yamaha, with a very refined and sweet sound and let me say, the design is still modern, elegant, wandeful. Kenwood was the most wanted in U.S. due to his highly defined sound and big power, after these 5 big brands the others followed, talking about receivers naturally
Having all three Pioneer, Marantz and Sansui integrated amplifiers as well as a Luxman, I can agree with Kalvins review on the sound quality, Sansui is the best sounding. However I have had nothing but trouble with the longevity of ALL my Sansui equipment. Never had an issue with any of my Pioneers which are 40+ years without any restoration, and Marantz and Luxman Amps had a few minor issues which were easily dealt with.
Another excellent review, I was a Pioneer guy since 1978 and own a few from each of the 2. 3, 5 and 8 series, love them, have 3 marantzs and agree they are wonderful with bass and mid range, still prefer pioneer over all. Then a couple of years ago I got a sansui g5700, it instantly became the house's main receiver. Now I have a 7070 and au-5500 and Sansui have become my favorite of the vintage brands, fantastic bass, vocals , detail , just excellent overall. But then last month i got a Harman Kardon 430 and 930, wow! the twin power design is exceptional, They are making me seriously rethink my pecking order. I dont recall seeing HK at all in the 70's like the other brands so maybe they were more of a luxury brand. But if you ever see the entry level HK430 try it. .
I had a nice Trio amplifier and a radio to match. Second hand, and I was well chuffed. They were a bit smaller than shoebox size with a kind of painted wood effect on the sides of the boxes. Nice tuner meter "power level" for the left and right radio channels. It felt like I was working for NASA, and I only gad 2x VU type meters - cheers to all. Listen long and prosper 😊
Well said, Kelvin - the hype around Marantz and Pioneer is ridiculous, and it's resulted in crazy high asking prices for even their low-end units. As you rightly pointed out, both brands were heavily promoted in the US back in the day, including TV ads, and that imprinted their names for life in people's minds. Compare and contrast Luxman, who didn't seem to advertise at all! I've owned modest Luxman amps since 1985, and I can't recommend them enough. Their sound is just so well-detailed and spacious. Do try something like an L-114A - compared to the going rate for Pioneers and Marantzes, pre-Alpine Luxmans are an absolute steal!
I agree completly, i own Luxman r 1500, 800 and 1050 and a sq700x and L120. Great sounding stuff, still reasonably priced compared to other vintage receivers/ amps. I think Luxman focused more on sound then to compeet with the crazy watts war. Very stylish looking as well. The gentleman choice😂
onkyo A809 or larger receiver has nice sound and is still cranking bose 901 to this day in Colorado America. rocky mountain way. Joe Walsh Great comparison you made on vintage stereos.
I was a foot soldier too! We must be about the same age. I chased all these brands starting in 1972. My first receiver was actually a Nikko STA-5010. I couldn’t afford a the bigger brands at the time. I also bought some kind of Garrard TT and Original Large Advents speakers (ubiquitous here in the US). I thought it was killer at the time.
I absolutely love your enthusiasm and joy. Yep buttons, metres and switches please. I was conned out of all controls by the likes of “Hifi Answers”. Killed the joy. I still have maybe 1000 records and loads of cassettes minidisc and CD but am so bored by the control and switch less Naim and the like. Boring. Keep that joy up, Kelvin. Awesome review again.
Back in the 1970s and early 1980s, I used to be so partisan about these things. I admired the expensive Marantz from afar. I never tried the Sansui electronics, because I hated the sound of the company's speakers. In the end, I actually used my money and bought the Pioneer and used it for more than 20 years. So...terms of putting my money where my mouth was, Pioneer WON my money. Now? I would not turn away ANY of these. It would be fun to have my SX-580 back again, hook it up to my CD player, and run them through my Realistic Minimus 7s. Since 1979, my Minimus 7s have been working for me. My familiarity with my ancient, rubbish speakers allows me to judge whatever any electronics are actually doing. I REALLY enjoyed this video! Cheers!
@@stereoreviewx Bring industrial-grade earplugs! They're THAT awful sounding on MY music. When I was in my 20s...my "tastes" were in my 90s. I was that lout who loved to listen to baroque, jazz, movie soundtracks as opposed to the hair bands of the 80s that my mates favoured. Even then, the Sansui speakers I (reluctantly...) listened to couldn't image anything; they sounded compressed and lifeless with my music. They were all show and no go. Now...mind you...I DID very much enjoy my old Sansui SR-929 turntable, though. The lovely black urushi lacquer finish was utterly ravishing to simply LOOK at. I stuck a Shure V-15 Type IV cartridge in it and enjoyed it for the next 20 years...
@@stereoreviewx Strangely... Now that you mention it... The physical appearance of these gigantic 3- and 4-way speakers with their silver-coloured woofers of up to 38 centimetres in size was meant to wow people in the audio shop. There were similar-appearing offerings from Kenwood and other Japanese brands at that time. In light of the point you've just made...I dare say you may have uncovered something!!! These gaudy-looking, rubbish-sounding speakers could very well have been outsourced to an outside contractor. It makes sense to me, at any rate. The lovely electronic devices that brands such as Kenwood, Sansui, and others put out were lovely to look at, operate, and listen to. They bore no relation it terms of sound quality to the speakers these brands manufactured (except in rare case). THey truly let their side down. Apart from my crusty, old Minimus Sevens, I used my Japanese electronics with Boston Acoustics A40 and A150 speakers for decades. NO trashy, flashy stuff for me, thanks. I wish I'd bought a pair of those Celestion Dittons they made in Ipswich when I lived out there. They'd go down a treat with your Sansui, Marantz and Pioneer receivers. Any British speaker would flatter your vintage electronics quite nicely.
The unsung hero must be tiny Tandberg from Norway. They were mostly known internationally for their reel to reels, but they had several beautiful receivers that sounded just wonderful. Their TR series could go head to head with most out there and still have a huge fanbase at home.
Hi Kelvin. Another lovely review as usual, very informative. What about the Yamaha CR pure sound receivers I have a lovely restored CR1020, love it. Thanks for your videos, top class 👍
A great Army to be in! I have a NAD 3130 , its counterpart receiver 7130 is supposed to have the same amp, believe it or not it sounds slightly different in that it is less sparkly, less of an edge in its sound but just as beefy, some records which sound a little bright on the 3130 can be played through the 7130 a bit more comfortably.
None of the above! Here, stateside, Harman/Kardon made the Twin Power series, but gave up when the “big three” out-marketed them. Of these three, Pioneer and buried everyone and then gave up as well. They didn’t make the best stuff, but were great at marketing. Of these, personally, I liked Sansui. Marantz was aspirational and quite good. Hated the blue lighting though. My first was a Sansui. Much as I liked Sansui, I bought an Onkyo before moving on to separates. Loved the quartz lock tuning and it had pre-out/amp in. Thanks for another walk through the past 🙂
of the big 3 Sansui are my favourite followed closely by Pioneer especially the x2x era, Just got a HK930 a few weeks ago and holy crap what a wonderful beast. ive heard nothing better
I've always thought of receivers as mainly for the American / Japanese market. They were never popular new here (although the second hand market is currently fairly strong). The UK has always been a separates market. Look at any hi-fi magazine from the last 40 years and you will see very little in the way of receivers compared to separate amps and tuners.
Nice one Kelvin👍 The "vintage sound" all geezers prattle on about is most likely the receiver being way out of spec. and all audiophiles over 40 should get a hearing test ;-D. Best receiver I ever listened to was a 3000 euro 1950's bench valve radio, a "Lorenz" made in Austria with left right and centre channels in a real wood cabinet that was restored by some guy in Europe. Cheers big ears.
I was always a big fan of Marantz because of the Typo but I also loved my old NAD 3020.....actually now I think to combine an old used Marantz 1010 with my actual "heartless" DAC and Dali Speaker..I miss this "old softclipping sound" :-) and the nice brands (had also Thorens, Elac, Nakamichi, Linn and Rotel). Thanks for remind me...
The best 70s model i have had/heard of the kind you have there and in the pricebracket is the Harman Kardon HK 670.. The Philips. I have to sy that i rate the Philips ah777 as well :)
For the watrage wars, the 9090 and kr-9600 are the ones for me, but ive never heard an sx-1980 or the flagship technics which was the most powerful. Best sounding sonically ive ever heard and owned- Harman kardon 730 and 930 Luxman L85V Early to mid 70s sony units (7055/7065 etc) Sansui au-7900 Denon pma-501 and 701 Realistic sta-2300 Would like to add the most musical kenwood ive heard and one of my favorite integrateds (dual mono) the overlooked kenwood ka-801. Very musical and great separation, doesnt even sound like nearly all the other kenwoods, its strange, in a good way.
I've discovered recently great Denon AVR-3802. Solid amp with a direct mode (because there is preconception of using AVR amps will alter the sound having a lot of possibilities to connect with) . In my eyes a real bargain - 100Euros for one of the last models of Denon made in Japan ( appeared near ~2000). Sound is solid and superb. If You have the chance to hear IT in your area, give IT a chance, worths!
I agree with sansui being the best. For vintage 70s But if you want a real bargain I think late 80s early 90s Yamaha receivers and amp are a great bang for the buck when you can find them at thrift stores and that sort of thing for $20 bucks or less
I would argue the receiver wars went from the late 60’s until the mid 90’s with big battles won by different companies in every decade. Like any & all wars there’s no far out winners and lot of big losers, companies that went under or took big financial hits trying to fight for a place in the market. Sony, Yamaha, Marantz and Pioneer were the big winners. Sansui won a few huge battles yet sadly ended up battered at the end of the 80’s.
There was a a two piece monster receiver from Sansui. Those monsters require three way speakers with a minimum 8” woofer. A 270 wpc then was for real vs today’s chi-fi. Technics had a monster receiver too.
I use a monster receiver a Pioneer SX1250 with 160 watts at 8 ohms in my UK living room. I also have smaller Marantz and Sansui vintage receivers setup in other rooms. While I recognise how you describe the Marantz and Sansui sound I do not feel how you describe the 25w Pioneer represents how the monster Pioneers sound. I like the sound of them all but the monster Pioneer is full fat and dynamic with musical and precise bass, detailed and textured mids with crystal sparkling high. It sounds like there is a live band in the room and you can pinpoint where all the instruments are positioned while the speakers just disappear. I do have a detached house and never go above 5 on the volume knob to stop bursting my eardrums. I bought the Pioneer from a shop in Edinburgh but indeed the monsters seem to be rare in the UK.
I once owned a marantz tuner, 2100 model I think. Loved the sound and girotouch tuning. I used it partnered with a NAD 3020 amp. Superb sounding. Unfortunately I was persuaded by my then wife to trade it in for a newer marantz tuner because it was black and matched my current equipment. Immediately regretted it. The new tuner sounded awful in comparison. Isn't hindsight a wonderful thing.
As an Akai fan, I have to say the AA-1200 should be up there with the best, I've never had one but I've had several other receivers of theirs. I'm starting to wonder if the AA-1200 actually exists as I've never seen one for sale 😂
Another great video, thinking of taking Pioneer tx-9500 or a Sansui TU-717 both will need servicing. Any advice please, I'm in Essex/London? It will paired with Technics se a5000 and preamp Technics su a3000.
Hi Kelvin i really enjoyed this video thanks, my first Hifi had a superscope receiver in it a part of Marantz if I'm right? . These old receivers are no good to me down here in Devon because FM radio reception & the choice of Stations is rubbish it has to be DAB for me.
I just subbed to your channel and am exploring. I was in th US Navy in the 70s. In 1978 our ship was in Japan. All of the monster receivers were on display there at the Navy Exchange. It was Heaven on Earth!
You, sir, are the king of vintage!
Another hi-fi masterclass from Kelvin... all is well with the world!
Vintage is my hobby and I own several models of all those three brands since 70s. I strongly agree with you that Sansui is the king. Please continue your videos, with best wishes from USA.
Thanks for sharing!
Agreed, Sansui just has such a pleasant sound.
I love buttons! You can't be true a vintage fan if you don't love buttons!
😀
Correct explanation here - I run the Marantz 2275 at my work place paired with Ditton 66… Big space and big sound. Customers usually comment on the sound quality! Good one Mr K..🔈🔊📣
Sansui longevity is true. full & accurate sound, smooth mid/hi. had an amp running since early '70s. serviced once.
I was introduced to vintage audio by my older brother who one day brought home a Pioneer receiver around 1978 or 1979. We were both in high school. I was mesmerized by the blue lights and silver face plate and the massive sound. And I can't remember what turntable he had. I think Technics. To me it was always Pioneer but I didn't know any better about the other brands. But today, I realize how highly regarded Marantz is mate. I do love your videos man. Keep it going man. I just got my first receiver 2 weeks ago, a Pioneer SX-838, a 50-watt receiver from the mid 1970s. I am very happy and thank you for your expertise and your insights. I am from Michigan, USA. I also have Pioneer speakers and a Technics turntable.
Out of all the 70s amps and receivers I’ve heard, I think I like the Yamaha ‘natural sound’ the most. Great video as per.
I've owned LOTS of late 60's/70's equipment. The sound I keep coming back to is the Sansui 4000/5000X. My favorite.
Recently bought a fully recapped Sansui 5000 in its original box on ebay. Compared it with my 9090, AU-317, 717 and G99X, it sounds similar to the 9090, very good and pleasant bass, like listenning Bach on St. Michael's Church pipe organ, in Hamburg. The feeling is, if you turn it off, you gonna miss something precious, and this is a real threat with my wife. Cheers Kev!
I agree with you. Sansui is the best in general terms. I`ve got three different Sansuis, the 8080, the 881 and the 771. All of them share that "soul" in their sound and for me it`s a great pleasure listening them in 2024, some of them in better shape than when they were bought in the 70`s.
Absolutely brilliant as always kelvin. Sense and knowledge!
Hi Kelvin. I had an Armstrong 625 tuner amplifier in the mid 70’s. 40 watts p/c. Very different from the Japanese receivers. Prior to that I had an Armstrong 521 amplifier with an Armstrong 523 FM tuner. Loved em. I visited the Armstrong factory in Warlters Road Holloway and met the guy, Ted Rule, who designed them too.
I concur that Marantz is the standard by which other receivers of the day are measured. Aesthetics, sound, build quality, are top notch. Of the PMS receivers, it’s my favorite, and I’ve owned and restored several. The apple of my eye being my 2245, that I will never part with, and provides the sound in my man cave via two JBL-L166 Horizons. My second favorite receiver isn’t even in the PMS group. Harmon Kardon was a “hidden” treasure for many decades, However now, vintage buffs are discovering how incredible they are. Same assets as the Marantz as far as build quality and reliability. And a beautiful sound that will rival any PMS receiver of equal power. I have a 330c (which is also not for sale) that I got off my older cousin for $100 in 1974. It’s been serviced once in its life, and runs like new 50+ years later. Great video. Thank you!
Spent the morning on my 881 adjusting and replacing the outputs with fresh transistors. Very good description of similar products made right. Thank You.
Not forgetting late 60s & 1970s Sony , these were not as flashy as some but understated with good build quality and sound . Yes , quality big speakers are a must to get the most out of them
I am lucky enough to own a Marantz 2250B, Sansui 881, Pioneer SX850… to my ears the Marantz sounds just a tad bit better but all 3 all great stuff.
Great video !!!
Love my nad 3020 with kef uni q floor standing speakers in my lounge which has a lovely warm sound but I also have a kenwood 20 watt 3100 amp from 1975 that I picked up for 20 quid and gives such a warm yet precise sound. Use it in my bedroom. Love these vintage amps. Kelvin you are star and I love the way you describe the different sounds.
Excellent video Kelvin. Great insights and good descriptions. Thanks a million. Undervalued - Akai & Sony 1970s ; quality build & gorgeous sound
🙋♂️THANKS KELVIN 🤔 for the trip down memory lane!, I Admired but never owned any of them 🥹💚💚💚
I am fortunate enough to own a Pioneer SX 5590 - the black/European facia version of the SX1250 - its a monster and I love it
My ‘78 Kenwood KR9600 at 160watts and weighing in at 55lbs certainly was a contender during the Stereo Wars. A massive rack handled beauty with 4 VU meters and crazy good tuner. I found it curbside on a bulk garbage night. Now cleaned and serviced it’s driving my LS3/5A brilliantly but, as you put it, I’m very cautious with the weighted chrome volume knob. Bought a Sansui AU9900 on your recommendation. Can’t waits to get it back from service for comparison.
I loved my Yamaha CR-2020 receiver back in the day, it had the sound and the looks😊
The universe gives them a good sound because of there beauty to the owner that is in tune.
I had a Marantz 2325. Absolutely beautiful beast. I didn’t prefer its sound so I sold it. I kept my Sansui G7500 and Sansui AU 717 which I very much enjoy. Currently keeping my eye open for a Sansui AU 20000.
The 20000 are out of sight for me because its price are overrated in my oppinion, even being the most beautiful integrated amplifier ever made. Have 717, 317 for a reasonable price nowadays. Good luck!
@@iuriryzewski2648 The 20000s I see on the market are outrageously overpriced and imo only a fool would pay those asking prices. If I see a reasonably priced one I will jump on it but I think that will be a long time coming.
Realistic was another great brand as well. Speaking of buttons and switches, I still miss equalizers with all the lights. I had a Denon Eq and I regret selling it to this day.
Completely agree with you on the Realistic brand.. They had some well made, great sounding stuff. 👍
Different strokes for different blokes. I tried 70's Marantz and sold them on, sounded muffled to me despite having been recapped by myself. My fav. is Yamaha CR-1000, anything Sony from 1970-73, anything Akai. I am lucky that these are the cheapest too. Of course coupled with British 60's/70's KEF's :) which are dirt cheap too.
Right on, Andy! My entire system including speakers (ULM’s) is early 70’s top tier Sony, with my second system being a Sony FA30ES & XA20ES player paired with KEF Concerto, and it sounds simply incredible, even compared to modern high end.
I've listened to many brands back in the 70's. My want list was more expensive than I could afford. Same with the speakers as well. I ended buying the Yamaha CR- 820, back in 1979 and still own it. The Akai Quadrophonic Receiver with 4 X 100 watts blew my mind. No one ever discusses the Bose Receiver with the SPATIAL CONTROL function, at 100 + 100 watts. I do own a Sansui 120 + 120 and it's a beast.
These are interesting and knowledgeable responses. For at least 5 (+) years Marantz, Sansui & Pioneer vintage receiver popularity has priced many of us out of the market. So you look around and listen and search. I have couple of Akai receivers, b&o beovox 3800, Philips cd (TDA1541 dac) all bought pretty cheap because they are running under the vintage radar.
Sony es equipment was a bargain for ages- FA3es, CDPxa2es built like tanks, sound pretty good, will last forever.
I still have Marantz 2385, a glorious 60 lb boat anchor. What you say about Marantz sound is right on the mark. It may be good paired with big box speakers for playing hard rock at club levels, but I mostly listen to classical music, with which Marantz sucks. I keep this monster because of its looks and my effort restoring it. Used to have Yamaha 1000, some Pioneers and Onkyos, but didn't like them either. My vintage receiver discovery is the humble Kenwood KR710, 720, 725, and 730 line. These are my reference receivers for classical music - detailed, refined, neutral, very musical. They stand their ground even against tube amplifiers. And they look elegant.
Great narrative n yes” bigger receivers here in America
Hello from Sausalito ca
hi from a chilly London K
Thnxs Kelvin, ive only owned one reciever. A Akai mated to a pair of Mordant Short "Festival" speakers. It was a long time ago now but the music sounded very characterful with that combination..As always keep em coming, and let the music play ..😻
I have the Marantz 2265 B excellent midrange receiver very satisfied with the Sound thanks for sharing this video
Hi I love the sound of the small pioneer receiver sx and lx 440,with a nice two way speaker! You can listen all day with no fatigue😊
I had a Sanyo I absolutely loved😊
Good one! In the late 70s i had a Technics amp and record player. Sounded good to me. I remember though that my bigger brother had a B&O receiver that looked very cool but I am not sure it sounded eny better.
Thanks for another interesting vid. I certainly wouldn't disagree with your choice of Sansui, sound is a very personal thing. I run a second system with a Luxman R1120 powering a pair of Tannoy D700s and it never fails to engage. I believe music was mastered to be played on very different sounding kit than we have now, hence the above "classic" system to play my golden oldies. One oddity of the Luxman (for the time) is having the choice of MM/MC cartridges with separate inputs, handy for those (like me) wishing to avoid modern phono stages with period equipment.
I think Trio/Kenwood from the 70's are worthy of mention too. Sadly, they seem to have slipped into HiFi obscurity in recent times.
Hi Kelvin, my favorite is Onkyo tx 2500, I have tested it with many speakers and find it to be an excellent playing receiver.
Thanks for the great videos!
Right on. ONKYO & SANSUI
Sansui has been a performer for my ears. Marantz,Yamaha,Pioneer have passed through my room but Sansui stayed. Waiting on tech to finish Optonica SA 5905 so I can give it a try.
Spot on re room size fella, just big enough for a Sonis speaker lol...i've just acquired an amazing Akai AA-1175. The couple were lovely she had bought the amp in Tottenham court rd with her first salary payment. My old technics SA-5370 receiver was in my mums house for over 30 years. It's been refurbished and sounds fabulous.
Great to get Akai AA-1175, been looking for years. Dual mono , beautifully crafted, gorgeous sound.
My first amp was a second hand Rogers Cadet, replaced years later by the Rogers Raversbrook, l also had an old Leak amp feeding speakers that I’d assembled myself. I remember getting quite a good sound on my then very limited budget.
Ciao Kelvin, i like this video, it talks of the sensations i had with these 3 brands, another super receiver was Yamaha, with a very refined and sweet sound and let me say, the design is still modern, elegant, wandeful. Kenwood was the most wanted in U.S. due to his highly defined sound and big power, after these 5 big brands the others followed, talking about receivers naturally
I used to lust after SAE receivers, as well as Sansui, Niko Audio, and even Realistic (Radio Shack)!
As ever brilliant content Kelvin.
Well done and learning alot about sweet stuff and design. But missing Tandberg TR 😉
yes would love a tandberg
That Marantz is a beauty
My first Hi fi was built around a Kenwood KR-8050 receiver or similar. It was beautiful to look at and had good sound. Wish I still had it.
Having all three Pioneer, Marantz and Sansui integrated amplifiers as well as a Luxman, I can agree with Kalvins review on the sound quality, Sansui is the best sounding. However I have had nothing but trouble with the longevity of ALL my Sansui equipment. Never had an issue with any of my Pioneers which are 40+ years without any restoration, and Marantz and Luxman Amps had a few minor issues which were easily dealt with.
Another excellent review, I was a Pioneer guy since 1978 and own a few from each of the 2. 3, 5 and 8 series, love them, have 3 marantzs and agree they are wonderful with bass and mid range, still prefer pioneer over all. Then a couple of years ago I got a sansui g5700, it instantly became the house's main receiver. Now I have a 7070 and au-5500 and Sansui have become my favorite of the vintage brands, fantastic bass, vocals , detail , just excellent overall. But then last month i got a Harman Kardon 430 and 930, wow! the twin power design is exceptional, They are making me seriously rethink my pecking order. I dont recall seeing HK at all in the 70's like the other brands so maybe they were more of a luxury brand. But if you ever see the entry level HK430 try it. .
yes HK are overlooked
I like listening to your genial rambling. Keep making the videos.
I can't stop anyway 😜 thanks
I had a nice Trio amplifier and a radio to match. Second hand, and I was well chuffed. They were a bit smaller than shoebox size with a kind of painted wood effect on the sides of the boxes. Nice tuner meter "power level" for the left and right radio channels. It felt like I was working for NASA, and I only gad 2x VU type meters - cheers to all. Listen long and prosper 😊
Great review kelvin I’ve had a few pioneer, Sansui but never had a marantz
Yamaha should always be in the conversation. Never made a bad sounding product! My modern turntable is Yamaha.
Thanks for sharing ❤
Well said, Kelvin - the hype around Marantz and Pioneer is ridiculous, and it's resulted in crazy high asking prices for even their low-end units. As you rightly pointed out, both brands were heavily promoted in the US back in the day, including TV ads, and that imprinted their names for life in people's minds. Compare and contrast Luxman, who didn't seem to advertise at all! I've owned modest Luxman amps since 1985, and I can't recommend them enough. Their sound is just so well-detailed and spacious. Do try something like an L-114A - compared to the going rate for Pioneers and Marantzes, pre-Alpine Luxmans are an absolute steal!
I agree completly, i own Luxman r 1500, 800 and 1050 and a sq700x and L120. Great sounding stuff, still reasonably priced compared to other vintage receivers/ amps. I think Luxman focused more on sound then to compeet with the crazy watts war. Very stylish looking as well. The gentleman choice😂
onkyo A809 or larger receiver has nice sound and is still cranking bose 901 to this day in Colorado America. rocky mountain way. Joe Walsh Great comparison you made on vintage stereos.
I was a foot soldier too! We must be about the same age. I chased all these brands starting in 1972. My first receiver was actually a Nikko STA-5010. I couldn’t afford a the bigger brands at the time. I also bought some kind of Garrard TT and Original Large Advents speakers (ubiquitous here in the US). I thought it was killer at the time.
Technics receivers had a great sound and build quality 😊
4:14 ... xD cheers mate! You cracked me up....
I absolutely love your enthusiasm and joy. Yep buttons, metres and switches please. I was conned out of all controls by the likes of “Hifi Answers”. Killed the joy. I still have maybe 1000 records and loads of cassettes minidisc and CD but am so bored by the control and switch less Naim and the like. Boring. Keep that joy up, Kelvin. Awesome review again.
Keep bringing it on Kelvin 😀
Back in the 1970s and early 1980s, I used to be so partisan about these things. I admired the expensive Marantz from afar. I never tried the Sansui electronics, because I hated the sound of the company's speakers. In the end, I actually used my money and bought the Pioneer and used it for more than 20 years.
So...terms of putting my money where my mouth was, Pioneer WON my money.
Now?
I would not turn away ANY of these.
It would be fun to have my SX-580 back again, hook it up to my CD player, and run them through my Realistic Minimus 7s. Since 1979, my Minimus 7s have been working for me. My familiarity with my ancient, rubbish speakers allows me to judge whatever any electronics are actually doing.
I REALLY enjoyed this video! Cheers!
I must investigate Sansui speakers they seem unrelated to the amps etc
@@stereoreviewx Bring industrial-grade earplugs! They're THAT awful sounding on MY music. When I was in my 20s...my "tastes" were in my 90s. I was that lout who loved to listen to baroque, jazz, movie soundtracks as opposed to the hair bands of the 80s that my mates favoured. Even then, the Sansui speakers I (reluctantly...) listened to couldn't image anything; they sounded compressed and lifeless with my music. They were all show and no go.
Now...mind you...I DID very much enjoy my old Sansui SR-929 turntable, though. The lovely black urushi lacquer finish was utterly ravishing to simply LOOK at. I stuck a Shure V-15 Type IV cartridge in it and enjoyed it for the next 20 years...
@@jimcabezola3051 my guess is Sansui Didn’t pay much attention or outsource the manufacture of these speakers
@@stereoreviewx Strangely... Now that you mention it...
The physical appearance of these gigantic 3- and 4-way speakers with their silver-coloured woofers of up to 38 centimetres in size was meant to wow people in the audio shop. There were similar-appearing offerings from Kenwood and other Japanese brands at that time.
In light of the point you've just made...I dare say you may have uncovered something!!! These gaudy-looking, rubbish-sounding speakers could very well have been outsourced to an outside contractor. It makes sense to me, at any rate.
The lovely electronic devices that brands such as Kenwood, Sansui, and others put out were lovely to look at, operate, and listen to. They bore no relation it terms of sound quality to the speakers these brands manufactured (except in rare case). THey truly let their side down.
Apart from my crusty, old Minimus Sevens, I used my Japanese electronics with Boston Acoustics A40 and A150 speakers for decades. NO trashy, flashy stuff for me, thanks.
I wish I'd bought a pair of those Celestion Dittons they made in Ipswich when I lived out there. They'd go down a treat with your Sansui, Marantz and Pioneer receivers. Any British speaker would flatter your vintage electronics quite nicely.
😅 yeah buttons and switches, fantastic, you can't beat it. I've got a Sansui TU 717, I love it
Nice 👍
The unsung hero must be tiny Tandberg from Norway. They were mostly known internationally for their reel to reels, but they had several beautiful receivers that sounded just wonderful. Their TR series could go head to head with most out there and still have a huge fanbase at home.
I agree Tandberg made some great models, nice looking, good sounding, i would choose one over a Marantz or Pioneer.
I share the love - thanks for the video
Hi Kelvin. Another lovely review as usual, very informative. What about the Yamaha CR pure sound receivers I have a lovely restored CR1020, love it. Thanks for your videos, top class 👍
A great Army to be in! I have a NAD 3130 , its counterpart receiver 7130 is supposed to have the same amp, believe it or not it sounds slightly different in that it is less sparkly, less of an edge in its sound but just as beefy, some records which sound a little bright on the 3130 can be played through the 7130 a bit more comfortably.
None of the above! Here, stateside, Harman/Kardon made the Twin Power series, but gave up when the “big three” out-marketed them. Of these three, Pioneer and buried everyone and then gave up as well. They didn’t make the best stuff, but were great at marketing. Of these, personally, I liked Sansui. Marantz was aspirational and quite good. Hated the blue lighting though. My first was a Sansui.
Much as I liked Sansui, I bought an Onkyo before moving on to separates. Loved the quartz lock tuning and it had pre-out/amp in.
Thanks for another walk through the past 🙂
of the big 3 Sansui are my favourite followed closely by Pioneer especially the x2x era, Just got a HK930 a few weeks ago and holy crap what a wonderful beast. ive heard nothing better
@@wooddragon576 my first separate was an h/k Citation 19 power amp. It was also twin power, naturally. It never left me wanting
Love my Sx-1050 with my KHorns!
I've always thought of receivers as mainly for the American / Japanese market. They were never popular new here (although the second hand market is currently fairly strong). The UK has always been a separates market. Look at any hi-fi magazine from the last 40 years and you will see very little in the way of receivers compared to separate amps and tuners.
Nice one Kelvin👍 The "vintage sound" all geezers prattle on about is most likely the receiver being way out of spec. and all audiophiles over 40 should get a hearing test ;-D. Best receiver I ever listened to was a 3000 euro 1950's bench valve radio, a "Lorenz" made in Austria with left right and centre channels in a real wood cabinet that was restored by some guy in Europe. Cheers big ears.
Hi Kelvin a under rated receiver is Heathkit USA made i have two ar-15 and ar-1214 high quality and sound on the warm side.
I was always a big fan of Marantz because of the Typo but I also loved my old NAD 3020.....actually now I think to combine an old used Marantz 1010 with my actual "heartless" DAC and Dali Speaker..I miss this "old softclipping sound" :-) and the nice brands (had also Thorens, Elac, Nakamichi, Linn and Rotel). Thanks for remind me...
The best 70s model i have had/heard of the kind you have there and in the pricebracket is the Harman Kardon HK 670.. The Philips. I have to sy that i rate the Philips ah777 as well :)
To me the best sounding receiver is the Nad 7020, basically a Nad 3020 + tuner. Thanks Kelvin!
For the watrage wars, the 9090 and kr-9600 are the ones for me, but ive never heard an sx-1980 or the flagship technics which was the most powerful.
Best sounding sonically ive ever heard and owned-
Harman kardon 730 and 930
Luxman L85V
Early to mid 70s sony units (7055/7065 etc)
Sansui au-7900
Denon pma-501 and 701
Realistic sta-2300
Would like to add the most musical kenwood ive heard and one of my favorite integrateds (dual mono) the overlooked kenwood ka-801. Very musical and great separation, doesnt even sound like nearly all the other kenwoods, its strange, in a good way.
I've discovered recently great Denon AVR-3802. Solid amp with a direct mode (because there is preconception of using AVR amps will alter the sound having a lot of possibilities to connect with) . In my eyes a real bargain - 100Euros for one of the last models of Denon made in Japan ( appeared near ~2000). Sound is solid and superb. If You have the chance to hear IT in your area, give IT a chance, worths!
Still on the lookout for a small excellent condition early 70s Sansui receiver, but no luck.
Excelente video for me it was Sansui
I agree with sansui being the best. For vintage 70s
But if you want a real bargain I think late 80s early 90s Yamaha receivers and amp are a great bang for the buck when you can find them at thrift stores and that sort of thing for $20 bucks or less
I would argue the receiver wars went from the late 60’s until the mid 90’s with big battles won by different companies in every decade. Like any & all wars there’s no far out winners and lot of big losers, companies that went under or took big financial hits trying to fight for a place in the market. Sony, Yamaha, Marantz and Pioneer were the big winners. Sansui won a few huge battles yet sadly ended up battered at the end of the 80’s.
Very nice and informative
that old addage is true - "They don't build em like the used to"
There was a a two piece monster receiver from Sansui. Those monsters require three way speakers with a minimum 8” woofer. A 270 wpc then was for real vs today’s chi-fi. Technics had a monster receiver too.
Nikko made the most underrated amps by far.
I use a monster receiver a Pioneer SX1250 with 160 watts at 8 ohms in my UK living room. I also have smaller Marantz and Sansui vintage receivers setup in other rooms. While I recognise how you describe the Marantz and Sansui sound I do not feel how you describe the 25w Pioneer represents how the monster Pioneers sound. I like the sound of them all but the monster Pioneer is full fat and dynamic with musical and precise bass, detailed and textured mids with crystal sparkling high. It sounds like there is a live band in the room and you can pinpoint where all the instruments are positioned while the speakers just disappear. I do have a detached house and never go above 5 on the volume knob to stop bursting my eardrums. I bought the Pioneer from a shop in Edinburgh but indeed the monsters seem to be rare in the UK.
I once owned a marantz tuner, 2100 model I think. Loved the sound and girotouch tuning. I used it partnered with a NAD 3020 amp. Superb sounding. Unfortunately I was persuaded by my then wife to trade it in for a newer marantz tuner because it was black and matched my current equipment. Immediately regretted it. The new tuner sounded awful in comparison. Isn't hindsight a wonderful thing.
As an Akai fan, I have to say the AA-1200 should be up there with the best, I've never had one but I've had several other receivers of theirs. I'm starting to wonder if the AA-1200 actually exists as I've never seen one for sale 😂
AKAI had a great tv ad in the 80s utilising the group Manhattan Transfer, to add a bit of style to it, with the hook line, "AKAI's ok; Ok?"
Another fantastic video highlighting vintage components.
What are your favourite Sansui amps Kelvin?
reallyy 331 gets me every time
SX 1250.
I have a G9000. Far too much power really but looks so nice. The trouble with these old beauties is all those lovely switches get very crackly.
(Goldstar 754)-(Goldstar GSA-8500) (Citizen JSA-8)
Is really the same reiceiver and have 20 buttons if you count everything.
Pretty amplifier.
Kenwood was my favorite for reasons I don’t really recall
Another great video, thinking of taking Pioneer tx-9500 or a Sansui TU-717 both will need servicing. Any advice please, I'm in Essex/London?
It will paired with Technics se a5000 and preamp Technics su a3000.
you know I love Sansui
I agree with the Sansui longevity. I do think my HK's sound a bit better. Longevity there also.
Hi Kelvin i really enjoyed this video thanks, my first Hifi had a superscope receiver in it a part of Marantz if I'm right? . These old receivers are no good to me down here in Devon because FM radio reception & the choice of Stations is rubbish it has to be DAB for me.
Phase linear
Didn’t know that they even made receivers. Thought only amps
Love your reviews!! Do you have any familiarity with the Yamaha CA-810 integrated Amp? There’s one near me for sale and it’s gorgeous!
Haydn Boardman serviced my Sony 7015.And left all the original 50yr old parts alone
I still like me Realistic STA 2100 made I 1979. A dinosaur that can roar with my Cerwin Vega DX-7s' !