The Golden era of Japanese integrated amps, are we missing out?


Maybe it’s just me but.....
I just threw together an el cheapo system with a Sansui A-2100 integrated at its heart and diminutive Wharfedale Diamond 220 speakers.

And I still cannot get over just how good and right it sounds.... All for $240 total shipped!

So this got me thinking about the golden era of Japanese equipment and while tuners , tape decks and turntables appear to have large followings and a large knowledge and fan base, I do not get the same vibe on integrated amps?

Are there devotees of these amps out there?
I very rarely hear anybody talking about them and so many can be picked up for peanuts, I mean $75 shipped in perfect working order and decent cosmetics( and built in mm phono to boot!).
Are they likely to be the next " big thing" or?

Thoughts?
128x128uberwaltz

Showing 1 response by glennewdick

I  am a fan of vintage gear that was done right to start with. The likes of Sansui, Luxman , Accouphase , Marantz  in refurbished trim are outstanding integrated amps.  I believe the integrated amps of this time are better in some cases and easier to find then the separates. I've had a Luxman L560 (50wpc pure class A amp) in my system for some time and wow was is a great integrated. 

Yes if you have a desirable model and it has been refurbished it can be very good indeed. quite surprising actually in many cases. 

I feel the speakers of the 60-70-80(early 80s) seem to be the limiting factor, some are worthy of refurbishment but many are just not up to modern sound qualities. 

I great 70's vintage integrated and modern speakers can surprise you how well they sound. 

As for tuners if you have a great station still local, a Sansui of Kenwood tuner is about the best your going to get even compared to modern tuners. yes I have a Sansui TU 717 refurbished and its my main NPR music source and blows me away with how inviting a sound it is. 

I find most good vintage gear tends to be musical and warm sounding apposed to the modern overly detailed and dry presentation.