Vintage Amps - Pleasantly surprised


A while back, i was given a non-functional Sansui AU-666, which I recently had restored for sh*ts and giggles. Hooked it up to Rega Aras in my bedroom, using a computer source with a basic NuForce uDac.

Honestly, i was not expecting much out of this combo. However, I am blown away by the sound quality i'm getting out of this extremely modest setup. It shockingly possesses much of the desirable 'audiophile traits' one would typically hope for. I'm not saying it's perfect, but for a 40 year old piece, i'm utterly stunned.

And considering the entire setup cost less than 450 bucks, including stands (excluding computer, but which i had already), i could not have asked for more.

Anyone else with this kind of experience using vintage gear?
loose

Showing 1 response by timrhu

I recently purchased an older (mid 90s) Harman Kardon amp on ebay. After giving it a thorough cleaning and then rewiring it I am amazed at how good it sounds. I'm seriously considering using this as my main amp. Take a close look inside and you see very simple circuit design with all discrete quality components nicely laid out.
Install an IEC socket, rewire the A/C input and output section with quality binding posts and nothing to complain about. If you think about the process of amplifying an audio signal, not a lot has changed over the last 30+ years. Buconero117 has a point.