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Vintage Audio Review
United States
Приєднався 1 бер 2022
Thanks for stopping by Vintage Audio Review (VAR). I have enjoyed collecting, repairing and of course listening to stereo equipment for many years and thought I would start this channel to further this hobby of mine. Hopefully you will enjoy some of the equipment that I show here as well as find the topics interesting and possibly useful. I hope there will be good discussions/comments as well. The first video has an introduction which talks a little bit more about VAR.
Kenwood KA3500 Integrated Amp- Vintage Audio Review Episode #140
In this episode I look at the performance, & features of a Kenwood KA-3500 Integrated amp.
Email your question(s) to: VintageAudioReview@proton.me
00:00 Introduction
01:31 “Tour”
03:08 Measurements begin- THD/SNR 8/4 ohms
05:20 Max Power
06:21 Freq Response 8/4 ohms @ 5w
07:18 Max Gain THD/SNR
08:35 Output Impedance
09:09 THD vs Freq & output power (8ohms)
09:55 Multitone
10:06 Crosstalk
10:32 Input to Input Isolation
11:17 IMD
12:05 Filters/Tone Controls
13:19 System Noise
13:42 Phono THD/SNR
14:31 Phono Frequency Response
15:10 Phase & Risetime
16:40 Listening & Final Comments
Email your question(s) to: VintageAudioReview@proton.me
00:00 Introduction
01:31 “Tour”
03:08 Measurements begin- THD/SNR 8/4 ohms
05:20 Max Power
06:21 Freq Response 8/4 ohms @ 5w
07:18 Max Gain THD/SNR
08:35 Output Impedance
09:09 THD vs Freq & output power (8ohms)
09:55 Multitone
10:06 Crosstalk
10:32 Input to Input Isolation
11:17 IMD
12:05 Filters/Tone Controls
13:19 System Noise
13:42 Phono THD/SNR
14:31 Phono Frequency Response
15:10 Phase & Risetime
16:40 Listening & Final Comments
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Відео
Pass XP-20 Preamp- Vintage Audio Review Episode #139
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In this episode I look at a PASS XP-120 Preamplifier- its performance & features. Email your question(s) to: VintageAudioReview@proton.me 00:00 Introduction 01:36 “Tour” 04:40 Measurement Data- Unbalanced Input THD/SNR/Harmonics 06:35 Balanced Input THD/SNR 07:21 Unbalanced Input THD/SNR with Volume at max 08:03 Balanced Input THD/SNR @8dBV in 09:21 Frequency Response Unbalanced/Unbalanced Inpu...
Pilot AA903 Monoblock Tube Amplifier: Vintage Audio Review Episode #138
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In this episode I look at Pilot AA-903 Integrated Amplifier- its performance & features. Email your question(s) for a future video to: VintageAudioReview@proton.me 00:00 Introduction 02:05 “Tour” 04:23 Measurement Data Starts- THD 5w/8ohms 05:41 Frequency Response 8/4ohms 08:08 Output Impedance 08:34 Max Power 8ohms 09:45 THD 5w/4ohms 10:35 THD vs Freq Response & Power 8ohms 11:24 Multitone Res...
Sansui 5000a Receiver- Vintage Audio Review Episode #137
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In this episode I look at the performance, & features of a SANSUI 5000A Integrated amp. Email your question(s) to: VintageAudioReview@proton.me 00:00 Introduction 01:37 “Tour” 06:06 Measurements begin- THD/ SNR 8/4 ohms @ 5w 06:53 Freq Response 8/4 ohms @ 5w 08:17 Max Power 8/4 ohms 09:50 Output Impedance 10:12 Crosstalk 10:35 THD vs Freq & output power (8ohms) 11:07 Multitone 11:34 System Nois...
dbx 3BX- Vintage Audio Review Episode #136
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In this episode I look at a dbx 3BX Dynamic Range Expander- its performance & features. Email your question(s) to: VintageAudioReview@proton.me 00:00 Introduction 03:49 “Tour” 06:23 Measurement Data Starts-THD/SNR with unit bypassed 07:11 THD/SNR- Expansion set to 0, Transition Level to min. gain 07:45 THD/SNR- Expansion set to 1.25, Transition Level to 0dB gain 08:21 THD/SNR- Expansion set to ...
Hafler DH-101 Preamp- Vintage Audio Review Episode #135
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In this episode I look at a Hafler DH-101 Preamplifier- its performance & features as well as a small repair. Email your question(s) to: VintageAudioReview@proton.me 00:00 Introduction 03:20 “Tour” 06:25 “Repair” 08:28 Measurement Data- Aux Input THD/SNR 10:27 Frequency Response 11:21 Crosstalk 11:53 THD vs Freq & Input level 12:47 Multitone Response 13:03 System Noise 13:36 Input to Input Isol...
Luxman L-430 Integrated Amp- Vintage Audio Review Episode #134
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In this episode I look at the performance, & features of a LUXMAN L-430 Integrated amp. Email your question(s) to: VintageAudioReview@proton.me 00:00 Introduction 05:58 “Tour” 08:52 Measurements begin- AMP only- THD/ SNR 8 ohms @ 5w/ 105w & max 10:57 Freq Response- AMP only 8 ohms @ 5w 11:27 Output Impedance 11:50 Sensitivity 12:19 Amp Crosstalk 12:40 Amp System Noise 13:16 THD vs Freq & output...
NAD M3 Integrated Amp- Vintage Audio Review Episode #133
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In this episode I look at the performance, & features of a NAD M3 Integrated amp. 00:00 Introduction 03:23 “Tour” 08:18 Measurements begin- THD/ SNR 8/4 ohms @ 5w 09:19 Freq Response 8/4 ohms @ 5w 10:38 Max Power 8 ohms 12:34 1watt/8ohms SNR 12:50 Output Impedance 13:27 Multitone 13:36 Crosstalk 14:30 THD vs Freq & output power (8ohms) 15:29 System Noise 16:07 IMD 16:50 THD vs output power @1kh...
11 Question “Challenge” https://www.youtube.com/hashtag/hifitag- Vintage Audio Review Episode #132
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In this episode I answer Kevin from Skylabs Audio (ua-cam.com/channels/fkefBAR_BBXW_2z37-ozuw.html) 11 Question Audiophile “Challenge”. That video can be seen here: ua-cam.com/video/OM0X0OQf7B4/v-deo.html Email your question(s) to: VintageAudioReview@proton.me Here are the 11 questions: 01:27 1. Name the first piece of gear that led you down the hi-fi rabbit hole? 02:31 2. Name the favorite pie...
Sansui C-2102 Control Center (Preamp)- Vintage Audio Review Episode #131
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In this episode I look at Sansui C-2102 Control Center Preamplifier- its performance & features. Email your question(s) to: VintageAudioReview@proton.me 00:00 Channel Update 04:00 Introduction 05:35 “Tour” 09:20 Measurement Data- Line Input THD/SNR 10:10 Frequency Response- normal and EQ IN but flat 12:47 Crosstalk 13:25 Max Gain 14:41 Harmonics 15:05 System Noise 15:33 THD vs Freq & Input leve...
ART Pro Audio Project Series USB Phono Plus- Vintage Audio Review Episode #130
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In this episode I look at the ART Project Series USB Phono Plus Preamplifier- its performance & features. 00:00 Introduction 02:15 “Tour” of USB Phono Plus 03:30 Measurement Data- Phono Preamp THD 05:19 Freq Response with high gain 05:40 Phono Freq Response gain trim @-4dB 06:25 Phono Freq Response with Low Cut Filter 06:40 Phono Freq response with various gain trims 07:32 Line Input THD measur...
Hafler 500 Power Amplifier: Vintage Audio Review Episode #129
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In this episode I look at Hafler 500 Power Amplifier- its performance & features. Email your question(s) for a future video to: VintageAudioReview@proton.me 00:00 Introduction 01:15 “Tour” of Hafler 500 02:48 Measurement Data Starts- THD 5w/8ohms & 4ohms 04:00 Frequency Response 5w/8ohms & 4ohms 05:08 Output Impedance 08:24 Max Power & THD 8ohms & 4ohms 07:55 Crosstalk 08:25 THD vs Freq & outpu...
A Tale of Two Carver M-1.5t amps: Vintage Audio Review Episode #128
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In this episode I compare two Carver M-1.5t Power Amplifiers. One is original and the other was repaired by Carver under warranty (many years ago). Email your question(s) for a future video to: VintageAudioReview@proton.me 00:00 Introduction 02:26 “Outside Tour” of the M-1.5t’s 04:23 “Inside Tour” of the M-1.5t’s 08:42 Measurement Data Starts- THD 5w/8ohms 09:44 Frequency Response 8ohms 10:40 S...
Neohipo ET30 Speaker/Amplifier Switcher: Vintage Audio Review Episode #127
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Neohipo ET30 Speaker/Amplifier Switcher: Vintage Audio Review Episode #127
Aiyima T9 vs. Marantz 8B Amplifier A/B Test: Vintage Audio Review Episode #126
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Aiyima T9 vs. Marantz 8B Amplifier A/B Test: Vintage Audio Review Episode #126
BSR EQ14/14XR Equalizer: Vintage Audio Review Episode #125
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BSR EQ14/14XR Equalizer: Vintage Audio Review Episode #125
McIntosh MC250 Power Amplifier: Vintage Audio Review Episode #125
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McIntosh MC250 Power Amplifier: Vintage Audio Review Episode #125
Marantz 8B Power Amplifier: Vintage Audio Review Episode #123
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Marantz 8B Power Amplifier: Vintage Audio Review Episode #123
Acoustic Research 2Ax Loudspeakers- Vintage Audio Review Episode #122
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Acoustic Research 2Ax Loudspeakers- Vintage Audio Review Episode #122
Quad 405-2 Power Amplifier (with clone boards): Vintage Audio Review Episode #121
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Quad 405-2 Power Amplifier (with clone boards): Vintage Audio Review Episode #121
Kenwood KR-5030 Stereo Receiver- Vintage Audio Review Episode #120
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Kenwood KR-5030 Stereo Receiver- Vintage Audio Review Episode #120
Sansui AU7700 Integrated Amp- Vintage Audio Review Episode #119
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Sansui AU7700 Integrated Amp- Vintage Audio Review Episode #119
McIntosh C48 Preamplifier- Vintage Audio Review Episode #118
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McIntosh C48 Preamplifier- Vintage Audio Review Episode #118
Pioneer QX8000 Quad Receiver- Vintage Audio Review Episode #117
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Pioneer QX8000 Quad Receiver- Vintage Audio Review Episode #117
Sansui 7000 Stereo Receiver- Vintage Audio Review Episode #116
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Sansui 7000 Stereo Receiver- Vintage Audio Review Episode #116
Using the QuantAsylum QA40x (pt2) to measure a McIntosh MC2300- Vintage Audio Review Episode #115
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Using the QuantAsylum QA40x (pt2) to measure a McIntosh MC2300- Vintage Audio Review Episode #115
Realistic STA-120 Receiver- Vintage Audio Review Episode #114
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Realistic STA-120 Receiver- Vintage Audio Review Episode #114
Testing the effect of fuses for Audio: Vintage Audio Review Episode #113
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Testing the effect of fuses for Audio: Vintage Audio Review Episode #113
Aragon 8008 Power Amplifier: Vintage Audio Review Episode #112
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Aragon 8008 Power Amplifier: Vintage Audio Review Episode #112
QUAD 34 Preamplifier- Vintage Audio Review Episode #111
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QUAD 34 Preamplifier- Vintage Audio Review Episode #111
Nice video. Had family give me this amp. All org never been in the shop. I cleaned the pots and added a KT_5500 tuner and Fluance RT-85 tunrtable .The phono stage is very decent Its a fantastic integrated amp . sounds great ,and well built .Usually run it though polk monitor 4 bookshelfs .
I thought it did a good job and am glad it it working out for you... for free! Thanks for the comment
I love this amp, I have it in my main setup. Earlier this year I received an RB1080 (200 wpc) in my shop repair and that was my first experience with an Rotel power amplifier. I immediately fell in love with the build quality and really like how the designed the differential stage. So I gave I had to hook it up to speakers, and that's when I notice how well it reproduced the finer details in music, which is what really gets my attention. And soon after a customer brought in an RB1070 for repair. He later decided to not repair and offered it to me $150.00 and it joined my collection. I noticed after repair and testing that it sounded very much like the RB1080, so it became a keeper. Soon after that I noticed an RB1090 on Facebook Marketplace that I as well purchased and it became the power amp for my main system. I would say its the best of the many amps I own and better than I lot I've had in my shop. I have a Classe CA400 (400 wpc) that based on its cost and pricing would be a better performer. I had planned to move the Classe CA400 into my main system, but the RB1090 I chose instead. I find that whatever it sees on the inputs, it will robustly deliver to the speakers. When a power amplifier is able to make sound leaves right in front of the speakers at low to moderate levels, to me that's when its really a great power amplifier
Thanks for taking the time to share. Hopefully it did not cost you much to repair the RB1070. I typically don't hear a lot of difference between amps when driving speakers at a level they can handle. My biggest complaint about the rotel was the decorative heatsinks.
About 10 years ago, I was driving down the road and saw a couple of stereo units by the side of the road next to the trash. It was a KA-3500 and its companion tuner, in great condition. I cleaned up all the pots with contact cleaner and put it into service in my newly remodeled kitchen, driving the ceiling speakers. It's doing a great job and sounds great.
That is a pretty good story with a happy ending- hopefully the same will happen to me someday..Thanks for sharing!
I've tried to arm myself against every type of speaker terminal. I have a strange Akai AA-6600 with TRS ? connections. Have a similiar KA-6400 and RT-4005 tuner with wood side next up.(found 3d switch tips onebay) Nice job on the video!
Not familiar with TRS connections. Worst I have come across are those in some older Pioneer receivers. Appreciate the feedback!
I have the ole 2000 original. I notice the controls layout of the 2000a appear to match the 4000. I have been trying to figure out why I prefer the sound of the 2000 more than my 4000. I am usually at about 9'oclock on the volume. I tend to be perfectly satisfied below 70db at listening position.
Thanks for sharing your experience between the two. When I review an item I am typically in the 80db SPL, sometimes in the 70dB spl area, which is actually quite loud enough for a lot of listening- like when I am reading... there could be several variables as to why one sounds better than the other....
@@vintageaudioreview All I can figure that, at low volumes the 2000 is delivering more bass and there is less treble. I think I am midrange sensitive. My first getting hooked on vintage was when a tech at a stereo shop was working on a Sansui and played music on Minimus 7's I would say the sound has emphasis on highs and lows, with great punching transients and between instrument play it fades to nothing REAL FAST. The increased amount of quiet and lack of "sustain" emphasizes the music. The same characteristic I love about the 2000 could likely be interpreted as a much lower mid range. Another example of a contrast is a Cambridge Audio AXR100. I really hate it's sound because there is so much midrange it reminds me of a swimming pool megaphone style speaker. I don't know an adjective outside what was stated "glassy" pertaining to fast fade to nothing.
@@27b-6Buttle To me, receivers sound good or not very good when using my Wilson speakers. Some may have more low level hum or hiss that goes away once the music starts playing. I will be doing an a/b between two vintage receivers that should be interesting, but that won't happen for a few months...Appreciate your sharing!
Nice choice to review👍. Thanks V.A.R. ............................ I had the +-80watt version, KA-can't remember. It was the Volume Control that I found outstanding. Really nice notched feel. Since then, I've always said regarding system/chain building 'get the best volume control you can afford.' Once a chain is complete, it's the volume control that proves to be the most difficult 'Link' to upgrade. Unlike a source or speakers. These silver-faced Kenwood integrateds haven't caught fire with the vintage crowd & that's good. (They prefer receivers that have no FM to receive anymore really ) If one of the dual mono versions, and there's many, fell into my lap I could easily be persuaded to buy it. Another outstanding volume control is on the Nikko Beta40 preamp. Currently in possession is the Freya 128step relay volume control. Thanks again V.A.R. Acid Jazz Funk & Brass 🔈🔉🔊
Thanks so much for the commentary as always. Kenwood gear usually gets a lot of views, which tells me it is popular. I never considered the volume control as part of my decision process- though I do prefer some over others as far as measurements go as the step sizes they provide. I don't listen to FM as much at home, but do listen to AM (talk radio), but can see why receivers may not be as preferred as integrated amps nowadays- though receivers can have a better look (?). Funny you should mention the Freya- I have one (+ model) that I will be doing a video on relating to tube rolling.I do not like the sound that volume control makes at all- sounds like a scratch pot to me.
It would be great if you got a lav mic.
Thanks for taking the time to give me some constructive criticism- I think. I use a usb desktop mike when recording the data and have a RODE video boom mic attached to my DSLR when recording my "intro and outro". I get a comment every month or so about the sound quality. Which sound do you have a problem with ?
@ the intro and outro audio is the problem, way too much room sound. Just get the mic closer to you. It’s ok if it is in the shot. The rest of the audio is great though. Thanks for your consideration.
@@mladenbasic1 I appreciate you getting back to me. I will apologize in advance for the video that will air in about 3 weeks as there was some low level noise- they were will up a street cleaner from the fire hydrant and you could hear it idling. I will look into a lav mic.
I just aquired one of these and everything is working well except the tuner. Are there adjustments or service things i can do to get better FM reception?
If you have the proper test equipment and can find the service manual, you could go through a tuner alignment- not the simplest of tasks if you have not done one, and that assumes the tuner is functioning somewhat properly. Of course, you could try a better FM antenna and position it for maximum reception.
I have too of these just sitting around thinking about saling them I'm not sure what they would go for.
Hard to say, but Ebay is a good guide for pricing
Hi..is this unit sold? I have s Marantz 2245 for sale or trade.
I ended up selling it on Craigslist for around $170- thanks for the inquiry.
Still have mine,still rocking them
Thanks for for letting me know they are working well- sure is a popular speaker!
Nice to see the data sometimes. Didn't impress me. Put it up against my Fisher Futura 202 for comparison. 5000A is missing Sansui magic. Own a bunch!
Thanks for taking some time to comment. Maybe on day I will get a Futura 202 across the bench. I am pretty sure that I thought the 5000a sounded fine to me.....
I worked at Radio Shack here in Australia from 1981 for a few years. In about 1985 I purchased two Mac Two's at the regular 2 for 1 speaker sale. I still have them and in fact have purchased 2 more sets through ebay, for a new home theatre setup. Highly recommended, even in 2024! Woofer foam is an issue, although this is a common problem with many vintage speakers, however, replacement foam is readily available via ebay and other sources.
Thanks for the comment- all the way from "Down Under" even. Am glad you still have the ones you purchased. The friend these belonged to refoamed them (prior to my getting them) and sold them at some point after the video came out. For some reason I have had a lot of comments on these recently- it is one of my most popular videos so I guess they have some what of a following.
There's a pair of Mach 2's at a record store up the street for $500. The covers are on them, so you can't tell if they're good or not. Too much for my SS payments. Lol.
w/out being able to see them w/out the covers, I would stay away from them at that price!
I was working at Radio Shack in 1985. I remember these well and sold quite a few. Mach Ones were my favorite though. Keep in mind that Radio Shack did not price their speakers in pairs, so that $220 was each, not per pair.
Thanks for the comment and info about the speakers priced each and not in pairs. Interestingly enough, just today my buddy Ian told me that the thrift store wanted a $250 EACH for a pair of Mach 1's that were in very good shape....
@@vintageaudioreview A fine choice. I hope they find a good home.
@@jaydee5156 That price is too much for them, we think.. probably will be there for a while.
It certainly is a great preamp. As usual I love your measurements, QuantAsylum is indeed a great measuring system. Thank you for the video.
Thanks so much for the encouragement, and a really like my QA analyzer(s). Will be going through using the QA analyzer to measure a preamp- at least how I do it- this week, though the video won't be out for a month or so.
It’s funny because even though there’s no difference in the signal, audiophiles swear that they hear a difference. Once I was arguing with a guy who was claiming that his 1000 dollar Ethernet cable improved his bass response. Bro, that is literally not possible. The networking layer will make sure the bytes are carbon copied across the network. A $5 cable will work just as well.
Thanks for taking the time to share. I heard a similar thing about something you could plug into your router that made the sound better. And what about hi-performance toslink cables that improve the sound- that was another one. But, as part of the hobby, if you want to go for something like that and it works for you, oh well, just don't try to convince us 😀
What will be Output per channel at 8 ohms if i use 36vdc x 6 amp power adapter. Please reply
I was able to get a bit more than 50w/8ohms with the stock 36v/6amp supply that came with it.
@vintageaudioreview Thanks for prompt reply. Which bookshelf speaker you will suggest in combination with this amp.. Q acoustic 3010i ( 75 watts per speaker @ 6 ohms at 86 db) Or Elac debut B5.2 (120 watts per speaker @ 6ohms at 86dp) Lots of love from India..
@@shankarvaigankar8116 I do not have a recommendation for speakers that I have not heard, of which yours fall into that category. My advice is always to pick a speaker that you like the sound of and find out what it's impedance and sensitivity are, and then find an amp that will drive that impedance to the levels you listen to. I think the Klipsch KG2's are a nice sounding Larger speaker to me. Maybe some Bose 301's- if you are able to find them. But listen to the speaker 1st rather than trust a reviewer except for technical info..IMHO
Where are you located? I have some old tube gear, including a Pilot Sa-260.
I am in Tucson. I would enjoy testing something like the SA-260, or is it in need of repair?
Thank you for all the great content. This is a wonderful channel.
Thanks so much for the kind words. While I am not a very large channel, I don't think any other channel has the variety of items "reviewed". Hopefully I will continue to get gear to test....
My SAE 2400L Power Amp Is better final.
It looks like a great amp- I wonder how it would test on the bench after all of these years..?
I still have my 909 that I bought circa 1974, and am now considering moving on to monoblock amps for my Geshelli Dayzee DAC. My question is, am I making a mistake? Should I just run the Geshelli through the Sansui or is it time to move on... purely from a sound quality perspective?
Am not familiar with the DAC you menioned. I would hook up the DAC to one of the AUX inputs (am assuming the other input to the DAC is a streamer) and see how it sounds to you. The sound should be the same regardless of the source- If you want to get monoblocks that is okay, but I am guessing the sound will not change a lot depending on how hard you are driving your speaker (if clipping starts). Thanks for the question
@vintageaudioreview ty for the quick reply
Nice choice. Have a bunch of old tuners I love. Always hoping to find a nice old tube amp. Couple moderns but no classics. Thanks for the knowledge! Helps immensely!
Thanks for taking the time to comment and maybe you can find one of these for a reasonable price!
Just curious and maybe I missed it. Do you test the tubes?
Thanks for the question, Chris, and no, you did not miss me testing the tubes. I usually use a B&K 607 tube tester to check all of the tubes when I get something in that is not working correctly, or is in an unknown state, or if the tubes are in the incorrect spot. I am pretty sure I did check all of the tubes- I should probably mention that I did. I plan on doing a tube rolling video at some point and may actually show a tube being tested.....oh boy!
I wonder whether FR is the result of interaction between QA test chirp and amps' output transformers, all these undulations and what almost looks like HF modulation of a carrier wave. Where does it come from?
Thanks for the comment and observation. I went back and looked at several amps that had output transformers- mostly tube but a few McIntosh SS amps, and some had a bit of ringing- more with the tube amps. There is a frequency response test that uses frequency steps instead of a chirp- I don't think I have never used it, but will try it at some point when I get a tube amp in w/ a lot of ringing. Look at episode #123 around the 6:34 point where the Marantz 8B tube amp's frequency response is measured.
Considering their age, repairs, and possible abuses, those amps did pretty good. I'm a little surprised.
I am never that surprised by older gear since it was designed to last longer, I think.. thanks as always for commenting Douglas!
Please elaborate on which output has more gain and why. Thank you
Thanks for the question & I think I can answer that. According to the schematic, there is an additional 36k resistor in parallel with the main 1 output (200ohms) , while there is not with the main 2 output. I believe the owner's manual states that the main 2 output can be used for lower gain amplifiers. Hope this makes sense, but for almost every one there would not be a lot of difference.
Thank you. I have heard of people adding resistors, but didn’t realize it came from the factory that way.
@@BrianJohnson-hg1ow You did not really have to add any resistor. I actually removed the resistor from Main output #2 on my C1. BTW, the C1performs as well as most every preamp I have tested. There is an upcoming video where I compare it to a "high end" brand preamp towards the end of the video.
I picked one up from eBay for under $200. The ad said it was fully functional, but I didn’t know what to expect. To my surprise, it literally looks brand new, all of the switches and controls work perfect, zero static or noise and it sounds great. If must have either been gone through or never used.
@@BrianJohnson-hg1ow $200 is a really good price for one. They are under-rated in the hifi world except by those who own them. The big thing is not to use it to turn on/off a high power amplifier using the switched a/c outlet as it's on/off switch is not really designed to allow lots of current through it.
Hey, Late commenting on this one. Reasons. Anyway , good one, very interesting . Being uneducated, I was surprised by the difference between the 4 and 8 ohm loads. Thank you again for doing these videos. Cheers,Alistair
As always, thanks for taking the time to comment Alistar. My guess is that the majority of vintage speakers were 8ohms and so the amps/receivers were designed for those more than 8ohm. Sometimes the frequency response may be better with 8ohms but the THD/SNR better with 4ohms or visa versa.
@ interesting . You know I have no electronic knowledge beyond basic dc circuits. But it’s still interesting about the ohm difference. Woudl that be due to circuit design or component choice?
@@ragnarhairybreeks It is just circuit design.
@ thank you
Thanks for sharing this, it`s the most comprehensive view that I`ve seen on this unit. Of particular interest to me because in 1985, I purchased one of these, plus matching Carver pieces M500t amp and TX-11a tuner. Always got good performance and much enjoyment from this vintage gear.
Thanks for taking a few moments to comment and I appreciate the kind words. There are one or two other videos that go into more detail about the circuitry. Hopefully you still have the 500t and it is working...
Thanks for a great review, I have done a few recapps on old amps and receivers and noticed it does help the hum a little but sometimes does not completly get rid of it, still slightly there with headphones or with ear against speakers.
Hi Michael! What is interesting is I watched your video about replacing caps in the Sansui receiver and then saw this comment from you! I rarely listen to the headphone output, but most of the time the hum/his is ok. I don't subscribe to carte blanche replacing caps. I will do a video a bit like your about replacing the caps- before and after performance- but have not found a candidate for that yet. Keep up the good work!
@@vintageaudioreview Hi, I was in he no camp in replacing caps until really necessary but after just replacing half in the little Sansui 200 Receiver it has made a big difference. It would be fantastic if you did get a chance in doing a before and after results sound wise and especially with all the readings taken as well before and after. That way we could see what has happened. I for one hope you find a candidate. Keep up the good work to it all helps others I think.
@@MichaelYates Thanks and I am sure the right candidate will come along before too long- I would mainly replace power supply related caps- at least that is my thinking at this point.
I need help.. I recently got one but it plays distorted .. I've changed all caps so far.. tested all transistors and all are ok.. I don't know what the power supply voltages are supposed to be.. 🤷🏽♂️
You can search for the schematic online and use it to troubleshoot the EQ. Hopefully it is labeled clear enough as sometimes the copies are not great. If the ps voltages are ok then inject a 1khz signal and trace it with a scope to see where the distortion occurs- good luck!
The "level adjust" is for the adjustment of the travel of the volume. Turn the L.A. up all of the way, you are loud at the 10 o'clock position on the volume. Turn the L.A. down, and now you have to turn the volume up to the 2 o'clock position to achieve the same gain.
Thanks for explaining what the level adjust does. I should have read the manual regarding it. Guess it might be useful if you had teenagers and wanted to limit how loud they would play....?
@@vintageaudioreview Absolutely.!
Protection against teenagers! ...if you don't tell them about it.
Just got me a Transnova 9505, having it looked over and serviced before using. The power rating & spec of the power supply alone have me very very excited to finally hear it. Does anyone know the origins of the Halfer "Diablo" circuit by any chance?
I am not a Hafler guy so really don't have an answer....
@@vintageaudioreview well ty anyway
I just restored two of these and they sound astounding. I have vintage 1965 Sansui and 1966 Fisher ..love those east and west sounding amp. The ST120 belongs to the professional receiver in my catergory. So I hook it up to my music room and match it to AR speaker. Although the room have lots of latest digital amps...I still adore the sound of pure analog..just can't let it go.
I thought it had a nice sound- just don't like the balance/volume control situation. Glad you are keeping these older receivers around.
@@vintageaudioreview actually the way to use it is to push from the bottom using the fore finger , so it goes up in sync when voluming up. To lower use the pinky finger into the cutout wedge between the two controls to slide it downward... Then you become a pro!
@@essentialknowhow3752 Sounds like you figured it out. From a measurement standpoint it is nicer than having a balance control
@@vintageaudioreview agree...eliminates it effectively
It is harmAn not harmOn ! What is wrong with half of internet users ? Difficulties to read ?
No problem reading- don't really hear it being pronounced very often. Similar to the TECHNICS pronouncements I suppose
I know of a pair for sale, total reconditioned, original JBL parts, no scratches, all new american walnut veneer, special transportcases and so on. Can be delivered anywhere in the world.
Hopefully they are able to sell them- they are definitely a collectable item
@@vintageaudioreview And they don't cost as much as the set advertised early in the video, much less.
I think the one I found for the video was quite a bit over priced
Since you can measure THD, play a clean test tone into the mic that you record your videos with at the same level as your voice and measure the THD on playback.
If you are politely telling me that you don't like the sound quality, the method you mention would not be as simple as that. One of the mics I use is a usb mic for the audio when I record data and the other mic is a boom mic mounted to my camera. I apologize that sometimes the audio recording is not as good- sometimes they pick up the A/C (or heater) coming on. I have only had 1 other comment- many months ago- about the sound quality.
@@vintageaudioreview Just trying to help. Leave yourself some more head room so we don't hear it clip. Better to have too low of a level recorded than too high. You can always raise the level in post production but you can never get rid of that clipping in post.
@@mikeh2520 Thanks for taking the time to help me improve. Is the problem more with me on screen or during data ?
@@vintageaudioreview I just dropped into the middle of it to check again and @13:47 and onwards, there is nasty clipping. If you have a visual indicator of mic level use that to get a better reference level. Your ears should be your best test instrument.
@@mikeh2520 Thanks for you input and I really only hear a slight amount of distortion, but will adjust the mic setting down on my USB mic. Thanks for the help!
I picked up two dbx units from Goodwill a first gen and second gen. Tried it out on cassette and recordings where quieter.
Are you talking about the dbx noise reduction units, or the 3bx's? Most likely you got them for a good price which would make it even better. Thanks for sharing
@@vintageaudioreview dbx II 122 and 224x
@@adaboy4z The 122 is a noise reduction unit, not sure about the 224- some takes decks offered that as well as Dolby.
Great video, very informative. I am putting the QuantAsylum QA403 on my shopping list.
Thank you so much- It is a great tool and a bargain at the price.
At least u got meters and the name is fun to say 😊
Thanks for taking the time to comment. I like to say "dbx", though!
I found one of these in the trash with the wired remote. I hooked it up and tested a few records with it and it changed it just a little bit. I put it on Reverb and got $1,200 for it. The lights were nice
What a score!!! The remote is fairly rare from what I understand. Thanks for sharing!
😮
Amazing how ppl just dump these rather than sell or donate
Had the same kind of memory the first time I saw a Mcintosh power amp with the blue VU meters I was hooked
Thanks for sharing your memory. I did not have the same memory when 1st seeing McIntosh gear- but that changed as I got into audio more in my later years.
Mine looses the left channel while switching amps. When that happens, you have to increase the volume very high to get the channel working again, which is really bad for the speaker. It started doing this about 5 or 6 months after purchase. I currently have it set on just one amp and set up speakers for the TV. Neohipo say they will honor the return, but want a photo of the problem. A photo isn't going to show anything- the VU meter still swings while the channel has dropped. Still working through the problem with them.
I would take a video of what is going on with it using your phone and send it to them. They have been very good with my dealings with them. Sorry to hear that it acted up.
@@vintageaudioreview The video may or may not show the drop in one channel, though. The VU's still both swing. I will try to use the mic input for the meters and see if there's a difference there.After watching your review again, I'll bet that there's a faulty relay.
@@jamcdona W/out a schematic it's hard to say where the vu meters are getting there signal from (before or after the relay). If you are so equipped, you could play back a 1khz or 500hz stereo tone and connect a multimeter that reads basic ac frequency and show that the signal has disappeared
Just my 2 cents - dbx - db (gain) expander -- 3bx - 3 band expander. 🙂
Thanks for taking the time to share your thoughts regarding the 3dbx and I think you may be on to something. Ooops- just checked and it was the company founder's initials....except for the x
Great review Scott. I've been waiting to see something like this for 50 years! I heard loud music playing in a mall that many years ago and I thought it was a band playing. Turns out it was a system setup at the entrance of a Sam Goody's using a dbx unit. Still remember that after all these years. I've since heard a digital expansion-compression unit years later and thought it was awful, so I lost interest in the technique. Perhaps your upper frequency hearing is not what it used to be, like mine, and therefore this unit is of no longer of use.
Thanks for the anecdote Tom! I am trying to find a place that offers a comprehensive hear test that will be covered by my insurance plan. I think I still hear pretty good, but would be surprised if it extended much pass 12khz...The 3dbx is hooked up to one of my systems that has a Pioneer CTF950 tape deck- maybe should have used that for my listening test. It is nice to have it in my "collection"...
Very informative, thank you! Sorry I missed the Livestream, but this time conflicted with College Football. And you are absolutely correct, the people at PS Audio are the the nicest group of people! Was there in July for a tour and ran into Paul.
I got your entry. I thought about college football being on. Same problem on Sunday. During the week people work. I figure the next one will be at least 6 months from now the way my subscribers seem to grow- probably just baseball then.
Coming in on October 30 staying for a few days. My buddy lives up north of town kind of near the Oro Valley. I think it is. It’s a golf community up in the hills although it’s funny he doesn’t play golf. He’s an Audiophile as well just an FYI he’s trying to sell a brand new set of KLH model threes in the box with stands if you know anybody that’s interested. It would be cool to get together for a beer or a cuppa Joe.
Probably Saddlebrooke. Send me an email and maybe we can meet up. His name is not John, is it?
I’m sorry I missed
Don't forget to send in an entry!
I still can? Shoot ….does saying …send entry … count? Lol Seriously , I do regret not taking part in stream. But things got in the way . More to that than I’d like to say publicly . Anyway , I’d have been bugging you about more v8ntage British stuff :-)
@@ragnarhairybreeks Yes and please do. I am accepting entries until 7am MST
Glad you didn’t get injured or anyone else was injured in the car wreck.
Me too- I have a slightly sore rib, maybe I hit the steering wheel, but it does not appear to be anything serious right now and I don't see any bruising. Thanks!!
Have you ever tested a Rotel RA1312? \