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I own an AS-1100 powering a pr of Martin Logan 60XTi and a ML 10" powered sub using an Ipad through a MODI3 DAC. Years ago I owned a complete Yamaha component system ie...EQ, Tuner, Phono you get it. Anyway the heart of that was the AVC-50 and M-65 amp. It was really nice, but I really love the Vintage look sound of the new stuff. I think your review was dead on. I also think you might be surprised at the difference between the 801 and 1200. I have a buddy who has the 801, no doubt it is a good amp(with a really good built in DAC) but just not quite the 1200. Love your reviews
Great amp! Had the 803 for awhile and also tried the 1200 for a week. 803 is a great amp that has no complaints. Very clean and open sound. The AS1100/1200+ series is just so razor sharp and detailed. Like a sushi chef knife! I would definitely say it’s “better” but be prepared to hear EVERYTHING. Haha not always want you want depending on the track. Like a high megapixel digital photo with tons of detail vs a film camera photo that’s a softer look. Matter of what you like but I hear the AS amps do calm down a bit after 100 hours.
I am not sure if I agree with the statement "the only real difference between the 2200 and the 1200 is just a balanced input." There are many more differences between the A-S1200 and A-S2200: 1- The A-S2200 is using the same pre Amp topology as the A-S3200. It has many more components on the Pre Amp stage than the A-S1200. 2- While the transformer in both Amps is a 625vA Toroidal one, A-S2200 uses larger filter caps (4 x 22,000uF) compared to A-s1200 (4 x 18,000uF). The 2200 has total of 16,000uF more available! You should know what that translate to. 3- The A-S2200 has a 3mm Brass plate under the toroidal transformer which helps suppress unwanted vibration. 4- The A-S2200 has better internal wiring PC triple C 10AWG to the speaker outputs vs A-S1200 which has 12AWG 5- The A-S2200 has a discrete headphone amp built in with volume control!!! 6- The A-S2200 uses better feet than the A-S1200. They’re machined brass with chrome plating. The A-S1200 is iron with chrome plating so they look the same but they’re not. The brass actually helps with the mid-range richness and lower bass. The question is are you willing to pay $1,500 for the higher quality and more features that the A-S2200 offers?
@@SSS-cv7dc all those differences amount to zero difference in the sound signature. “Brass plate?” I’ve never heard how a plate sounds. The 10 to 12 cable thickness difference and the caps might get you a different reading which I doubt but on a a/b test do not amount to anything. The only noticeable difference is the headphone sound and balance inputs which decreases the thd a bit I’m glad I’ve been able to test both amps.
I’ve got an 801 and a 2200. They’re worlds apart. There’s more differences between the 1200 and 2200 other than XLR’s. Firstly, the 1200 is a more open ended design where as the 2200 is fully balanced from input to output. The 2200 has the MM/MC selector switch on the front and a more robust headphone section. IMO, the 2200 is the sweet spot in the Yamaha line up, not the 1200. The 801 is great for its versatility when it comes to integrating it with a tv, or other digital sources. The 801 and 1200 and up sound signature will likely not sound the same to many as the 801 has an Ei core transformer where as the 1200 onward have toroidal transformers.
Between a-s 801 and a-s 2200, which one do you think has a sweeter sound (medium and high)? Which have less forward presentation (more relaxed / relaxing sound). What speakers are they playing with?
@@andreassouth1523 the 2200 is warmer than my 801, both have pretty forwardness speakers attached to them KLH Kendall’s on the 2200 and Triangle Bro 3’s on the 801, having said that the 2200 is more laid back presentation IMO. The 2200 has a notable mid range bump, very nice mid range, the top end of the 2200 is more smooth and fuller richer sound over the 801.
@@diogoserrador yes, lower noise floor going balanced with the 2200. If you had the A-S1200 and the CD-S1000 however, that’s still a really good combo. The 2200 is just all around better than the 1200, but you’re paying more for it too.
I have the A-S1200 and love it! I think the capacitors make it substantial. Back in the day ADCOM produced high-quality amps with huge capacitors which was in my opinion key to their success. The capacitors make the full extent of the power available and improve the sound quality at lower listening levels. The A-S2200 has a slightly bigger capacitor and an upgraded headphone preamp. Yamaha makes no claims, but the A-S1200 manages the B&W sub that I have. I have followed you for about a year now and have really enjoyed your reviews. Your review of the new JBL L100 was very helpful. I always wanted one, but after your comments on the cheap veneer and another reviewer saying they were not as good as the originals, I went with B&W 705 S2s. The L100s have funky stands that do not fit in a nice room, maybe in a man-cave. JBL should have did something like the Warfdale did. for the Lintons. Deepest thanks for your valuable and insightful advice.
I have it's older brother A-S1100 and I simply love it. Previously I was using a vintage A-1060 from 1982 but with old age comes the reliability issue. Although it sounded great when it worked it started spending more time in the repair shop than at home.
Bought an A-S1200 to replace an A700 Yamaha integrated amp that I have been happily using since buying it in 1982. After 38 years of sometimes hard core service (was a college kid back then, the A700 was run hard for hours at keg parties via the turn it up to audible clipping, back it off a tad method) . It had an easier time once I became a grown up - LOL Able to push 250W peaks into 4 ohms, the old A700 had far more power than the new A-S1200 at stupid volume levels, but I rarely listen that loud anymore. The A-S1200 was a little "edgy" until broken in, but even when it was new, the A-S was less fatiguing at higher volume levels than the old A700. Now that it is broken in, the A-S12 is amazingly smooth at healthy volume levels, and it throws down a detailed and broad sound stage that the old amp simply could not muster. As for build quality, obviously the vintage A700 was built really well, and with relatively minor repairs, it will continue to run. The A-S1200 is built even beefier than the old amp - it is heavier and just looks tidier and better inside, and it is not cranking out as much power as the A700 either. I figure the A-S1200 is a well made and under stressed unit - it barely gets warm, running much cooler than the older amp. Obviously when I find something that is of high quality and that works for me, I hang onto it - amps, wives, etc. I will be 6 feet under before the new amp has any issues. As for is it worth it? Shop around, I picked up mine for 2K delivered to my door, about 1K off MSRP. Seems the silver ones are hotter sellers, but silver, while very nice, to me is 1970s and before my time. I prefer black, the old A700 was black, continuing the bad ass Yamaha tradition!
I pretty much concur with all of your assessments. I had the A-1000 (1985) and bought the A-S3000 almost two years ago. The A-S3000 makes my Infinity RS4b's sound better than they ever have which prompted me to start looking at new speakers. I settled on Magico A3's which are similar to the RS4b's in size, amount of tweeter, midrange and woofer drivers. Obviously the Magico's are on another level than the RS4b's but the same could be said for the A-S3000 compared to the A-1000. It will be interesting to see how everything sounds when the Magico's arrive, I've heard the Magico's will sound even better with more power. Minimum RMS power for the A3's is 50 watts at 4 ohms. The A-S3000 delivers 150 watts at 4 ohms. Hopefully I'll be happy with the sonics because I really do love the way the A-S3000 sounds. As far as looks go I don't think I've seen another integrated that is as aesthetically pleasing.
The A-S801 is a completely different design from A-S1200 and while wattage may be similar, other specifications are not even close. The 1200 has a flatter frequency response and has a much lower noise floor (more than 10 dB).
I bought a secondhand A-S3000 and it is absolutely fantastic! It looks fantastic, it sounds amazing and it is built extremely well. I guess the complete A-Sxxxx line is like that. And yes, I have it in silver color!
I have the 2200. As you say the price jump is not insignificant but the discrete headphone amp, balanced circuitry and MM/MC button on the front are useful to me. Either way great amps! Cheers.
I like the vintage because the latest is var expensive I have the yamaha ca 810 and rated at 75 watts a side mine was rated just over 90 but regardless I enjoy it thanks
Tumilyl, how do you have your SVS sub hooked up to your Yamaha with it’s “ floating and balanced” amp section? I am going with an REL sub and high level connection to flesh out the bass on my Wharfedale Lintons . I have the Yamaha A S-2100 amp.
@@steelydanfan100 I used Yamaha's pre out inputs with rca cables. I could also use SVS's high level inputs with speaker cables. Maybe I'll try that some time too :) Pre out option works great too
I have had the AS3000 (predecessor to AS3200) for 6 months, and have found it really engaging. Notes will emerge from instruments that just sound so pin sharp and real. A very satisfying amp. It has more than plenty of bass weight, so maybe that’s a difference between the 3000s and 1000s in the range. I will admit I did buy it for its looks too...
I still have my 70s Yamaha vintage receiver. with my pioneer turntable and my Polk audio 800s. it’s sounds warm and deep bass after all these years. Still makes me smile 😊
The lack of digital inputs is real plus as this unit will not go obsolete any time soon. Since many of us may still have legacy analog components this amp gives my personal inventory more years of life. We all have been bitten at one point with changing spec's in digital gear, i.e. the HDCP supply chain, so a pure 2 channel analog amp is most welcome. Will wait for the S-801 review before investing. Good job sir.
For anyone interested in the sound of this amp through headphones, from what I have been told, you basically hear the same soundstage as you would through speakers. After watching this video a dozen times in the last 2 years, I finally bought a 1200, but have not hooked up any speakers yet. I am still listening to it on the floor. I did not realize how BIG it was out the back. Had to order a whole new stereo rack. Using the bass control, I get nice, tight bass out of my headphones. And even during Mahler’s 9th, with all those musicians playing at once, I get a sense of separation as to who is sitting where. VERY happy with the sound of its headphone output compared to a dedicated headphone amp with XLR. I have been using a Marantz CD running through a Topping sandwich with a Lokius in the middle, and this is MUCH better. Of course it is twice the price. But it is worth it.
Just received my A S1200 and I have to say it's pretty awesome. You will need a converter of some type to run anything digital into it. But... talk about power rocks my room easily. One thing it does pick up all sounds coming from your turntable dirt, scratches bad recordings but it sounds great. Really like it so far
I'm using the A-S1200 with a pair of La Scala II and Heresy 1's, Topping E30 and Technics 1500c and it sounds great, and I paid much less than $2800 for the Yamaha.
Now this is a no BS-concept that I really like, no bluetooth, no USB, all the stuff that gets outdated has been omitted here. And yes, it's really beautiful. The only problem I have with many amp nowadays is that manufacturers tend to hide their specs about the amp technology that is involved, e.g. what class it is. I have no reservations against class D but I'd like to know.
I just brought my Pioneer SA 8800 integrated amplifier out of a five year hibernation and was floored by how good it sounded with a Yamaha CD 1000 player through a pair of Sony SS M3's and then my pair of Electrovoice Interface "D" speakers from 1978, the same era as the SA 8800. I have been using a Yamaha A S2000 amplifier for three years and loved it! However when listening to the Pioneer 40+ year old amp I was blown away by how great it sounds. I have been getting out my favorite CD's and boy, do they sound great!
Great review! Yamaha is a great company that excel at everything they make and that is something to be noticed!!!! Just got a new A-S1100 in black and its simply amazing! Got a great deal on it as the new models became available. Dynamics on this monster are impressive. Running it with Klipsch speakers that are also outstanding in dynamics. I'm in heaven! Great detail in music, excellent bass control, mids and highs. Massive transformer, capacitors and heatsinks. The VU meters, feel and resistance of the knobs are spectacular. Spot on Andrew! Happy listening!
I have done an ab comparison between the 801 and 1200. The 801 is good, but is rather lifeless dynamically compared with the 1200...and strangely enough, doesn’t sound as powerful somehow, getting a bit stressed as the volume increases. Great value for money, but sonically not as compelling.
Hi there Andrew. I started following your channel a few days ago. Nice content. Congrats. I was enjoying some of your past work and I found the video about high-end audio break in. Let's start by the end: I think it would be very easy to do a simple and clarifying test: Let's say you get 2 pairs of identical speakers. You plug them in cold, listen each pair for a few minutes and establish that there are no substantial sound differences among them, that they could be called identical while still "cold". Then you put one pair aside, and run the other pair for -say- 80 hours. After that, you blind test the two pairs. Let's end with the beginning: I also watch other channels and one of them, Zero Fidelity, claimed that after using it for a while, the Yamaha AS-1200 sounded a little less fatiguing (the treble was less harsh, if memory serves). I RESPECT EVERY OPINION. I have my own experience, and I still have doubts regarding this issue (but I'm more inclined to believe that the sound improvement has more to do with our brains adapting, than to the perceivable -5% or less- that the electronics could change -interestingly, always for the better- during the first hundred hours). Anyway, I don't have the trained ears, and I don't have the means to do this kind of test. But I think that it'd be pretty interesting, and it would make a nice video. I'd watch it, for sure! Anyway, keep up the good work. Nice audio, nice video, very nice way to present your opinions and great content. Congratulations again. Finally, the comments in your High-End Audio break-in video were closed, so I can't really know if someone suggested something like this. If I'm somehow trespassing, I'm sorry and please accept my apologies; that wasn't the intention. Best regards.
In the era of Covid house arrest, I have auditioned nine different integrated amps The two I purchased are first, the Yamaha S801, and second a Schiit Ragnarok 2. The Yamaha was one of the first I tried and the Schiit last which would explain why I wound up with two amps. That said, I did not sell the 801 when the Schiit came along. I'm also glad I didn't audition the Musical Fidelity or I might have wound up with three. One thing I don't like about the 801 is the plastic knobs. It appears the 1200 may have machined aluminum controls. I hope so. For the price f the 1200 you can buy a 801, a set of Triangle Bro3 speakers and stands, an Audiolab CDT transport, a good DAC like a Denafrips or a Bifrost, and some money left over for cabling. You would have a very nice system for a modest 3K. Different strokes.
I demoed this with some Wharfedale Linton Anniversary speakers and it's snarl and rock and roll energy blew me away. I opted for a less expensive Arcam Amp with an integrated DAC and I'm very pleased with it, but the Yamaha had a heft and energy to it that I would of loved to have in my listening room.
You’re killing me with the timing of this video! I have Klipsch Heresy IVs and been mulling over the A-S1200, Uniti Atom and the Peachtree Nova 300 (which you should review). Ultimately, I went with the Peachtree for the digital connectivity options and more timeless looks versus the Naim, but I can’t stop thinking about this Yamaha!!
I ditched my Nova 300 for the S2100, never looked back. That class D Peachtree doesn't hold a candle to the Yamaha, and do not believe the hype. You can't get bass out of the 300, and the volume controls are so finicky. If you want warmth and full sound, get the Yamaha. If you want a run of the mill Class D amp, get the Nova.
@@CJL36 it will end with the s2100,or s2200 because I was in the same boat as you. This way you can always upgrade your DAC, your streamer.. and you won't have to worry abou the wonderful piece of equipment delivering the music.
I just got a Musical Fidelity M3si, but due to my wide spectrum of content/listening really miss a bass control for some things. This might have been a better buy... 😭
I owned much top level Yamaha audio in the mid-80’s and thoroughly enjoyed it. I don’t think Yamaha ever built a bad product whether it’s a motorcycle, a musical instrument, or audio product. Prices have skyrocketed since then. While I’m sure these are good products, I can’t see paying that kind of money for mass market products. I prefer being able to pick up the telephone and talk directly to the designer of the product.
Get your Heresys up, 22” off the floor, and you’ll be glad you did. I use end tables and leveled the Heresys with a book or two under the rear feet. Also, extreme toe in works better than traditional toe in.
I *found* a Yamaha CR-820 (55 WPC receiver from ~1978) sitting on a stack of e-waste at work. After dusting it off, I checked it out and found that one channel was dead. A quick spritz w/ some electronic cleaner fixed that (input selector was the culprit). It sounded fantastic. It seems to be a great match for my ELAC speakers. It still flaked out once in a while and since my den is now my full-time office for the foreseeable future, I picked up an Emotiva TA-100 as a replacement. A fine receiver, btw. The Yamaha is now relegated to supplying background music in the living room. Just yesterday, my wife was working on her Christmas music mix and I stood in front of the Yamaha system and was, again, just amazed at the overall performance of this gem. If it had a remote and two reliable channels, the TA-100 might be providing the background.
I just love the physical dials, switches and controls in an amplifier, and just hate the modern ones with push-buttons and menus (horrible stuff!). This is the main reason why I bought myself a Yamaha receiver.
At risk of scrutiny, of epic proportions, I have always been a fan of Yamaha products, from their vintage hi-fi to their AV offerings, to the items featured here in this video. Every time I think I'm finding something better than Yamaha, I always end up coming back to it because of my appreciation of their interpretation of hi-fi sound, being better, in my opinion, than the other brands in the same price bracket. Every time I've made a supposed upgrade to another brand, I've always regretted it in time and went right back to what I had previously or better with Yamaha. Too bad I can't say so for their speakers but as far as amplifiers preamps and such, they are some of my favorite.
Sword of Christ Ministries I have to agree Yamaha make great components but historically there speakers have not been to my taste. The speakers usually have great specs and perform well in testing but seemed to lack warmth and character.
@Andrew Robinson answered the same question below in the comments. He wrote that he prefer the Technics overall and because of its decent digital connectivity. I have the sug700 meanwhile and I love it. But I haven't the possibility compare it with the Yamaha.
Hello, Andrew. Tonight I revisited, back to back, two of your last year reviews: this one, with the Yamaha A-S1200 and an even older one, the Technics SU-G700. As you, I love the retro looks of both these units. I'm perfectly aware that the Yamaha has a more traditional "soul", with no additional bells and whistles, whereas the outside looks of the Technics is deceiving, in a good sense, being packed inside with new technology. Currently I have a new pair of Wharfedale Linton drived very well, in my opinion, by a Cambridge CXA 60. But, as I said, I love that VU-meters! Where I live, the two units are priced the same. Judging by your review tone, enthusiastic to say the least in the Technics film, compared to the more polite in the Yamaha's...I guess you like the Technics more. And it seems like a more safe bet, being a good partner for a lot of speakers and not partial to any musical genre, in particular. Those are my conclusions after rewatching your reviews. Unfortunately, with that pandemic, I cannot listen any of these units prior to buying them. So, all things being equal, which one sounds better for you? Regards, Radu...
Thanks Andrew for the review, been waiting and wondering why it took so long. I purchased the S701 and the Heresy IV with the Klipsch SPL-150SW and love this combo. I did a ton of research and stumbled on to the s701 and was worried that it would not be up for the job, but I gambled and I feel like I won. For a digital input I recently added a Modi 3 DAC and it was a great addition to the system. Thanks for listening to my rambles....love your channel by the way.
The A-S1200 is a very musical amp when used with the power cord it came with. You can get greater accuracy with the sources and interconnects and preserve it's musicalness. I didn't use a power conditioner. Fun to listen to.
That amplifier looks amazing. I hope there will be more classic design amplifiers and receivers. They are not many at a lower price point with a classic design, so I would like to see some.
1976 Yamaha CA 1000 integrated amp is my hi fi fond memory. Great amp for my high school entry level JBLs. The new amps with the quality of build and the huge power supply look to be a huge step up from vintage Yamaha. Hang a quality streamer and turntable on this new Yamaha bad boy along with some L100 Classics, you might have something special. Thanks for the great review!
Someone who has both the A-S1000 and the A-S1100 compared these amps with the A-S301 (cheapest model) and was genuinely surprised how close the A-S301 came to the A-S1100. He posted very extensive videos about these Yamaha amps on youtube. He seems very knowledgeable and honest.
I bought the A-S1100 just as the line was terminated to introduce the new line. Silver front, last piece in my country, took me 3 weeks to track it down, called pretty much every retailer for Yamaha and found it, paid $1200 and probably the last amp i'll ever own, unless i get filthy rich. I've paired it up with a Sony - CDP-XB930 QS, Akai AP206c and a pair of Dynavoice DF6 , sounds amazing.
Hi, is it worth buying the A-S1200 or is the A-S1100 just as good? Just seen a A-S1100 come up for sale used. What year did the terminate the A-S1100? Thx
@@derekmann857 I haven't read many reviews on the 1200 so i couldn't tell you if the extra money is worth it since it's pretty hefty. But i'm very pleased with my 1100 and can highly recommend it, especially if you can get it on sale... buy it - imo. Merry Christmas.
You are probably watching this video trying to find a way to justify to your wife the lavish expense of buying this amp instead of listening from your Amazon Echo. I bought one a few months ago, it took courage to ask to spend the money, but the whole family agrees it was worth it now they can hear it. I turned my older Yamaha R N602 into a music streamer, the 1200 is vastly superior to this receiver. Most of the time I play records and it is superb, beautifully made. Caution, it is incredibly heavy. Watch your back, but have no fear about the investment.
I managed to get a A-S1100 at a great price for an ex-display model at a great price with full warranty and I honestly dont see any need to upgrade, this is going to be my amp for a long time for sure and no DACs to fall out of date in the future
@@ianaintsaying1625 a budget avr or amp will play Klipsch speakers loud. But a good quality amp will make them sound fantastic in the process. I know from my own experience, powering my RF7i’s initially with a cheap Pioneer avr, then upgrading to an Arcam amp... the sound quality improvement was night and day!
I bought the Yamaha AS1100 in the UK two years ago and its been a bomb of an amp out standing full of power punch and clarity just cant fault it truly a great amp possibly the best in its class, certainly performs well above its price would i buy another yamaha , yup you bet i would based on this devices performance money very well spent, ps nice video Andres love your styles and word choice pps good technical recording skills guys amongst the best technical videos out there for vision and sound quality , stay Covid safe best wishes from UK.
Recently pulled the trigger on a Luxman L590AX-II - 30w of class A loveliness, with meters (I'm a sucker for those too....) - pricy, but I'm only on this rock once :)
Yamaha has been able to keep it together when many Japanese companies couldn't, I am fond of their gear from the 70s and from the last decade. I know that Andrew doesn't believe in break in, but I have heard from several owners and a few reviewers that this Yamaha amplifier benefits immensely from having lots of hours on it before final evaluation.
I purchased the newer updated A-S1200 when it came to market & I can attest to what you are saying about break-in. I was aware of this factor beforehand. It was quite disappointing sound wise at first, but I noticed a steadily gradual improvement in overall sound quality with use. This break-in can only happen when there is a signal running through the amp. I would continuously play CD for several hours each day. After about 12-18 hours, the sound quality emitted was pure joy coming through my Ohm Walsh 2000 speakers.
There is a difference between the A-S1200 and the A-S2200/A-S3200 that may matter to some. The A-S2200/A-S3200 have a discrete headphone amp; the A-S1200 uses an op amp. I agree that this is the best value in the current lineup, but there are still A-S2100 units out there for around $2500 vs $4000 for the newer A-S2200. Do you have any thought on using one of the Yamahas with Q-Acoustic Concept 300s / 500s? Thanks for this and all your reviews.
@@andrewrobinsonreviews Thanks. The Concept 300s have been on my short list since I saw your review. They check all my boxes at a price I'm willing to pay. BTW, I signed up for the Q Acoustics mailing list and got a code for 10% off any purchase, except for the Concept 500 and 3000 series, with no expiration date.
Would you say it’s more refined more silky smooth more higher details more clarity more base retrieval and overall thicker and more full-bodied sound than the GU 700 from techniques that you reviewed that you said you liked over a year ago? And if you had to choose which one has better sound quality and hearing everything with space and lots of air out of those two ! I wish it came in XL are this model and maybe 120 watts max into 8ohms then perfect! Sure looks beautiful pretty expensive and where I’m from there’s no return policy if I buy it from somewhere I can’t return it if I don’t like it so I’m hoping it’s gonna sound very clear
I've come to this review looking to see if its better than the technics. I much prefer the look of the technics. My speakers are Dali Rubicon 5 86db & 4ohms which means its pretty difficult to drive them.
I've had a Yamaha .CA 800 as my primary amp since I bought it used in the late 80s. Like many others I'm always looking for different gear. Thanks for another good review!
I got one of these today from adorama. Saw it online last summer, but after watching your review a few times I decided to take the plunge and pony up the paycheck. I enjoy your channel and always look forward to the new videos.
Thank you Andrew, for another really nice review. I too am a huge devotee to the silver faced, metered masterpieces of the 70’s during the wattage wars that have left us with gear whose beauty and power survives to this day. Part of the magic of listening to great music is the amp or receiver that “shows” you it’s working as hard as you did to pay for them. I can’t imagine the grief I’d feel from losing my Marantz 300dc and 3800 Preamp. Would feel like losing family. Anyway, here’s to Yamaha for remembering that stereo amps can and should be silver faced with meters whenever possible lol !
Awesome video- but the A-701 is the real sweetheart in the range. It’s functionally the same as the 801 in terms of performance and guts but minus the USB DAC. It actually keeps equally performant coax and optical inputs, but gets rid of the ugly USB lights on the front of the panel along with that input. In exchange you save at least another $100 msrp (often more, as the 701 seems to go on sale more frequently than the 801), you get a better looking piece of gear for less, and you can spend that money saved on an external USB DAC like a Schiit Modi.
I own the A-S801 and the phone stage leaves much to be desired. When I replace it, hopefully within the next year or so, I'll be looking at the Yamaha A-S3200 and calling it quits after that. As for "my" favorite Yamaha styling periods, it a hands down 1984-1989... I simply like the huge red power meters on their power amps AND their clean "authoritarian" lines.
There may be but Yamaha does little to call attention to them. Additionally, people have brought up several things that they thought were different and others have disputed those assertions. I think there is a difference or bigger difference between the 1200 and 3200, no doubt, but I’m just not “sold” on the 2200. I standby my opinion that I think the 1200 is the best value of the three.
Performance is king for me. It’s good that traditional integrated s are still offered as I will add this to my shortlist based on your enjoyable review. My sole source is vinyl, so I don’t want the bells and whistles (digital) that so many amps offer. I have a good phono stage (battery powered Nighthawk - brilliant American Phono stage) and a headphone amp (Fidelity Audio - great British h/amp), Well Tempered Versalex + Dynavector 17D3 and recently purchased Revel F206 speakers. I just need the right amp to replace my old Leema Pulse. Can you suggest any other amps?
Maybe it would be interesting to compare vintage Yamaha from 80/90s with lower models from newer Yamaha amps (a-s 300/500/700). They could have comparable prices. I have old Yamaha AX-750 that costed me about 150 usd (whole system about 500 usd) and would consider to buy in future used but newer amp from Yamaha.
Andrew, The difference between the 1200 and the 2200 is not just balanced inputs, the 2200 is a differential amp. That is, balance from input to output. Whereas the 1200 is single ended. This reduces noise, etc
Hi Andrew, do you think the 1200 will sound the same as the 2200 if used only through rca’s? The 2200 has bigger Caps and is full balanced from input to output.Thanks
I prefer vintage. New "vintage" is cool but I don't know that the price justifies it. I had my Marantz 2235B serviced for under $200 and it sounds perfect. If I'm going to pay 3K for something 2-channel, I'd sooner go with a modern tube based integrated amplifier.
I use a modern Yamaha Aventage Receiver as a preamp, but use a vintage 1980s Yamaha M-80 Power Amp, that puts out 250 watts per channel into 8ohms. "Earth shattering" with the Magnat Transpuls 1500 Retro 15inch speakers.
Sorry Andrew the 801 is too laid back and the 100 watts a side won’t hold up against the 1200.... which looks to have more robust higher rates Caps and higher quality components! Has got to be a big difference in both for the price.... I bought the 801 brand new and lived it with for three years before selling it as it felt lacking with my POLK LSIM 707 which true are 88 dB.... however I can’t insist on how happy I am with my second hand DENON PMA 1510 AE which is phenomenal! Yes dual transformers and high current plus the 70 watts a side at 8ohms doubles into 140 @4 ohms!! Pure heaven I say sir! I’ve requested Steve the Audiophilliac and a couple of other guys on this platform to review a DENON STEREO AMP.... not the crappy AVR’s.... my request to you too for the same...would love to hear your take on the same 👍 Awesome content Andrew... continue with what you do.... we here in Mumbai India appreciate and follow religiously 🍻🍻🍻.... Cheers mate!
Fascinating and helpful video analysis. Thank you. Faced with the reality of finding, restoring, and maintaining a system of my youth, an AR Amplifier, AR Turntable, and a set of AR3A's, I looked at Yamaha. I went with the A-S801 with built-in DAC, a 27" iMac as a source, and a pair of freshly restored Vandersteen IIC's. I will add a turntable, possibly the Yamaha, soon. High End? Not really but, exceptional, affordable, and practical. I have to say I find it amazing to use La Scala's in a small room. In the early 80's I was in a New Wave Band that used them as our PA, running all vocals, keyboards, and bass through them powered by a Crown DC150. The sound was astounding, and playing bass through them, I wondered if I could not turn over tables in the fourth row if pushed(!)
It's incredible how Yamaha has essentially built a receiver that could've existed in the late 70's. The best era for Yamaha is probably the 1980's. Just before they went to more blackface components.
Thank you Andrew for a great video. It helped me . I purchased this amp last week and I have been using it for 4 days . I knew from previous experience that brand new amps can sound strained or thin. Its been the last 24 hours and Im definitely gettinga taste of its potential. Its outclassed my previous Denon pma 1510 ( which is a very good amp) and comparable to my AriandKt 88 pro valve amp. Luxman, Accuphase, McIntosh , Audio Research are superb amplifiers but the Yamaha is outstanding value with looks and build quality to match. For my Uk sized living room This IS my end game amp 👍
I think the Yamaha A-S1200 is an excellent integrated amplifier with what I say are high end aspirations and design at what I think is a moderately high-end price. I would mate this integrated amplifier with what what I feel are equally moderately priced by equally high-end speakers (and in my mind, Paradigms, higher-end PSB’s, or moderately priced Focal’s or Wharfedale’s come to mind here). And being that this is an analog amplifier with no digital connectivity, and if I am a totally vinyl connoisseur and devotee (and nothing but), then maybe a Pro-Ject turntable ($1,000.00 and up) or maybe a Technics SL-1500C would be my choice here. Otherwise, if I am into digital as much as I am into analog (which I am), then I would more than likely choose an A-S801 over this one with the same speaker and turntable choices over this one. Or if I want a totally all analog integrated amplifier (and I also want XLR Balanced connectivity, then my integrated amplifier of choice, if it has to be a Yamaha) would be a A-S2200 (and I agree, I would take either one in silver...... silver faceplates with lacquered or wooden side panel pieces look far more elegant than the same with a black faceplate). -Charles-
I'd be interested to hear your opinion with this compared to the Technics SU-G700 as they seem to be in similar price range and you highly rated the Technics SU-G700, stating it was your new reference amp when it was reviewed
I wonder between those two. I know how Yamaha 2100 sounds like and I really like it, so the 1200 should be more or less similar. As for Technics, they are not so popular in my country, and I'm afraid to buy a bit without listening through the Internet. It makes me wonder if it is digital is not too analytical sounding for me. Technics on the other hand has digital inputs and a good DAC that can be connected directly to a computer with an optical cable. Streemer has to be purchased for both anyway.
I had the SU-G700 and tried to love it. The looks and features were amazing but it sounded lifeless. Ended up selling it. I had a Yamaha AS501 at the same time and sold a Creek EVO 50 to help fund the Technics. At a similar price point and looks I would choose the new Yamaha for sure. The AS501 had more life to the sound, and while the Creek was gone already I suspect it would have run circles around the Technics as it sounded cleaner than the AS501 but the same emotion, bigger stage, and more sparkle.
Great review, and I’m with you on the classic Yamaha looks front - LOVE their silver models. Silver is the only way to go, of course. I’ve got a bunch of Yamaha amps and I even had a CR-2020 from like 1978 earlier this year, a true beast of an amp and great looking. What bugged me about it was that it ran pretty hot and I started worrying that this might be dangerous; in April I stupidly swapped it for some other vintage amp & Pre amp. I kind of miss the old CR-2020, but there you go. I still think my MCR N870D is great, I just love it, it handles all my streaming and internet radio perfectly and I’ve started using it with my LG television for films and quality TV series and the sound is incredible through some Jordan Empire floorstanders. Not a high end unit of course, but for me the looks, sound and compact footprint of this setup are killer.
I love the vintage look. My only aesthetic gripe is that I'd prefer the side panels were wood grain rather than piano black. I'm quite into the simplicity of integrated amps and I have a 2.1 system which I think is perfectly adequate. I suppose it can come down to the kind of films you watch as to what 'surround sound' you might be missing out on. I also consider my system more a music system (CDs and vinyl) than a home cinema set up. I happen to have a Yamaha CA-510 with centered VU meters. It's being serviced right now. Maybe that will suffice for a Yamaha set-up, but this amp does look very sweet to me. The next two models up look chunkier and not as elegant in my opinion. Thanks for the review.
I own this integrated amp and feel the same about the black side panels. The line this replaced came with wood grain side panels. I've wondered if they are interchangeable and available for purchase.
@@craurell It seems like something they could provide, doesn't it? Or else you could attempt to create your own wooded side panels but you need to get the right grain and thickness.
I was lucky enough to find the last NOS Yamaha retro looking receiver R-S700 where I live. Right after I sold my vintage Pioneer and Marantz. No regrets.
that is one beautiful piece of kit. as a kid, i always dreamed of owning a Technics SE-A1000 power amp, those VU meters were just SO damn sexy, with the warm lighting... This reminded me of that a little bit.
After some lengthy research I ended up purchasing the Yamaha as-1200 and T-S500 tuner along with some B&W 606 s2 speakers, and Klipsch r-51speakers . I think they pair well with each other and I'm happy with my purchase. I choose the Yamaha 1200 because of the price and meters vs other amps in this price range, the older 1100 series had great reviews so I wasn't too worried about buying something I would regret later.
Thanks Andrew. Enjoyed the review. I recently purchased a Yamaha CD player and hence am interested in replacing my nad316 with one of the Yamaha amps mentioned. This 1200 looks great but is pricey. I liked that you compared it to the Naim atom which I guess is at a similar price point, and I like also. The 801 certainly sounds an impressive option for much less $$. As always a very enjoyable review. Thanks 😊
My CA1200 is old school and absolutely incredible. Power on demand, tones of controls and inputs. Phenomenal amp. Not sure where you are located but I'd be happy to do a vintage modern shoot out!
Nice review as always! I Did a direct comparison between the M5si and the A-S1200 when the Yamaha just came out, and bought the M5si for the exact reasons you stated in your review. Not only was it more suited to my tastes in music but it was also a lot cheaper. It’s biggest weakness is the outdated USB only DAC section, so fans of hi res are better off getting an external DAC like me ;) . Can’t comment on the phono stage, since my cartridge is a MC. Looking forward to more of your video’s!
Vintage gear is its own animal. If you decide to go down that rabbit hole, do yourself the favour of learning some basic repair. It's a lot like owning a sports car (a true sports car, not a mass-produced vehicle that LOOKS like a sports car - they are meant to be worked on and maintained. If you like to tinker and tweak, they are for you.) I initially got into vintage 1970s gear because when I was a kid, I went to visit my brothers in college and their friends had these amazing systems (Sansui, Yamaha, Pioneer, Marantz, etc., etc) and I was smitten. We never had such systems in our house and it wasn't until I got into my 50s that I had the $ to afford decent gear. My point of reference for what constituted "good gear" was those same old monster systems I saw in my youth so that's what I bought. Heck yeah, they sound great, but they are temperamental. A lot like listening to a really interesting old dude in a nursing home: Lots of great stories and romance, but he likes to take a lot of naps and you wonder how long he's going to be around. The new Yamahas like these are pretty great and they have all the sexiness of the vintage Yamaha.
We just sent back a vintage Yamaha receiver but just inherited a Pioneer SX-780 from Kristi's family and are sending it off to be restored! Super excited! Appreciate you watching!
PS-it's funny that we associate that silver look with vintage gear (from the 70s and earlier). But at the same time, in Europe, a lot of those same brands were using black. I've come to love both!
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Your review of the A-S801 ( if/when it comes out) would be the only one i trust.
@@wa2368 Why is that?
I own an AS-1100 powering a pr of Martin Logan 60XTi and a ML 10" powered sub using an Ipad through a MODI3 DAC. Years ago I owned a complete Yamaha component system ie...EQ, Tuner, Phono you get it. Anyway the heart of that was the AVC-50 and M-65 amp. It was really nice, but I really love the Vintage look sound of the new stuff. I think your review was dead on. I also think you might be surprised at the difference between the 801 and 1200. I have a buddy who has the 801, no doubt it is a good amp(with a really good built in DAC) but just not quite the 1200. Love your reviews
Great amp! Had the 803 for awhile and also tried the 1200 for a week.
803 is a great amp that has no complaints. Very clean and open sound.
The AS1100/1200+ series is just so razor sharp and detailed. Like a sushi chef knife!
I would definitely say it’s “better” but be prepared to hear EVERYTHING. Haha not always want you want depending on the track.
Like a high megapixel digital photo with tons of detail vs a film camera photo that’s a softer look. Matter of what you like but I hear the AS amps do calm down a bit after 100 hours.
@@andrewrobinsonreviews Your description of the sound signature of different things i own have been spot on so far.
I am not sure if I agree with the statement "the only real difference between the 2200 and the 1200 is just a balanced input." There are many more differences between the A-S1200 and A-S2200:
1- The A-S2200 is using the same pre Amp topology as the A-S3200. It has many more components on the Pre Amp stage than the A-S1200.
2- While the transformer in both Amps is a 625vA Toroidal one, A-S2200 uses larger filter caps (4 x 22,000uF) compared to A-s1200 (4 x 18,000uF). The 2200 has total of 16,000uF more available! You should know what that translate to.
3- The A-S2200 has a 3mm Brass plate under the toroidal transformer which helps suppress unwanted vibration.
4- The A-S2200 has better internal wiring PC triple C 10AWG to the speaker outputs vs A-S1200 which has 12AWG
5- The A-S2200 has a discrete headphone amp built in with volume control!!!
6- The A-S2200 uses better feet than the A-S1200. They’re machined brass with chrome plating. The A-S1200 is iron with chrome plating so they look the same but they’re not. The brass actually helps with the mid-range richness and lower bass.
The question is are you willing to pay $1,500 for the higher quality and more features that the A-S2200 offers?
Thx for all that info.
Seems like if a guy can find a good deal on even a A-S3200 its better to spend more to get more. Im sure the A-S3200 would last a lifetime
Thanks, if it was not of the new r-n2000a coming soon, I'd be more interested in the 2200 than the 1200. MM/MC switch at the front too I believe...
@@SSS-cv7dc all those differences amount to zero difference in the sound signature. “Brass plate?” I’ve never heard how a plate sounds. The 10 to 12 cable thickness difference and the caps might get you a different reading which I doubt but on a a/b test do not amount to anything. The only noticeable difference is the headphone sound and balance inputs which decreases the thd a bit I’m glad I’ve been able to test both amps.
Im using a A-S 2100 and it’s worth every single €! Perfect sound and a fine panorama. Perfect!
I’ve got an 801 and a 2200. They’re worlds apart. There’s more differences between the 1200 and 2200 other than XLR’s. Firstly, the 1200 is a more open ended design where as the 2200 is fully balanced from input to output. The 2200 has the MM/MC selector switch on the front and a more robust headphone section. IMO, the 2200 is the sweet spot in the Yamaha line up, not the 1200. The 801 is great for its versatility when it comes to integrating it with a tv, or other digital sources. The 801 and 1200 and up sound signature will likely not sound the same to many as the 801 has an Ei core transformer where as the 1200 onward have toroidal transformers.
Between a-s 801 and a-s 2200, which one do you think has a sweeter sound (medium and high)? Which have less forward presentation (more relaxed / relaxing sound). What speakers are they playing with?
@@andreassouth1523 the 2200 is warmer than my 801, both have pretty forwardness speakers attached to them KLH Kendall’s on the 2200 and Triangle Bro 3’s on the 801, having said that the 2200 is more laid back presentation IMO. The 2200 has a notable mid range bump, very nice mid range, the top end of the 2200 is more smooth and fuller richer sound over the 801.
Nathan, do you think that through RCA will there be any difference in sound, 1200vs2200?
@@diogoserrador yes, lower noise floor going balanced with the 2200. If you had the A-S1200 and the CD-S1000 however, that’s still a really good combo. The 2200 is just all around better than the 1200, but you’re paying more for it too.
I have the A-S1200 and love it! I think the capacitors make it substantial. Back in the day ADCOM produced high-quality amps with huge capacitors which was in my opinion key to their success. The capacitors make the full extent of the power available and improve the sound quality at lower listening levels. The A-S2200 has a slightly bigger capacitor and an upgraded headphone preamp. Yamaha makes no claims, but the A-S1200 manages the B&W sub that I have. I have followed you for about a year now and have really enjoyed your reviews. Your review of the new JBL L100 was very helpful. I always wanted one, but after your comments on the cheap veneer and another reviewer saying they were not as good as the originals, I went with B&W 705 S2s. The L100s have funky stands that do not fit in a nice room, maybe in a man-cave. JBL should have did something like the Warfdale did. for the Lintons. Deepest thanks for your valuable and insightful advice.
I have it's older brother A-S1100 and I simply love it. Previously I was using a vintage A-1060 from 1982 but with old age comes the reliability issue. Although it sounded great when it worked it started spending more time in the repair shop than at home.
Bought an A-S1200 to replace an A700 Yamaha integrated amp that I have been happily using since buying it in 1982. After 38 years of sometimes hard core service (was a college kid back then, the A700 was run hard for hours at keg parties via the turn it up to audible clipping, back it off a tad method) . It had an easier time once I became a grown up - LOL
Able to push 250W peaks into 4 ohms, the old A700 had far more power than the new A-S1200 at stupid volume levels, but I rarely listen that loud anymore. The A-S1200 was a little "edgy" until broken in, but even when it was new, the A-S was less fatiguing at higher volume levels than the old A700. Now that it is broken in, the A-S12 is amazingly smooth at healthy volume levels, and it throws down a detailed and broad sound stage that the old amp simply could not muster.
As for build quality, obviously the vintage A700 was built really well, and with relatively minor repairs, it will continue to run. The A-S1200 is built even beefier than the old amp - it is heavier and just looks tidier and better inside, and it is not cranking out as much power as the A700 either. I figure the A-S1200 is a well made and under stressed unit - it barely gets warm, running much cooler than the older amp. Obviously when I find something that is of high quality and that works for me, I hang onto it - amps, wives, etc. I will be 6 feet under before the new amp has any issues.
As for is it worth it? Shop around, I picked up mine for 2K delivered to my door, about 1K off MSRP. Seems the silver ones are hotter sellers, but silver, while very nice, to me is 1970s and before my time. I prefer black, the old A700 was black, continuing the bad ass Yamaha tradition!
I pretty much concur with all of your assessments. I had the A-1000 (1985) and bought the A-S3000 almost two years ago. The A-S3000 makes my Infinity RS4b's sound better than they ever have which prompted me to start looking at new speakers. I settled on Magico A3's which are similar to the RS4b's in size, amount of tweeter, midrange and woofer drivers. Obviously the Magico's are on another level than the RS4b's but the same could be said for the A-S3000 compared to the A-1000. It will be interesting to see how everything sounds when the Magico's arrive, I've heard the Magico's will sound even better with more power. Minimum RMS power for the A3's is 50 watts at 4 ohms. The A-S3000 delivers 150 watts at 4 ohms. Hopefully I'll be happy with the sonics because I really do love the way the A-S3000 sounds. As far as looks go I don't think I've seen another integrated that is as aesthetically pleasing.
@@vuch9802 That is a beautiful amp, and it should be amazing with those speakers. Enjoy!
@@craighoffman6876 That's what I'm hoping. Otherwise I'll have to trade it in for something better and I'll really miss the looks of it.
@Jingle Nuts Nice amp man! Enjoy.
The A-S801 is a completely different design from A-S1200 and while wattage may be similar, other specifications are not even close. The 1200 has a flatter frequency response and has a much lower noise floor (more than 10 dB).
I bought a secondhand A-S3000 and it is absolutely fantastic! It looks fantastic, it sounds amazing and it is built extremely well. I guess the complete A-Sxxxx line is like that. And yes, I have it in silver color!
I have the 2200. As you say the price jump is not insignificant but the discrete headphone amp, balanced circuitry and MM/MC button on the front are useful to me. Either way great amps! Cheers.
Nice to see new products coming to market. I have older A-S2000, Heresy 3s and SVS SB-1000. No need to upgrade anything now (or ever) :)
I like the vintage because the latest is var expensive I have the yamaha ca 810 and rated at 75 watts a side mine was rated just over 90 but regardless I enjoy it thanks
This is the best way to look at things. I have all I need.
Tumilyl, how do you have your SVS sub hooked up to your Yamaha with it’s “ floating and balanced” amp section? I am going with an REL sub and high level connection to flesh out the bass on my Wharfedale Lintons . I have the Yamaha A S-2100 amp.
@@steelydanfan100 I used Yamaha's pre out inputs with rca cables. I could also use SVS's high level inputs with speaker cables. Maybe I'll try that some time too :) Pre out option works great too
I have had the AS3000 (predecessor to AS3200) for 6 months, and have found it really engaging. Notes will emerge from instruments that just sound so pin sharp and real. A very satisfying amp. It has more than plenty of bass weight, so maybe that’s a difference between the 3000s and 1000s in the range. I will admit I did buy it for its looks too...
I still have my 70s Yamaha vintage receiver. with my pioneer turntable and my Polk audio 800s. it’s sounds warm and deep bass after all these years. Still makes me smile 😊
The lack of digital inputs is real plus as this unit will not go obsolete any time soon. Since many of us may still have legacy analog components this amp gives my personal inventory more years of life. We all have been bitten at one point with changing spec's in digital gear, i.e. the HDCP supply chain, so a pure 2 channel analog amp is most welcome. Will wait for the S-801 review before investing. Good job sir.
For anyone interested in the sound of this amp through headphones, from what I have been told, you basically hear the same soundstage as you would through speakers. After watching this video a dozen times in the last 2 years, I finally bought a 1200, but have not hooked up any speakers yet. I am still listening to it on the floor. I did not realize how BIG it was out the back. Had to order a whole new stereo rack. Using the bass control, I get nice, tight bass out of my headphones. And even during Mahler’s 9th, with all those musicians playing at once, I get a sense of separation as to who is sitting where. VERY happy with the sound of its headphone output compared to a dedicated headphone amp with XLR. I have been using a Marantz CD running through a Topping sandwich with a Lokius in the middle, and this is MUCH better. Of course it is twice the price. But it is worth it.
My vintage luxman and McIntosh amps beat the pants out of a lot of modern headphone amps as well, particularly with high impedance HPs.
Just received my A S1200 and I have to say it's pretty awesome. You will need a converter of some type to run anything digital into it. But... talk about power rocks my room easily. One thing it does pick up all sounds coming from your turntable dirt, scratches bad recordings but it sounds great. Really like it so far
How does your Yamaha A-S1200 sound through headphones? Do you hear enough bass on older recordings?
I'm using the A-S1200 with a pair of La Scala II and Heresy 1's, Topping E30 and Technics 1500c and it sounds great, and I paid much less than $2800 for the Yamaha.
I'm happy Yamaha didn't include any digital inputs or any other digital stuff. Those things quickly make your electronics outdated.
Yes. These will always be pure analog and reamain relevant.
I just love the balance Yamaha gives…. Pure quality sound, connectivity and again vintage with new era mixture.
I'd love to see a comparison between this and the Technics SU-G700
I hope that he does it vs. The Mk2 of the Technics SU-G700. I just wish they had a streamer (not a 3k CD player/streamer)
Now this is a no BS-concept that I really like, no bluetooth, no USB, all the stuff that gets outdated has been omitted here. And yes, it's really beautiful. The only problem I have with many amp nowadays is that manufacturers tend to hide their specs about the amp technology that is involved, e.g. what class it is. I have no reservations against class D but I'd like to know.
@@firstsynn Thanks!
I just brought my Pioneer SA 8800 integrated amplifier out of a five year hibernation and was floored by how good it sounded with a Yamaha CD 1000 player through a pair of Sony SS M3's and then my pair of Electrovoice Interface "D" speakers from 1978, the same era as the SA 8800. I have been using a Yamaha A S2000 amplifier for three years and loved it! However when listening to the Pioneer 40+ year old amp I was blown away by how great it sounds. I have been getting out my favorite CD's and boy, do they sound great!
Great review! Yamaha is a great company that excel at everything they make and that is something to be noticed!!!! Just got a new A-S1100 in black and its simply amazing! Got a great deal on it as the new models became available. Dynamics on this monster are impressive. Running it with Klipsch speakers that are also outstanding in dynamics. I'm in heaven! Great detail in music, excellent bass control, mids and highs. Massive transformer, capacitors and heatsinks. The VU meters, feel and resistance of the knobs are spectacular. Spot on Andrew! Happy listening!
I have done an ab comparison between the 801 and 1200. The 801 is good, but is rather lifeless dynamically compared with the 1200...and strangely enough, doesn’t sound as powerful somehow, getting a bit stressed as the volume increases. Great value for money, but sonically not as compelling.
Good to know, appreciate you sharing your experience!
You’re welcome. Great channel...keep up the good work across the pond...uk here.
Hi there Andrew. I started following your channel a few days ago. Nice content. Congrats. I was enjoying some of your past work and I found the video about high-end audio break in.
Let's start by the end: I think it would be very easy to do a simple and clarifying test: Let's say you get 2 pairs of identical speakers. You plug them in cold, listen each pair for a few minutes and establish that there are no substantial sound differences among them, that they could be called identical while still "cold". Then you put one pair aside, and run the other pair for -say- 80 hours. After that, you blind test the two pairs.
Let's end with the beginning: I also watch other channels and one of them, Zero Fidelity, claimed that after using it for a while, the Yamaha AS-1200 sounded a little less fatiguing (the treble was less harsh, if memory serves).
I RESPECT EVERY OPINION. I have my own experience, and I still have doubts regarding this issue (but I'm more inclined to believe that the sound improvement has more to do with our brains adapting, than to the perceivable -5% or less- that the electronics could change -interestingly, always for the better- during the first hundred hours). Anyway, I don't have the trained ears, and I don't have the means to do this kind of test. But I think that it'd be pretty interesting, and it would make a nice video. I'd watch it, for sure!
Anyway, keep up the good work. Nice audio, nice video, very nice way to present your opinions and great content. Congratulations again.
Finally, the comments in your High-End Audio break-in video were closed, so I can't really know if someone suggested something like this. If I'm somehow trespassing, I'm sorry and please accept my apologies; that wasn't the intention.
Best regards.
In the era of Covid house arrest, I have auditioned nine different integrated amps The two I purchased are first, the Yamaha S801, and second a Schiit Ragnarok 2. The Yamaha was one of the first I tried and the Schiit last which would explain why I wound up with two amps. That said, I did not sell the 801 when the Schiit came along. I'm also glad I didn't audition the Musical Fidelity or I might have wound up with three. One thing I don't like about the 801 is the plastic knobs. It appears the 1200 may have machined aluminum controls. I hope so. For the price f the 1200 you can buy a 801, a set of Triangle Bro3 speakers and stands, an Audiolab CDT transport, a good DAC like a Denafrips or a Bifrost, and some money left over for cabling. You would have a very nice system for a modest 3K. Different strokes.
Short Answer: Yes
Long Answer: If you're a fan of Yamaha products and want something that looks Vintage with modern components, this is a no brainer.
I demoed this with some Wharfedale Linton Anniversary speakers and it's snarl and rock and roll energy blew me away. I opted for a less expensive Arcam Amp with an integrated DAC and I'm very pleased with it, but the Yamaha had a heft and energy to it that I would of loved to have in my listening room.
The outtakes are so good. You guys are great together.
Thank you!
You’re killing me with the timing of this video! I have Klipsch Heresy IVs and been mulling over the A-S1200, Uniti Atom and the Peachtree Nova 300 (which you should review). Ultimately, I went with the Peachtree for the digital connectivity options and more timeless looks versus the Naim, but I can’t stop thinking about this Yamaha!!
I ditched my Nova 300 for the S2100, never looked back. That class D Peachtree doesn't hold a candle to the Yamaha, and do not believe the hype. You can't get bass out of the 300, and the volume controls are so finicky. If you want warmth and full sound, get the Yamaha. If you want a run of the mill Class D amp, get the Nova.
@@elvisisalive2716 ... the journey never ends.
@@CJL36 it will end with the s2100,or s2200 because I was in the same boat as you. This way you can always upgrade your DAC, your streamer.. and you won't have to worry abou the wonderful piece of equipment delivering the music.
@Jingle Nuts The 3000 is a nicer centerpiece with the bigger meters, so good choice
I just got a Musical Fidelity M3si, but due to my wide spectrum of content/listening really miss a bass control for some things. This might have been a better buy... 😭
I owned much top level Yamaha audio in the mid-80’s and thoroughly enjoyed it. I don’t think Yamaha ever built a bad product whether it’s a motorcycle, a musical instrument, or audio product. Prices have skyrocketed since then. While I’m sure these are good products, I can’t see paying that kind of money for mass market products. I prefer being able to pick up the telephone and talk directly to the designer of the product.
Get your Heresys up, 22” off the floor, and you’ll be glad you did. I use end tables and leveled the Heresys with a book or two under the rear feet. Also, extreme toe in works better than traditional toe in.
I *found* a Yamaha CR-820 (55 WPC receiver from ~1978) sitting on a stack of e-waste at work. After dusting it off, I checked it out and found that one channel was dead. A quick spritz w/ some electronic cleaner fixed that (input selector was the culprit). It sounded fantastic. It seems to be a great match for my ELAC speakers. It still flaked out once in a while and since my den is now my full-time office for the foreseeable future, I picked up an Emotiva TA-100 as a replacement. A fine receiver, btw. The Yamaha is now relegated to supplying background music in the living room. Just yesterday, my wife was working on her Christmas music mix and I stood in front of the Yamaha system and was, again, just amazed at the overall performance of this gem. If it had a remote and two reliable channels, the TA-100 might be providing the background.
Great story and I can understand. We're sending off a Pioneer SX-780 for restoration because we love the vintage pieces so much!
Would you Prefer the Yamaha or the technics sug 700?
Yamaha A-S1200 beasts amps that cost double the money.
I just love the physical dials, switches and controls in an amplifier, and just hate the modern ones with push-buttons and menus (horrible stuff!). This is the main reason why I bought myself a Yamaha receiver.
At risk of scrutiny, of epic proportions, I have always been a fan of Yamaha products, from their vintage hi-fi to their AV offerings, to the items featured here in this video.
Every time I think I'm finding something better than Yamaha, I always end up coming back to it because of my appreciation of their interpretation of hi-fi sound, being better, in my opinion, than the other brands in the same price bracket. Every time I've made a supposed upgrade to another brand, I've always regretted it in time and went right back to what I had previously or better with Yamaha. Too bad I can't say so for their speakers but as far as amplifiers preamps and such, they are some of my favorite.
Sword of Christ Ministries I have to agree Yamaha make great components but historically there speakers have not been to my taste. The speakers usually have great specs and perform well in testing but seemed to lack warmth and character.
Hey Andrew. How does it compare to the Technics sug700? Thanks
+1
@@stefanlanger4397 +2
Have both. Technics win!
Bump! I want to know too!
@Andrew Robinson answered the same question below in the comments. He wrote that he prefer the Technics overall and because of its decent digital connectivity. I have the sug700 meanwhile and I love it. But I haven't the possibility compare it with the Yamaha.
Hello, Andrew.
Tonight I revisited, back to back, two of your last year reviews: this one, with the Yamaha A-S1200 and an even older one, the Technics SU-G700.
As you, I love the retro looks of both these units.
I'm perfectly aware that the Yamaha has a more traditional "soul", with no additional bells and whistles, whereas the outside looks of the Technics is deceiving, in a good sense, being packed inside with new technology.
Currently I have a new pair of Wharfedale Linton drived very well, in my opinion, by a Cambridge CXA 60.
But, as I said, I love that VU-meters!
Where I live, the two units are priced the same.
Judging by your review tone, enthusiastic to say the least in the Technics film, compared to the more polite in the Yamaha's...I guess you like the Technics more. And it seems like a more safe bet, being a good partner for a lot of speakers and not partial to any musical genre, in particular.
Those are my conclusions after rewatching your reviews.
Unfortunately, with that pandemic, I cannot listen any of these units prior to buying them.
So, all things being equal, which one sounds better for you?
Regards, Radu...
Following
same here, torn between yamaha 1200 and techs sug700
me too
Following
I want to know as well
Completely agree with "The black edition is simply not an option".
They should discontinue it 😉
Thanks Andrew for the review, been waiting and wondering why it took so long. I purchased the S701 and the Heresy IV with the Klipsch SPL-150SW and love this combo. I did a ton of research and stumbled on to the s701 and was worried that it would not be up for the job, but I gambled and I feel like I won. For a digital input I recently added a Modi 3 DAC and it was a great addition to the system. Thanks for listening to my rambles....love your channel by the way.
701 ftw! I love mine!
The A-S1200 is a very musical amp when used with the power cord it came with. You can get greater accuracy with the sources and interconnects and preserve it's musicalness. I didn't use a power conditioner. Fun to listen to.
I love Yamaha, i am in love with mine AS3000
I wonder how it holds up compared to the technics su-g700 you reviewed earlier in terms of sound (not connectivity)..
How does the Yamaha AS-2200 compare to the Denon PMA -A110? Any thiughts?
I am curious as to how the Yamaha A-S 1200 compares to the Technics SU-G700. Both amps are in the same price range and have similar aesthetics.
I would have the same question to you Andrew....i went for the SU G700 some months ago after comparing it with the AS 1100
I still prefer the 700 though the two are close.
That amplifier looks amazing. I hope there will be more classic design amplifiers and receivers. They are not many at a lower price point with a classic design, so I would like to see some.
1976 Yamaha CA 1000 integrated amp is my hi fi fond memory. Great amp for my high school entry level JBLs. The new amps with the quality of build and the huge power supply look to be a huge step up from vintage Yamaha. Hang a quality streamer and turntable on this new Yamaha bad boy along with some L100 Classics, you might have something special. Thanks for the great review!
Someone who has both the A-S1000 and the A-S1100 compared these amps with the A-S301 (cheapest model) and was genuinely surprised how close the A-S301 came to the A-S1100. He posted very extensive videos about these Yamaha amps on youtube. He seems very knowledgeable and honest.
Great review Andrew! That 1200 looks drop dead gorgeous! Being a Yamaha amp fan myself ( and owner of a lesser model ) id kill for one of these!
I bought the A-S1100 just as the line was terminated to introduce the new line.
Silver front, last piece in my country, took me 3 weeks to track it down, called pretty much every retailer for Yamaha and found it,
paid $1200 and probably the last amp i'll ever own, unless i get filthy rich.
I've paired it up with a Sony - CDP-XB930 QS, Akai AP206c and a pair of Dynavoice DF6 , sounds amazing.
Hi, is it worth buying the A-S1200 or is the A-S1100 just as good? Just seen a A-S1100 come up for sale used. What year did the terminate the A-S1100? Thx
@@derekmann857 I haven't read many reviews on the 1200 so i couldn't tell you if the extra money is worth it since it's pretty hefty. But i'm very pleased with my 1100 and can highly recommend it, especially if you can get it on sale... buy it - imo.
Merry Christmas.
Thx! Have a wonderful Xmas
You are probably watching this video trying to find a way to justify to your wife the lavish expense of buying this amp instead of listening from your Amazon Echo. I bought one a few months ago, it took courage to ask to spend the money, but the whole family agrees it was worth it now they can hear it. I turned my older Yamaha R N602 into a music streamer, the 1200 is vastly superior to this receiver. Most of the time I play records and it is superb, beautifully made. Caution, it is incredibly heavy. Watch your back, but have no fear about the investment.
I’m glad because I just ordered it tonight
I am so in love with this amplifier. Friday night, some fine single malt whiskey and Eric Clapton Unplugged sounding like the band are in your home.
Congratulations, not on having to ask your wife permission but the amp!
@@ryanjofre yeah, don't ask your wife for permission! If you are the breadwinner. Besides, you are supposed to be the head of the wife and family.
I just bought one and put it in the cabinet. The little woman doesn't know.
I am the happy owner of a Yamaha Natural Sound A-700. I believe it was made in 1984. After replacing all of its capacitors it sounds great 🙂
I have the 1100. It’s an absolute gem. Is only getting better too.
I managed to get a A-S1100 at a great price for an ex-display model at a great price with full warranty and I honestly dont see any need to upgrade, this is going to be my amp for a long time for sure and no DACs to fall out of date in the future
Gorgeous, built very solid, and very conservatively rated with a huge toroidal transformer inside. It will ROCK any Klipsch speaker 🔊
Definitely will ROCK any Klipsch speaker, for sure!
A transistor radio is enough to rock any Klipsch speaker.
@@ianaintsaying1625 a budget avr or amp will play Klipsch speakers loud. But a good quality amp will make them sound fantastic in the process. I know from my own experience, powering my RF7i’s initially with a cheap Pioneer avr, then upgrading to an Arcam amp... the sound quality improvement was night and day!
I bought the Yamaha AS1100 in the UK two years ago and its been a bomb of an amp out standing full of power punch and clarity just cant fault it truly a great amp possibly the best in its class, certainly performs well above its price would i buy another yamaha , yup you bet i would based on this devices performance money very well spent, ps nice video Andres love your styles and word choice pps good technical recording skills guys amongst the best technical videos out there for vision and sound quality , stay Covid safe best wishes from UK.
Recently pulled the trigger on a Luxman L590AX-II - 30w of class A loveliness, with meters (I'm a sucker for those too....) - pricy, but I'm only on this rock once :)
Nice. What speakers?
Yamaha has been able to keep it together when many Japanese companies couldn't, I am fond of their gear from the 70s and from the last decade. I know that Andrew doesn't believe in break in, but I have heard from several owners and a few reviewers that this Yamaha amplifier benefits immensely from having lots of hours on it before final evaluation.
I purchased the newer updated A-S1200 when it came to market & I can attest to what you are saying about break-in. I was aware of this factor beforehand. It was quite disappointing sound wise at first, but I noticed a steadily gradual improvement in overall sound quality with use. This break-in can only happen when there is a signal running through the amp. I would continuously play CD for several hours each day. After about 12-18 hours, the sound quality emitted was pure joy coming through my Ohm Walsh 2000 speakers.
There is a difference between the A-S1200 and the A-S2200/A-S3200 that may matter to some. The A-S2200/A-S3200 have a discrete headphone amp; the A-S1200 uses an op amp. I agree that this is the best value in the current lineup, but there are still A-S2100 units out there for around $2500 vs $4000 for the newer A-S2200. Do you have any thought on using one of the Yamahas with Q-Acoustic Concept 300s / 500s? Thanks for this and all your reviews.
This amp sounds great paired with our Concept 300s.
@@andrewrobinsonreviews Thanks. The Concept 300s have been on my short list since I saw your review. They check all my boxes at a price I'm willing to pay. BTW, I signed up for the Q Acoustics mailing list and got a code for 10% off any purchase, except for the Concept 500 and 3000 series, with no expiration date.
Would you say it’s more refined more silky smooth more higher details more clarity more base retrieval and overall thicker and more full-bodied sound than the GU 700 from techniques that you reviewed that you said you liked over a year ago? And if you had to choose which one has better sound quality and hearing everything with space and lots of air out of those two !
I wish it came in XL are this model and maybe 120 watts max into 8ohms then perfect! Sure looks beautiful pretty expensive and where I’m from there’s no return policy if I buy it from somewhere I can’t return it if I don’t like it so I’m hoping it’s gonna sound very clear
I've come to this review looking to see if its better than the technics. I much prefer the look of the technics. My speakers are Dali Rubicon 5 86db & 4ohms which means its pretty difficult to drive them.
I've had a Yamaha .CA 800 as my primary amp since I bought it used in the late 80s. Like many others I'm always looking for different gear. Thanks for another good review!
Thanks for watching!
I got one of these today from adorama. Saw it online last summer, but after watching your review a few times I decided to take the plunge and pony up the paycheck. I enjoy your channel and always look forward to the new videos.
How’s it going?
Thank you Andrew, for another really nice review. I too am a huge devotee to the silver faced, metered masterpieces of the 70’s during the wattage wars that have left us with gear whose beauty and power survives to this day. Part of the magic of listening to great music is the amp or receiver that “shows” you it’s working as hard as you did to pay for them. I can’t imagine the grief I’d feel from losing my Marantz 300dc and 3800 Preamp. Would feel like losing family. Anyway, here’s to Yamaha for remembering that stereo amps can and should be silver faced with meters whenever possible lol !
Awesome video- but the A-701 is the real sweetheart in the range. It’s functionally the same as the 801 in terms of performance and guts but minus the USB DAC. It actually keeps equally performant coax and optical inputs, but gets rid of the ugly USB lights on the front of the panel along with that input. In exchange you save at least another $100 msrp (often more, as the 701 seems to go on sale more frequently than the 801), you get a better looking piece of gear for less, and you can spend that money saved on an external USB DAC like a Schiit Modi.
while turning the Tone control, music stops for a fraction of a second. Why is that ?.
It switch off the direct mode
Relays
I own the A-S801 and the phone stage leaves much to be desired. When I replace it, hopefully within the next year or so, I'll be looking at the Yamaha A-S3200 and calling it quits after that. As for "my" favorite Yamaha styling periods, it a hands down 1984-1989... I simply like the huge red power meters on their power amps AND their clean "authoritarian" lines.
hi, differences between as1200 and as2200 ? worth in price ?
This amp like many others takes extensive break in to really shine! Also there are quite a few other technical differences between the 1200 and 2200.
There may be but Yamaha does little to call attention to them. Additionally, people have brought up several things that they thought were different and others have disputed those assertions. I think there is a difference or bigger difference between the 1200 and 3200, no doubt, but I’m just not “sold” on the 2200. I standby my opinion that I think the 1200 is the best value of the three.
I’ve heard of speakers requiring break-in but never an amplifier using solid-state circuitry
Performance is king for me. It’s good that traditional integrated s are still offered as I will add this to my shortlist based on your enjoyable review. My sole source is vinyl, so I don’t want the bells and whistles (digital) that so many amps offer. I have a good phono stage (battery powered Nighthawk - brilliant American Phono stage) and a headphone amp (Fidelity Audio - great British h/amp), Well Tempered Versalex + Dynavector 17D3 and recently purchased Revel F206 speakers. I just need the right amp to replace my old Leema Pulse. Can you suggest any other amps?
Maybe it would be interesting to compare vintage Yamaha from 80/90s with lower models from newer Yamaha amps (a-s 300/500/700). They could have comparable prices. I have old Yamaha AX-750 that costed me about 150 usd (whole system about 500 usd) and would consider to buy in future used but newer amp from Yamaha.
Andrew,
The difference between the 1200 and the 2200 is not just balanced inputs, the 2200 is a differential amp. That is, balance from input to output. Whereas the 1200 is single ended. This reduces noise, etc
Is the phono preamp the same in both?
@@Richbroth it is
Hello...what would you choose for b&w 703 s2...Yamaha a-s 1200, MF m5si or Marantz model 30?
Ty
Hi Andrew, do you think the 1200 will sound the same as the 2200 if used only through rca’s? The 2200 has bigger Caps and is full balanced from input to output.Thanks
No comparison to the Technics?
I prefer vintage. New "vintage" is cool but I don't know that the price justifies it. I had my Marantz 2235B serviced for under $200 and it sounds perfect. If I'm going to pay 3K for something 2-channel, I'd sooner go with a modern tube based integrated amplifier.
Another enjoyable review, always settle down with cup of coffee to watch your content. Lovely amplifier too👍
I use a modern Yamaha Aventage Receiver as a preamp, but use a vintage 1980s Yamaha M-80 Power Amp, that puts out 250 watts per channel into 8ohms. "Earth shattering" with the Magnat Transpuls 1500 Retro 15inch speakers.
Sorry Andrew the 801 is too laid back and the 100 watts a side won’t hold up against the 1200.... which looks to have more robust higher rates Caps and higher quality components! Has got to be a big difference in both for the price.... I bought the 801 brand new and lived it with for three years before selling it as it felt lacking with my POLK LSIM 707 which true are 88 dB.... however I can’t insist on how happy I am with my second hand DENON PMA 1510 AE which is phenomenal! Yes dual transformers and high current plus the 70 watts a side at 8ohms doubles into 140 @4 ohms!! Pure heaven I say sir! I’ve requested Steve the Audiophilliac and a couple of other guys on this platform to review a DENON STEREO AMP.... not the crappy AVR’s.... my request to you too for the same...would love to hear your take on the same 👍 Awesome content Andrew... continue with what you do.... we here in Mumbai India appreciate and follow religiously 🍻🍻🍻.... Cheers mate!
AS 2200 has a headphone amp and larger capacitors.
and a better pre-amp section
Yep, fully balanced pre-amp
Fascinating and helpful video analysis. Thank you.
Faced with the reality of finding, restoring, and maintaining a system of my youth, an AR Amplifier, AR Turntable, and a set of AR3A's, I looked at Yamaha. I went with the A-S801 with built-in DAC, a 27" iMac as a source, and a pair of freshly restored Vandersteen IIC's. I will add a turntable, possibly the Yamaha, soon.
High End? Not really but, exceptional, affordable, and practical.
I have to say I find it amazing to use La Scala's in a small room. In the early 80's I was in a New Wave Band that used them as our PA, running all vocals, keyboards, and bass through them powered by a Crown DC150. The sound was astounding, and playing bass through them, I wondered if I could not turn over tables in the fourth row if pushed(!)
It's incredible how Yamaha has essentially built a receiver that could've existed in the late 70's. The best era for Yamaha is probably the 1980's. Just before they went to more blackface components.
2100/2200 bro, fully balanced tip to tail :D
Thank you Andrew for a great video. It helped me . I purchased this amp last week and I have been using it for 4 days . I knew from previous experience that brand new amps can sound strained or thin. Its been the last 24 hours and Im definitely gettinga taste of its potential. Its outclassed my previous Denon pma 1510 ( which is a very good amp) and comparable to my AriandKt 88 pro valve amp. Luxman, Accuphase, McIntosh , Audio Research are superb amplifiers but the Yamaha is outstanding value with looks and build quality to match. For my Uk sized living room This IS my end game amp 👍
I think the Yamaha A-S1200 is an excellent integrated amplifier with what I say are high end aspirations and design at what I think is a moderately high-end price.
I would mate this integrated amplifier with what what I feel are equally moderately priced by equally high-end speakers (and in my mind, Paradigms, higher-end PSB’s, or moderately priced Focal’s or Wharfedale’s come to mind here).
And being that this is an analog amplifier with no digital connectivity, and if I am a totally vinyl connoisseur and devotee (and nothing but), then maybe a Pro-Ject turntable ($1,000.00 and up) or maybe a Technics SL-1500C would be my choice here.
Otherwise, if I am into digital as much as I am into analog (which I am), then I would more than likely choose an A-S801 over this one with the same speaker and turntable choices over this one.
Or if I want a totally all analog integrated amplifier (and I also want XLR Balanced connectivity, then my integrated amplifier of choice, if it has to be a Yamaha) would be a A-S2200 (and I agree, I would take either one in silver...... silver faceplates with lacquered or wooden side panel pieces look far more elegant than the same with a black faceplate).
-Charles-
@Jingle Nuts and costs 1000€ more...
I'd be interested to hear your opinion with this compared to the Technics SU-G700 as they seem to be in similar price range and you highly rated the Technics SU-G700, stating it was your new reference amp when it was reviewed
I wonder between those two.
I know how Yamaha 2100 sounds like and I really like it, so the 1200 should be more or less similar. As for Technics, they are not so popular in my country, and I'm afraid to buy a bit without listening through the Internet.
It makes me wonder if it is digital is not too analytical sounding for me. Technics on the other hand has digital inputs and a good DAC that can be connected directly to a computer with an optical cable.
Streemer has to be purchased for both anyway.
I had the SU-G700 and tried to love it. The looks and features were amazing but it sounded lifeless. Ended up selling it. I had a Yamaha AS501 at the same time and sold a Creek EVO 50 to help fund the Technics. At a similar price point and looks I would choose the new Yamaha for sure. The AS501 had more life to the sound, and while the Creek was gone already I suspect it would have run circles around the Technics as it sounded cleaner than the AS501 but the same emotion, bigger stage, and more sparkle.
Great review, and I’m with you on the classic Yamaha looks front - LOVE their silver models. Silver is the only way to go, of course.
I’ve got a bunch of Yamaha amps and I even had a CR-2020 from like 1978 earlier this year, a true beast of an amp and great looking. What bugged me about it was that it ran pretty hot and I started worrying that this might be dangerous; in April I stupidly swapped it for some other vintage amp & Pre amp. I kind of miss the old CR-2020, but there you go.
I still think my MCR N870D is great, I just love it, it handles all my streaming and internet radio perfectly and I’ve started using it with my LG television for films and quality TV series and the sound is incredible through some Jordan Empire floorstanders. Not a high end unit of course, but for me the looks, sound and compact footprint of this setup are killer.
Completely enjoyed this thorough and fun review. Had no idea that Yamaha offered this line of integrated amps. Thanks Andrew.
I love the vintage look. My only aesthetic gripe is that I'd prefer the side panels were wood grain rather than piano black. I'm quite into the simplicity of integrated amps and I have a 2.1 system which I think is perfectly adequate. I suppose it can come down to the kind of films you watch as to what 'surround sound' you might be missing out on. I also consider my system more a music system (CDs and vinyl) than a home cinema set up. I happen to have a Yamaha CA-510 with centered VU meters. It's being serviced right now. Maybe that will suffice for a Yamaha set-up, but this amp does look very sweet to me. The next two models up look chunkier and not as elegant in my opinion. Thanks for the review.
I own this integrated amp and feel the same about the black side panels. The line this replaced came with wood grain side panels. I've wondered if they are interchangeable and available for purchase.
@@craurell It seems like something they could provide, doesn't it? Or else you could attempt to create your own wooded side panels but you need to get the right grain and thickness.
I own a Yamaha AS-1100 and really love it
it get better after some time
I was lucky enough to find the last NOS Yamaha retro looking receiver R-S700 where I live. Right after I sold my vintage Pioneer and Marantz. No regrets.
I am really curious what your opinion would be for the Vincent SV237 or Parasound Halo 6 or the Yamaha A S1200?
that is one beautiful piece of kit.
as a kid, i always dreamed of owning a Technics SE-A1000 power amp, those VU meters were just SO damn sexy, with the warm lighting... This reminded me of that a little bit.
After some lengthy research I ended up purchasing the Yamaha as-1200 and T-S500 tuner along with some B&W 606 s2 speakers, and Klipsch r-51speakers . I think they pair well with each other and I'm happy with my purchase. I choose the Yamaha 1200 because of the price and meters vs other amps in this price range, the older 1100 series had great reviews so I wasn't too worried about buying something I would regret later.
Nice! A tuner! I would like to complement my 1200 with an old vintage yamaha t-1 or t-2 tuner.
@@AudioKwandoKwando I agree the old tuners would look and pair nicely with the amp.
Andrew how would this compare to the Technics 700?
Thanks Andrew. Enjoyed the review. I recently purchased a Yamaha CD player and hence am interested in replacing my nad316 with one of the Yamaha amps mentioned. This 1200 looks great but is pricey. I liked that you compared it to the Naim atom which I guess is at a similar price point, and I like also. The 801 certainly sounds an impressive option for much less $$. As always a very enjoyable review. Thanks 😊
My CA1200 is old school and absolutely incredible. Power on demand, tones of controls and inputs. Phenomenal amp. Not sure where you are located but I'd be happy to do a vintage modern shoot out!
We had a vintage Yamaha for a spell during this review, the S1200 blows it out of the water.
@@andrewrobinsonreviews Must be wonderful then. I really enjoy my CA1200. I'm not sure I'd be able to get past the lower power of the modern amps.
Nice review as always! I Did a direct comparison between the M5si and the A-S1200 when the Yamaha just came out, and bought the M5si for the exact reasons you stated in your review. Not only was it more suited to my tastes in music but it was also a lot cheaper. It’s biggest weakness is the outdated USB only DAC section, so fans of hi res are better off getting an external DAC like me ;) . Can’t comment on the phono stage, since my cartridge is a MC. Looking forward to more of your video’s!
Appreciate you sharing your thoughts and thank you for watching!
I think you need a Technics SL1200 for real!
Vintage gear is its own animal. If you decide to go down that rabbit hole, do yourself the favour of learning some basic repair. It's a lot like owning a sports car (a true sports car, not a mass-produced vehicle that LOOKS like a sports car - they are meant to be worked on and maintained. If you like to tinker and tweak, they are for you.) I initially got into vintage 1970s gear because when I was a kid, I went to visit my brothers in college and their friends had these amazing systems (Sansui, Yamaha, Pioneer, Marantz, etc., etc) and I was smitten. We never had such systems in our house and it wasn't until I got into my 50s that I had the $ to afford decent gear. My point of reference for what constituted "good gear" was those same old monster systems I saw in my youth so that's what I bought. Heck yeah, they sound great, but they are temperamental. A lot like listening to a really interesting old dude in a nursing home: Lots of great stories and romance, but he likes to take a lot of naps and you wonder how long he's going to be around. The new Yamahas like these are pretty great and they have all the sexiness of the vintage Yamaha.
We just sent back a vintage Yamaha receiver but just inherited a Pioneer SX-780 from Kristi's family and are sending it off to be restored! Super excited! Appreciate you watching!
PS-it's funny that we associate that silver look with vintage gear (from the 70s and earlier). But at the same time, in Europe, a lot of those same brands were using black. I've come to love both!
Can a equalizer connect to this unit