I used to dismiss all these reviews, as I never had the gear to verify any of these claims. Well, I now have a Sansui AU 101 and my god is that review spot on. Such a sweet sounding amp for a solid state. Thanks.
Hi Kelvin. I would like to thank you for this video. I bought a sansui au 101 after watching this and it is the best amp I ever owned! The sound is incredible! Warm but detailed. Paired with tannoy m3 speakers my record collection has never sounded so good!
Great fun. I purchased my AU-101 in 1974 and I still use it regularly. Nothing wrong with its speaker connectors - one uses spade lugs at the end of the speaker leads and it makes a super solid connection. Thanks for the uptake. JR
For me it's about the music and good sound reproduction. I'm 62 and have been doing this since I was 17. The current system I've had for 18years except for the preamp processor. Sometimes you get strange looks when you start talking audio. I've introduced young people I've worked with to good sound and showed them how to do it on a budget. Most people i let hear my system say wow I've never heard music sound so good.
Excellent Kelvin, Thanks for getting a review of the 101 up so quickly and a bonus by comparing it to the 317. I only have a small room and just got the Marantz Receiver recently after your review of it and you were spot on, but even after getting the Marantz i still would like to get a few more amps and receivers just so i can swap them about to hear my tracks with a different sound. I do want to stick to the older 70's items for a few reasons, being getting a good Amp/Receiver at a reasonable price, seeing what i missed out on when i was younger, as back then all my HiFi was JVC and Sharp and think for sure i missed out on some much better gear that was about then. I have also sent a link to a friend that is looking to build a cheap but good system for himself. So thanks again and look forward to more reviews and how you describe the sound details seems fine to me, it comes across really well.
I also am attracted to the Sansui vintage amp sound. I have a AU 222 and a AU555 and really enjoy them. It is fun to try them out on different speakers to hear what sounds the best. Good review and insight.
Sansui definitely has a unique “sparkle” and excitement that I’ve only heard in their amps and receivers. The topology of their design, despite being prone to transistor failure over time, I believe is a big contributor.
With guidance from this video, I just picked up an AU-101 for $160 (can.) It's paired with a set of Martin Logans ESLs which are known to need some wattage. But regardless, I have no need to go beyond 1/4 way with the volume knob. I listen to a wide variety of genres and "my thing" is timbre; the REALNESS of instrument sounds and voices. This amp is a gem. It gives me more bottom end than my Cambridge AM-10, and is possibly more open and detailed sounding. "Musical" is appropriate. I've played classical guitar music through it... 90's country... Pink Floyd... Gordon Lightfoot... The amp really compliments all recordings and all of these CDs sounded warmer (as you say "valvey") than I recall. If you can find one, it's a great addition to an audiophile's amp collection. (Scott McKone, Halifax Nova Scotia, Canada) Be safe !
great vid, i have only two sansui amps which i love both dearly, an Au 101 and a 1000x receiver, i completely get what your saying when trying to describe the sound characteristics, indeed you have described it better than i could and obviously in the case of my 2 they are within a couple of years agewise, i have only once ran an identical back to back comparison of them both, i used a pioneer PL12d turntable and a pair of celestion county. i have to say even tho they obv use similar internal components etc that by the slightest of margins that the Au 101 just piped it, it just had that extra bit of detail and as you put it smoothness. thanks for a great video :)
I bought a 101 back in the day for £27 second hand. It did indeed sound lovely. I gave it to my sister when I picked up a NAD amp; I'm really really hoping it's still up in her attic somewhere! That'd be a nice re-cap restoration.
Yes I think I got a Sansui1 oh one for 20 or £25. Unfortunately I replaced it with a JAS 11 amp which was meant to be great that cost £70 and Sansui was completely better all round
Hi kelvin, here Xose from Spain, thanks for the review, , I have a 2250B Marantz but i m very interested in Sansui sound now and you give very good information. Thanks!
Thanks a lot for your opinions! It happened to be that I own both, and I would agree that the 101 sounds better than the 317. I will take your advise regarding the paper cone speakers for the 101, makes a lot of sense.
Love your reviews, really to the point. My brother and I have started collecting and salvaging hifi equipment and came across the au 101...as you said, something else to the usual boomy effect of more modern kits. Greetings from Italy. Andy
I Had Sansui AU 555 and listened AU 101. Opened detailed sound, spacious. AU 5900, AU 6900 also great amps from 70'. Details, soundstage are very good.
Hi Kelvin, loved the review on the Sansui Au 101. I now have bought one on eBay and just wondering if you had any makes of speaker from same era you could recommend to go with amp. Many thanks, Matthew
Im glad to see a review on this, ive had a completely rebuilt au-101 and it was good for its rating, but i wasnt really happy with it, love its looks, but coming from using a au-7900 and 5000x naturally it just couldnt stack up to those models, but great for its price range and simple in design. On heresys it surprised me though, it was pretty darn good.
interesting yes 101 is not in same league but has some airy qualities . tell me are you saying it didnt sound better after the rebuild .meaning the rebuild didnt do anything good or bad even K
@@stereoreviewx i cant say as i got it with all new components, not just caps either, new output transistors and some resistors, yes it was a decent sounding amp, but i think i liked the 15 watt sony str-7015 a good deal better for some reason, and it was original parts.
Thanks for your rewiews, I lime them a lot. This one was really good and made me want to go out and buy a Sansui amp... which model world you suggest to pair with my old JBL L36 Decade..? Thanks. Luigi from Italy
well either of the two i show would be good depends how much power you like .the 317 is a bargain to me power wise . stick to early to mid seventies though
Well, I would say those JBL L36 Decade need at least 50 good Watts... what are in your opinion the Sansui models from the 70s I could look for that would be a good match..? My budget can go up to 6-700 € if it’s worth it. Thanks again and greetings from Roma! Luigi
My first hifi amp was a Sansui AU101 brought from insurance payout from accident when I was 17. Matched with Garrard SP25 and Celestion County Speakers. Excellent although the turntable was quickly upgraded to a belt drive. The amp was replaced about 4/5 years later by an Akai 5500. Big Mistake, the first Akai blew up (Literally) within a week, its replacement was always sluggish in response with a muddy top end. The Sansui had no reall faulst and I loved it. The Akai departed quite quickly to be replaced by a Cambridge P60, good amp which could drive bigger speakers but never really wormed its way into my heart.
Yes that all sounds very familiar to me the 101 I replaced with a JVC which was a complete downgrade that’s how I learnt not to trust the HIFI press Cheers K
@@stereoreviewx Thanks for your comments, agree with you. never had much success with so called high end, I would say to peple make sure you listen and use magazine reviews cautiously
Thanks for that comparison, Kelvin. I bought my Sansui 101 as a student in the 70s, along with a pair of Richard Allen floor speakers which I’ve recently had re-furnished. Now I have a horrible noise coming from one of them but the man says it’s probably a “degenerating diode” in the amp. He’ll charge me well over £100 to fix it & I have no idea what he’s talking about or if it’s worth it. Shall I just buy a new amp? Also I didn’t know I could play CDs via the amp!
Enjoyed your review. I bought my mother-in-law a system to play her classical LPs back in the late 70s. It paired a Sansui AU-217 with and AR 18s paper coned speakers ... like you say easily driven speakers. For classical music it knocked spots off my own more expensive components. I hung onto the 217 when it passed on to me until one channel died on me. Not surprised that you prefer the Sansuis to Pioneer and Marantz ... Yamaha I can't comment on, only ever had a tuner of there's, but interestingly you don't compare them to NADs. I use a 302 and bookshelf Q Acoustics for listening to Spotify when I'm working in the kitchen ... the speakers seem a good match with the amp and are a massive improvement on the set I inherited from my Mum's Denon compact system. Do you think the Sansuis (you obviously like them ... as did I) edge out similarly priced and powered offerings from NAD?
A sansui 717 and a schitt freya tube preaamp and jbl....heaven.... great revieuw keep going on Kevin like it very much every time new old stuff that still shines.....
This right here, mating newer equipment with vintage is heavenly. Modern DACs and preamps can bring the clarity and ultra low distortion and vintage amps will add the character and flavor to it to keep them from being too sterile.
Hi Kelvin, i love your channel! Years ago, I sold my Sansui AU-417 due to some technical issues, but I really miss the sound it produced. Now, want it back but they quiet expensive and I’ve come across a Sansui AU-217. Any thought, is it comparable? It needs to drive my 60 Watt 8 ohm speakers?
Very nice review, just be your self. I like this kind of review from soul ad years of experience and ownership of HiFi boxes.... After years of buying stuff like Onkyo, Ei, Nikola Tesla HiFi, Grundig, Dual, Telefunken, Canton, Magnat, IQ, Kenwood, Denon, Teac, Nordmende, Pioneer... today I use small JVC full range speakers models like JVC SP UX7000 Cherry Wood Compact Bookshelf Speakers and JVC headphones Esnsy, for me this is real good sound, do not to pay 1000xdollars for good sound...
After watching this, I came across an AU-101 for a half-reasonable price and grabbed it. Wow..... It's a much nicer sound than the Akai AA-1040 receiver I'm using. I'm now looking at a Sansui with two phonos (1 for Thorens TD-150mk 2 I can listen to when the family isn't round to vibrate the floor and skip on the records, and 1 for a DJ turntable that holds the groove better when it's busy) to replace the Akai. Am eyeing an AU-6500.
I purchased the Sansui AU 101 after watching your review and this amp is as good as you say it is,! Connected to Klipsch r620fs plenty of power for 15 watts a channel Thanks!
Just the review I was looking for. I am trying to build a small system that would be about £300 in total. Record deck, Speakers and Amp not worried about tuner, I have split it into approx £100 an item a bit of lucky bidding and I feel I might just do it. Brilliant review !!
@@stereoreviewx Michael Yates sent me over to channel and pleased he did. I managed to get the Sansui au 101 on eBay Sunday for £90 with Manuel Michael lent me some speakers for the time being only a cheap small bookshelves he had they are Gale 3010s , but sounds nice already just using a mp3 player So better speakers and Record deck and I will be up and running. Amp sounds very nice, I am no expert but I am pleased so far. I know this is not high end but I do have a small budget. I will continue to watch your videos as you release them as I find them very enjoyable. All the best
Hi Kelvin. Total novice to vintage stuff but just secured a Sansui AU-217 which came with Kew Kit 2 speakers. All for £30. Loved this review, as well as many others I've watched. Feel like I'm in danger of getting hooked. Remember my best mate from school, Wandsworth, had the Sansui AU- 101. Love listening to it in 1971. I have a pair of Mission 780's and some Pioneer BS-22lr's. Wondered which of these would compliment the Sansui best. As soon as I get set up I'll report back to you. Are you able to recommend any restorers, just in case. Thanks. And keep up the good work. Don't change anything. Your presentations are natural and informal. Great.
great bargain my friend .do tighten up the screws that hold the bass driver . i have the 317 which i like a lot i would just try the speakers and see what sounds best , would br interested to hear what sounds best. K
Greetings from Vancouver Canada. If ever given the opportunity It would be great to hear your opinion of the Kenwood C1 and M1 amp & preamp. Would also really enjoy getting your review on the Nikko Alpha 230, Beta 30 preamp,set. Cheers, Les N
Great Video Kelvin, Been stuck at home.....so..had some old JVC SK55 that I cleaned up and put them with a Pioneer SA 5300 for my little office.....sounding ok. But I'm really in the market for some new speakers for the living room....What do you think about vintage B&W's?
Yes vintage B and w are a goodbye haven’t really gone up Dm 4 I lovely good vocals possibly restrained a British sound but the quality is there DM twos I only heard once they have the same tweeters I would imagine a load more bass possibly less good vocals. Those are the two I could really recommend there are others of course but you know there is truth in the fact that if some products really drop off the radar it’s probably because they really don’t have much to offer. Just by the way my friend has DM fours with a quad Veena which is a brand-new amp that cost about £500 and it sounds absolutely fucking great. Good hunting K
Appreciate your reviews! I'm on my second Au 317, and loving it. Been through many speakers, now have a pair of B&W DM110, and they are the best sounding so far. Vocals usually sound excellent, but are not quite as spacious as they could be it seems. Which is something you mentioned in contrast to the Au 101. Still, very enjoyable!
Hi Kevin, I trust you are well Sir? Firstly let me say I absolutely love your channel, thank you for all effort you put into these informative videos. I inherited a gorgeous and perfectly maintained Sansui AU-517 Amp from my dad that I love to bits but iv kept it wrapped up in storage for many years now. I have decided that I want to build a little vintage system souly for listening to his (my father's) vinyls. I would LOVVVEEE your thoughts on a great pairing in terms of vintage speakers for this amp? I'm thinking along the lines of 3 way with 10" or possibly 12" driver but will certainly take your direction. I very much look forward to your response if and when you find the time. Have a lovely eve further, kind regards JP from South Africa.
Hi JP thanks for your comments glad your like my channel that’s great to hear.. So the EU517 that should have quite a big what would I say generous sound big sound. You don’t wanna put that amp with small speakers I wouldn’t say and you’re looking for big drivers which narrows things down a lot and three-way I mean three-way is great if done well it’s basically superior I would say but there’s not that many I don’t know what you get in South Africa but Celestion Ditton 44 with that and you’ll get a really huge sound hope you’ve got a big room room. I mean three ways great if done well it’s basically superior I would say but there’s not that many I don’t know what you get in South Africa but Celestion Ditton 44 with that and you’ll get a really huge sound I hope you’ve got a big room. Also JB els did a few good big three ways I don’t really know the exact serial numbers. Ironically I’m not a big fan of Sansui speakers with a huge drivers it’s a big sound but it’s not seriously refined. KEf concerto maybe . There are some Goodmans with 10 inch drivers can’t remember the name three-way. Not coming up with much but definitely go big bigger is better. Don’t let anyone tell you the little speakers can deliver the same affect Cheers K
Great show and job explaining sound sir! I have original Klipsch Lascalas and just got an original AU-317. They put out rich deep bass and everything sounds awesome. Other times, the bass sounds muddy or everything sounds muddy. Basically, the sound is inconsistent. Moreover, setting adjustments for bad sound doesn't seem to reach the "awesome" I've heard. I play music very low too. What are the signs of an amp staring to fail? Thank you! Peace Brother!
Bit tricky to diagnose from here my guess is it’s not the amp starting to go wrong but that’s a guess I would definitely pull all the plugs and wires out and put them in again just check you haven’t got a dodgy connection
You present v well Mr K. I have the Au 2200 75-76 vintage 10w/ch silver face. Similar characteristics definitely sounds good - left wanting more bass for me. After the honeymoon period had worn off I found it to be a tad bright. A keeper for sure !
Hello Kelvin. Thank you for the videos. I am learning a lot. Have you any experiences of the Sansui AU D101 from around 1982-3? How does it compare to the original 101 in terms of sound and build quality?
Yes great smaller amp, really do like the Sansui sound, very detailed, but some times I do want more bass. They lost the plot later on, like a lot of the other brands, oh for the days when it was about the sound, not the profit...
I picked up this afternoon a Sansui AU-505; recapped and cleaned. Wow what a sound for such a small amp (25 watts per channel i think). You're right; that doesn't say a lot, it's about the overall sound. Warm sounding (but not boomy) also at low volumes and even enough mids and high tones(probably a little more than my AU-719,also recapped years ago). Love the sound of Sansui too,same as you. Mostly i play Spotify on laptop>dac(Micro Mega)>aux or just radio. Ohh, i play on IMF-ALS 40 speakers,also vintage but still very good.
Yes I kind of want and are you 505 myself now thing is these low wattage Sansui is seen to be cleaner sounding I don’t even want the power dynamic seems so good even my Au101 with the right speakers is just a killer.
Thanks so much for the review. I've just got one recently but have a hard time to get a speaker for them. Do you have an opinion on pairing it with Pioneer SP-BS22? Its tough getting good priced vintage speakers where I'm from. Thanks!
100%. Au101 in the booklet said not dominated by technology. Golden Ear listening tests used. 317 is a bit unsubtle and coloured. I just realised AU must mean gold.
Hello Kevin, have you ever tested a SABA MI 215, build in Germany in 1979? A very complex amplifier with pots for bass, mids and highs, very good loudness. About 57 w of power in 8 ohms. If you would look for this amp inside you would be surprised. What is your opinion about this? For me it has a very strong deep bass, very good highs and mids and a lively sound. Even without recap it sounds very nice but after recap it sounds wonderful. It is about 150-200 euro on second hand market but a few people know about it. It was the top of the line from SABA, and the end of it. I had listened Pioneer SA 8500 mk1, mk2, 9500 MK2, SA 9800, Luxman L430 but this SABA goes to my soul. Thank you.
I love your show. I trust what you like because my favorite is SANSUI & it seems you like it too. So that's how I monitor your comparisons. Keep up the good work. & hello from the we the north up here in Canada. 👌✌ cheers
I really enjoy your videos.Thank you .In your opinion, which would be the best vintage speakers that would perfectly complement the Au 101? I just paid 80vUSd for a beautiful au 101 a few days ago .
interesting stuff. well done. confirms main viewpoint of 'strictly 45rpm ' website team; re power output vs. sound quality on earlier stuff. nice if you did cassette deck comparison, but probably too many types/models. re brands, I like Kenwood . very impressed with their quality , always good, I have found - I have L-1000C/L1000M combo driving Yamaha ns-1000m speakers.luverly, front ends: Sansui XR-Q7 TT w/Victor(JVC)/MD1016 MM cart/Luxman d-322 cd player/ nakamichi 550 cassette.like you, been at it for ages. happy now. listen to orchestral /jazz mainly. think playing human voice just speaking and solo piano most reliable tests (are they in the room with you/sound right?)
Kelvin I am looking at buying a 101 thats been recapped for $400 AUD plus postage - sadly I didnt keep bidding on one last week and missed out on paying $260 for one on ebay. My issue is there are AU 2200 and AU 4400 available for the same price here. Im enjoying the 331 I have but cant help my curiosity in getting one of these beauties. any advice greatly welcomed as I have spent too much on amps already and finding I cant get my money back when reselling them. Denon's Im talking about. Hope you will make a return soon on youtube. cheers Symon James
I bought the AU 101in charity shop for 25 :) best amp I ve ever owned. Sadly needs recaping etc, after few minutes of listening left channel creates static :(
I got the the sansui au101 back from servicing and totally agree with your review. The 101 gives this idea of real musicians playing, there is more timbre and there are byproducts of sound around the instruments. When playing anything like Jazz it feels like being at a concert. It is soundwise around the same circle as my Yamaha WxA50 (with its enhancer turned on). A thing I really wonder about. How does something like the A101 compare to the expensive top tier.. like a Mcintosh? Is there really a huge difference?
Hi Mervin I really like your reviews ,and detail - enthusiasm .I have an AU 101 refurbished - with Jack speaker sockets ,hooked up to an Arcam CD 73:and a pair of Trio LS 205 speakers.I only have a small lounge with a laminate floor ,A great sound just the same.
Hi Kevin, nice video, although a bit 'static' since youtube won't allow you to play live music. Your observations are correct, I've been repairing Sansui (and other now vintage hifi amps) for over 40 years and I am a big fan of the 101 as well. I use a set of Tannoy i8 professional, 93 dB sensitivity and they 'sing', hooked up to a 101! An absolute joy to listen to!
My dad went from that Sansui, which was nice enough, to the Audiolab 8000A. Night and day. The Audiolab was supreme in every way. The Audiolab, though 30 years old, still performs flawlessly. Highly recommended.
Kelvin would you prefer the Sansui Au 101 or the NAD 3020 (Or similar model) for the B&W dm4 that I've just bought thanks to your review? :-) And what would be the very best amp for that speaker (the former owner said a tube amp would be better) .
I bought a au101 recently. It is now in service for revision. Hope to have it back in a while. I think about replacing the literal screws with some decent modern binding posts in order to use bananaplugs. Really felt like a minor upgrade to my Pioneer SA5300 to be able to plug and play. I only noticed that the screw diameter seems to be a bit off-standard on the sansui. So I hope to find some adapter like solution in a diy store. Unfortunately my model is missing the tape switch. It is purely cosmetic but I would like to have it complete one day. Do you know any sources that sell these or copies of them or just something univeral perhaps, which could be a decent replacement :)
I ran the amp through Celestion County's, and used a Technics SL-23 turntable as a source. For it's price range, I think it was one very best. I love the sound of this simple system, but the AU-101 also performs well with my Wharfedale Lintons, which can sound dull when used with other budget amps.
I have a Sansui tuner TU-505, which matches the AU101. What a bargain it has been. I picked it up in the late 80's for £15 and it has the sweetest tone. I've never heard it with its matching amp but I would expect hi fi at it's best! Sadly, I only listen to digital radio these days so the Sansui is unused!
I'm about to buy a au101 for my first hifi setup, I've already bought celestion county's, do you recommend it. Is £200 a good price to pay for a serviced one?
Hi Kelvin, another great review thank you .... a question i've a pair of 1978 Infinity Quantum Jr speakers they are rated at 4 ohm ....89db at 1m recommended 20 - 200 Watts RMS (as per 1978 figs) do you think i can use the Sansui AU 101 in a 2nd set up for bedtime listening ? If not what 1970s amp might you suggest ?
Oh well if you have them definitely plug them in . The other thing worth saying and I don’t know your speakers in detail but it’s very rare to plug any amp into speakers and like not get them to work Power them at least okay. Like all 70s amps the Sansui is 15 W would equate to 25 W today. Personally I hardly think about that issue it just always seems to be okay. Cheers K
Hi, Another great review. You helped with my speaker diffuclty with my Music Fidelity A1 amplifer and I now have the KEF Concertos :-) OK next question I would like to add some oomf to the sound so was thinking of adding a Power AMp vintage of course. The Sansui Eight Delux is coming in about £650 plus. So looking for a cheaper alternative. Any recomendations for a good vintage amp that i can use as a pwoer amp or use it as it comes. Many thanks and keep on with the demos.
Well off the top of my head there Au 317 is probably not a bad idea it’s not expensive at all. I’ve got a feeling the musical Fidelity is a bit base light btw . I think if you want a ton of base and a big soundstage the Sugden a 48 which I recently reviewed has some welly I mean it might be just too much bass I don’t know the acoustics and stuff.
@@stereoreviewx Hi, Thanks for your help. Well I have gone out and purchased the Quad 33 and 303 combo. for I think a bargain of £400 from a chap that restores old Hi-Fi. He has repaired all my old kit and he had them sitting on the shelve when I purchased the Music Fidetlity from him. So I will collect those today and hook up the KEFs to see hwat they sound like. Now I am looking at the Quad ESL 57! Have you had the chance touse these speakers?
Ok, these Sansui are better than Yamaha, Pioneer, and Marantz but what about Nad? Sansui au 101 or Nad 3020 (another your favorite) which one should we buy? :)
Hi, thanks for your reviews, I actually was thinking about to get one of those amps! I have a pair of Celestion Ditton 11 "the ones I am using atm" and a pair of 22, Do you think they will be good with those amps? Cheers
hi, your videos are very interesting for me especially as i am a vintage hi-fi collector. the sansui at 101 is a marvel, I have a lot of sansui: at 217, at 217mkii, at 3900/4900/5900 and many others, I wish you a very good continuation, bye.
hi Keilvin, I have got a cyrus one (slight modification and recap). And a Arcam Alpha 8. The Tannoy is the better 1, more mucality, better placing of the instruments. Nicer on the voices. Actually not happy with th Arcam, How can this small amp do so much, and this more modern Arcam do so little?
Do you have any experience with the Sansui AU 777? I have the chance to buy one but don’t know anything about it… and how it compares to the one in your review. Cheers.
For those infernal screw speaker terminals I have a solution. I found a brass spade lug on a right angle coupled to a female banana jack. They are slim profile and you simply screw them onto the existing terminals. I’d like to send you a picture but don’t know how.
Hi Kelvin. Love you work as always. Quick tech questions. I have an AU666 and an AU6500 would they be a good pair to pre/power with each other. if so which way round would you recommend. I love the warmth of the 666 but mainly i just don't want to blow them up :) appreciate your advice mate cheers chris PS if its not a good idea thats cool too
Great reviews thanks, I have bought au-d33 beautiful sounding and I'm getting the 101 next week, also bough the A40 as a repairable so should be interesting I'm hooked thanks to your reviews and advice
@@stereoreviewx I was surprised at the output sound of the 101, plenty of volume and quality sound, love it, i even paired it with Akai sw155 and amazing sound clarity, thanks for the inputs on the sansui's, the Au-d33 sounds absolutely amazing low end very detailed and lovely highs, as for the A40 the right place for that was in the bin sounded generic and bland, not impressed at all, I hope you find my humble input helpful
I have a 101 and one day it just starting making a loud distorted buzzing. I quickly unhooked it before it damaged the speakers. Any ideas what might be the issue?
Hey,think the reviews are brilliant.It would be great if you reviewed amp and speaker combinations,you know two or three speakers that would great with the 101, for example.
Are you the guy from Terrys Milk Tray Ad from the 80’s? 😂 Just found you and enjoying your vlogs. Would be interesting how the 70, 80 and 90’s kit compares to current kit. Have you tried a Chord DAC? Cables? Are you a believer? 👍
From what I can tell 70s good 80s Getting bad 90s I kind of gave up there are some good sound things out now I had a “quad quad vena rescently It’s really good delivers all round. Cables. Yes I would say that make a difference for sure but to me it’s just tweaking.
I love mine but it only has inputs for mic, aux and phono. Currently have it on a splitter so I can have both CD and amp hooked up to aux. One more line input would have been perfect.
saludos desde Costa Rica, estoy interesado en un Sansui AU-101 y mi pregunta es si con unos parlantes de estanteria de 4 ohms sonaran bien o si se pueden conseguir de menos ohms, muchas gracias
Hi Kelvin, I have the B&W DM4 speakers would these match with the 101? For the moment these are connected to a Technics SA-5350 with some small problems
Do you use valve amps if one of the criteria of a good SS amp is sounding like a valve amp? I have a valve amp but no SS amp and am curious about what a SS amp can get me in the bottom end.
Hello. Thanks you for your reviews and advices! Always very interesting. I like Sansui amps, I had some by the past but sold... I regret it! Did you plan to review some olds Kenwood as the KA-3700? Very interesting sound too. Thanks again.
Excellent your reviews and I would like you to help me find an amplifier for my Yamaha NS 1000 M (90Db). I look forward to your recommendation and in advance THANK YOU VERY MUCH
It’s too tricky for me to tell people what I am to buy you know there is the cost of the room your taste all to consider I would say those Yamaha s Are Big and good so don’t feed them with anything substandard See if you can get a Sugden class a amplifier I can’t remember the numbers right now big speakers are revealing It’s got to be good I wouldn’t go for Japanese vintage I’d go British quad or Sugden Cheers K
Things I do not like about early stereo equipment: 1. So few have preamp out/amp in (I want to drive a powered subwoofer) 2. Pre banana plug capability (I hate those clips for speaker wire) 3. Not enough AUX IN. (I need at least 4 AUX IN)
I used to dismiss all these reviews, as I never had the gear to verify any of these claims. Well, I now have a Sansui AU 101 and my god is that review spot on. Such a sweet sounding amp for a solid state. Thanks.
Hi Kelvin. I would like to thank you for this video. I bought a sansui au 101 after watching this and it is the best amp I ever owned! The sound is incredible! Warm but detailed. Paired with tannoy m3 speakers my record collection has never sounded so good!
Great fun. I purchased my AU-101 in 1974 and I still use it regularly. Nothing wrong with its speaker connectors - one uses spade lugs at the end of the speaker leads and it makes a super solid connection. Thanks for the uptake. JR
Really enjoying the reviews, hifi can seem a solitary hobby and people think your a bit strange, it's nice to know I'm not alone.
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For me it's about the music and good sound reproduction. I'm 62 and have been doing this since I was 17. The current system I've had for 18years except for the preamp processor. Sometimes you get strange looks when you start talking audio. I've introduced young people I've worked with to good sound and showed them how to do it on a budget. Most people i let hear my system say wow I've never heard music sound so good.
Excellent Kelvin, Thanks for getting a review of the 101 up so quickly and a bonus by comparing it to the 317. I only have a small room and just got the Marantz Receiver recently after your review of it and you were spot on, but even after getting the Marantz i still would like to get a few more amps and receivers just so i can swap them about to hear my tracks with a different sound.
I do want to stick to the older 70's items for a few reasons, being getting a good Amp/Receiver at a reasonable price, seeing what i missed out on when i was younger, as back then all my HiFi was JVC and Sharp and think for sure i missed out on some much better gear that was about then. I have also sent a link to a friend that is looking to build a cheap but good system for himself.
So thanks again and look forward to more reviews and how you describe the sound details seems fine to me, it comes across really well.
This is my bedroom amp, through a set of AR4xs. Vintage heaven.
Oh i would like to play with AR speakers; know that brand from the ‘80’s early ‘90’s
Also Celestion
Such a joy to listen to all of these wonderful reviews of vintage gear! Thank you!
I also am attracted to the Sansui vintage amp sound. I have a AU 222 and a AU555 and really enjoy them. It is fun to try them out on different speakers to hear what sounds the best. Good review and insight.
This is the perfect unit to start with for someone who wants to start refurbishing.
Sansui definitely has a unique “sparkle” and excitement that I’ve only heard in their amps and receivers. The topology of their design, despite being prone to transistor failure over time, I believe is a big contributor.
Thanks Kelvin. I enjoy your reviews and layman’s terminology. Keep it simple and to the point.
Thanks my friend will do K
With guidance from this video, I just picked up an AU-101 for $160 (can.) It's paired with a set of Martin Logans ESLs which are known to need some wattage. But regardless, I have no need to go beyond 1/4 way with the volume knob. I listen to a wide variety of genres and "my thing" is timbre; the REALNESS of instrument sounds and voices. This amp is a gem. It gives me more bottom end than my Cambridge AM-10, and is possibly more open and detailed sounding. "Musical" is appropriate. I've played classical guitar music through it... 90's country... Pink Floyd... Gordon Lightfoot... The amp really compliments all recordings and all of these CDs sounded warmer (as you say "valvey") than I recall. If you can find one, it's a great addition to an audiophile's amp collection. (Scott McKone, Halifax Nova Scotia, Canada) Be safe !
I’m glad you got a good result Scott .
great vid, i have only two sansui amps which i love both dearly, an Au 101 and a 1000x receiver, i completely get what your saying when trying to describe the sound characteristics, indeed you have described it better than i could and obviously in the case of my 2 they are within a couple of years agewise, i have only once ran an identical back to back comparison of them both, i used a pioneer PL12d turntable and a pair of celestion county. i have to say even tho they obv use similar internal components etc that by the slightest of margins that the Au 101 just piped it, it just had that extra bit of detail and as you put it smoothness. thanks for a great video :)
I have the same amp and turntable.
I bought a 101 back in the day for £27 second hand. It did indeed sound lovely. I gave it to my sister when I picked up a NAD amp; I'm really really hoping it's still up in her attic somewhere! That'd be a nice re-cap restoration.
Yes I think I got a Sansui1 oh one for 20 or £25. Unfortunately I replaced it with a JAS 11 amp which was meant to be great that cost £70 and Sansui was completely better all round
Just got the 101 and it is a wonderful sounding amplifier
Good to hear
Hi kelvin, here Xose from Spain, thanks for the review, , I have a 2250B Marantz but i m very interested in Sansui sound now and you give very good information. Thanks!
i owned the Sansui AU 101 back in the early 70's it sounded great i would never of thought it was only 15 watts per channel
Yeah I’m listening to it now it’s a joy
After I watched your video, after a month luckily I found one, really amazing sounding ❤
yes Sansui is just great
Thanks a lot for your opinions! It happened to be that I own both, and I would agree that the 101 sounds better than the 317. I will take your advise regarding the paper cone speakers for the 101, makes a lot of sense.
I'm a Sansui guy too. Love my 5000X. through SP-2500x speakers.
Love your reviews, really to the point. My brother and I have started collecting and salvaging hifi equipment and came across the au 101...as you said, something else to the usual boomy effect of more modern kits.
Greetings from Italy.
Andy
Good to hear that and he’s just magic really for the price
I Had Sansui AU 555 and listened AU 101. Opened detailed sound, spacious. AU 5900, AU 6900 also great amps from 70'. Details, soundstage are very good.
Would love to see a video on some chrome bumper era Naim amps if you have any! Loving the videos. Stevie Wonder records have the best bass!
I have an AU101 and I just like how it sounds.I cant breakdown the details but its nice.
This amp was the soundtrack to my childhood. Your comments rang true. Would love your opinion on the Marantz PM66SE series.
I had one in the 70s and got it used and I could not kill it and for a low output it could rock out ...
Hi Kelvin, loved the review on the Sansui Au 101. I now have bought one on eBay and just wondering if you had any makes of speaker from same era you could recommend to go with amp. Many thanks, Matthew
Im glad to see a review on this, ive had a completely rebuilt au-101 and it was good for its rating, but i wasnt really happy with it, love its looks, but coming from using a au-7900 and 5000x naturally it just couldnt stack up to those models, but great for its price range and simple in design. On heresys it surprised me though, it was pretty darn good.
interesting yes 101 is not in same league but has some airy qualities .
tell me are you saying it didnt sound better after the rebuild .meaning the rebuild didnt do anything good or bad even K
@@stereoreviewx i cant say as i got it with all new components, not just caps either, new output transistors and some resistors, yes it was a decent sounding amp, but i think i liked the 15 watt sony str-7015 a good deal better for some reason, and it was original parts.
I love my au 101 with my Casta B Horns and it keep my happy for hours on hour on digital cd vinyl music 15 amp are all I need thanks tons
I had a 101 for 20 years and never got sick of the sound. I only just gave it back to my brother recently. I’m thinking I should of kept it.
Hi Kelvin, great channel! What is your expert opinion on the Sansui AU 4900 from the mid 1970’s, and what sort of price does this go for? Cheers
I have the slightly more powerful Sansui AU-505 (2x23w 8ohm 1000Hz) bought in 1973, great sounding amplifier
Thanks for your rewiews, I lime them a lot. This one was really good and made me want to go out and buy a Sansui amp... which model world you suggest to pair with my old JBL L36 Decade..? Thanks. Luigi from Italy
well either of the two i show would be good depends how much power you like .the 317 is a bargain to me power wise .
stick to early to mid seventies though
Well, I would say those JBL L36 Decade need at least 50 good Watts... what are in your opinion the Sansui models from the 70s I could look for that would be a good match..? My budget can go up to 6-700 € if it’s worth it. Thanks again and greetings from Roma! Luigi
My first hifi amp was a Sansui AU101 brought from insurance payout from accident when I was 17. Matched with Garrard SP25 and Celestion County Speakers. Excellent although the turntable was quickly upgraded to a belt drive. The amp was replaced about 4/5 years later by an Akai 5500. Big Mistake, the first Akai blew up (Literally) within a week, its replacement was always sluggish in response with a muddy top end. The Sansui had no reall faulst and I loved it. The Akai departed quite quickly to be replaced by a Cambridge P60, good amp which could drive bigger speakers but never really wormed its way into my heart.
Yes that all sounds very familiar to me the 101 I replaced with a JVC which was a complete downgrade that’s how I learnt not to trust the HIFI press
Cheers K
@@stereoreviewx Thanks for your comments, agree with you. never had much success with so called high end, I would say to peple make sure you listen and use magazine reviews cautiously
Thanks for that comparison, Kelvin. I bought my Sansui 101 as a student in the 70s, along with a pair of Richard Allen floor speakers which I’ve recently had re-furnished. Now I have a horrible noise coming from one of them but the man says it’s probably a “degenerating diode” in the amp. He’ll charge me well over £100 to fix it & I have no idea what he’s talking about or if it’s worth it. Shall I just buy a new amp? Also I didn’t know I could play CDs via the amp!
You can put CD into aux or tape input
Is it worth it hard for me to say, but a cheap modern amp will be pretty lack cluster
Got the Sansui au217 for a 100€ and I LOVE the sound it produces on my castle trent II 😎🤠 especialy with vinyl.
Riich but sweet
Enjoyed your review. I bought my mother-in-law a system to play her classical LPs back in the late 70s. It paired a Sansui AU-217 with and AR 18s paper coned speakers ... like you say easily driven speakers. For classical music it knocked spots off my own more expensive components. I hung onto the 217 when it passed on to me until one channel died on me. Not surprised that you prefer the Sansuis to Pioneer and Marantz ... Yamaha I can't comment on, only ever had a tuner of there's, but interestingly you don't compare them to NADs. I use a 302 and bookshelf Q Acoustics for listening to Spotify when I'm working in the kitchen ... the speakers seem a good match with the amp and are a massive improvement on the set I inherited from my Mum's Denon compact system. Do you think the Sansuis (you obviously like them ... as did I) edge out similarly priced and powered offerings from NAD?
A sansui 717 and a schitt freya tube preaamp and jbl....heaven.... great revieuw keep going on Kevin like it very much every time new old stuff that still shines.....
This right here, mating newer equipment with vintage is heavenly. Modern DACs and preamps can bring the clarity and ultra low distortion and vintage amps will add the character and flavor to it to keep them from being too sterile.
Some of the bigger Sansui would be very interesting to know more about, to compare and hear what they would be compaitble with, in terms of speakers?
Hi Kelvin, i love your channel! Years ago, I sold my Sansui AU-417 due to some technical issues, but I really miss the sound it produced. Now, want it back but they quiet expensive and I’ve come across a Sansui AU-217. Any thought, is it comparable? It needs to drive my 60 Watt 8 ohm speakers?
Well, I’m a big fan of the 317 if I had to guess I’d say you’ll be alright
Sansui always had a good reputation for quality sound
Very nice review, just be your self. I like this kind of review from soul ad years of experience and ownership of HiFi boxes....
After years of buying stuff like Onkyo, Ei, Nikola Tesla HiFi, Grundig, Dual, Telefunken, Canton, Magnat, IQ, Kenwood, Denon, Teac, Nordmende, Pioneer... today I use small JVC full range speakers models like JVC SP UX7000 Cherry Wood Compact Bookshelf Speakers and JVC headphones Esnsy, for me this is real good sound, do not to pay 1000xdollars for good sound...
After watching this, I came across an AU-101 for a half-reasonable price and grabbed it. Wow..... It's a much nicer sound than the Akai AA-1040 receiver I'm using. I'm now looking at a Sansui with two phonos (1 for Thorens TD-150mk 2 I can listen to when the family isn't round to vibrate the floor and skip on the records, and 1 for a DJ turntable that holds the groove better when it's busy) to replace the Akai. Am eyeing an AU-6500.
I purchased the Sansui AU 101 after watching your review and this amp is as good as you say it is,! Connected to Klipsch r620fs plenty of power for 15 watts a channel Thanks!
Just the review I was looking for. I am trying to build a small system that would be about £300 in total.
Record deck, Speakers and Amp not worried about tuner, I have split it into approx £100 an item
a bit of lucky bidding and I feel I might just do it. Brilliant review !!
sometimes you can get the 331 441 or 551 recievers quite cheap they are nice to
@@stereoreviewx Michael Yates sent me over to channel and pleased he did. I managed to get the Sansui au 101 on eBay Sunday for £90 with Manuel
Michael lent me some speakers for the time being only a cheap small bookshelves he had they are Gale 3010s , but sounds nice already just using a mp3 player
So better speakers and Record deck and I will be up and running. Amp sounds very nice, I am no expert but I am pleased so far. I know this is not high end but I do have a small budget. I will continue to watch your videos as you release them as I find them very enjoyable. All the best
Hi Kelvin. Total novice to vintage stuff but just secured a Sansui AU-217 which came with Kew Kit 2 speakers. All for £30. Loved this review, as well as many others I've watched. Feel like I'm in danger of getting hooked. Remember my best mate from school, Wandsworth, had the Sansui AU- 101. Love listening to it in 1971. I have a pair of Mission 780's and some Pioneer BS-22lr's. Wondered which of these would compliment the Sansui best. As soon as I get set up I'll report back to you. Are you able to recommend any restorers, just in case. Thanks. And keep up the good work. Don't change anything. Your presentations are natural and informal. Great.
great bargain my friend .do tighten up the screws that hold the bass driver .
i have the 317 which i like a lot
i would just try the speakers and see what sounds best ,
would br interested to hear what sounds best. K
Greetings from Vancouver Canada. If ever given the opportunity It would be great to hear your opinion of the Kenwood C1 and M1 amp & preamp. Would also really enjoy getting your review on the Nikko Alpha 230, Beta 30 preamp,set.
Cheers,
Les N
Great Video Kelvin, Been stuck at home.....so..had some old JVC SK55 that I cleaned up and put them with a Pioneer SA 5300 for my little office.....sounding ok. But I'm really in the market for some new speakers for the living room....What do you think about vintage B&W's?
Yes vintage B and w are a goodbye haven’t really gone up Dm 4 I lovely good vocals possibly restrained a British sound but the quality is there
DM twos I only heard once they have the same tweeters I would imagine a load more bass possibly less good vocals.
Those are the two I could really recommend there are others of course but you know there is truth in the fact that if some products really drop off the radar it’s probably because they really don’t have much to offer.
Just by the way my friend has DM fours with a quad Veena which is a brand-new amp that cost about £500 and it sounds absolutely fucking great.
Good hunting K
@@stereoreviewx Good to know! Thank you.....the ones I'm looking at are some DM110's.....we'll see, I always enjoy the videos!
Appreciate your reviews! I'm on my second Au 317, and loving it. Been through many speakers, now
have a pair of B&W DM110, and they are the best sounding so far. Vocals usually sound excellent, but are not quite as spacious as they could be it seems. Which is something you mentioned in contrast to the Au 101. Still,
very enjoyable!
Dm 4s are just great Especially mid range and top end
Hi Kevin, I trust you are well Sir? Firstly let me say I absolutely love your channel, thank you for all effort you put into these informative videos. I inherited a gorgeous and perfectly maintained Sansui AU-517 Amp from my dad that I love to bits but iv kept it wrapped up in storage for many years now. I have decided that I want to build a little vintage system souly for listening to his (my father's) vinyls. I would LOVVVEEE your thoughts on a great pairing in terms of vintage speakers for this amp? I'm thinking along the lines of 3 way with 10" or possibly 12" driver but will certainly take your direction. I very much look forward to your response if and when you find the time. Have a lovely eve further, kind regards JP from South Africa.
Hi JP thanks for your comments glad your like my channel that’s great to hear..
So the EU517 that should have quite a big what would I say generous sound big sound.
You don’t wanna put that amp with small speakers I wouldn’t say and you’re looking for big drivers which narrows things down a lot and three-way
I mean three-way is great if done well it’s basically superior I would say but there’s not that many I don’t know what you get in South Africa but Celestion Ditton 44 with that and you’ll get a really huge sound hope you’ve got a big room room. I mean three ways great if done well it’s basically superior I would say but there’s not that many I don’t know what you get in South Africa but Celestion Ditton 44 with that and you’ll get a really huge sound I hope you’ve got a big room.
Also JB els did a few good big three ways I don’t really know the exact serial numbers.
Ironically I’m not a big fan of Sansui speakers with a huge drivers it’s a big sound but it’s not seriously refined.
KEf concerto maybe .
There are some Goodmans with 10 inch drivers can’t remember the name three-way.
Not coming up with much but definitely go big bigger is better.
Don’t let anyone tell you the little speakers can deliver the same affect
Cheers K
Great show and job explaining sound sir!
I have original Klipsch Lascalas and just got an original AU-317. They put out rich deep bass and everything sounds awesome. Other times, the bass sounds muddy or everything sounds muddy. Basically, the sound is inconsistent. Moreover, setting adjustments for bad sound doesn't seem to reach the "awesome" I've heard. I play music very low too.
What are the signs of an amp staring to fail?
Thank you!
Peace Brother!
Bit tricky to diagnose from here my guess is it’s not the amp starting to go wrong but that’s a guess I would definitely pull all the plugs and wires out and put them in again just check you haven’t got a dodgy connection
Thank you, traded it in and moved on...
Got a Sansui au- 2900, au-101, 331, and a noname circa 60's "Value" power amp. All sound so m
usi phenomenal!
You present v well Mr K. I have the Au 2200 75-76 vintage 10w/ch silver face. Similar characteristics definitely sounds good - left wanting more bass for me. After the honeymoon period had worn off I found it to be a tad bright. A keeper for sure !
Yes the a U101 will actually have a more Basie characteristic than the 2200
To be honest it’s just a better thing all round
Cheers K
Hello Kelvin. Thank you for the videos. I am learning a lot. Have you any experiences of the Sansui AU D101 from around 1982-3? How does it compare to the original 101 in terms of sound and build quality?
Yes great smaller amp, really do like the Sansui sound, very detailed, but some times I do want more bass. They lost the plot later on, like a lot of the other brands, oh for the days when it was about the sound, not the profit...
Yes when marketing took over he got hard to find the truth still is I would say even with UA-cam
I picked up this afternoon a Sansui AU-505; recapped and cleaned. Wow what a sound for such a small amp (25 watts per channel i think). You're right; that doesn't say a lot, it's about the overall sound.
Warm sounding (but not boomy) also at low volumes and even enough mids and high tones(probably a little more than my AU-719,also recapped years ago). Love the sound of Sansui too,same as you.
Mostly i play Spotify on laptop>dac(Micro Mega)>aux or just radio.
Ohh, i play on IMF-ALS 40 speakers,also vintage but still very good.
Yes I kind of want and are you 505 myself now thing is these low wattage Sansui is seen to be cleaner sounding I don’t even want the power dynamic seems so good even my Au101 with the right speakers is just a killer.
Thanks so much for the review. I've just got one recently but have a hard time to get a speaker for them. Do you have an opinion on pairing it with Pioneer SP-BS22? Its tough getting good priced vintage speakers where I'm from. Thanks!
100%. Au101 in the booklet said not dominated by technology. Golden Ear listening tests used. 317 is a bit unsubtle and coloured. I just realised AU must mean gold.
Hello Kevin, have you ever tested a SABA MI 215, build in Germany in 1979? A very complex amplifier with pots for bass, mids and highs, very good loudness. About 57 w of power in 8 ohms. If you would look for this amp inside you would be surprised. What is your opinion about this? For me it has a very strong deep bass, very good highs and mids and a lively sound. Even without recap it sounds very nice but after recap it sounds wonderful. It is about 150-200 euro on second hand market but a few people know about it. It was the top of the line from SABA, and the end of it. I had listened Pioneer SA 8500 mk1, mk2, 9500 MK2, SA 9800, Luxman L430 but this SABA goes to my soul. Thank you.
Nice review...agree that the 101...re-capped...is a valvey sweet amp...spesh with efficient speakers...a gem!
I love your show. I trust what you like because my favorite is SANSUI & it seems you like it too. So that's how I monitor your comparisons. Keep up the good work. & hello from the we the north up here in Canada. 👌✌ cheers
I really enjoy your videos.Thank you .In your opinion, which would be the best vintage speakers that would perfectly complement the Au 101? I just paid 80vUSd for a beautiful au 101 a few days ago .
Well something sensitive and as big as you can guess what I would say
Thank you.
Just been offered a valve Sansui but no idea what model at the moment. The Au217 was a good performer in the day, sure the 317 is good.
Hello Kelvin. Thank you very much for your reviews. I wonder how the Sansui Au 101 will deal with the b&o cx 100? Kindest Regards.
Don’t think that’s a good match
Not sure why just not playing to each other’s strengths
interesting stuff. well done. confirms main viewpoint of 'strictly 45rpm ' website team; re power output vs. sound quality on earlier stuff.
nice if you did cassette deck comparison, but probably too many types/models. re brands, I like Kenwood . very impressed with their quality , always good, I have found - I have L-1000C/L1000M combo driving Yamaha ns-1000m speakers.luverly, front ends: Sansui XR-Q7 TT w/Victor(JVC)/MD1016 MM cart/Luxman d-322 cd player/ nakamichi 550 cassette.like you, been at it for ages. happy now. listen to orchestral /jazz mainly. think playing human voice just speaking and solo piano most reliable tests (are they in the room with you/sound right?)
Kelvin I am looking at buying a 101 thats been recapped for $400 AUD plus postage - sadly I didnt keep bidding on one last week and missed out on paying $260 for one on ebay. My issue is there are AU 2200 and AU 4400 available for the same price here. Im enjoying the 331 I have but cant help my curiosity in getting one of these beauties. any advice greatly welcomed as I have spent too much on amps already and finding I cant get my money back when reselling them. Denon's Im talking about. Hope you will make a return soon on youtube. cheers Symon James
I bought the AU 101in charity shop for 25 :) best amp I ve ever owned. Sadly needs recaping etc, after few minutes of listening left channel creates static :(
I got the the sansui au101 back from servicing and totally agree with your review. The 101 gives this idea of real musicians playing, there is more timbre and there are byproducts of sound around the instruments. When playing anything like Jazz it feels like being at a concert. It is soundwise around the same circle as my Yamaha WxA50 (with its enhancer turned on).
A thing I really wonder about. How does something like the A101 compare to the expensive top tier.. like a Mcintosh? Is there really a huge difference?
well I think the 101 is not powerful but if it was it would be awesome
@@stereoreviewx thanks for your kind reply! Should have mentioned “sound wise”:) The Mcintoshes are indeed a different beast in power.
Hi Mervin I really like your reviews ,and detail - enthusiasm .I have an AU 101 refurbished - with Jack speaker sockets ,hooked up to an Arcam CD 73:and a pair of Trio LS 205 speakers.I only have a small lounge with a laminate floor ,A great sound just the same.
Kind regards Julian.
So sorry Kelvin .
I bet
Hi Kevin, nice video, although a bit 'static' since youtube won't allow you to play live music. Your observations are correct, I've been repairing Sansui (and other now vintage hifi amps) for over 40 years and I am a big fan of the 101 as well. I use a set of Tannoy i8 professional, 93 dB sensitivity and they 'sing', hooked up to a 101! An absolute joy to listen to!
Hi Frank interesting comments thanks just wondering if you’re anywhere near London really vis-a-vis Repairs
K
My dad went from that Sansui, which was nice enough, to the Audiolab 8000A. Night and day. The Audiolab was supreme in every way. The Audiolab, though 30 years old, still performs flawlessly. Highly recommended.
Kelvin would you prefer the Sansui Au 101 or the NAD 3020 (Or similar model) for the B&W dm4 that I've just bought thanks to your review? :-) And what would be the very best amp for that speaker (the former owner said a tube amp would be better) .
I bought a au101 recently. It is now in service for revision. Hope to have it back in a while.
I think about replacing the literal screws with some decent modern binding posts in order to use bananaplugs. Really felt like a minor upgrade to my Pioneer SA5300 to be able to plug and play. I only noticed that the screw diameter seems to be a bit off-standard on the sansui. So I hope to find some adapter like solution in a diy store.
Unfortunately my model is missing the tape switch. It is purely cosmetic but I would like to have it complete one day. Do you know any sources that sell these or copies of them or just something univeral perhaps, which could be a decent replacement :)
I don’t know where you would find that you’d have to just be lucky I guess
✨11:12 Loved this review. I just scored a Sansui AU-101 for $30.00 CDN. You've got a good ear.🧐👍
Now that’s a bargain
I ran the amp through Celestion County's, and used a Technics SL-23 turntable as a source. For it's price range, I think it was one very best. I love the sound of this simple system, but the AU-101 also performs well with my Wharfedale Lintons, which can sound dull when used with other budget amps.
I have a Sansui tuner TU-505, which matches the AU101. What a bargain it has been. I picked it up in the late 80's for £15 and it has the sweetest tone. I've never heard it with its matching amp but I would expect hi fi at it's best! Sadly, I only listen to digital radio these days so the Sansui is unused!
I'm about to buy a au101 for my first hifi setup, I've already bought celestion county's, do you recommend it. Is £200 a good price to pay for a serviced one?
Hi Kelvin, another great review thank you .... a question i've a pair of 1978 Infinity Quantum Jr speakers they are rated at 4 ohm ....89db at 1m recommended 20 - 200 Watts RMS (as per 1978 figs) do you think i can use the Sansui AU 101 in a 2nd set up for bedtime listening ?
If not what 1970s amp might you suggest ?
Oh well if you have them definitely plug them in .
The other thing worth saying and I don’t know your speakers in detail but it’s very rare to plug any amp into speakers and like not get them to work Power them at least okay.
Like all 70s amps the Sansui is 15 W would equate to 25 W today.
Personally I hardly think about that issue it just always seems to be okay.
Cheers K
I had a 101 in the 70's with Ditton 15's and a SP25, then a PL12D
Hi, Another great review. You helped with my speaker diffuclty with my Music Fidelity A1 amplifer and I now have the KEF Concertos :-) OK next question I would like to add some oomf to the sound so was thinking of adding a Power AMp vintage of course. The Sansui Eight Delux is coming in about £650 plus. So looking for a cheaper alternative. Any recomendations for a good vintage amp that i can use as a pwoer amp or use it as it comes. Many thanks and keep on with the demos.
Well off the top of my head there Au 317 is probably not a bad idea it’s not expensive at all.
I’ve got a feeling the musical Fidelity is a bit base light btw .
I think if you want a ton of base and a big soundstage the Sugden a 48 which I recently reviewed has some welly I mean it might be just too much bass I don’t know the acoustics and stuff.
@@stereoreviewx Hi, Thanks for your help. Well I have gone out and purchased the Quad 33 and 303 combo. for I think a bargain of £400 from a chap that restores old Hi-Fi. He has repaired all my old kit and he had them sitting on the shelve when I purchased the Music Fidetlity from him. So I will collect those today and hook up the KEFs to see hwat they sound like. Now I am looking at the Quad ESL 57! Have you had the chance touse these speakers?
I am making a choice whether to buy au101 or au3900. what is your suggestion for me?
Ok, these Sansui are better than Yamaha, Pioneer, and Marantz but what about Nad? Sansui au 101 or Nad 3020 (another your favorite) which one should we buy? :)
Hi, thanks for your reviews, I actually was thinking about to get one of those amps! I have a pair of Celestion Ditton 11 "the ones I am using atm" and a pair of 22, Do you think they will be good with those amps? Cheers
Well my guess is that the Ditton 11s won’t exploit the EU101 that well it’s got a big sound the 22s will be better I think you’ll find K
hi, your videos are very interesting for me especially as i am a vintage hi-fi collector. the sansui at 101 is a marvel, I have a lot of sansui: at 217, at 217mkii, at 3900/4900/5900 and many others, I wish you a very good continuation, bye.
hi Keilvin, I have got a cyrus one (slight modification and recap). And a Arcam Alpha 8. The Tannoy is the better 1, more mucality, better placing of the instruments. Nicer on the voices. Actually not happy with th Arcam, How can this small amp do so much, and this more modern Arcam do so little?
Do you have any experience with the Sansui AU 777? I have the chance to buy one but don’t know anything about it… and how it compares to the one in your review. Cheers.
For those infernal screw speaker terminals I have a solution. I found a brass spade lug on a right angle coupled to a female banana jack. They are slim profile and you simply screw them onto the existing terminals. I’d like to send you a picture but don’t know how.
Hi Kelvin. Love you work as always. Quick tech questions. I have an AU666 and an AU6500 would they be a good pair to pre/power with each other. if so which way round would you recommend. I love the warmth of the 666 but mainly i just don't want to blow them up :) appreciate your advice mate cheers chris PS if its not a good idea thats cool too
I would just try all that’s the fun K
@@stereoreviewx cool. will do
thank you
Great reviews thanks, I have bought au-d33 beautiful sounding and I'm getting the 101 next week, also bough the A40 as a repairable so should be interesting I'm hooked thanks to your reviews and advice
Yes I would say the 101 like some sensitive biggish speakers but maybe tell me what happens when you get it very interested in the comparison
Cheers K
@@stereoreviewx I was surprised at the output sound of the 101, plenty of volume and quality sound, love it, i even paired it with Akai sw155 and amazing sound clarity, thanks for the inputs on the sansui's, the Au-d33 sounds absolutely amazing low end very detailed and lovely highs, as for the A40 the right place for that was in the bin sounded generic and bland, not impressed at all, I hope you find my humble input helpful
@@waynemotherway8192 The prices of the AU 101 seem to vary, can you tell me how much you paid?
So glad I found your channel. Thank you.
I have a 101 and one day it just starting making a loud distorted buzzing. I quickly unhooked it before it damaged the speakers. Any ideas what might be the issue?
Amazing review, I will buy a Sansui 101, thank you!
Hey,think the reviews are brilliant.It would be great if you reviewed amp and speaker combinations,you know two or three speakers that would great with the 101, for example.
Nice idea thanks K
@@stereoreviewx I'm interested in this as well
Are you the guy from Terrys Milk Tray Ad from the 80’s? 😂
Just found you and enjoying your vlogs.
Would be interesting how the 70, 80 and 90’s kit compares to current kit. Have you tried a Chord DAC?
Cables? Are you a believer? 👍
From what I can tell 70s good 80s Getting bad 90s I kind of gave up there are some good sound things out now I had a “quad quad vena rescently
It’s really good delivers all round.
Cables. Yes I would say that make a difference for sure but to me it’s just tweaking.
I love mine but it only has inputs for mic, aux and phono. Currently have it on a splitter so I can have both CD and amp hooked up to aux. One more line input would have been perfect.
What do you think about a AU-7900, 80WPC @8ohm? Would you recommend it as good first amp?
What pair of speakers would you pair with this 101 Kelvin to get the most out of the amp? I have a budget of £100-150. Thanks.
saludos desde Costa Rica, estoy interesado en un Sansui AU-101 y mi pregunta es si con unos parlantes de estanteria de 4 ohms sonaran bien o si se pueden conseguir de menos ohms, muchas gracias
Hi Kelvin, I have the B&W DM4 speakers would these match with the 101? For the moment these are connected to a Technics SA-5350 with some small problems
yeah should be fine if not great
@@stereoreviewx thank you very much 🙏
Do you use valve amps if one of the criteria of a good SS amp is sounding like a valve amp? I have a valve amp but no SS amp and am curious about what a SS amp can get me in the bottom end.
Clout is probably the best word in the lower end I mean.
I should say I am not up-to-date with modern valve amps they have lots more power ?!
Hello. Thanks you for your reviews and advices! Always very interesting. I like Sansui amps, I had some by the past but sold... I regret it! Did you plan to review some olds Kenwood as the KA-3700? Very interesting sound too. Thanks again.
Don’t have access to any Kenwood right now coming up will be pioneer Harman Kardon and hopefully NAD
@@stereoreviewx ok! thank you.
Excellent your reviews and I would like you to help me find an amplifier for my Yamaha NS 1000 M (90Db). I look forward to your recommendation and in advance THANK YOU VERY MUCH
It’s too tricky for me to tell people what I am to buy you know there is the cost of the room your taste all to consider
I would say those Yamaha s Are Big and good so don’t feed them with anything substandard
See if you can get a Sugden class a amplifier I can’t remember the numbers right now big speakers are revealing
It’s got to be good I wouldn’t go for Japanese vintage I’d go British quad or Sugden
Cheers K
@@stereoreviewx Thank you very much for your help and recommendation.Greetings Albert
Things I do not like about early stereo equipment:
1. So few have preamp out/amp in (I want to drive a powered subwoofer)
2. Pre banana plug capability (I hate those clips for speaker wire)
3. Not enough AUX IN. (I need at least 4 AUX IN)
You can use tuner in CD or tape in as well as aux in btw
@@stereoreviewx Agreed. Few old amps have 4 line level inputs regardless how they are labeled.