I like this guy! Is now my "go to person" before I pull the trigger on another Sansui Thank you Kelvin- keep going my man!

😮 Quel souvenir ! J'avais pris le virus de la Hi-Fi grâce à mon père. Ce modèle fût mon 1er ampli acheté après avoir cherché dans tout Paris le meilleur prix et meilleur compromis pour le budget que je m'étais fixé. J'y avait associé une platine Akaï (ref ? avec cellule Ortofon elliptique), de bonnes enceintes B&W (ref ? taille moyenne) + tuner et magnétophone Akaï 4000 DB (Dolby). Je me souviens qu'on m'enviait le bon son que j'avais ! J'y écoutais toutes sortes de musiques, depuis du disco jusqu'à la musique classique en passant par du jazz. Que ce soit pour la Hi-Fi ou le reste tout était sympa et plus facile en cette epoque bénie ! 22 ans, retour du service militaire, 1er studio, 1er emploi, puis en 79 1ere voiture et vacances avec ma petite amie de l'epoque. L'insouciance, les espoirs et les rêves de ma jeunesse... La liberté, les sorties, les dicothèques, les bons amis et les jolies filles. Pas très riches mais la vie était belle et tous les espoirs permis. Aujourd'hui j'en ai bientôt 68 et combien je suis nostalgique 😢 de ce temps là... Bon son à vous tous les anciens comme moi ou les + jeunes ! 😊

Thx for this lovely and passionate review. I own this amp since I was 18 y old and recently did a full restauration because I wanted to last another 40 years :-)! I did afull recap,resistors exapt the transistors because they still measured good and quality is even nowadays exeptional. The blue capacitors are Nichicon, Sansui used for this amp mainly Elna and Nichicon capacitors. These blue ones are DC decoupling capacitors and can certainly have an effect on sound, especially dynamics and tight bass sound. I replaced them with 1.3x higher value Panasonic caps. Everething else as standard values as original. To me this amp sounds as good as any todays amp in the 1000 to 1500 euro range. Sound is not always about lowest distortion but feeling dynamics and emotion! Keep going,

Looking at the schematics for this amp its a stunningly sophisticated design for a integrated in this price range with all the proper compensation and stabilisation parts in place that normaly got sacrificed for better profit. A pretty outstanding feature here is that the inputstages of the poweramps got separatly fed and can be precisely adjusted via a doubleset of trimpots (DC adjustment) per channel. The four blue lytics are additional filtercaps in the powerlines for the driver and outputstages of the poweramps to further lower ripple effects on the feeding power lines.

@stereoreviewx

3 жыл бұрын

Great info thanks K

Great review. I had Sansui amplifier back in 1990s. Great sound, so lively and amazing metal body. I like your review, so in detail. Seems like you have a lot of expertise in it. Thank you for this excellent video.

My father has bought that before I was even born. I grew up spending hours in front of it listening to music either from an AKAI cassete player or a Sansui Tuner. It has been years since it has been used. I am now thinking of taking it to my house and giving it some maintenance (if needed). I hope it is still alive. Thank you for this video. It really brought back memories.

@stereoreviewx

2 жыл бұрын

Yes I would just plug it in I don’t think mine is any work done on it

@koutsion

2 жыл бұрын

@@stereoreviewx Thank you for your feedback :). Take care

I have now just bought my first amp and cd player from ebay after watching you channel thank you. Not expensive stuff but all sansui .

Thank you for this great review! I own an AU-555A and I love it's sound!

i remember the Sansui 222 was a very highly regarded budget turntable back in the day.

My dad gave me the AU 999 he bought new in 1970. I keep all the levels neutral as well. Beautiful sound.

@stereoreviewx

6 күн бұрын

I bet

I must say…love watching your videos! Exactly the sort of way hifi should be looked at. I picked up an au-317 on this recommendation and I’m pretty blown away by it. I was using a NAD 3020i that started making a really loud hum, replaced it with a CREEK CAS4040 that my grandad had and always thought both sounded pretty phenomenal. Until now! Thanks so much

@stereoreviewx

Жыл бұрын

Welcome to the Sansui club and that is one of the gems

Happy Holidays Kelvin and SRX'ers. These videos are great fun. Hoping there's more in 2021.

Besides the sound I love the Sansui aesthetics. I think that most people would guess that this is equipment from the 90s and not the late 70s. I love your channel.

I stumbled by change upon this review and it is as if you were describing my Sansui AU117, which I bought in 1978 and still use at my desk in my home office for playing music. I also still own the second amplifier I bought in 1987, a Denon, which was beefier in the Watts department and had a better performance on paper with regard to total harmonic distortion and such, but the sound was never so appealing , embracing and warm to me as my old Sansui AU117. After a few years of less satisfied listening experiences I swapped them around and kept the Sansui ever after as my preferred amplifier and the Denon in its box as a back up, and after so many years my AU117 is still going strong.

I still use Sansui AU 217 from 1978 into my system and still produse amazing sound until today...

My first stereo I bought at 17, was a Sansui AU101 with Richard Allen full range speakers, 12 inch full range drivers, and an Akai AP001 TT, the sound was amazing.

I am very much enjoying your videos, thank you Kelvin 👍🏻🇺🇸

Great review as always kelvin.

I had the Cambridge Audio SXA60 for a while. It was the most soulless sound I've ever heard, and like you say it was total silence in the background almost like someone had put the old Dolby switch on (that you would get in tape decks) times 100. That to me, isn't life like, that's synthetic, to me air has a sort of sound sound to it and that should not be removed. I've heard this in some remastered CD's too, all the life blood of the music is removed (the air). Really love your videos, they are so in keeping with the way I describe things too, it's uncanny!

For any one interested in the au-117/217/317 range. I have a 117 mk1 and a 317mk1(both high-end re-capped) and am very familiar with the 217mk1 (my parents had this when I grew up). Power amp wise I was not getting the vibe from the 117mk1 that I was looking for (I was expecting like a 217), so I went for a 317mk1, and that did deliver (and then some). I would say sound wise the 117mk1 is 50% of the 317mk1 and the 217mk1 is 80% of the 317mk1. So if you have trouble finding a 317mk1(and you don't use the phono stage) , the 217mk1 is a pretty good alternative. The bigger difference is in the phono stage. Both 117 and the 217 share the same simple phono stage, (two transistors, electrolytic input coupling). The 317 however has allot more elaborate stage with 6 transistors and allot of nice polystyrene capacitors and a separate shield. Although I did not use my 117mk1 for record playback ( i do know the sound of the 217) , I was surprised at how good the phono stage quality of the 317 is. So if you plan to play records go for the 317. It might not compare to separate high end phono stages, but it is an integrated amp after all. The difference between the mk1 and mk2 versions is this: 1: cheaper construction (no inlayed logo, thinner front plate(from what I can tell). 2: no pre- amp out, power amp in on the 317. 2: bump up in output power, and different transistors(at least in the output stage). They bumped up the transformer voltage and power supply capacitor section and changed some resistor values in the output stage to get these higher output values for the mk2 versions. MK1 output power: 117 = 15wpc @8ohm 217 = 30wpc @8ohm 317 = 50wpc @8ohm mk2 output power: 117 = 25wpc @8ohm 217 = 40wpc @8ohm 317 = 60wpc @8ohm I don't know if running the output section a little hotter like that(mk2) makes it a better amplifier (well, at least commercially it would). Edit: For the 317mk2 they actually lowered(!) the value of some of the decoupling capacitors in the output section! (the ones you were pointing at).

@stereoreviewx

3 жыл бұрын

Great info thanks my friend K

I enjoy music again, bought a second-hand Sansui au317 and Rogers P22. Thanks for all the good advice Kelvin. I hope there will be more videos to follow one day.

@stereoreviewx

5 ай бұрын

Enjoy!

I am a fan of Sansui. Now I have a Sansui AU X911DG, from around 1990. Had and miss a AU 217 (chasing a 317 right now) and heading for the number three, an 1990's Alpha MR or NRA. Good and honest review!

Kevin, keep these videos coming...you speak the truth. Much appreciated

Thanks Kelvin, off the back of your review I managed to pick up a virtually mint AU-317 to go with my Sansui TT. Sounds absolutely great, everything nice and smooth, yet defined.

@stereoreviewx

3 жыл бұрын

Such a winner that Amp

@MD-ww4bh

3 жыл бұрын

@@stereoreviewx Now looking for a set of speakers to go with it. I'm currently using Wharfdale Denton, but on the lookout for something better. Any ideas?

@cephalotus59

2 жыл бұрын

@@MD-ww4bh Try Heybrook HB2 speakers - they work well with this amp IMO

Great test as allways, thanks dear

I use to own one. Packs a punch. Imaging and soundstage was pretty good with my ADS 1230 and 1290. If I could find another one I would buy and keep it.

Very informative, great review! Thank you. :)

Kelvin you did it again. 15 minutes after watching i bought one off ebay. I may stop now. Lol.

@kinglear5952

3 жыл бұрын

What do you make of it, Scott Waz?

@postaudio

3 жыл бұрын

Very happy. DAC to tube preamp to 317 as the amp to Ohm C2s. BTW, I did not stop. Pioneer 8100. Even happier.

@beslemeto

Ай бұрын

@@postaudio Is Pioneer 8100 better than this Sansui in the video? :)

Thanks for review Kevin. I realy realy like sound character of Sansui AU-317, I collections 2 unit AU-317 and I have done myself to full restoration both with the best capacitor I can get

@stereoreviewx

2 жыл бұрын

Interesting was the improvement obvious

Had one and change it later for the Au-717 to drive my marvellous Altec Lansing series 9,,,,What a great time it was!

@vincenzocirillo7980

2 жыл бұрын

Hi, I also have the 317 that sound very good with my Sonus faber cremona M, only a little note about this amp: it sounds always with too “energy” even when it’s not necessary, like delicate piano, or violins or soft voice… it gives always a punch in the face, it seems it misses delicacy… however I have the possibility to change it with 717, like you did… Can I ask you what I should expected in general? Thanks

I dragged my au-417 out of storage not that long ago. I never kept in the main system long because of the no remote issue. I have been really pleased and was thinking I should buy another while they are somewhat affordable. Keep one original and fully restore the other. Well so much for under the radar! TNB just did a video of the au-717

@stereoreviewx

3 жыл бұрын

Thanks will check out that review K

I remember this equipment, I wish I could have it again, my parents bought it around 1980

I've been doing this audio thing fo 45 years and there is a lot of wisdom in choosing your system based on sound not ego or $$$> Back when I had better hearing, I had systems with amazingly good musicality. Now that equipment is available for a fraction of it's original price. I still fondly remember my Celestron SL600 speakers.

@MrJason9142002

3 жыл бұрын

Did you hear the systems in stores? Today that’s very difficult

@fletchermunson6225

3 жыл бұрын

@@MrJason9142002 Ye, Went to stores but mostly bought used equipment from the news papers so when selling it on we wouldn't lose money. Depreciation already was baked in. Now it is easy as people send you things for 30 or 60 days and you can return it if you wish.

Love your enthusiasm, I can buy your recommendation without hearing 🍻

You are so right!! I collect Sansui....My best sounding am is a BA3000. I have a AU7900 I bought in high school, still have it today! Other Sansui products I have are BA2000, Ca2000, AU 719,717, and a TU7900 Really like them all...

@stereoreviewx

Жыл бұрын

Thanks for the info strangely, and I know I’m meant to be a serious, Hi Fi person Sansui 331. I just go back to it again again it’s not the ultimate in detail but is gorgeous

Thank you , much appreciated!!!!

Really enjoy your reviews. It was through your inspiring reviews that I started to look for vintage gears this year. I bought a used Sansui AU-101 after watching your review and really impressed with it. The AU-317 is harder to find in my country compares to AU-117 or AU-217. In between I have also acquired a A&R Cambridge A60 the early version (1978 with serial number 10xx), and a Pioneer SA5500II. They paired well with my all 1990s British made speakers - Mordaunt Short MS10i Pearl, Mission 750LE and Goodmans Imagio IC218. For sound, I enjoy the AU-101 & A60 the most. I'm from Malaysia.

Thanks! A 317 just arrived and am pairing it with Celestion Ditton 33... They really sing now with full bodied tone! Thanks! You are right... the amp has plenty bass, but with the extra big cone for the middle frequenzies it isnt overdoing it! Thanks!

@stereoreviewx

2 жыл бұрын

You’ve got a couple of classics there you might try rotating the base driver and or just tighten up the screws and the mid range tighten them up as much as you dare it can really improve things the Twitter as well but it doesn’t matter so much.. Do it carefully the Twitter is probably wood screws K

Had this in '78 in Kuala Lumpur (bought in Singapore) with a pair of Bowers & Wilkins DM4 speakers & a Rotel RP3300 turntable. Really able to raise the roof. Lived in a big old rambling bungalow in Pesiaran Madge, Ampang Hilir. Remember one day had a caller - delivery or some-such .. was playing Iggy Pops 'Dum Dum Boys' from the 'The Idiot' (long track) .. poor fella waited for 7 mins to make himself heard (before the next track kicked in). Tape (cassette) deck was the Akai GXC-46 we had from 1972 - the first deck to feature Dolby NR, I believe .. ! Them's woz the days .. Halcyon Daze !!

I have got an MKII version of this amp and love it. Unlike its brother though, the MKII doesn't have a pre-out.

After watching your pre amp - power amp video I picked up a AU-317 on eBay to pair with my Sansui 3300. The 3300 is with the technician. I hooked up a CD player and Pioneer CS-07 speakers. The speakers were a bust on my receiver but with this amp they were booming! I could only turn the volume up 2 clicks at night. Not sure why the speakers were night and day with the amp. It’s a good sign. Can’t wait to hook up the 3300 as the power amp and my reel to reel to the AU-317.

@stereoreviewx

2 жыл бұрын

Yes the 317 is just a winner

With the pre amp outs, this amp begs for a subwoofer to give it a final oomph. Perfect for a 2.1 system, that rocks. Plus you can do karioke.

I had the AU217 and TU217 and a nice pair of B&W CDM 1. the best sound system i ever owned.

Hi Kevin! I wanted to thank you for this episode. Since my Sansui Eight was serviced, I've been listening to the Au-217 which I bought as a spare amp based on your feedback. I must say he is very good. Certainly not as good as Eight, but it's close. Thank you for your work. Too factual and clear descriptions of the sound. Keep working on your videos, they're great. by the way, i have a question. Have you ever had the opportunity to listen to the Akai ST series speakers?

Hey Kelvin, Thank you for this nice review. Just bought myself an AU 317 :) What pair of speakers would you recommend for this amp?

So glad I got to be the first person to view this video and can be the first to comment this channel has really opened a new world for me after many years away in the wilderness of Bluetooth and such. Last weekend I was on eBay looking for a classic receiver from the 70s and seeing the now rather high prices on Sansui and having lost out on a 221 and matching 2020 turntable I had a look at a Trio Kenwood kr5200 and ended up buying it then I watched your review of some Monitor audio speakers So back on to eBay and there were some Monitor audio r352 Put in 1 bid and bam !!!! I have speakers to go with it The receiver will come by Friday wonder what it will sound like Hope to see some reviews of good sounding turntables and CD players as that's what I need next Keep it up this is a very enjoyable channel

@hugobloemers4425

3 жыл бұрын

Please let us know what you think of the Kenwood but allow it some time to break in again (at low power). If it has not been used a long time, the capacitors may have to reform.

Even simpler things than sound manifestation can’t be expressed in words.

Hi, you are always giving us good info. I appreciate it. What about AU 417 and AU 555A? I love 555A the best of all sansui amplifiers. This sounds beautiful sweet and harmonic, very quiet background, and relaxing. This amplifier does not push speakers but softly soothe into its harnonic sound territory but not letting them lose their own characteristics.

@stereoreviewx

Жыл бұрын

Yes the 555 and I think is it the 505 are in a way the peak of a certain Sansui sound these older ones do you have something special about them particularly how as you increase the volume the scale really grows not just the volume Now I want one right now

@bizmakerbhang5953

Жыл бұрын

@@stereoreviewx Certainly Yes. Better is to match with nice tube preamplifier, especially with 6922 tube. I got my system this way, and with higher gain of the preamplifier, much better in clearance in tonal definition and much wider in sound staging. This is amazing amplifier when married to Siemens E188CC/7308, the top definition mid and high, balanced, and clear back staging especially. Another way to uptrade sound is to use higher gain source with lower distortion. Preamplifer is both good with Aux in, or Pre in. To me, Aux was better. Not need to say that the sounds still staying within beautiful pretty Sansui. Just kinda add-up to Sansui thing. Try it.

Used to have the Sansui AU D11II...wish i had never sold it. Power and clean sound was awesome.

Lovely amp. The UK competitor to this was the A&R A60, but the Sansui beats it in all areas.

Brilliant stuff , real reviews a joy to hear , i thought i was going mad after so many disappointing buys mainly amplifiers i have made since my first buy creek 4040 s2 ...1980 ish ...what a belter ...i wish i had stopped there teamed up with a marantz cd 50 and tdl rtl 3 floorstanders was heaven , and exactly like you describe here the sansui and also nad 3020 review ....stupidly i thought buying a new creek top of range a few years ago would better the sound but not at all , like yoy say an empty dark dull sound ...and same too from modern naim boxes i tried and sold on ....so 4040s2 and yes bi wire really brought the sound all together agree ...just wonder if tou have heard this amp or would try a review sometime ....it is in my opinion spot on and for the money ebay £120 ish ....anyway ramble over thanks for great stuff ...

@stereoreviewx

3 жыл бұрын

No I don’t have experience of the creek but I remember hearing about it back in the day. Talk about the problem I am concerned with misleading information really and illusions of progress there are some but not the way is described by let’s face it are mostly corrupt media

@davidlyon471

3 жыл бұрын

@@stereoreviewx you right there Kelvin...makes you think why ddint they always include an early amp in manufacturers range to compare .... And once upon a time i remember what hifi had a “ onthe couch session “ random people listening blind test , funy how they stopped thAt ....

Hello VL -vintage lover. Thanks for all your inputs on the web. Recently got an Sansui au317 .. and I am blown away with all its quality. It delivers in every way. wow wow wow. Loved the video on the Sugden a48, which I found comes in different variations. From the first wooden one to the slimmer black version later on. How do they compare and which is the one to look out for. Keep up the good work 😀

@stereoreviewx

Жыл бұрын

I think the latest Sugden is quite a different sounding animal may be a class Amp Sugden in my experience always deliver Welcome to the Sansui club I’ve got about 25 converts so far

This amp is marvelous! I bought it after your video... now my integra 8850 doesn't stand a chanse!

@stereoreviewx

2 жыл бұрын

Hey good to hear .

@radoslavsponski9238

2 жыл бұрын

@@stereoreviewx Piano out of the sansui is uncomparable.The bass comes abit higher witch makes it sweeter and very playful for the ear and doesn't hide in the walls. I miss details in the high specter.. I bought a Luxman R-1030 sound is alot deeper and detailed. I would love to see You compare maybe accuphase and/or luxman from that time 70s.

The black capacitors are the power supply capacitors, the blue ones could be the output capacitors. Or they could be the power supply capacitors for the pre-amp (or even driver stage). In the latter case it would explain the quality of sound because it means that the pre amp stage and possibly the driver stage has a more or less independent power supply from the final stage. If they would be the output capacitors, it would mean that this design needs them and that is not as good as having a symmetrical power supply and a DC coupled output stage. The fact that they come in pairs is good news because it an indicator that this amp has a symmetrical power supply. BTW with that I mean that the ground level is in the middle between the positive and negative power supply voltage and not just ground at zero and one positive voltage. I would love to get a good Sansui amp, so thanks for mentioning this one. But I went on eBay and you can not find them for under 200 Euros (180 Pounds, so they are a bit more expensive than what is claimed here). I have a Luxman L-210 amp with similar power and about a few years younger. I love the sound of it and I am really curious what you think of it.

Hi Kelvin. Can you possibly review the sansui sx1130 amplifier. Or share your thoughts if you have experience in this product. Cheers and keep up the excellent work...

Thanks Kelvin great review, I had the AU 2900 and 3900 and was disappointed with both, though would like to give the AU 2200 a go as based around the same STK016 as the Sansui 441 Receiver

@doonray

3 жыл бұрын

Funny, I had the same experience in reverse! I bought a very battered AU-2200 for cheap during lockdown, when I was parted from the rest of my equipment. It blew me away with its sound quality! Deep, rich tones, lifelike voices and tight, powerful bass, accurate 3D sound staging. It has it all! I then got hold of the more powerful AU-3900 and was disappointed by the comparatively flat soundstage and harsh brightness. I think the AU-X900 range is the one to avoid! And if I haven't emphasized it enough, do yourself a favor and get an AU-2200! I'll try and get hold of a 441 to compare, also after the 4400 for comparison too.

@MichaelYates

3 жыл бұрын

@@doonray Thanks for the message. Interesting to hear the 2200 sounds nice. I did buy one off of eBay a while ago but it got lost in the post, which was a shame as was only £60 inc post. But I had an idea that the 2200 may sound different to the 2900 & 3900 as it has the STK amp on a chip. I have found so far that a lot of STK's sound quite nice. Used in the 221,331,441 receivers, 331 sounds nice. I have the 221 but still not really had a listen to that yet. Also the Sanyo dcx 2000 as a STK chip which is not a million miles away sound wise to the 331.There must be plenty amps/receivers with these chips in. But will be eager to get a 2200 now. Thanks Again Mick.

@doonray

3 жыл бұрын

@@MichaelYates Hi Mick, thanks for the reply. And interesting stuff indeed. I'd been thinking the same thing about the STK modules and have been trying to get hold of a comparable amp that uses them. The Rotel RA-300 is a good contender, waiting for one at the right price. Otherwise if I can get hold of a 4400 and a 441, I should be able to know once and for all whether it's the chip or the rest of the amp that imparts the excellent sound (The 4400 being the closest to the 2200 without the chips). It's pretty strange, since most people seem to spurn STKs as being a crappy cost cutting measure. And in all fairness that's what they were, they've just accidently ended up making some excellent amps!

@MichaelYates

3 жыл бұрын

@@doonray Well please keep me informed on any conclusions you come to. STKs seemed a cheap way of getting an amp into a box. The main reason they were made I think was to save companies designing there own amp and size as they do not take up to much room and mounted upright. Sanyo seemed to be the main supplier, the ones used on these amps/receivers are the low numbers 14,15,16 etc, Goes in to the 4000's these days. Though I think Sanyo stopped making them about 20 years ago. Though plenty of rubbish Chinese clones about. I will be looking out for any amp/receiver from the 70's in the 10 to 20 watt range that may have one of these in as a comparison and report any findings on my channel. I also would have thought that the pre-amp/ tone circuit would play a big part on how these sounded. But as you say a lot of people seem to dismiss these amp on a chip STK's so making picking up a good cheap amp a little easier.

Hello, I really liked your detailed review and passion for quality sound. I still have my grandfather’s Sansui AU 317 amp with the SE5 equaliser Tu217 tuner n it drives the SPx6000 speakers. Do you recommend to recap even if there is no issue? The amp is still in stock condition except for the top cover which was powder coated. Please let me know your views. Thank you n stat safe

Lovely amp I have plenty of sansui, I was surprised by a fully recapped and re-worked sony ta 242 with improved toriodal transformer and some other parts, it sounded very good. Maybe worth a punt they are cheap as chips with the stk sanyo transistor ic.

Hi, great video! I follow you from Italy. Recently I had the opportunity to listen the AU 517 that sounds great also with my 6 ohm Sonus Faber Cremona M speakers. However I’ve noticed that listening songs like “go your own way”, you know, more ‘confusing’ song, the listening was strenuous, all the other ‘simple’ (less instruments) song are amazing. I’ve used to listen with my Fezz audio Titania (tubes amplifiers) that is great, but this Sansui engage me a lot… unfortunately the 517 amplifier (that I read sound more musical than the 717 or 919, isn’t it?) wasn’t mine. What I ask you is: Is this AU 317 better or equivalent in sounding (like you know) 517?

Just got one. Amazing! Just like you said: Sansui, Marantz and maybe Pioneer

@stereoreviewx

Жыл бұрын

Never had anyone disappointed with classic Sansui

Hey man, can you make some more videos? I think I watched them all. I need to learn.

Just acquired one of these. Amazingly good amp compares well against far more expensive more modern amps I have had. Drives my IMF tls 50 speakers so well…big speakers!

@stereoreviewx

Жыл бұрын

Great Speakers you have always wanted them or the bigger ones with the Oval driver

@neilasimon

Жыл бұрын

@@stereoreviewx When I get a bigger room I will get the IMF tls 80s! I need to move house first.

After watching the video, I had a chance to have an AU-217. This little gem exceeded my expectations. I have a little collection of receivers and amps, may be 30 of them including TOTL and professional amps. Believe me, I can live with AU-217 alone. May be add 551 and 6060 receivers for different sound characteristics. Don't look for overpriced TOTL equipment. Any low powered Sansui receiver or integrated would blow you away with high efficiency speakers. They have the soul, completeness and musicality.

@stereoreviewx

3 жыл бұрын

I totally agree worth noting at least 10 people have bought sound Sansuis from watching this channel and they’re all say the same just great sounding they’re all delighted And yes I think the low powered ones essentially sound better

Love this video and considering the amp - what floorstanders would be good with it? Thanks!

@stereoreviewx

3 жыл бұрын

Well it’s too hard to say honestly but it’s a very forgiving Amp it kind of makes most speakers sound good

hi kelvin i am from bali indonesia. I like your explanation about old amplifiers. I really like the old amplifier. the voice is different. more detail. my favorite sansui au217 and 417. now i am trying the aurex sb 320 from toshiba. can you review it? THX.

Thanks for the amazing videos, just a positive criticism, the sound could do with being a bit louder on the videos. A mic would really help with that, thanks again

@raydeffett8435

2 жыл бұрын

Hi I have the au 217 what do you think ?

I have this amp along with the sansui sr-636 turntable. I was wondering your thoughts on the turntable. Its my dad's and he bought it in japan when in the navy in the 70s. I use it regularly and love it but know little about the hobby. Great video and look forward to learning more about the hobby.

@stereoreviewx

2 жыл бұрын

Well I don’t know that Turntable in detail but I think with Turntable you have to give them a bit of love and attention and try tweaking the weight of the mat keep the cartridge and screws tight you can improve things a lot with an effort

The 2 big black capacitors are filter (smoothing) caps for the power amp and the 4 blue caps do the same for the lower voltage pre-amp power supply. When AC (mains supply) is converted to DC (all amps work with DC current) there is still ripple (the positive 50Hz component of AC), thus it needs to be shunted to ground via capacitors (which only pass through AC current and block DC current). The filter caps basically remove unwanted noise (AC ripple) from the DC power supply. The secondary function of having big filter caps is to keep the DC voltage rails consistent when dynamic spikes suck the supply voltage down. They act like very low resistance batteries that can instantly top up the supply voltage the moment it starts to decline. Voltage always want to flow from the highest potential to the lowest. These types of caps must have a very low resistance so these can deliver the current essentially instantly. When caps get old they tend to dry up (electrolytic fluid inside) and the resistance goes up. If you see a cap that is bulged on the top (you can feel a small budge better than see it) then it is definitely gone bad. Capacitors can still go bad and look fine, so only an ESR meter can measure the internal resistance (without removing the caps) and determine if the caps need replacing. Kelvin, you are a smart guy, so I am sure you could easily learn the basics to safely check the caps (and replace them) in your plethora of gear. I have learned the basics of electronics, because it's too expensive to pay someone to do it for all the gear I have. A soldering iron and ESR meter is about $100. Most caps will be in spec, but power supply caps are experience the most stress. Most other components either work right or totally fail. Caps can degrade slowly and mess up the sound without failing completely. Also, you can replace the caps with better than original, because electronic component are much better today. Even on more modern electronics repairs I will buy high quality caps ($2 instead of 10 cents) for longevity and audio quality in audio gear.

@stereoreviewx

Жыл бұрын

Very nicely explained my friend thank you K

i purchased a au 717 what do you think about it? i had oportunity to get a 719 but they said the 717 sounded better

Hello.I found one off these in the thrash today.Took it home and tested it and it sounds very very suprised good. Only thing is the volume(gain) is a bit high whith cd player plugged in AUX ,difficult to get an accurate low level volume .

@stereoreviewx

3 жыл бұрын

Maybe try tuner

Hi! Whats your opinion about Sansui AU X501? Its 80s gear, ive heard some good stuff about it, but I guess you re biggest Sansui specialist on KZread! Thanks in advance!

As having read from other posts the Black Caps are for the power supply and if it were me I would change them perhaps go 5 volts up and as much capacitance as you can fit in under the hood, in fact change all the caps for the cost of it. The resisters should be fine but none the less measure them all and consider replacement that will really open up the sound for you...if you live in Yorkshire drop it off if you want a hand. Mick

@stereoreviewx

3 жыл бұрын

Thanks for the info on the offer Mick shame I’m a long way away. K

Hi Kelvin, Really enjoying your informative and entertaining video's. Would this Sansui AU 317 drive a pair of Spender BC1's nicely? Cheers Andy Bucks

Hi Kelvin, you asked about the capacitors in AU-317...the two black ones is 10.000uF/50V used for the main supply which is +-42VDC. The blue ones is 470uF used for the regulated supply of +-28VDC for preamp, phonopart a.o. parts....This is standard for a "complementary" amplifier with plus and minus transistors PNP and NPN in the output.....in your videos you like the type of amplifiers from 1969 to about 1975 where the topology mostly were "quasi" designed amps... which means, you have only one plus rail of lets say +60VDC and a pair of NPN output transistors that shares the voltage. Then one half of the supply of +30V is used by the upper NPN and the other NPN uses the other half of the supply..... (just short) in the middle you take the speaker signal out through a capacitor of approx 2.200-3.900uF that saves the speaker not to have the DC voltage across the voicecoil.....this is the basic of a "quasi" amplifier. The AU-317 is not a "quasi" amp but a complementary design..... the "quasi" designed amps used a pair of NPN's as output transistors because it was difficult to make PNP transistors with the same specifications back in 1969.... I have never heard the AU-317 but the schematic looks fine. Best rgds Kim DK

@stereoreviewx

Жыл бұрын

Thanks for that part of me, thinks I understood it 😀

Do you have your vintage gear serviced before doing reviews, or are these items reviewed as purchased?

Beautiful amp 👍

Hi! Is there ever any comparisons with actual listening comparisons involved, i.e. audio comparisons for us viewers to listen to in these review videos?

@stereoreviewx

3 жыл бұрын

Yes I am going to try that it’s tricky getting the sound right and also you can’t use famous tracks for copyright reasons but I think it would be worth doing Cheers K

Very nice segment Kelvin. I enjoy your reviews immensely. How do you compare the AU-317 to the 661 receiver in terms of sound?

@stereoreviewx

2 жыл бұрын

The 317 just always delivers for me it’s kind of my reference certainly in the world of vintage so I have to say that’s my pick

@gwamos

2 жыл бұрын

@@stereoreviewx Thanks for you response, I managed to get one, and am enjoying it. Keep up the great work.

I bought a Sansui AU- 317 at a yard sale for $50 DLS it works perfectly fine.

@stereoreviewx

3 жыл бұрын

nice work K

Nice review, Kelvin. The large capacitor (10,000uF) are the main smoothing caps. All of the caps will be significantly degraded by now as the electrolyte will be drying up. Any that are bulging will certainly need replacing but it sounds like this amp deserves a full recap. Whilst Panasonic FCs gain a lot of friends in this area, I would always go for DNM smoothing caps and Elna Silmic II for the rest, for their big sound quality.

Hi Kelvin, I am on the fence between the mk1 AU317 and the au 7500 for turntable usage.... Any thoughts between the two?

I found the bass on the AU217 II a little dominating, but that's just down to personal preference. If one of Luxman's more affordable amps comes your way - an L-1 or L-113A, for example - I'd be interested to hear your thoughts on how it compares to the AU317.

@stereoreviewx

3 жыл бұрын

If I can find one I definitely well cheers K

Two weeks in on its younger brother 217 ( and what a great amplifier for money ) 👍

Hi mister! I see you know a lot about 70's Sansui. I own AU317 mkII, that i think is '78 or '79. I wonder if that has the same concept and soul. I have been using it until about 8 years ago i bought (then) new Audio Analogue Crescendo. I found out that mkII is slightly more powerfull than original AU317 and lacks pre-out. Well, luckily i am a smart fella and have never even considered selling it. Have you ever owned one mkII and if so have you compared the two brothers? What i have experienced is that it is a very durable, truly powerfull and solid piece. It sounds true on easy listening as well as when you really open it up and give it a blast. It can really drive any speakers and sound never gets tired. Oh, i found the Crescendo (50w/channel) more open/airy on mids and highs and overaly friendly to ears and soul. (I am bringing 317 back in for a little comparasion shortly lol) Well, i want to hear your opinion sir.

@stereoreviewx

3 жыл бұрын

Yeah I mean it won’t be big differences but I did hear that it was a cost-cutting issue to be honest the mark two But there must be loads of commonality You are right it’s a great stand up and never disappoint you normally surprises me and as you say you go loud it gets better and that’s not always the case

Hi Kelvin, have you ever had a Nikko amp or receiver? Wondered what you reckon to their sound.

@stereoreviewx

3 жыл бұрын

Yes well I did years ago so it’s kind of guesswork but I can’t remember being impressed much .

Would like to hear your thoughts on the Yamaha CR 2020 receiver

Thanks for your view, Kelvin. I'm considering to buy one (200 € here in Spain, in good shape I think). My current main amp is a Tecnics Su V460 that sounds very good. Do you think I'd really notice the difference? Would the Sansui sound way better than my Tecnichs? Greetings from Spain!

@stereoreviewx

3 жыл бұрын

Hi Jose so you know technics aren’t bad my guess is the Sansui would be BetterBut it won’t be huge let me know if you get it yeah cheers K

@richardingamells7213

2 жыл бұрын

@@stereoreviewx Love your reviews. Agree with you fully. But on pricing I have to say I've found these gems being sold for much more or the sellers asking way too much

Hi, Has anyone compared both the NAD 3020 and the Sansui AU 317 both of which Kelvin has reviewed to see which is best? Anyone know what the letters stand for after the NAD 3020 that usually say A, B, E or I? Great review Kelvin. Thanks.

From your videos ive learned that actually nothing sounds better than the other, its just a matter of what you are playing (music type) vs what you prefer or view as good sound (individual perception). Hence two ppl will not always agree, its like judging which girl is beautiful, oranges vs apples

Any comments on the 317ii? Is it a mk 2. Your comment is highly appreciated. Thought of getting one, should it be the 317 or the 317ii?

@stereoreviewx

2 жыл бұрын

I think the 317 I have heard the mark two is actually a cheaper version doesn’t have pre-power separation either They do that when something is popular bring out a mark 2 to cash in

Great review sir. I just wanted your opinion on recapping this beauty. I have one and it sings very well. The caps are not leaking or bulged and are measuring well. Will you recommend recapping

@stereoreviewx

Жыл бұрын

have to say no my senses it won’t sound as good again if you do it please let me know

The 2 large black capacitors you pointed to are the Main PSU smoothing capacitors. This amplifier doesn't have 'output capacitors' as it is a 'DC Coupled' design. In my opinion there is nothing connecting the NAD3020 with the AU-317 arising from the use of those blue capacitors you also highlighted. 😎

@stereoreviewx

2 жыл бұрын

Okay good thanks for that. K

My favs are the Marantz 1060 and Technics Su3500.

Great video.. thanks.. Would be interested to know your biggest hifi disappointments/let downs..

@stereoreviewx

3 жыл бұрын

Yeah interesting question

@dr.anthonyforgione4253

2 жыл бұрын

Yamaha.

Hi Kelvin, thanks for your great videos. I'm a super happy owner of one of these 317 amps. Sadly I'm getting hum from the pre amp stage and probably gonna end with a technician. I'm looking for a similar backup Amp, around same cost, maybe 200 pounds. Maybe something newer maybe also a vintage one. Do you have any recommendation? Thaks a lot! Love ur videos and your philosophy regarding equipment!

@stereoreviewx

3 жыл бұрын

Well as far as Sansui goes for sound quality if anything you wanna go back in time not forward to younger ramps I wouldn’t go younger than 1980 as a general rule so not sure what to say there. Does your 317 have a pre-power separation you could work out which section has the harm and get a different power preamp the power amp is probably the best part of that amp I would say .

@diegoraffo

3 жыл бұрын

@@stereoreviewx thanks Kelvin for you feedback.

Hi again, there are several MKII versions of the AU range (AU 317, AU 217, AU 117), what do you think of these? Thanks again Mark

@stereoreviewx

3 жыл бұрын

Well my guess is the mark one is probably better but it’s a guess One differences they cut out the pre-power option Can’t imagine it sounds wildly different

@theaudioman4446

3 жыл бұрын

@@stereoreviewx Hi again Sir, and thanks once again for the reply. I got a Sansui AU217 MK2, and have been playing it for a few days now. This amplifier conveys the emotion much better than any other amplifier I have had so far and I have had a lot (Marantz PM6006 , Audiolab, Pioneer A400, Arcam FMJ 32& Alpha 10, 7, 3 etc etc) Thanks for the recommendations and years of experience you share, fantastic

After watching your previous video on the Sansui 441 receiver, i decided to invest in some vintage audio, first was an Ariston RD11s turntable fitted with an Infinity Black Widow tonearm the cartridge is an ADC ZLM, then a lucky find a Sansui 441 receiver in near mint condition with box and manual. last week i came across a beautiful set of Mordaunt Short MS 400 loudspeakers from around 1969. Total cost €810.00. This system just delivers, great sound stage punchy bass and pin point midrange. treble can be a bit splashy which could be down to the ADC cartridge. Kelvin keep up the good fight, class videos and very informative. how would the 441 compare to the 317?

@stereoreviewx

3 жыл бұрын

That’s great to hear sounds like a nice big dynamic sound Regarding 441 and 317 I would say 317 is a slightly more detailed refined more powerful hence bigger sounds but I can’t say it’s gonna just be better because the 441 is great though maybe less sophisticated I couldn’t call a winner between those 2 to be honest I’m a big fan of auto phone cartridges even old ones like the FF15E They’re not brash there detailed smooth great in the mid range Cheers K

@msgillingham

3 жыл бұрын

@@stereoreviewx kelvin just fitted an Ortofon VMS 30mk11 much much better.

Great review I have used this same unit since I purchased it in 1978 in what instance would you use the preamp?

@stereoreviewx

Жыл бұрын

To be honest I think the power amp is the best section of the amp So I would plug the power amp into a high-end Pre amp

Hi Kevin,what do you think about Sansui au x701? Is it better than au317? Power is not my no.1,I like clean and correct sound.Thank you

@stereoreviewx

2 жыл бұрын

Okay the are you X70 one is a later model I believe and I don’t have experience of it if I had to guess I’d say stick to the 317 because it just doesn’t do anything wrong

Lovely Sansui gear. Among vintage Japanese gear Sansui is among the best. They're top of the line integrated amps were great up to and including the AU 717 and the astonishing AU 919 possibly the finest integrated amp ever made. After that Sansui went into significant decline resulting in their dreck from the 80s. A disease that ruined the consumer audio market from about 1980 onward although signs of cheapening were evident in the late 70s.

@stereoreviewx

3 жыл бұрын

Thanks for that some people have said the 719 also exhibits cost-cutting Cheers K