Description
Sansui AU-555A amplifier. Fully renovation. Classic Vintage.
Sansui Electric Co., Ltd. was founded in 1947 as a manufacturer of transformers, but already in the 1960s it gained a reputation as a serious producer of audio components. Despite its huge popularity (especially in the United States) in the 60s and 70s, after 1985 the company began to bring much less profits than its rivals (Sony, Pioneer or Technics). It was the end of the heyday of hi-end equipment, which was related to an increase in sales of personal computers. At that time, Sansui Electric Co., Ltd. focused on the production of high-end components in Japan, and also started to produce high quality TV sets and other video equipment, while stopping exports. At the end of the 90s, the brand name was used on video devices manufactured by other companies.
Eventually, Sansui Electric Co., Ltd. as part of Grande Holdings went bankrupt in 2014. It is worth noting that Sansui was the first company to use transformers in audio equipment, and first to introduce to the market a high-voltage tube-transistor (hybrid) amplifier and a QS / RM system (Quadrasonic System / Regular Matrix), which allowed to obtain four-channel sound from two-channel one.
Sansui products already in the 60s were world-famous for their great quality of sound engineering, great design and the highest performance. This was possible mainly because each model was created from start to finish by Sansui experts. Only the best parts were used in production to ensure uniform and highest quality, and each device was repeatedly checked with the most accurate measuring instruments before it reached the customer. Thanks to this approach, Sansui Solid State receivers were characterized by low interference parameters, higher damping factors, greater dynamics, and above all, much better sensitivity and selectivity.
The AU-555A is an upgraded version of Sansui’s high-quality AU-555 amplifier from the early 1970s. This model is distinguished by extreme care in workmanship, thanks to which it gained enthusiasts around the world. In addition, the AU-555A’s high quality translates into efficient performance and a beautifully elegant design. The refined matte black panel is equipped with exclusive silver knobs and switches. This is an extremely versatile model that allows you to enjoy any music genre. Like most Sansui receivers and amplifiers, it is characterized by its unique sound quality.
The enclosure has been cleaned of old coatings. The wood finishing is Chinese oil produced from natural oils and natural turpentine-based beeswax. The wood is extremely nice to the touch. Potentiometers are in perfect condition. Back elements of the enclosure were cleaned and painted using the automotive wet painting technique. The device has been fully reviewed and serviced.
Collector’s item. The device is in perfect condition.
Technical data:
– power – 2 x 40W at 4Ohm
– frequency response – 20Hz – 30kHz
– total harmonic distortion – 0.5%
– signal-to-noise ratio – 70dB (MM), 80dB (line)
– input sensitivity – 2 mV (MM), 180 mV (DIN), 180 mV (line)
– weight – 8 kg
– impedance 4 – 16 Ohm
– channel separation – 45 dB (MM), 50 dB (line)
– damping factor – 50
– output – 180 mV (line), 30 mV (DIN)
– dimensions – 40cm x 13cm x 28cm (width x height x depth)
– year of production: 1973/74
– made in Japan