Don't Overlook Some of These Vintage Stereo Bargains

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  • čas přidán 31. 05. 2024
  • In this week's video, Kevin goes over a few hidden gems that are hanging around the shop. They may not be the top brands people are looking for, but they may just be a surprise you didn't see coming. These might just be some good pieces to keep an eye out for when you are searching for your next hi-fi deal.
    Are these vintage bargains, otherwise known as sleepers? Are they pieces you should avoid? Kevin goes over his thoughts on all of these diamonds in the rough.
    Not all of these are home runs. Kevin will show you some aspects to think about, and possibly avoid when you are staring at what you might think is a deal right in front of you.
    Let us know in the comments if you have any stories about your sleeper or nightmare finds. Is there any advice you'd like to add? Enjoy!
    MENTIONED LINKS
    Here is the link to the Hi-Fi Haven link about class G amps: hifihaven.org/index.php?threa...
    Speaker Pins: amzn.to/3HTeixZ
    _________________________________________________________
    Some product links below are affiliate links which means if you buy something we’ll receive a small commission at no additional cost to you.
    Grado Phono Cartridges, Record Cleaner, and more- available at skylabsaudio.com/shop/
    U-turn Turntables amzn.to/49hbuWW
    Rega P1 Turntable amzn.to/3HJ8Ayp
    Audio Technica ATLP120 turntable amzn.to/3Ou2VzU
    Audio Technica AT LP60 Turntable amzn.to/3uhLRGK
    Fluance Turntables amzn.to/3SK5L6L
    Pro-ject Turntables amzn.to/49eUAbi
    Ortofon Phono Cartridge amzn.to/3Oy2955
    Tracking force scale- amzn.to/42tok1Z
    Pyle Phono Preamp amzn.to/3HPbqSo
    Ampapa Phono Preamp amzn.to/3HLSeFs
    Klipsch R-51 Powered Speakers amzn.to/42pgIh6
    Edifier Powered Speakers amzn.to/48U4teS
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    Some product links are affiliate links which means if you buy something we’ll receive a small commission.
    We have owned and used every product in the links below.
    Cambridge Audio Dac magic amzn.to/471W1Zd
    Recommended Turntables:
    Audio Technica LP60 Great entry-level “fully automatic” turntable for under $150 amzn.to/3eAPC1B
    Rega Planar 2 Turntable with Premounted Carbon MM Cartridge (Gloss Black) amzn.to/3GA8s3R
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  • Věda a technologie

Komentáře • 339

  • @jimplosay8352
    @jimplosay8352 Před 3 měsíci +2

    Would love to see more unique items, like Optonica.

  • @nsb_drum
    @nsb_drum Před 3 měsíci +15

    Really enjoy these videos about lesser-known gear that is worth picking up. This would make a good reoccurring series imo.

  • @johnwaynes4417
    @johnwaynes4417 Před 2 měsíci +3

    Bring this back on a continuum. There are so many sleepers out there so be got

  • @chrislupson217
    @chrislupson217 Před 3 měsíci +6

    I have been a big fan of Hitachi’s Class G since buying a SR-904 almost 10 years ago.

    • @martyjewell5683
      @martyjewell5683 Před 2 měsíci

      Got my SR-804 in 1979 and still use it as my main amp. It's boss.

  • @georgepetrovic567
    @georgepetrovic567 Před 3 měsíci +2

    Another great sleeper is the Sanyo Plus55 receiver. Super tuner with combo analog/digital dial. Plenty of clean power, led power meters, nice stepped volume control and great phono section. Very clean sound.

  • @pedrofernandez8729
    @pedrofernandez8729 Před 3 měsíci +2

    Japan has been making good stuff for a long, long time. I remember the old Sony Trinitron color TV's. they were the world standard

  • @fb6performance271
    @fb6performance271 Před 3 měsíci +1

    I forgot to mention my garage setup. Fisher CA 880..Fisher EQ 276 driving JBL LX 44's and a vintage Cerwin Vega 12" powered sub. This setup bangs hard for heavy metal music when hanging out outside.

  • @natanpierce495
    @natanpierce495 Před 3 měsíci +1

    You will like this story. I was driving in my neighborhood in Philly about 12 years ago. Came across a pair of ADS (8) Braun speakers on the side of the road. Didn't know how long they had been sitting there for. (Trash day) and I scooped them up because the cabinets were in great shape as well as the dust covers. I figured of the speakers were bad I would make a Frankenstein set out of them. Well, fast forward to a month ago- I never tried them out, I kept them in the box after I moved and when my center speaker blew in my theater, I decided to switch out my B&O's to the theater and pulled the ADS out of the bacement. -WOW! Sound amazing. (Not as good as my ol B&O's but the sound stage is larger by far. Free- Who would have thought??? They pair nicely with my JBL L80T

  • @tedcorey3054
    @tedcorey3054 Před 3 měsíci +2

    I bought a Pioneer 1250 receiver back in the '70's , from the Navy Exchange in Naples Italy , a friend kept bugging me to sell it to him , so I did , then he wanted to borrow my Bose 901's so I let use them (I was in the USN at the time) . He dropped one while moving , put a lit cigarette on one (while drunk) . After I found a Technics 5770 , but it ain't my Pioneer . I picked up a Technics SA 5150 a couple yrs. ago . I'd like to check out your store in person , but like Al Bundy said :"My cars only got half a tank of gas". Good stuff.

  • @HawklordLI
    @HawklordLI Před 3 měsíci +1

    Glad to see Hitachi getting some respect. My first receiver was a SR 703 and I still have it.

  • @uncle-salty
    @uncle-salty Před 3 měsíci +1

    When I was a kid I inherited my grandfathers Toshiba SA-420. It was my bedroom stereo until I got an all in one with a CD player as a teenager. I recently had the Toshiba serviced and am beyond happy to have it running once again. I'm just glad I never stuck any crappy glam rock band stickers on it as a kid, LOL. I've got it hooked up to a pair of Studio Lab Series speakers that I remember my Dad bringing home talking about the killer deal he got on them from a white van at a gas station, Ahhh the good old days.

  • @truhunk1
    @truhunk1 Před 2 měsíci +2

    I very much agree the Hitachi receiver is a fantastic unit. I owned the next model up, the 904 Dynaharmony, I think it was 120 watts per chanel, but I don't remember exactly, and it was very powerful and LOWD. I regret parting with it. I needed a stereo with surround. One of my life mistakes.😢.

  • @hhvictor2462
    @hhvictor2462 Před 3 měsíci +2

    In my army barracks days, especially during late 70s W. Germany, people displayed their expensive stereo gear in their quarters. Theft of that kinda property was never an issue. Something to be said for security.....

  • @anthonyross8102
    @anthonyross8102 Před 3 měsíci +1

    Great video. The Nikko NR 815 is a sleeper I found at a Mexican flea market in Detroit for 75 bucks. I took it home and used it in the garage and during bbq's where it stayed for another 20 years. I cleaned it a month ago, and now it has earned a place in my living room and is still jamming.

  • @therocknessfnmonster
    @therocknessfnmonster Před 3 měsíci +2

    I gotta say, I love my Sanyo DCA 1400. Like many of the viewers to this channel, I have quite a few amps and my Sanyo is one of my favorites. They've made my most boring speakers sound great.

  • @NCislander
    @NCislander Před 3 měsíci +5

    Laughing out loud at the "Frankenstein" drop in. Nice job. Really fun video seeing the different equipment passing through your shop. Really fun to watch. Keep throwing these in the mix every now & then. Thanks Kevin, Thanks Eric.

    • @BadWolf762
      @BadWolf762 Před 3 měsíci +1

      I've got a couple sets of Realistic MC-1000 speakers that I "Frankensteined" with new generic woofers and they sound fantastic.

  • @marcr6749
    @marcr6749 Před 2 měsíci +1

    You mentioned Realistic brand and they deserve a showing of their speakers and receivers. Currently im looking for an STA 95. 45w per channel. I had one when i was a teenager and it was a tank. It would fry speakers and keep on trucking. It met its end when a buddy spilled his soda in it. I tried to repair the amp circuit but in 1997 we didnt have ebay and amazon for replacement components. 2N3055s didnt work.🔥🔥

  • @LordSamuelJ
    @LordSamuelJ Před 3 měsíci +1

    I picked up a Mitsubishi DT40S three head cassette deck. Its a rare bird and built like a tank. The sound quality is amazing! Its also easy to work on. Mine needed belts and the mechanism removed and came apart super easy. Its quickly become my favorite deck besides my Nachamichi RX505. It also looks very nice and has rack handles. I love this deck!

  • @scottmitchell7852
    @scottmitchell7852 Před 5 dny

    Nice to see a hitachi. I have two HTA-4001's and a HGE-1100. I realy like them.

  • @geomark8851
    @geomark8851 Před 3 měsíci +13

    Fisher 800-C! I love mine. It's paired with a pair of Klipsch Heresy speakers and is a delight to listen to. The warm, dynamic sound is literally music to these old ears.

    • @jeffreyklaum13
      @jeffreyklaum13 Před 3 měsíci +1

      I had a Fisher RS-1056 a long time ago. Wish I never got rid of it. Im always looking for one though. ;)

    • @edwardbagu1252
      @edwardbagu1252 Před 3 měsíci +1

      The fisher 440-T is a nice small 60's unit that punches above its weight. It gives the later fisher RS 2007 a good run.

  • @g.fortin3228
    @g.fortin3228 Před 3 měsíci +2

    My best sounding sleeper is a Nikko NR-815. Not talked about in many circles, but sounds very pleasing. No super bowl here either, instead was setting up a new cartridge / old turntable and enjoying brand new vinyl. Never thought I'd be doing that. Edit: Turntable is a nice clean PL-A45D , was my dads.

  • @jeffreyklaum13
    @jeffreyklaum13 Před 3 měsíci +1

    I collect Realistic and Superscope stuff. Realistic has a lot of sleepers. I was running a STA-76 as a daily driver for my office system with a set of Jamo S803's for the longest time. Always sounded warm and full. My daughter has a STA-64 and it's also a real nice receiver for it's size. I am currently running a Superscope R-350 on my office system with a Lab-500 turntable. The Superscopes phone stage is so warm. I listen to mostly jazz. My living room system has a Zenith MC 7051 pushing a set of Mach 1's and Optimus Pro LX8's on top. Again...awesome. I have a MC 7041 that still needs gone through. So many sleepers out there. I recently had a Olson RA-195 redone. Mostly because it was a Akron Ohio company (the area where i'm from). I like it for the history. But, it does sound very good. I'm currently looking for a Fisher RS-1056. I had to sell one years ago. Wish I never did. That was also another nice one.

  • @SteveNielsen-oc8br
    @SteveNielsen-oc8br Před 3 měsíci +2

    Have you ever compared Realistic recievers to see how they stack up to others ? Because I would call them a sleeper and good bang for your buck. Cheers Eh! 🍻 🍁

  • @blackportspeakercabinets4145
    @blackportspeakercabinets4145 Před 3 měsíci +3

    I've heard "Frankensteins" which have sounded better than all original.

  • @vulgarninja9
    @vulgarninja9 Před 3 měsíci +1

    Thank you for the Hitachi love. Our little SR-503 boasts 20 watts and sounds great. You've got an eye for quality, kid.

  • @jerrypowers7671
    @jerrypowers7671 Před 3 měsíci +2

    I love seeing the old unique pieces. I had a Phillips back in the 70's with EPI speakers.

  • @mr.krinkle8261
    @mr.krinkle8261 Před 3 měsíci +1

    I have a pair of JC Penny MCS 8232 Rated @ 10-100 watts rms. Sensitivity (1 watt at 1 meter) 92db. Crossovers at 700hz-8000hz. Frequecy range 30-20,000 hz.
    They have dome mids and sound incredible!

    • @SinCitySinner
      @SinCitySinner Před 11 dny

      I still have the mcs 3248 with speakers. I love that unit.

  • @VB-bk1lh
    @VB-bk1lh Před 3 měsíci +2

    A few more vintage brands I've run across here are Gradiente from Brazil, often sold as Garrard in the states, Lenco, Tectronic, Winthrop (Possibly built by Panasonic/Technics?), Aiwa, Akai, Mitsubishi, NEC, Sankyo/Sanyo, SAE, Stereotech, Sherwood, MCS (JC Penny), Vector Research, Nikko, Optonica, Concept, Project, Scott, and Philips.

  • @lukemorgan4412
    @lukemorgan4412 Před 3 měsíci +1

    Sleeper alert!!! Tandberg tl 1500. 2 way speaker from Tandberg. 25 watts. Truly outstanding. Running off a marantz 2215 bl .

  • @keithvincenttucker9923
    @keithvincenttucker9923 Před 3 měsíci +1

    Some of the products in the Sears Professional line were surprisingly good. The hard part is determining which ones before you shell out any money for them.

    • @garyconway6769
      @garyconway6769 Před 28 dny

      I have been trying to buy the separates for a long time. They are either to far away or way over priced.

  • @billsmith5166
    @billsmith5166 Před 3 měsíci +3

    Really good show and very interesting. More of these!

  • @LakeNipissing
    @LakeNipissing Před 3 měsíci +1

    I have the big brother to the SR-804, the Hitachi SR-2004. It is also labeled "Class G", and has the four meters. The output meters top out at 600 WRMS for each channel. Very solid. Mostly Hitachi's own components, including the output transistors. Huge toroidal transformer, capacitors and side-mounted heat sinks on each side for the 8 output transistors. Very good sound. Insanely loud. AC power consumption is 1190 VA / 850 W... Serious stuff.
    Those mini Mesa speakers look great !!
    The Toshiba shows how much quality went into even small, low wattage entry-level receivers in the late 1970s.
    Five internal fuses and three external fuses. *_Eight_* fuses to protect an 18 watt / channel receiver !!

    • @theclearsounds3911
      @theclearsounds3911 Před 3 měsíci +1

      Hitachi is a very underrated brand. They were less expensive than other comparable units, and not as flashy, so I don't think they sold very well. But I've had 2 tape decks and one TV made by Hitachi (one under the Realistic brand), and I've been very impressed by all 3. They made some surprisingly good stuff for the money.

    • @LakeNipissing
      @LakeNipissing Před 3 měsíci

      @@theclearsounds3911 I believe I read somewhere (years ago), that the SR-2004 was close to 1,100 $ when introduced in 1977.... and that's Hitachi 'value' !

  • @WC0125
    @WC0125 Před 3 měsíci +3

    The JVC turntable is pretty decent for what it is. It was their entry level DD model built to look like the JL-B51/55/T77 and incorporating an arm with their TH (Tracing Hold) technology. For the technology in it, the JVC Jl-B31 had a list (without cartridge) of $355 but a much lower street price of about $199 (even with a budget AT11/e cart) when it was introduced in the fall of 1975. By 1981 leftover stock was going for $100
    As for more on the arm, JVC described the tone arm as using the "TH method to improve tracing capability by lowering the center of gravity of the moving part. This tone arm has a non-resonance design with anti-vibration material in the bearing and pipe, and is equipped with an anti-skating mechanism with a 0.5g click, a lifter point for accurate lifter operation, a rubber ring-wound shell locking nut, and a counterweight." While the upper end arms used machined aluminum components even for non-critial parts, some of those parts on JL-B31 were made of plastic to save cost.

  • @ctrlzyx2
    @ctrlzyx2 Před 3 měsíci +1

    Most of the descriptions of class g here are close enough. The refereced internet post severely overstates the duration these amps can operate on the higher voltage rail. It is not minutes, but milliseconds, like 500 or so. So you get doubled to quadrupled power for about 0.5 second, enough to support transient peaks. Whether this headroom is 3 or 6 dB depends on the voltage difference. The duration depends on the capacitors supporting the rail.

  • @stephenbarr2735
    @stephenbarr2735 Před 3 měsíci +1

    Hilarious “Graffix” reference!! FYI, still selling products.

  • @fredyellowsnow7492
    @fredyellowsnow7492 Před 3 měsíci +2

    Glad to see you featuring Toshiba.
    Was gifted a matching pair of Toshiba SY330 pre-amp and SC330 amp a few years ago.
    They sounded absolutely excellent until the amp developed an output fault. I've been meaning to get around to repairing it for a while. as it will be worth it.

  • @muddymo7641
    @muddymo7641 Před 3 měsíci +1

    I had an mcs from jc penny's. Mid 70s. Still have it today.

  • @72vespa
    @72vespa Před 3 měsíci +2

    This is a great type of video to help us budget collectors. Please make this a continuing series "Hidden Gems" out is wild. I for one feel that build quality & serviceability is more important than overall features such as power ratings and/or # of inputs. keep'em coming .....

  • @tee-jaythestereo-bargainph2120
    @tee-jaythestereo-bargainph2120 Před 3 měsíci +1

    I have a Yamaha CA 810 intg from 1977 and for price point hard to beat with new age amps

  • @insolentstickleback3266
    @insolentstickleback3266 Před 3 měsíci +2

    Another great Skylabs video, have a fine Sunday evening! Best Regards, from Oregon!

  • @dubious3749
    @dubious3749 Před 3 měsíci

    Class G is a hybrid between class A (at low/mid volume) and A/B at high volume. Recently bought the Arcam sa20 class G. Very nice for low/mid listeners.

  • @MostlyBuicks
    @MostlyBuicks Před 2 měsíci

    Sleeper: Philips 7831 Receiver. I never listen to the tuners. I do not have a record player anymore. It only has one line level input, so it supports my CD player. But it is a sleeper because it has such a full rich tone. Very nice. Made in the USA.

  • @reneaceves8820
    @reneaceves8820 Před 3 měsíci +1

    Hitachi equipment seems to last forever, in my experience. I had one of their turntables for 30 years until I traded up to a Rega Planar 3. I gave the old turntable to a friend.

  • @carloreubenvongerkin9760
    @carloreubenvongerkin9760 Před 3 měsíci +2

    I had a 2 foot Graffix device in the 80's.
    best "speeker" I ever used. LOL!
    Aquarium rocks in a soup can.

  • @nicevmax
    @nicevmax Před 3 měsíci +1

    Great vid, would like to see more on less mainstream or lesser known brands and components. I really like the Hitachi receiver, I like the lighting of the meters, a nice look. Didn't Hitachi make some of Radio Shacks components?

  • @lisaharvey4373
    @lisaharvey4373 Před 3 měsíci +1

    I also have a technics turntable SL23 bought off ebay was brand new in the box never been open mint I realize its belt drive the only reason I bought it was that was my first turntable in1975 have a Stanton 681 EEE cartridge on it I always like stanton for their midrange.

  • @jeffreyroberts7438
    @jeffreyroberts7438 Před 3 měsíci +1

    I’ve just got an Onkyo CR725 dab, it’s exceptional!!

  • @scottlowell493
    @scottlowell493 Před 3 měsíci +1

    Were I to delve into some other vintage receivers/integrateds:
    - Carver receiver
    - Acurus DIA-100

  • @319flashbanger
    @319flashbanger Před 3 měsíci +1

    Those 4ft devices from the 90's! Oh that's a classic memories. And the music!

  • @rotaxtwin
    @rotaxtwin Před 3 měsíci +1

    Great reading these comments and seeing some brand names from the 70s & 80s that I've forgotten like BIC & Superscope, Sherwood... wow.

  • @danwheetman6914
    @danwheetman6914 Před 3 měsíci +2

    That was fun, thanks!

  • @quiksr20
    @quiksr20 Před 3 měsíci +1

    I think when you knock certain brands ill use Kenwood vs Sansui, Its not that Kenwood didnt make a good unit
    its that they didnt "Consistently" put out a good unit. Some brands IE Marantz/Sansui every model at a certain
    time was good regardless of its watts.. Not so much with Kenwood / Technics etc.. I totally get it, I also dig
    that Hitachi.. The Fisher 202 im working on is made by Hitachi and socket'ed driver boards seems to be a key
    to their design and I wish more brands did this.. Dream to service! Another cool brand ive come across is PhaseTech,
    I thought it was whitevan and its far from whitevan. Great vid!

  • @longi625
    @longi625 Před měsícem

    I still have and use a 25+ Audiolab 8000S amplifier and a pair of Tannoy Profile 636 speakers. I love them and will never part with them. I still also use a Sony minidisc player from time to time. That's an amazing bit of kit. Very underrated. It cost £350 back in 1999 and I love it.

  • @briannewell6064
    @briannewell6064 Před 3 měsíci +2

    That was a good one. Information I can use while hitting the estate sales. Thanks.

  • @mladenbasic1
    @mladenbasic1 Před 3 měsíci +2

    Love your new style of video. Especially the back and forth.

    • @skylabsaudio
      @skylabsaudio  Před 3 měsíci +1

      Thanks, hoping to include more of these dingbats at the shop in more videos.

  • @mohoasinfilms
    @mohoasinfilms Před 3 měsíci

    JVC JRS-600 Very nice!

  • @whip-its_dad4239
    @whip-its_dad4239 Před 3 měsíci

    Thank you guys for these videos on all the vintage equipment .They are very interesting to me . Subscribed .

  • @ColtLuger
    @ColtLuger Před 3 měsíci +2

    Great video, my daughter is starting college in Iowa next fall, really hoping to get to the store.

  • @edholmwood2263
    @edholmwood2263 Před 3 měsíci +1

    My first new receiver was a Toshiba, maybe the same model. Is anybody old enough to remember Shaack Electronics? That's where I got it and its matching cassette deck. Fun video. Thanks Kevin.

  • @richarris1111
    @richarris1111 Před 3 měsíci +1

    Toshiba and Hitachi made excellent gear

  • @drsbranch-wn2vx
    @drsbranch-wn2vx Před 3 měsíci +1

    Thanks for another fun video!

  • @ripjones5294
    @ripjones5294 Před 3 měsíci +1

    Enjoyed this installment. I still own a JVC table, and it has served me well over the years. I also still own the JVC JRS-501 that I bought new from Franklin Music, just as I was leaving. Yes, it too, has served me well. Another lesser known vendor was Setton. We sold them, and it was created by I think, the major Pioneer importer. Some of the Pioneer engineers did some of the design work. When I see one pop up on eBay, they are asking what "they" think they are worth. Rare, and think "Marantz Tax".

  • @markmurray5619
    @markmurray5619 Před 3 měsíci +1

    I love the vintage equipment. Being a "boomer", and having an older brother in Nam that sent equipment state side, he was into Pioneer, Garrard, Akai, and Coral. It would be interesting to see an evaluation on the late 60's early 70's receivers specifically the Pioneer SX-1000tw , which I own a minty full functioning survivor, or the SX-1500 receivers. There is something about the sound of the early Pioneers receivers that is unique.

  • @fb6performance271
    @fb6performance271 Před 3 měsíci +2

    Realistic STA 2080 paired up with my Realistic Nova 10's is one of the best sounding combo's I own out of 9 total I have displayed and working. My Pioneer SX-727 with Rectilinear speakers is top sounding also

    • @LakeNipissing
      @LakeNipissing Před 3 měsíci

      Although not Foster / Realistic's most powerful, the STA-2080 might be one of the nicest looking receivers Radio Shack ever sold, with the green dial scale and meter illumination, similar to Sony's STR-V series.

    • @jeffreyklaum13
      @jeffreyklaum13 Před 3 měsíci

      THe 2080 is real nice. I have one on the shelf currently in rotation. I love the Realistic stuff. The 2200 series is also nice. Maybe a bit more modern looking but the 2250 and 2280 kill it.

  • @jeffbranch8072
    @jeffbranch8072 Před 3 měsíci +1

    Enjoyable and informative episode, thank you. It's always interesting to learn about the lesser talked about brands. Just a thought - how about an episode on store brands? Airline, MCS, Sears (often Fisher?), Realistic, Lafayette, etc. Store brands are often overlooked and priced low.

  • @jeffstooksbury4497
    @jeffstooksbury4497 Před 3 měsíci

    I have a Craig 5503 receiver from the mid 1970's and a Craig 5506 from the late 70.s.

  • @pmp6972
    @pmp6972 Před 3 měsíci

    I'm with all these folks. I am a bit of a collector of older amps. I currently have two GAS AMPZILLA' S when matched with the right speakers, pound the hell out of my drywall. I also have a nice SAE power amp that is just as strong. Unfortunately, the last five years prices have creeped up making the hobby pricey but still viable.

  • @JanPippel
    @JanPippel Před 3 měsíci +2

    Pretty happy with my exotic vintage components…amp is a Onix OA21s, turntable is a Toshiba SR355 with Jelco arm and speakers are old eastern germany RFT BR25.
    Nice vid guys, many thanks.

    • @donello430
      @donello430 Před 3 měsíci +2

      RFTs!!! I had a pair of those bookshelf speakers as a teenager but could never remember the brand name!! I’ve spent years trying to remember. With the fall of communism they started seeping into the western market in the early 90s, but then disappeared. they were superb imaging, blew competitors away

    • @JanPippel
      @JanPippel Před 3 měsíci +1

      @@donello430 mine are reworked (surrounds, crossover, casing)…so they look fresh an new. But sound and image like the older version…love them. Never expected anyone knows this overseas ☝🏽
      Bought mine one eBay…sometimes there are a pair. But not often nowadays …

  • @BobBlarneystone
    @BobBlarneystone Před 3 měsíci

    There are still many many excellent receivers and amps at garage sales. Just add and aftermarket Bluetooth receiver and plug it into the phono receptacle jacks, and you're set.

  • @maxique
    @maxique Před 3 měsíci

    I have a Nikko 7050, build quality is superb and sound is big and very lively.

  • @topekasub
    @topekasub Před 3 měsíci +1

    Love the bong reference!🤣

  • @williamdenton5716
    @williamdenton5716 Před 2 měsíci +1

    This is a fabulous episode !!

  • @AlexMitchell-sj4sb
    @AlexMitchell-sj4sb Před 3 měsíci

    There are a couple here in UK, Stereo Review X and Michael Yates/Budget Audio Review. Both review vintage audio equipment.
    I do recommend Rotel, they made some good receivers in the 70s and I have had two and they both worked great without a service. Well built.

  • @adsph
    @adsph Před 3 měsíci +1

    Great content here. Well done.

  • @chucku00
    @chucku00 Před 2 měsíci

    You might be right about the JVC tonearm being manufactured by Denon. In addition, the oblique shape of the platter's edge and its silver colored circling reminded me of more recent Denon models that were popular with hip-hop DJs in the mid-80's.
    Edit : Yup, just checked it out on google images and this JVC turntable design is quite close to the 1981 Denon SL-7D. Even the controls under the tonearm are the same.

  • @blubyu
    @blubyu Před 3 měsíci +1

    Ha ha - love the shout out to G-Graphics!

  • @michaspruijtenburg5109
    @michaspruijtenburg5109 Před 3 měsíci +6

    I got a Akai aa-1050 stereo receiver. Power supply caps went bad. After replacement it sound great.

    • @edwardbagu1252
      @edwardbagu1252 Před 3 měsíci +1

      Great units, got an Akai AA-1175, it's amazing, then an AA 1150 showed up bought it, had it fixed and oh boy it is lovely...

    • @petejames5562
      @petejames5562 Před 3 měsíci +2

      ​@edwardbagu1252
      I've had an Akai AA1150 for a couple of years. Wow, amazing performer. [ looking for an AA 1175 for a while, dual mono really powerful but hard to find in UK.]
      You can't go wrong with Akai early 70s receivers.

    • @AldellezCaputto70
      @AldellezCaputto70 Před 3 měsíci +2

      Akai is probably the most underrated brand. I had an Akai AA-1020 and it sounded very good. In my experience Akai and Harman/Kardon built the best sounding receivers. I have had, Marantz, Sansui, Sanyo, Pioneer, JVC, Sony and probably some I have forgotten. The build quality may be higher on some others, but what you get for the money is hard to beat.

    • @edwardbagu1252
      @edwardbagu1252 Před 3 měsíci

      @@petejames5562if you get one, just make sure when cleaning the faceplate you do not use anything strong cleaner. I wiped some lettering off mine..

  • @63MGB1
    @63MGB1 Před 3 měsíci

    That little Toshiba receiver looks sweet. I like how they made it look like a couple stacked separates.

  • @timadams9119
    @timadams9119 Před měsícem

    ...Here's a sleeper,
    Onkyo tx 2500 mkii.
    The tx 2500 is rated at 27 w.p.c. where the tx 2500 mkii is rated at 40 w.p.c.
    Soild build quality as expected from Onkyo.
    At around $250.00 - to $350.00 depending on condition is an excellent buy.
    Not to mention that they look very nice, a little glow in the dark, if you will.
    P.S. - Kevin, I'm 6'- 3", 285 lbs. you guys need some 4-xl tee shirts. i'll be happy to make the first purchase.

  • @pedrodaniellopesferreira2916

    Class G uses the same topology as the class AB, but with two stages and two different power supplies for the output. Technics called it "class H" or later "Class AA".
    The idea was to use a low powered power supply when listening to music at a lower volume, and then switch to the bigger rail when turning it up, making it a bit more efficient.
    When class D came, it was quickly abandoned.

  • @patmx5
    @patmx5 Před 3 měsíci +3

    Just looked up class G amplifiers as this was the first time I'd ever heard of them, too. Basically it is a variation on class AB, but is designed to be more efficient by using multiple supply voltages, and 'shifting gears' so to speak in order to use the minimum supply voltage required for a given signal level. At low levels, the amp will be fed by a lower voltage supply rail that is sufficient to provide the required amplification; as power draw increases the amplifier will automatically switch to the higher voltage rails as needed to provide the necessary output. And dammit, you cost me $$ - just bought one from the Bay of Evil. Looks like a nice little unit.

    • @bradleydurbin6784
      @bradleydurbin6784 Před 3 měsíci

      Was it similar to the Class H technology? I have a technics receiver that I found. Circa 1995 This unit rocks!!!!

    • @patmx5
      @patmx5 Před 3 měsíci

      @@bradleydurbin6784 I just looked up Class H - it appears to be a more advanced iteration of class G, with continuously variable supply rails as opposed to the distinct rail 'steps' apparently used in Class G. Almost like an amplifier powering an amplifier.

    • @bradleydurbin6784
      @bradleydurbin6784 Před 3 měsíci +1

      Paul McGowan of PS Audio did a video explaining class h technology. I guess it’s not really a thing to much anymore because they run really hot like this Technics receiver I literally found laying on the sidewalk. I took it to the local vintage repair dealer here in Tucson and they said it’s a keeper. I can’t afford what’s out on the market now. I bought a used Adcom power amplifier from there and it’s amazing. Adcom GFA 535 250.00 can’t beat that!

  • @chelle12368
    @chelle12368 Před 3 měsíci +1

    I'm so excited that you mentioned Grafyx speakers! I have the SP-10 which is actually my favorite speakers. They sound pretty fantastic. I also have the SP-6 and had the SP-8 which I'd still have if I hadn't made a cross country move. It is very difficult to find info on these speakers. The SP-6 sounds decent for its size but the magic is in the 8s and 10s with the Phillips tweeters.

  • @pplebite8844
    @pplebite8844 Před 3 měsíci

    Have a Carver AVR100, an absolute banger of a receiver. I didn't even consider the fact that it had more than plenty of wattage to push my Klipsch speakers. I was actually afraid of plugging it into the wall and turning it on. I mean, for a unit made back in '87, it made me pause for awhile, about 2 years, tbh. I still want to take care of some cap upgrades, however, just to be sure. It's a keeper.

  • @aammdj
    @aammdj Před 3 měsíci +1

    Picked up a 70s JVC JRS81H Receiver, incredible sound quality and build. Even has the rack handles. It's right there (soundwise) with my Pioneer 1050, 1080 and 950.

    • @LordSamuelJ
      @LordSamuelJ Před 3 měsíci

      I have the same reciever and am blown away by it! I replaced my yamaha cr420 "sleeper" with it and couldnt be happier. The sound is a lot like my pioneer sx9000. Very very impressive reciever!

  • @alanmaier
    @alanmaier Před 3 měsíci +1

    I have had good experience with that era Hitachi receiver. Class G and H are multi-rail for cooler operation with higher power on demand. Think Carver but not as extreme.
    Long ago I had a pair of the Graphyx SP-10, the largest model with a 10" rubber surround woofer and a Philips dome tweeter - amazing extended bass. They are real walnut too.
    Toshiba built some of the Project/one receivers. I restored a Mark IVb and it was a performer.

  • @phils7463
    @phils7463 Před 3 měsíci

    I just picked up a “sleeper” concept 3.5. 35wpc found at a steal for $80 on the bay. Found a blown fuse waiting on a replacement to test. Still on the hunt for a counterweight for my sleeper $65 concept 2QD that came with an empire EDR.9 cartridge in mint condition.

  • @tf7274
    @tf7274 Před 3 měsíci

    I'm a Marantz/Kenwood guy...but I found a Technics SA-1010 that I'm really enjoying. 125 watts and was not making sound when I bought it for $7 at my local thrift. Did a thorough cleaning and spent some time tuning the tuner until I got Stereo working. Once the switches were clicked 40x each, they all fired up. I'll get it professionally restored now that I know it sounds like.

    • @martyjewell5683
      @martyjewell5683 Před 2 měsíci

      I got to use a Marantz 2252B receiver for a month while my SR-804 was in the shop (for new lamps) and found it most satisfying with my Ohm L speakers. Very robust to say the least but I liked my SR-804 better.

  • @JohnReall
    @JohnReall Před 3 měsíci

    I'm listening to this through a Sansui 661 receiver I bough for a dollar at a tag sale about 15 years ago. It still works great. I think I got a good deal.

  • @Thetimeisnow78
    @Thetimeisnow78 Před 3 měsíci +5

    The Montgomery wards Model 450. Dual power, Sound stages like crazy. It has a Smooth heavy flywheel with a big clicking volume knob with its tone control knobs being buttery smooth. A thick face plate and pre amp/amp inputs in the back to boot.

    • @dwyntsch
      @dwyntsch Před 3 měsíci +1

      I have s
      A Wards model 650 2 TT input bass treble and midrange controls 65 watts per channel. Souns incredible,
      !!!

    • @Thetimeisnow78
      @Thetimeisnow78 Před 2 měsíci

      @@dwyntsch yours was the top of the line right above the 450. I have the ad that shows both models with receiver specifications. I think the 650 might have been built by optonica/sharp. It looks very similar to optinica gear of the time.
      The 450 is HK built and designed through and through

  • @CraigHollabaugh
    @CraigHollabaugh Před 3 měsíci +1

    I think those Graphyx speakers were rocking Edgar Winter in their past.

  • @jeffsheets9389
    @jeffsheets9389 Před 3 měsíci +1

    Like your style great content thank you ❤

  • @drmbgls1
    @drmbgls1 Před 3 měsíci

    I had a Nikko 6065 receiver, 34wts/ch. It powered a pair of Ohm E speakers with no problem. Great tuner, and great phono output! Also had an Akai AA-6300 receiver.Boy I miss that receiver. 40wts into 8 ohms. Super smooth tuner, very quiet with the FM mute on.

  • @martyjewell5683
    @martyjewell5683 Před 2 měsíci

    The difference in the class G amp is that there's two sets of outputs. One for normal A/B operation and one for reserve power above 50wpc. Reviews I've read in my hifi magazines (including High Fidelity magazine) say that Hitachi's rated 3dB's (twice steady state power) of headroom existed making the SR-804 a short term 100wpc amp. With less possible clipping distortion the SR-804 could play quite loud/clean and stay barely warm after hours of use and it weighs under 25 pounds for a 50wpc receiver. I got my SR-804 in 1979 (at Tech Hifi) and like the looks. It has bidirectional dubbing but the filters have too gradual a slope to be more than marginally effective. I use an ADC Sound Shaper Two IC (and Pioneer RG-2) with my SR-804. Some were labeled Class G as is mine and yours and some were marked Dynaharmony. With only minor adjustments/repairs mine has lasted forty five years, not too shabby.

  • @David-lr2tj
    @David-lr2tj Před 21 dnem

    Good catch on that toshiba! I have a larger pair of grafyx, 18-19 liters, same tweeter brought forward, run out of phase with a 3rd order crossover. Definitely a 'thing' with the designer at grafyx. Oh, one had a seized woofer also- not the best magnet glue, I'm afraid. That was common for less-than-aerospace quality epoxy back then

  • @Terrywood-zj9ot
    @Terrywood-zj9ot Před 3 měsíci

    Hey guys. Class G is still class AB. Class G has capability of doubling it's power with 3 db headroom. The same technology led to the class H in todays professional amps. Hitachi had a professional line too. Their 200 watt amps were capable of 400 watts without clipping. I worked for a Hitachi dealer in 1980. Hitachi Dynaharmony was top of the line.

  • @williamcampbell3868
    @williamcampbell3868 Před 3 měsíci

    The Hitachi receiver you opened up had a clean layout inside. The good sound quality you mentioned is probably due to the Mosfets that Hitachi was known make and put in some of their amplifiers and receivers. Knowledgeable hi-fi enthusiasts know about the tube like sound quality of Mosfets. I have a classic Hafler 120a 60 watt power amp that I love the sound of. I use it in the spring and summer, then I switch back to tubes in the fall and winter.😊 It shares biamp duties covering midrange and treble with my Adcom 555 mk2 on bass. In fall and winter i use my Conrad Johnson mv55 to cover those frequencies, while the Adcom is on bass all year round. I'm biamping Maggie 1.6's with Vandersteen stereo subwoofers.

  • @Richard-jq6mq
    @Richard-jq6mq Před 2 měsíci +1

    Truly enjoy your videos. I learn a great deal from your knowledge. If it’s ’stereo related’ I’m interested. Great channel….

  • @bobasher2197
    @bobasher2197 Před 3 měsíci

    I have a small collection of vintage stereos, a couple Sansui G series, a Kenwood model eleven, and an Onkyo A-10 integrated( an absolute beast!), but my favorite is my Sherwood S-7200. It is in original unrestored condition and sounds great. It's not a powerhouse by any means, but to my 60 year old ears sounds nice and warm with a fantastic tuner that pulls in all the local stations w/o an antenna. I found it in the trash 15 years ago, replaced a fuse, and it has been in service in my workshop ever since.

    • @tf7274
      @tf7274 Před 3 měsíci +1

      Find a low price 2215B Marantz. Put all your audio thru it before going to a Kenwood. Warms it up nicely.

  • @ThaxterTewksbury
    @ThaxterTewksbury Před 3 měsíci

    Concept. Some the absolute best sounding 1970s era audio receivers I've ever heard. The smallest , the 2.0 was their 20 wpc receiver. I still own it and it sounds wonderful. I've owned the 4.5 and it was equally great. The 12.5 was their flagship 125 wpc monster and packs a massive punch and I would put it up against any of the big Sansui, Pioneer, Marantz, etc. of comparable power. If you find one in good working condition, don't wait.

  • @Blitzkreger00
    @Blitzkreger00 Před 3 měsíci

    I've always went for the more popular vintage brand throughout the years of collecting. But I think I've found my most favorite receiver that not many people even look at because of the brand. The SANYO JCX-2400KR Receiver & SANYO TP-1030 Turntable are my reference pieces. My speakers are DIY with JBL 8340 cinema crossover and drivers. It's a killer set up! Great videos!

    • @skylabsaudio
      @skylabsaudio  Před 3 měsíci +1

      Thanks Blitz. Sanyo had some winners to for sure.

    • @Blitzkreger00
      @Blitzkreger00 Před 3 měsíci

      @@skylabsaudio wow! Thanks for replying! Hope to see some SANYO stuff in another sleeper video. Thanks again!