Sansui AU-X1111 MOS VINTAGE (1988) | The Double Eleven Integrated Amplifier

The Sansui AU-X1111 MOS VINTAGE is the final 1988 model in Sansui's legendary series of “The 1” amplifiers, following the AU-X1 (1979), AU-X11 (1982), and AU-X111 MOS VINTAGE (1985). Known as “Double Eleven,” this flagship integrated amplifier combines Sansui's balanced circuit philosophy, MOS FET power devices, and exceptionally robust construction in a 35.1 kg design aimed squarely at serious music reproduction.

Sansui AU-X1111 MOS VINTAGE Specifications

Year: 1988

Power output: 110 W + 110 W into 8 ohms, both channels driven, 20 Hz–20 kHz

Power output: 150 W + 150 W into 6 ohms

Total harmonic distortion: No more than 0.008% at rated output

Intermodulation distortion: Less than 0.008%

Slew rate: 150 V/µs at 8 ohms

Rise time: 0.5 µs

Damping factor: 200 at 8 ohms

Frequency response: DC–300,000 Hz from CD input

Signal-to-noise ratio: 88 dB, PHONO MM

Signal-to-noise ratio: 110 dB, CD/TUNER/LINE and TAPE/DAT

Subsonic filter: 3 dB at 16 Hz, 6 dB/octave

Muting: 20 dB

Presence control: +2 dB at 200 Hz; +6 dB at 10 kHz with volume at -30 dB

Power supply: 230 V, 50/60 Hz

Nominal consumption: 350 W / 560 VA

Maximum power consumption: 820 W

Dimensions: 470 × 178 × 486 mm

Net weight: 35.1 kg

Original sale price in Germany: 6.500 DM

MOS FET power devices are at the heart of the AU-X1111 MOS VINTAGE. Sansui selected these devices as part of its continuing pursuit of high-fidelity amplification and used them within an amplifier architecture developed through years of circuit refinement. The AU-X1111 represents the culmination of a design philosophy that Sansui had been developing since its wide-range DC amplifier of 1976. Balanced transmission and amplification became a defining element of Sansui's approach, particularly following the introduction of the B-2301 in 1983. The company combined this philosophy with a twin-mono construction intended to optimize the amplifier's essential structural requirements. Over the years, Sansui developed a series of distinctive technologies, including the diamond differential circuit, non-magnetic flux-free design, Super Feedforward, ground floating circuit, and twin-diamond balanced drive circuit. The AU-X1111 MOS VINTAGE brings this accumulated experience together in a single integrated amplifier. Its unusually wide DC–300 kHz frequency response, 150 V/µs slew rate, and 0.008% maximum THD reflect the engineering priorities of Sansui's flagship designs of the period. Why the AU-X1111 Is Special? The “1111” designation was deliberate. Sansui presented “1111 = Double Eleven” as its answer to the pursuit of sound quality and positioned the AU-X1111 as a new expression of its amplifier philosophy. Rather than treating the amplifier simply as a collection of technical specifications, Sansui emphasized the relationship between technology and musical expression. The company described the AU-X1111 as the result of continuous refinement in circuits, mechanisms, and components, with quality parts developed through the history of its amplifier designs.

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AIWA DR-1, DR-2 (1985) | Computer Love

The DR-1 and DR-2 from Aiwa employs a proprietary digital signal waveform processing circuit. These data recorders were designed to meet the demands of the new digital age. The digital signal waveform processing circuit drastically reduces errors. Aiwa's advanced technology has finally addressed the loading errors that have plagued us until now. The adoption of a unique digital signal waveform processing circuit has dramatically reduced errors. Furthermore, features such as completely automatic level adjustment have dramatically improved reliability and ease of use. It's also perfectly compatible with PCs. Digital signal waveform processing. Digital signal waveform processing circuit: Even distorted analog signals are corrected into digital signal waveforms that are easy for computers to interpret. This reduces errors due to dropouts and phase shifts, achieving a level of reliability not possible with conventional data recorders.

Specifications DR-1

Achieves high-speed processing via RS-232C, far exceeding traditional floppy disk transfer rates. | Includes a multi-functional, advanced TOS (for PC-8801 series), enabling recording equivalent to approximately 10 floppy disks. | <Graphics> Fast screen saving/loading (55 seconds), and high-speed file searching are also possible. Auto-rec mute mechanism | Phase switching switch | Access indicator Tape speed: 4.75cm/sec | Supported transfer speeds: CMT mode 600-2,400bps, RS-232C mode 600-9,600bps | Compatible tapes: CMT mode normal tape (TYPE1), RS-232C mode metal tape | Maximum external dimensions: Width 175 x Height 112 x Depth 260mm | Weight: 2.5kg | Power supply: AC100V (50/60Hz) | Accessories: RS-2320 dedicated cable, TOS tape for PC-8801 series | original sale price in Japan ¥28,500

Specifications DR-2

Achieves double-speed loading. (MSX1200 baud tape) | Includes a sub-out terminal that processes backup tapes with digital signal waveforms. | Convenient MOTOR button for saving/loading | Phase switching switch | Tape speed: 4.75/9.5 cm/sec | Supported transfer speed: 600-2,400 bps | Tape type: Normal tape (TYPE 1) | Maximum external dimensions: Width 166 x Height 128 x Depth 146 mm | Weight: 1.2 kg | Power supply: AC100V (50/60Hz) | Original sale price in Japan ¥12,800

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PHILIPS LHH-800R (1995) | Reference CD Player

Built for Natural, Precise Music Reproduction the Philips LHH-800R represents an uncompromising approach to CD playback, designed to extract the musical information recorded on the disc while pursuing a natural, highly responsive sound. Developed as a luxurious refinement of the technology used in Philips' Reference Series, the LHH-800R combines advanced digital circuitry with carefully engineered analog stages.

Philips LHH-800R Main Specifications

Frequency response: 20–20,000 Hz ±0.5 dB

Dynamic range: 96 dB

Signal-to-noise ratio: 100 dB or more

Channel separation: 96 dB or more at 1 kHz

Harmonic distortion: 0.005% or less at 1 kHz

Dimensions: 474.5 × 143 × 359 mm (W × H × D)

Weight: approximately 18.5 kg

Accessories: RC800R LHH remote control

Original sale price in Japan: 450.000 Yen

A newly developed discrete amplifier is one of the defining elements of the LHH-800R. Philips removed the operational amplifier from the DAC7 I/V stage and replaced it with a wideband discrete amplifier designed for very high speed. The amplifier is specified with a 200 V/µs slew rate, allowing the circuit to respond rapidly to musical transients while maintaining a wide dynamic range. The design goal was not simply higher speed. Philips aimed to combine fast response with what the company described as a warm and natural sound quality. Philips DAC7: A Direct, Music-Focused Approach. The DAC7 is the heart of the digital-to-analog section. Philips used its proprietary Bitstream D/A converter in a deliberately simple single differential configuration. Rather than surrounding the DAC with a complicated circuit, the design concentrates on bringing out its characteristics directly. The stated result is a direct presentation intended to preserve the energy and dynamism of the music. The following differential amplifier also avoids conventional op-amps. Instead, Philips uses a discrete, low-negative-feedback configuration designed to provide excellent phase characteristics, wide dynamic range, high speed, and strong instantaneous current capability. The LHH-800R uses a fully balanced four-channel output arrangement, with the positive and negative phases kept aligned without relying on transformers or inverting amplifiers. This approach was intended to maximize the advantages of balanced transmission while achieving extremely linear operation. The balanced outputs also provide compatibility with BTL drive amplifiers, giving the LHH800R additional flexibility for advanced systems. Separate Power Supplies for Digital and Analog Sections. Power supply design receives considerable attention. The LHH800R employs two independent power transformers, with separate transformers assigned to the analog and digital sections. Philips also describes independent power-supply arrangements for individual stages, including the display section, in an effort to minimize interference caused by the power supply. The analog and DAC sections therefore receive dedicated power treatment rather than relying on a single shared transformer arrangement. Simple Analog Output Filtering. The analog low-pass filter uses a simple third-order CR configuration. Philips emphasizes its phase characteristics and the intention to minimize its influence on the audio signal. This reflects the overall philosophy of the LHH800R: use straightforward circuit arrangements where possible while concentrating engineering effort on the sections that directly influence signal conversion and transmission. High-End Construction and Styling. The LHH-800R is built as a substantial high-end component. At approximately 18.5 kg, its construction reflects the ambitious position of the model within Philips' CD player range. The chassis incorporates aluminum die-cast construction, while the front panel combines wood and a gold-like material in a distinctive design influenced by European aesthetic. The unit also uses fully integrated RCA pin jacks designed for durability, together with a so called Nafuron material for the connections. What Makes the Philips LHH-800R Special? The LHH-800R was created as a refined development of Philips' Reference Series philosophy: a straightforward concept intended to bring digital and analog technology together as naturally as possible. Its most distinctive technical choices are the DAC7 Bitstream converter, discrete I/V conversion, fully balanced four-channel output, separate digital and analog transformers, and extensive attention to power-supply isolation. Rather than relying on specifications alone, Philips positioned the LHH-800R around the pursuit of natural sound, accurate timing, wide dynamics, and faithful reproduction of the musical energy contained on the CD.

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