JVC AX-A662 (1992) | Advanced Super-A

 

The JVC AX-A662BK was a high-performance stereo amplifier engineered for pristine audio purity and exceptional long-term reliability. Built around JVC’s proprietary Advanced Super-A circuitry, it delivers the low-distortion sound quality of a conventional Class-A system combined with massive dynamic power reserves—reaching 2x 140 watts at 4 ohms and 2x 200 watts at 2 ohms. This digitally compliant amplifier is specifically optimized to protect delicate, low-level musical nuances from background noise. It utilizes a high-precision differential amplifier and buffered inputs to completely eliminate mains hum and common-mode interference, ensuring that quiet passages remain perfectly defined and vibrant rather than swallowed by noise.To maintain total signal integrity, the AX-A662BK features an unobstructed path for audio transmission. It pairs an isolated dual-mono layout—separating the left and right power amplifiers to eliminate crosstalk—with short, relay-controlled signal paths and a "Source Direct" switching mode that bypasses tone controls entirely. The rugged construction includes a solid aluminum front panel, large resonance-damping feet, and a low-vibration power supply to shield the electronics from mechanical interference. Highly versatile, the amplifier features Gm drivers for stable low-impedance speaker driving, dual speaker pair connections, a subsonic filter, and a high-gain phono equalizer that seamlessly accommodates both MM and MC turntable cartridges for premium vinyl playback. When paired with high-quality digital components, the AX-A662BK delivers a natural, distortion-free, "live" listening experience. Specifications: 2x140W Sinus DIN 4ohm | Dimensions (W/H/D) 435x173x447mm | Weight 13kg | Original sale price in Germany 998 DM

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Lo-D D-707HX (1987)

 

Introduced in 1987 the D-707HX was the last update of the D-707 series from Lo-D (Hitachi). This version features added Dolby HX-PRO. Other features of this 3-head dual-capstan deck are: Recording/Playback Head: New shape LC-OFC wired R&P combination head with titanium thermal spray coating | Erase Head: Multi-gap Sendust-covered erase head x 1 | Motor: Electronically controlled DC motor x 2 | Wow and Flutter: 0.028% (WRMS) / ±0.045% (W.Peak) | Frequency Response (Metal Tape): 25~20,000 Hz ±3dB (EIAJ) | S/N Ratio (Metal Tape 3% Distortion): 75dB (Dolby C NR ON) | Power Consumption: 24W | External Dimensions: Width 435 x Height 125 x Depth 279 mm Weight: 5.5 kg | Original sale price in Japan 89,800 Yen | Wired remote control unit (RB-100 standard price 6,000 yen sold separately)

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MERIDIAN PRO-MCD (1984)

 

Boothroyd Stuart compact disc player MCD was Meridian's first CD player. It was based on a Philips chassis with completely custom analogue circuitry of which Meridian claims to be the world's first audiophile CD player. It's successor is the PRO-MCD shown here that included a separate custom-designed power supply, DAC and oscillator, mounted underneath the transport. The Meridian PRO-MCD introduced an extensive engineering overhaul aimed at extracting even greater performance from the Compact Disc format. Retaining the proven transport and operating system of the original model, the PRO-MCD features a newly developed D/A converter, precision low-pass filter, and high-grade analog amplifier, all housed in a substantially thicker lower chassis. A dedicated dual power supply separates the transport from the audio circuitry, minimizing electrical interference and delivering cleaner, more accurate playback. Designed with uncompromising audio performance in mind, the Meridian PRO-MCD incorporates a continuously powered standby mode that keeps its critical analog circuits thermally stabilized for optimum sound quality. The main power switch has been relocated to the rear panel, while the front-panel switch now activates standby operation, ensuring the electronics remain at their ideal operating temperature for consistent performance. Advanced digital features further distinguish the Meridian PRO-MCD from conventional CD players of its era. An absolute phase switch allows listeners to select either 0° or 180° signal polarity, while an automatic de-emphasis circuit accurately reproduces early Compact Discs recorded with pre-emphasis. The player detects these discs automatically, confirms operation via a dedicated LED indicator, and applies the correct equalization for a perfectly flat frequency response. To maximize playback reliability, the Meridian PRO-MCD is equipped with an intelligent error correction system that continuously monitors disc data. A Corrected Error LED indicates when digital errors have been successfully corrected, while an Interpolate/Mute indicator warns when disc damage exceeds the correction capability. In such cases, the player seamlessly switches to interpolation to maintain playback whenever possible before muting the output if reliable data can no longer be recovered. This sophisticated monitoring system reflects Meridian's commitment to exceptional audio fidelity, making the PRO-MCD one of the most advanced high-end CD players of its generation.

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Early model still using original Philips badged top section