31 July 2025

Sansui AU-X1 (1979) | Ultra-High Speed

 

Sansui AU-X1 1979 ultra high-speed integrated amplifier front view

Can it surpass the pinnacle of separate amplifiers? The AU-X1 super integrated amplifier was born from a straightforward approach. If you were to create the ideal amplifier, the theme would likely remain unchanged from the past and present: "Straight wire with gain is best." Without compromising the purity of the program source, for the purpose of pure amplification, Sansui believe that each part of the amplifier must be permeated with a straight idea, and so they created the AU-X1. For example, from the MC head amplifier to the power amplifier, all components are configured with full push-pull, all DC amplifiers. Furthermore, the signal path is simplified by enabling direct transmission from the equalizer amplifier to the power amplifier over the shortest possible distance, resulting in an exemplary construction for high-fidelity playback. The power amplifier section takes the dynamic characteristics of the amplifier one step further, by combining a diamond differential circuit with the newly developed linear high-speed element LAPT. Furthermore, the power supply section that supports these must naturally be strengthened. With completely separate left and right channels for all stages, the power stage, pre-drive stage, flat amplifier, equalizer, and MC head amplifier, all are powered by independent power supplies, using two transformers: a large-capacity toroidal transformer of over 600Ω and an 8601W EI transformer. The AU-X1 features a total of eight power supply systems. Combined with a gigantic 80,000m² electrolytic capacitor, this powerful power supply section remains unfazed by any peak input or continuous large input, demonstrating its effectiveness in improving the amplifier's dynamic characteristics. The AU-X1's weight of 27.7 kg is a symbol of the comprehensiveness of its power supply section. The AU-X1 approaches the ideal amplifier. We are confident in calling it "a super integrated amplifier that can comfortably drive world-renowned instruments such as the JBL4343."

Specifications:
Effective output (5 hz to 20 khz, THD 0.007%) 160W + 160W (8 Ω) 220W + 220W (4 Ω)
Total harmonic distortion factor (5 Hz to 20 kHz) 0.007% or Less (8 Ω)
Output Bandwidth (IHF, THD 0.02%): 5 Hz ~ 70 kHz (8 Ω)
Frequency Response (1W) DC ~ 500 kHz (+ 0 dB, -3dB)
Rise Time / Fall Time 0.5 μ sec
Slew rate: ± 260 V / μ sec
Total harmonic distortion factor MC (1 kHz, Rec Out) : 0.005% or less
External dimensions: Width 480x Height 195x Depth 450 mm
Weight: 27.7kg
Original sale price in Germany: 2800 DM

Looking for more? Head to 1001HiFi.com for everything vintage audio.


Sansui AU-X1 internal circuit board and components

Sansui AU-X1 internal circuit board and components

Sansui AU-X1 internal circuit board and components

Sansui AU-X1 internal circuit board and components

Rear panel and inputs of Sansui AU-X1 1979 amplifier