Onkyo Integra A-817GT Stereo Integrated Amplifier (1981)

 

The Onkyo Integra A-817GT is a high-performance stereo integrated amplifier released in 1981, continuing the legacy of Onkyo’s renowned A-817 series that began in 1980. This series of 70–80W amplifiers evolved through the decade with continuous technical and aesthetic refinements, culminating in the Integra A-817XG (1989) — the final model in this prestigious line. At the heart of the A-817GT is Onkyo’s Super Servo Integral Technology, designed to deliver pure, distortion-free sound. The W Super Servo circuit cancels distortion-causing elements, while the Super Servo Integral system suppresses intermodulation from opposing channel forces within the stereo field. The amplifier’s linear switching output stage uses a unique bias circuit that corrects nonlinearities found in traditional Class B designs, resulting in smooth, accurate sound reproduction. To achieve the highest fidelity, Onkyo implemented a Direct Tone System that uses only passive components — eliminating the need for an additional tone amplifier. This allows tone adjustments without degrading sound purity. Premium materials such as non-magnetic copper, brass, and aluminum were chosen to prevent unwanted harmonic distortion, while gold-plated phono terminals ensure the cleanest signal transfer. Even the resistors were custom-designed for optimal frequency response and minimal distortion, underscoring Onkyo’s obsession with sonic precision. The result is an amplifier that perfectly blends technical innovation and musical refinement, representing one of Onkyo’s finest efforts of the early 1980s.

Specifications:

Rated output: 80W+80W (20Hz-20kHz, 8ohm)

Total harmonic distortion (20Hz to 20kHz): 0.008%

Power Band Width: 5Hz to 100kHz

Damping Factor: 100 (1 kHz, 8 Ω)

Dimensions: Width 435 x Height 142 x Depth 392 mm

Weight: 11kg 

Original sale price in Japan: ￥56,800

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