AKAI AM-2950 (1979) | DC Integrated Amplifier

 

The AM-2950, introduced by Akai in 1979, aims for perfect fidelity with a DC amplifier which faithfully amplifies the input signal with a minimum of distortion over an extremely wide range from ultra-low to 100kHz. The DC power amplifier section of the AM-2950 stereo integrated amplifier reproduces the input sound faithfully for a full, rich sound. The rated output power of 120 watts per channel is maintained by a single power supply transformer which delivers a performance equal to that of two separate ones. In the secondary stage, each channel has a separate power supply winding giving the performance which is the equal of two power supply transformers. In the pre-amplifier section, 5 tone control zones can be controlled with the graphic equalizer tone control system. Consequently, you can now minimize the effects of different equipment and kinds of room and finely adjust for a sound that caters to your personal tastes exactly.

TECHNICAL DATA:

Rated Output Power 2-Channels Driven:

130 watts per channel, minimum RMS, at 4 ohms from 20 to 20,000 Hz with no more than 0.06% total harmonic distortion

120 watts per channel, minimum RMS, at 8 ohms from 20 to 20,000 Hz with no more than 0.06% total harmonic distortion

Frequency Response: DC to 100kHz

Dimensions: 440(W) x 170(H) x 430(D) mm

Weight: 17.8 kg

Original sale price in Germany: 1298 DM

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TEAC V-9 (1981) | The Chameleon

 

The sound you get is only as good as the recording you make. So TEAC engineers have pulled all stops to create a cassette deck that helps you make the most distortion-free recordings you've ever heard. It's called the V-9. It all starts with the revolutionary new metering system. Color-coded, peak reading, incandescent lamps, the likes of which you've never seen. Bigger. Faster. Easier to read. Any level over O triggers a red lamp at the speed of light. So your eyes can tell you what your ears miss. And at the push of a button, you can set the metering system for metal tape. There's no more guess-work. Just crisp, clean, distortion-free recordings. Next, put Teac's transport through its paces. Three motors. Full IC logic. The softest, lightest, quickest transport controls you've ever touched. And a totally new technology that connects those controls directly to the motors to eliminate solenoids. It's fast, efficient, smooth, silent and extraordinarily reliable. From its silky smooth, damped cassette compartment, to its motorized head-loading system, the V-9 is a recordist's delight. A perfect match for the "ACE" components from Teac. 

Specifications:

Frequency response:

30-19kHz Metal

30-18kHz Chrome

30-16kHz Normal

Size: 410x111x265mm (W/H/D)

Weight: 5,5kg

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SONY SCD-DR1 (2004) - Super Audio CD Player

 

The SCD-DR1 was created to deliver the faithful playback quality of Super Audio CD, unique to the original sound, and to unleash the full potential of CD. It brings together the best of Sony's disc playback technology, cultivated over many years. A crystal-clear sound field that makes you feel as if you can see the performers swaying their bodies. A supple depiction that conveys the texture of each and every layer of instrument tone. The SCD-R1 uses a rigid mount that surpasses the typical floating mount method in pursuit of highly accurate signal reading. The base unit, which includes the optical pickup and drive motor, is fixed to a sturdy chassis. This blocks external vibrations and suppresses resonance caused by disc rotation. Discs are loaded using a tray-loading method with a newly developed loading mechanism. The disc tray is pulled horizontally into the body, then drops vertically to deliver the disc to the fixed base unit. This combines a mechanism that is as resistant to vibration as a top-loading method with smooth usability. A master clock is located close to both the digital output section and the D/A conversion section. By using the dedicated master clock depending on the situation, jitter is minimized. This improves the time axis precision of signal processing, achieving outstanding sound quality for both digital and analog outputs. In addition, the external input terminal is equipped with word sync, and by using an external clock, even more realistic sound can be reproduced. 

R-core transformer power supply. The power supply section not only separates the digital and analog systems, but also the servo system, each equipped with an R-core transformer. Voltage fluctuations in the servo system, which controls the movement of the pickup that reads the signal, can be mixed into the digital signal processing, causing distortion in the pulse waveform. This adverse effect has been eliminated to achieve clean digital signal output. In addition, the analog signal processing section blocks high-frequency noise from the digital and servo systems that enters through the power supply, resulting in low-noise, high-quality, stable sound quality. The chassis is highly rigid, combining a frame made from a machined aluminum block up to 15mm thick with beams (leaves) that secure the base unit. The width was set at 340mm to allow for optimal placement of the parts used and to take into consideration strength and vibration prevention. This size is unconventional for audio components and was conceived to improve sound quality. The digital output terminal is equipped with four systems: i.LINK terminal, optical, coaxial, and balanced digital. The i.LINK terminal output has a high transfer rate of up to 200Mbps, allowing for the transmission of Super Audio CD multi-channel DSD data with ease. Furthermore, it is compatible with H.A.T.S (High Quality Digital Audio Transmission System), further enhancing the appeal of Super Audio CD. Width 340 x Height 140 x Depth 465 mm (including maximum protrusions), Weight 18,5kg, Original sale price: $11,000

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SABA Sigma Series 450 (1981)

 

According to the 1982 advertisement published by Saba: Anyone who doesn't accept compromises will take the SABA HiFi Sigma 450 Series very seriously, because it brings them the utmost in enjoyment. The integrated amplifier (MI 450) of this system, for example, has a distortion factor of an incredible 0.003%. It's therefore not noticeable at all. The quartz synthesizer tuner (MT 450) demonstrates outstanding selectivity. No neighboring station, no matter how powerful, will interfere unintentionally. The cassette deck (CD 450) delivers absolute precision. And the record player (PSP 450), of course, belongs to a whole new generation. With a tangential tonearm for the greatest possible tracking and sound fidelity. All in all, a quartet that is among the best in the world. 

Today we know that the cassette deck of this system was actually based on the JVC DD-5 with some added functions. The CD 450 (Cassette Deck) features a Quartz Direct Drive motor, motorized recording level control, SA (Sen-Alloy) rec/pb head, and a fabulous fluorescent VU meter and digital counter for top level recordings and playback. While Saba was an old and prestigious German manufacturer by the 80s things have changed. There is no mention of country origin which leads me to believe (judging by the link to JVC and the typical Japanese back panel look) that these were actually "Made in Japan to Saba specifications" (original photo by M. Rieker)

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TRIO KA-7300 (1975) - Pure Natural Sound

 

More than four decades later, the Trio / Kenwood KA-7300 remains a highly sought-after vintage amplifier. Its audiophile-grade design, dual power supplies, and warm, natural sound make it a favorite among collectors and enthusiasts of classic Japanese hi-fi equipment. The Trio KA-7300 integrated amplifier (also sold under the Kenwood brand in some regions) was designed in 1975 with one clear goal: to reproduce music with absolute naturalness and precision. Built with independent left and right power supplies, the KA-7300 delivers a sharp, stable sound image that remains free of distortion—even when handling powerful signal inputs. Each instrument and vocal is positioned exactly as the recording engineer intended, creating a lifelike and emotional listening experience. Advanced Circuit Technology: Trio’s engineers developed a minimalist circuit design that preserves the purity of the music: Direct-Connect ICL Equalizer for clean and accurate phono playback, OCL Power Amplifier delivering smooth, dynamic power. Tone Control with Tone Defeat Circuit, reducing unnecessary elements that could degrade sound quality. With no unnecessary frills, the KA-7300 amplifier focuses entirely on musicality, clarity, and natural sound reproduction—qualities still admired by audiophiles today.

Specifications:

Power Amplifier Section:

Output: 65W + 65W (20Hz–20kHz, both channels, 8Ω)

Total Harmonic Distortion: 0.1% (rated output), 0.04% (1W, 20Hz–20kHz)

Signal-to-Noise Ratio: 110dB

Preamplifier Section:

Phono Input Sensitivity/Impedance: 2.5mV / 50kΩ (S/N 76dB at 5mV input)

Tuner/AUX Input: 150mV / 50kΩ (S/N 90dB)

Maximum Phono Input: 210mVrms

RIAA Equalization Deviation: ±0.3dB

General:

Dimensions: 430 (W) × 149 (H) × 376 (D) mm

Weight: 16kg

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AKAI GXC-502D Vertical Stereo Cassette Deck (1975)

 

Step into the golden age of Hi-Fi with the Akai GXC-502D vertical cassette deck. Featuring the legendary GX recording head, Dolby noise reduction, and a rare pop-up eject system, this 1975 classic combined cutting-edge engineering with timeless design. Discover why Akai’s vertical decks remain icons among vintage audio collectors today.

The Akai vertical type stereo cassette deck stands out with its innovative front-panel vertical layout, where all operation controls are conveniently placed together. Unlike traditional flat decks, the cassette tape is positioned upright, making it easy to view tracks through the removable transparent lid. This design allows users to clearly check tape movement, monitor remaining tape length, and perform essential maintenance such as head degaussing and capstan cleaning with ease. At the heart of the deck is the Single Crystal GX recording/playback head, a signature Akai technology. The glass-shielded core prevents dust buildup on the tape surface, ensuring long-term reliability and protection of your tapes. The deck delivers an exceptionally wide dynamic range with superior high-frequency response, making it ideal for audiophiles who demand crystal-clear sound...(in 1975). To minimize background noise, Akai engineers used low-noise transistors and precision resistors in the amplifier stage. The double-end push-pull circuit further improves performance, reducing bias noise while maintaining stable operation. For added clarity, the deck features the Dolby Noise Reduction System, a must-have for high-fidelity cassette playback. The full direct function change mechanism makes operation smooth, while the unique pop-up eject system allows the cassette to rise halfway out when the lid opens at the press of a button. The auto-stop mechanism ensures safe tape handling by automatically halting playback or winding once the tape ends. A pause button with lock function is also provided for precision recording. Other key features include: 2-position tape selector for normal (low-noise) and chrome tapes, 3-digit mechanical tape counter for accurate track location, Large, easy-to-read VU meter for monitoring recording and playback levels. The GXC-502D features a wall-mountable design with two rear hooks, offering flexible installation options. Special Launch Promotion (1975): To celebrate the release of the GXC-502D vertical cassette deck, Akai offered a unique personalization campaign. Customers who purchased one of these models before April 20, 1975, received a custom engraved cassette lid featuring their initials—an exclusive accessory available only during this limited promotion.

Specifications: 

Wow and flutter = 0.1% WRMS 

Frequency response = 30-16,000Hz (chrome tape) 30-15,000Hz (low-noise tape) 

S/N ratio = 54dB (DOLBY NR 62dB) 

Motor = 4-pole induction motor x 1 

Dimensions (W x H x D) = 418 x 257 x 152mm 

Weight = 5.3kg

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DENON DCD-3500RG CD Player (1989) – A Legendary Hi-Fi Classic

 

The DENON DCD-3500RG CD player is one of the most iconic vintage hi-fi components ever made. Combining advanced digital technology, precision transport, and luxurious design, it set new standards for audiophile CD playback. Even today, music lovers value its natural sound and legendary build quality. The DENON DCD-3500RG CD player represents a perfect fusion of late-80s cutting-edge technology and timeless musicality. Even decades after its release, this flagship model remains a reference standard for audiophiles who value both precision engineering and natural sound. 

Innovative Technology and Signal Processing. 

The DCD-3500RG was the first DENON player to feature the patented Lambda-SLC signal processing technology, a milestone that later evolved into the iconic DENON DSD-S1, DP-S1, and DA-S1 digital sources. At its core, the player is equipped with DAC 4xPCM58P-K – SM5803AP (two for each channel) and a 20-bit digital filter with 8x oversampling, delivering conversion accuracy derived directly from professional studio gear. From the initial signal reading to final processing, the entire circuit follows a pure monophonic scheme for maximum fidelity.

Superior Power Supply and Noise Isolation

The DENON DCD-3500RG features separate transformers for digital and analog stages, ensuring minimal interference. High-capacity electrolytic capacitors, spring-mounted power supplies, and a unique rubber damping compound eliminate unwanted vibrations and improve stability. To further suppress noise, the digital and analog sections are fully shielded and separated by a dedicated ground bus, preventing cross-interference.

High-Precision Transport and Build Quality

At the heart of this CD player lies the Sony KSS-151A precision transport, mounted on a dual BMC (Bulk Molding Compound) chassis. This material is renowned for its vibration absorption properties, guaranteeing smooth playback and reduced distortion. The luxurious design matches its advanced engineering: a veneered wooden body finished in piano lacquer and a massive anodized gold aluminum front panel emphasize its premium status.

Connectivity and User Features

On the rear panel, the DCD-3500RG offers optical and coaxial digital outputs, plus both balanced XLR and unbalanced RCA analog outputs. For personal listening, it also includes an adjustable headphone output. With its wide set of features, superb construction, and legendary sound quality, the DENON DCD-3500RG CD player continues to be a benchmark in the world of high-end hi-fi equipment.

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SONY Liberty V710 (1992)

 

The Sony V710 will expand your enjoyment of music in new ways. For example: You can enjoy SELECT10, which allows you to call up 10 different sound fields with one touch, and control the sound and video. It has a wide range of features that make it easy to enjoy great sound, such as the power drive rotary function. This is a smart and powerful component that not only reproduces high-quality sound but is also easy to use. The V710 amplifier delivers powerful sound with high power and excellent expandability. The Liberty V710's amplifier section delivers powerful, dependable sound. It's packed with powerful power and easy-to-use features. The ample power of 80W + 80W total output brings out the best in digital sound. Furthermore, variable D.B.F.B. (Dynamic Bass Feedback) delivers crisp, deep bass that responds to the volume. The V710's amplifier is equipped with a wide range of video inputs and outputs: three video inputs and two outputs. Connecting a TV, video player, or laserdisc player allows for expansion into an AV system. The Program Function lets you store up to three preset source, volume, and sound field settings, allowing you to recall preset playback settings with a single touch. The V710 equalizer features easy-to-read 7+7 bands, making it easy to create a sound field. The 7+7-band electronic graphic equalizer creates a diverse sound field. The 7+7-band equalization curves are easy to see, allowing you to fine-tune the high, mid, and low frequencies to create the sound you want. Three surround modes—MUSIC, MOVIE, and SIMULATED—create a powerful sense of realism, and three delay levels—MIN, MID, and MAX—allow you to create different atmospheres even with the same song. It also features a D.S.C. (Dynamic Sound Control) function that automatically suppresses excessive input levels. The V710 CD player lets you enjoy digital sound to the fullest. It features a high quality D/A converter, delivering pure sound quality. The V710 cassette deck is a recording device that meets the requirements of digital sound quality and editing. The TD-1000 is designed with a focus on performance. It features Dolby HX PRO, Dolby B, and Dolby C to preserve the pure sound quality of CDs on tape. It also features the S.A.F. (Sound Auto Focus) function, which automatically adjusts the REC level according to the input level, ensuring excellent sound recording. It also offers a full range of CD-to-tape editing functions, including time editing, fade editing, and crossfade editing, all easily controlled from the deck. The V710 Timer Tuner lets you manage your weekly music schedule with ease. Simply set the operating time and the Easy Set Timer automatically memorizes and reproduces the source, volume, and sound field you are listening to at that time. The tuner can preset 12 TV (VHF/UHF), FM, and AM stations. The TV supports audio multiplex broadcasting. The V710's sound is driven by a 3-way speaker system with a maximum input of 90W and AV magnetic shielding. The 27cm cone woofer delivers powerful bass, the 10cm cone midrange speaker delivers crisp midrange and high frequencies, and the 5cm cone tweeter delivers vibrant high frequencies. The result is a truly lifelike sound. A multi-function remote control that prioritizes ease of use is also insluded. This easy-to-use system remote control not only controls the basic operations of the CD player and cassette deck, but also a variety of other functions such as Select 10 and Tuner 12 key preset direct song selection, surround mode/level adjustment, and equalizer.

Specifications: <Amplifier section> ● Maximum practical output: 80W + 80W (60EIAJ) ● Dimensions: W 355 x H 131 x D 320mm (including maximum protrusions) ● Weight: 6.3kg <Graphic equalizer section> ● Type: Electronic 7 + 7 band Split frequency bands: 63Hz/160Hz/400Hz/1kHz/2.5kHz/6.3kHz/15kHz ±10dB Dimensions: W 355 x H 95.5 x D 313.5mm (including maximum protrusions) ● Weight: 2.6kg <CD player section> ● Reading method: Non-contact optical ● Wow and flutter: Less than limited limit ● Dimensions: W 355 x H 95.5 x D 320mm (including maximum protrusions) ● Weight: 3.1kg <Deck section> ● Wow and flutter: 0.08% (WRMS) ● Frequency response: 30Hz to 15kHz ± 3dB (TYPE IV EIAJ) ●Signal-to-noise ratio: 74dB (Dolby C TYPE IV) ●Dimensions: W355 x H133 x D310mm (including largest protrusions) ●Weight: 3.5kg <Tuner section> ●Sensitivity: New 1HF 2.8µV (750/FM) SNR: 75dB (FM, mono) ●Antenna terminal: [FM] 750 unbalanced type [AM] External loop antenna included ●Dimensions: W355 x H94 x D320mm (including largest protrusions) ●Weight: 2.6kg <Speaker section> Type: 3-way bass reflex ●Units: Woofer - 27cm cone type / Midrange - 10cm cone type / Tweeter - 5cm cone type ●Maximum input power: 90W ●Frequency response: 35Hz - 20kHz ●Rated impedance: 60 ●Dimensions: W320 x H549 x D265mm (including largest protrusions) Weight: 9.6 kg (1 unit) <System size and weight> ● Power consumption: 183 W ● Dimensions: Width 995 x Height 549 x Depth 320 mm (including maximum protrusions) ● Weight 37.3 kg ● Total height of main unit: 549 mm * (EIAJ) is a measurement value according to the standards of the Electronic Industries Association of Japan.

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SONY TA-F3000ES (1995) | Mos-Fet & Toroidal

The TA-F3000 integrated amplifier (ES Series on some markets) is a 28cm wide 2x70W sine power (DIN/4 ohms) MOS-FET power amplifier with toroidal transformer, advanced STD power supply, dual mono design, Low-noise phono preamplifier, 6 audio inputs, 2 audio outputs, high-quality, relay-controlled source switching, torsion-resistant monobox chassis construction. It features a sturdy housing with 5 mm thick aluminum front, 2 switched mains sockets and IR remote control. When power is required, a stable power supply is necessary for the most natural reproduction of complex music signals. This places special demands on an amplifier's power supply: a powerful power supply without voltage fluctuations for optimal amplifier performance with high dynamic reserves, even at high volume. The characteristic oval, ring-shaped core design of the Sony "Torus Toroidal Transformer" ensures excellent efficiency thanks to closer-fitting windings. The result: outstanding magnetic coupling, shorter winding length, i.e., lower resistance, and thus extremely stable operating voltage, even when things get a bit loud. Since the tendency to mechanical oscillation and magnetic flux leakage are drastically reduced, this results in more efficient energy yield and increases the performance of the power supply. Dimensions: 280 x 130 x 400 mm (WxHxD) | Weight: approx. 9 kg | Original sale price in Germany 1300 DM. It was part of the "3000 Series" which also featured the ST-S3000ES tuner, CDP-X3000ES Cd player and MDS-J3000ES minidisc.

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OPTONICA RT-3838 (1977) | electronic tape processor

 

The RT-3838H/HB is not a cassette deck in the traditional sense, but rather a tape processor, i.e., a cassette deck with a quartz time base for switching fully automatic, pre-programmable control sequences such as APLD, Counter Memory, etc. All information is displayed on the LCD screen. Separate bias and equalization switches for all tape types. Frequency response 30-16,000 Hz. Front panel black or metallic. The Optonica RT-3838 by Sharp is a combination of cassette tape deck and pre-programmable controller with multiple functions. 24-hour quartz clock with LCD display, which can be illuminated even when the unit is switched off. Clock operation even when the power cord is unplugged, as standard AA batteries are used as a buffer. Quartz clock display format can be switched to 12 or 24 hours. Zero start, i.e., clock synchronization to the nearest full hour. Timer for automatic switching on and off during recording and playback. Tape counter can be switched to real-time counter APLD search for locating up to 20 tracks with subsequent fully automatic playback switching. Memory rewind. Counter memory, i.e., entering any counter reading for subsequent playback control. Direct memory, i.e., saving the current counter reading. Memory combination for using memory rewind and direct memory as an automatic repeat function. All programmable control operations are carried out via a microprocessor, which, together with the LCD display, forms a single unit. EDIT button for inserting blank spaces. Pneumatically damped cassette compartment. Output level control. Ultra-hard permalloy combination head. Separate tape type switches. 2-motor Quartz control mechanism. Also known as RT-388, RT-3150, RT-3151 and RT-6501 with minor differences.

Specifications:

2-motor transport

Hard permalloy head

Wow & flutter: 0,05% WRMS

Frequency response:

30-15.000Hz Normal tape

30-16.000Hz Chrome tape

30-17.000Hz FeCr tape

Size (W/H/D) 467x146x354mm

Weight: 10.2kg

Original sale price in Germany 998 DM

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SONY CDP-R1/DAS-R1 (1987) | Digital Reference System

This is the Sony CD player combination CDP-R1 and DAS-R1, a Digital Reference System from 1987. With its high-quality design, the Sony CD player combination CDP-R1 and DAS-R1 promises a completely new dimension in digital music playback. Superfluous controls have been simply eliminated from the front of the device. They are located entirely on the infrared remote control. The drive, linear motor, and pickup unit are protected from vibrations in the aluminum die-cast base unit developed by Sony. The particularly torsion-resistant frame beam chassis also ensures high stability and a firm fit for the various components. As an anti-resonance measure, it plays a significant role in the excellent reference sound of this high-end CD player system. But the exquisite technology also makes high-end gourmets' mouths water: The separation of drive and converter allows both units to pursue their precision work completely unaffected. And both cabinets still leave plenty of space for the electronic inner workings to unfold generously and undisturbed. The CDP-R1's Super Silent TS Servo System sets a new standard in servo perfection for high-end CD players. This Totally Silent technology reduces the amplifier's control characteristics to their lower limits. A special circuit that monitors the entire scanning process prevents possible overreactions with scratched or faulty CDs. Then there is Twin Optical Link. This technology transmits digital music data and the digital clock over two separate optical paths with absolutely no loss. On one path, digital music data is sent to the converter, while on the opposite track, the digital clock is sent to the drive. The advantage: the digital master clock is generated in the DAS-R1 in direct proximity to the D/A converters. This ensures jitter-free clock access at the point that most influences the sound. 

The D/A converter undoubtedly plays a major role in the sound of a CD player. By separating the digital signal processing from the servo circuits, the CDP-R1 and DAS-R1 prevent the occurrence of high-frequency interference, which can cause considerable noise in conventional designs. The result is naturally improved sound quality. A double quartz glass cable (Twin Optical Link) ensures that the CD drive and converter can communicate optimally with each other without clock deviations (jitter). This system, developed by Sony, creates an ideal basis for interference-free data transmission and processing. And thus for excellent sound quality. This is further enhanced by the 18-bit digital filter CXD-1144 with 8x oversampling. For improved system dynamics, reduced distortion, and maximum resolution. Added to this is the special noise shaping in the DAS-R1. It improves the signal-to-noise ratio and thus increases the signal and sound quality. Similar to the CDP-R1, a dual transformer system prevents mutual interference between digital and analog components. It seems the effort was worth it as the test by the trade magazine Audio from October 1988 concluded that the new CD player combination immediately made the leap into the absolute top class. Rating: Reference class

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