2. amps-preamps
  3. 151604-1049

Top vintage receivers vs. modern high-end equipment

I am considering pairing an old amplification system to my JBL Paragon -- the idea of getting an all vintage system is very attractive to me. Among other things, I am looking into classics such as the Pioneer 1980 receiver or the Marantz 2600. Does anyone have direct experience in comparing this kind of equipment (very high-end but 40 years ago) to current high-end equipment, imagine an integrated Pass Lab amplifier? How do they stack up? Thank you. 
ggavetti
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riaa_award_collectors_on_facebook
981 posts
 

FrankSaw,

Ive owned about 100 1970's receivers...still have 30-40 laying around collecting dust. (Mostly Pioneer). The Pioneer 9100 Integrated with a SG9800 EQ is an excellent combo. It will handily beat the SX-1980,1250,1010 TOTL Models.

For regular receivers:  SANYO JCX 2900, ONKYO 8500, SHERWOOD 9910. These will cost 1/2 the Price of Pioneer/Marantz receivers of comparable wattage...and SMOKE them in Detail. The Kenwood KR9600 is another excellent choice but more expensive than the above. (Still better than any Marantz/Pioneer)

As a whole I would say SANSUI is the best if you need to pick 1 brand...but your going to pay for them. A "Eight Deluxe" would be an excellent affordable choice. The "9000" series are awesome but very expensive.

Luxman's are awesome for detail...the best actually...but too laid back for Rock N Roll.

Stay Clear of Yamaha "Natural Sound", Sony, Tandberg

franksaw's avatar
franksaw
4 posts
 
Stay Clear of Yamaha "Natural Sound", Sony, Tandberg? Why? I've heard a lot about Yamaha b2 and demos sound pretty damn good and full of drive:)

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riaa_award_collectors_on_facebook
981 posts
 
Because they sound like Crap compared to the others I posted. The "Natural Sound" receivers are lifeless and completely FLAT sounding. Their sound is completely unique to any other brand. Some might like it.  Sorry I responded...you obviously know all the answers already.
ebm
9,311 posts
 
These receivers are ancient history the PASS int amp will be much better build and sound quality.
dkzzzz's avatar
dkzzzz
124 posts
 

I have discovered that by an large only vintage receivers have dedicated Preamp Out. Integrateds do not. I use receivers as preamp only or on occasion as second amp driving just the bass on bi-wired speakers.

I can get modern pre amp but they are ugly and often don't have tone controls.

I am buying vintage for 50% looks and 50% performance. Never underestimate pretty lights and their placebo effect.

 

P.S. Modern gear is so ugly and overpriced it is untouchable imho.

Same goes for speakers. I hate modern narrow baffle design and tinny sound. Exception being ATC & Tannoy.

 

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