Hi Pete, a few more, some mine some not. Is there a protocol for listing internet finds? From a pure dBase listing it should be of no consequence as to where the box is and having the AK User is a means of follow up in case of a "clash" and a need to verify the Serial?
Since it's inception circa 2003, the database has compiled valid Sansui serial numbers from any source. I've recorded them from labels on original shipping boxes and warranty card. As long as it's a genuine serial number from a production unit we want it in the database.
In the early days, there were several AK members that compiled serial numbers from primarily US based internet sources (eBay). Adding member names to the data line came later. It's sole purpose is to have a reference if there is a discrepancy with the serial number. Occasionally an newly posted serial number conflicts with an existing serial number.
When I revived the database in 2017, I changed the field name to "Reporter" since members like yourself don't necessarily own the unit that they are posting. Historically internet sources were listed simply as Internet. Recently, when I find serial numbers on the internet, I will list well known sources like eBay or HiFi Do but not typically the Japanese auction sites.
Each line of data also has a "Notes" field that can be used to record a source. The side comments you posted with some of your most recent serial numbers I've recorded in the notes field. In the reporting format, the notes field follows reporter separated with a comma - Model,Serial Number,Reporter,Notes. The primary purpose of the notes field is to track production changes by identifying which version is associated with a particular serial number. I also use it to indicate a Japanese domestic model (JDM) if the model name is used worldwide.
So to answer your question about protocol, please identify the actual source if it's convenient. If you like, list your member name as the reporter and the internet source in the notes field.
Hi Pete, I noticed the database has issues with the GX-150 rack mount cabinets. I have 3 of these, 2 have the rear panel with the 6 digit serial number. They both start with 78 which would align correctly with 1978 and the associated AU/TU-x17 and xx-7 range. Interestingly I have the same cabinet serial as a current eBay listing that has been there for ages (scam!) for complete rack system. I made an offer for the cabinet only months ago but no reply, then amazingly found one locally (only 650 klms away). Maybe his photos were scrapped from somewhere that just happened to be from my cabinets previous owner.!
View attachment 1691936 View attachment 1691937
650Km is not exactly "local." You must have really wanted that rack.
For the dBase, maybe the breakdown is different and digits 4 & 5 are the Month: July, November, June respectively or just the year as it's only a rack??
That doesn't account for production volume, how many were made. Serial numbers typically have a sequential number to indicate production. I haven't seen any "official" explanation of a 6 digit serial number like these. Since we can only guess at how to decode these oddball serial numbers, I indicate "Invalid Date Code" for the production date.
It's likely these racks were made by a contractor and not in an actual Sansui factory. They are certainly valid serial numbers but clearly don't follow the standard Sansui format. I absolutely still want them, but they have to be added manually. The macro that assigns the production date is designed to reject anything other than an 8 or 9 digit serial number. It also looks at the month designation and will reject anything other than a 0 or 1 for the 3rd or 4th digit respectively in 8 or 9 digit serial numbers.
I really value this type of feedback and truly appreciate your enthusiasm for the database.
- Pete
Sansui.
