I just picked up a boxed SA-9500 II

[BlackScholes]

I picked up the TX-9500 II, CT-F1000, and SA-9500 II all in their original boxes. Beautiful condition. I'm interested why this receiver has not received more attention, I can't even find specs for it online. It sounds great, much better than my SX-850. When comparing it to the SA-9500, it seems like people think they are very similar. This is interesting to me because the II has dual transformers and four caps, instead of the I's single transformer and dual caps. I don't know how this would affect power or sound, I don't know the science, but the II definitely looks impressive and weighs a ton. Thoughts? Does anyone have specs for this one or information on differences between the SA-9500 I & II? Would it be worth it to go after a SX-1250 or better or have I reached the pinnacle of pioneer with the SA-9500 II?

I'm wondering where to go from here with audio, I just got into vintage audio around the end of 2009. I'm 19, so I feel like I have plenty of time.

 

[dshoaf]

You do, indeed, have plenty of time to explore all the various aspects of the audio hobby. Take your time. You have had some really nice gear fall into your hands. Enjoy them.

As for the SX-1250, it is nice, but more complex due to packaging. At least the stuff you have fits onto a regular shelf.

Spend more time on speakers and source material and you'll be in great shape.

You're about the age I was when I wandered into my first real experience with audio at a McIntosh dealer in about 1971 or so. Darkened room, glowing meters, big speakers, reel-to-reel spinning slowly. Nice.

Cheers,

David

 

[kermit z]

I would sit back and enjoy this new gear. You really have to watch falling into the "I need to get better stuff", and not enjoy what you have. Its good stuff for sure.

Link to stuff.

http://www.silverpioneer.netfirms.com/integrated-amps.htm

 

[KingBubba]

The 9500II is not the pinnacle but is is a mighty fine integrated amp. I recently repaired and recapped mine and, though I still have an issue to deal with, I am very happy to have it upgraded and working again. It is not a wonderfully easy unit to rebuild; due to all the wire wrap connections, but it is doable. You now own some fine equipment. Take the time and learn what you can about it. Spend the money to have it rebuilt, if you cannot accomplish that by yourself. This kind of equipment is not made any more and even with the cost of a rebuild you still could not buy anything like it on the market today.

These threads are about my saga with the 9500II, which is not yet over:

http://www.audiokarma.org/forums/showthread.php?t=108465

http://www.audiokarma.org/forums/showthread.php?t=149389

http://www.audiokarma.org/forums/showthread.php?p=3391348#post3391348

http://www.audiokarma.org/forums/showthread.php?t=281315&highlight=9500II

Take care of those output transistors because finding replacements is futile. The workaround is doable, but the best thing to do is to take care of the ones you have. Chances are good your caps are well beyond their usable life. Open it up and look for leakage or bulging in the big filter caps and the other electrolytic caps. If the caps go down they can easily take those output transistors with them.

Congrats on a great find!!! :thmbsp::thmbsp:

 

[BlackScholes]

Thanks! I think this amp was lightly used and was stored for a long time in its box. As long as I'm not really cranking this amp, will I hurt it if the caps aren't exactly pristine?

 

[rich l]

Thanks! I think this amp was lightly used and was stored for a long time in its box. As long as I'm not really cranking this amp, will I hurt it if the caps aren't exactly pristine?

unfortunatly the caps can go anytime, regardless of how loud you crank it.