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Lurker finally scores a decent amp

A

algustaf

New Member
I have been lurking here for a while and trying to get an overall education on some classic pieces of equipment. So when I saw this locally on CL I just had to upgrade. I picked up a Pioneer SA-9500 integrated amplifier and it is my upgrade from a Sansui 7000 (I know dont flame me). Sansui sounded great, but the Pioneer just looks solid and sounds great. Would an integrated amp like this be a good candidate for a servicing (cap replacements) or just let it ride. It sounds good now, would I be able to notice a difference before and after if I did decide to get it serviced?
 
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Nice find! Always liked those big Pioneers

I'm a big fan of doing a thorough cleaning, recapping as necessary, and just generally performing recommended maintenance on a 30-year old amplifier.

If nothing else, it will help the amplifier make it through the next 30 years!

Welcome to AK
 
There's no certainty that you would hear a difference, and it won't be cheap to find out. I usually recommend a complete set of performance measurements by a well-equipped shop. If everything's in spec, there's no physical evidence of deterioration, and it sounds good, well then, just enjoy your good fortune! If it's out of spec and you decide to overhaul, then please post your before/after performance measurements and listening impressions.
 
Nice find! I mean really nice find! I have the SA-9500 II and I really like it. It sounds excellent and is built better than any other piece I have come across. Should have more than enough power to drive most speakers out there...most. Congrats!
 
algustaf said:
I have been lurking here for a while and trying to get an overall education on some classic pieces of equipment. So when I saw this locally on CL I just had to upgrade. I picked up a Pioneer SA-9500 integrated amplifier and it is my upgrade from a Sansui 7000 (I know dont flame me). Sansui sounded great, but the Pioneer just looks solid and sounds great. Would an integrated amp like this be a good candidate for a servicing (cap replacements) or just let it ride. It sounds good now, would I be able to notice a difference before and after if I did decide to get it serviced?
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I've talked to technicians at three repair centers about replacing all the caps in an amplifier and all three have said it's a waste unless it's an amplifier known to have a history of cap failure. They said unless there is an obvious problem like leaks or bulged caps to leave it alone and use it.
It wouldn't hurt to have it checked out by a competent technician with a good reputation for honesty.
I have 3 SA 9500s and the sound they produce through my B&W 801s is clear and powerful. I have 2 Pioneer SX 1010s that run out of power well before they produce sounds equal to the 9500s. They obviously need some attention.
 
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