Power transformers : vintage receivers vs modern ?

[bob412]

I overheard some of the engineers at my job discussing vintage hi fi receivers recently . They all agreed that vintage solid state amps had the best iron in their power transformers and this is the reason why they sound more powerful than modern receivers . These guys came down hard on modern solid state amps , saying that their power transformer quality is pure junk and you have to spend thousands to get good equipment . They talked for almost an hour and I had to get back to work . When I got home I opened my vintage Realistic Sta-76 receiver and noticed the beautifully painted black power transformer it has . It's like a solid ingot of iron/steel . I'm thinking now , " these guys are gurus ." I'm no techie , can someone elaborate on the job of a power transformer . Is the quality of metal used in modern amps power transformers lacking in comparison to vintage amps ? View and comments appreciated . Thanks

 

[Tinnkindling]

With transformers, it is not just the quality of the iron used in the core that determines the quality of the transformer and the amp that it powers. Proper sizing is important, but larger transformers cost more, and therefore make a good place for a designer to cut corners.

The quality of the windings, including the insulation are another factor. And, the type of transformer, toroidal vs. conventional, again must be considered. Toroidal transformers are allegedly harder to wind, but are more efficient, and presumably cost more.

Sansui, I believe, started as a transformer company, although they may have made other electrical components, and their early SS amps were considered to have good transformers.

Hope this adds to your confusion...