Sansui 7000 vs eight

[liveoffroad]

I've been searching for the infamous sansui eight for quite some time But I recently settled for a 7000 and am now using it as a pre-amp. I have read all of the posts about the differences in the amplifier sections between the eight, eight Deluxe, and 7000 but are the pre-amp sections the same? I've cleaned the switches and dials on the 7000 but I'm not blown away with the sound (my 8080 is better), I'd say it's a bit dull. I've heard the 8 is nothing short of amazing so just wondering if there's a difference in the preamp sections or if maybe something is wrong

 

[FluxT]

The only real differences between the 7000 and the Eight are in the power amp sections, or so I’ve heard. It’s also a 50 year-old piece of equipment, so all those crappy old caps and transistors will have to go for it to sound as good as it can.

 

[playittwice]

The 7000 is a cap-coupled output design, whereas the single-digit models, which includes the Eight, are DC coupled.

Cap-Coupled = warm, perhaps punchier bass, with a more laid-back mellow delivery.

DC = more of a detailed, cleaner delivery, with a touch of warmth, tighter bass.

So there is more of a difference than similar sound between the two IME.

I rotate between the AU505 and Seven. There is definitely a difference in sound, my ears prefer the 505 (CC). Both have great sonics, just what you prefer and most importantly, speakers being used.

IME the Seven is between the 9090 and AU505, sound-wise. I compared my 9090 to the Seven, the Eight Deluxe’s little bro, and the 9090 is gone. The single digits have a nice balance between the DC and CC sound to me.

This is my observation on these two different topologies.

It may be after listening to your 8080, you may not care for the CC sound, or your 7000 needs to be freshened up.

Good luck.

P.S if you post this inquiry in the Exclusively Sansui forum, you will get an ark load of replies and view points.

 

[Bruno Primas]

I noticed that recapping a cap-coupled unit seems to make more of a difference in sound than on a direct-coupled unit. (Sansui 4000 vs. Marantz 2245.)

The Sansui got more detailed, punchy, with tighter bass. The Marantz, (to me), didn't change as-much sound-wise, just more peace of mind.

I prefer the Sansui, and the Marantz is no slouch!

 

[playittwice]

^ My experience also, especially if you change out those old signal transistors, and increase the PS cap values.

 

[Bruno Primas]

^ My experience also, especially if you change out those old signal transistors.

Definitely will have less background noise and hiss.

 

[liveoffroad]

Thanks for the replies. Forgive me if I've not understanding correctly but the DC verse CC conversation is only referring to the amplifier section correct? I'm only using the preamplifier section currently so it should in theory sound the same as an eight....

 

[ivandezande]

Preamp is also different. These units really only share the same chassis. The tuner may be similar.
These units used junk transistors and caps in the preamp, so I wouldn't expect much. Every one that has come across my bench has had issues.