Sansui 8900zdb vs G-5500? Sound Quality? Help today please.

[jgscott]

So I just acquired a Set of nice The Smaller Advent Speakers. Was running a Sansui Solid State 4000 that I loved the Sound on. The 4000 was not a good match for the SA's so I hooked up the G-5500 for a little more power and its playing nice. (I know the G series, 4000 series and zdb have different sounds.)

Last night along comes a offer to buy a Sansui 8900zdb at a good fair price. I did some research on the zdb and saw all kinda of opinions. Some say not that Sansui build quality nor sound. Other say it has the G-xx00 and G-x000 sound. Some even say its a sleeper and has the AU sound. Even almost the sound quality of the AU999. The biggest complaint was the motorized volume up/down button. I could live with that tho.

A few questions here I want to ask please?

1. Those who know and have heard the zdb receivers, what do you think Sansui sound quality wise?
2. Most say the Sansui don't like 4ohm speakers and the SA's are 4ohm, but the 8900zdb is 125wpc.Is there a problem matching it with the SA's?
3. If I'm going to get it, I must get it today shortly. Its suppose to be in good condition with no problems. I don't need another receiver just to collect Sansui's. This would be my home office receiver that wont be cranked a lot, but sometimes the g-5500 does get some 1/4 - just below 1/2 volume playing time. Most Jazz and Classical.

Please help me out here with info and opinions as much as you can. Thanks!

PS: I wont get a chance to hear the Sansui 8900zdb before I buy it.

 

[Sansuiman]

A few things to note: the first Z series receivers (3900Z-9900Z, including the 8900ZDB) were Sansui's first true digitally tuned receivers. The prior G-x700 models that the Z series replaced were still conventional analog tuners with an added digital readout (ala the TU-919 tuner). The "DB" in 8900ZDB simply designates that it supports Dolby FM, which is a non-issue in 2019 as the Dolby FM format was abandoned decades ago. In fact, it was on it's dying breath when the Z series was introduced, and probably why the 8900Z was the only model in the series to feature it.

Having said that, the build quality on these models is decent, but clearly not as solid as the models of just a few years prior. I'd not see that as a reason to give them a hard pass though. Each series of receivers starting with the 9090(DB) onward - including the much admired G series (all three generations of it) - were slightly decontented in overall build quality in order to reduce expenses over its predecessor model series. So, to get the ultimate Sansui build quality, you'd have to go back to about 1972-73 models.

As to the sound quality, it generally follows the evolution of Sansui's push to create cleaner, faster output stages. I own a 9900Z, and it sounds very good to me. It is a fast amplifier (though not on par with their best integrated amps even of the same era like the AU-X1) and has very good specs on paper. It has been called a sleeper, and I think that is an apt description.

These feature copious power, the 9900Z is 160WPC, the 8900ZDB is 125WPC so they are both in the near-top power class for receivers in 1980 (excluding outliers like the Technics SA-1000 which did 330WPC, and the Sansui G-22000/33000 which weren't really contemporaries anyway, being from a previous model series).

The 8900ZDB will be in an entirely different output power class from the G-5500 and is of course far and away ahead of the 4000 (not to besmirch the 4000 certainly, I like that series a lot, I own a 2000X and 5000/A/X myself) so I don't think you'll have any issue with lack of power or specs. The big remaining question is how it pairs with the speakers you intend to use in your listening room. That I cannot answer in any objective way that will be useful or informative to you.

Now, I am not a big fan of buying gear un-auditioned, or of buying under pressure (imposed time constraints as is apparently the case here). Being put on the spot tends to cause one to make rash decisions that aren't well thought out. I take it from your post that the sale of the 8900ZDB would be final, no refunds etc. I don't know the circumstances, but unless it is offered at an estate sale or auction, that seems like an poor way to do business. A reputable seller of hifi isn't going to operate that way (the aforementioned exceptions notwithstanding) and should allow a refund if it simply isn't up to your expectations.

I guess the only other thing I can say is that if the price is really that good, you shouldn't have difficulty selling it and at least breaking even if you buy it and end up not liking it.

Overall, I'd call the 8900ZDB a very good receiver, and it is unlikely to disappoint. But, without being able to give it a listen first, it is always a crap shoot. I hope you can at least power it up with headphones attached before buying, to verify the functionality on all points.

 

[jgscott]

Just to clear up, if it is not functioning correctly I have the option of returning it. If I don't like the Sound its Not a option to return. How would you say your 9900Z sound compare's to other Sansui's you own in your opinion? Listening wise? And thanks.

Any other post would be much appreciated.

 

[Sansuiman]

The 9900Z sound is closer (though not 100% identical) to the G-9000 than it is to, for example, the 9090DB. Compared to the G-9000, I don't hear a major difference; 9900Z is a direct coupled amp with fairly high spec output transistors and has a sonic signature that is representative of what Sansui was doing circa 1980-81, prior to their next big step forward with X-balanced amp topology around 1984.

It lacks much of the apparent "coloring" of the sound clearly evident in older models using less advanced amp designs and heavily tweaked frequency response curves, but still has loads of clean power and a strong - but not boomy - low end that Sansui is rightfully famous for. Of course it has tone controls and a loudness contour to adjust to taste (if that's something you wish to do).

I think the Z series has been largely overlooked for a long time because they were a bit too visually flashy in that early 1980's way that seems to have demanded that more flashing lights are always a good thing. I'd guess many people didn't take them seriously due to the light show aspect of the design, and thus didn't bother to consider there was a good amplifier buried in there behind all the flame and fizz.

Consider that these were not cheap (the top 3 models 7900Z-9900Z) in 1980, list price on a 9900Z was about $1100. Sansui did put a solid effort into making a good product here, albeit in a way that had to account for changing economic realities of the day. I'd say give it a shot, I was surprised by my 9900Z as I didn't think it would be as good as it ended up being. That of course was based on my preconceptions before purchasing it. It's not my best piece of gear, but its no slouch.

 

[kevzep]

You've got two models at different ends of the product line basically.

8900 will be superior in SQ to the G5500.

Just make sure its working properly, they are not that easy to work on, and not easy to fix when they fail catastrophically. (8900)

 

[jgscott]

Well thank you all. I just picked it up. it was a little bit rougher than I thought, but intact. I'm going to give it a good clean up. Based on the Condition, and I will recondition and polish as best I can.

Glad for you Guys help, seems this series might be the sleeper of sleepers. For me I'm sure it will wake up the SA speakers I just got. Funny as it is, with my home office having wood, and a black metal glass desk. This unit will fall right in perfect with the Décor and actually accent.

Also funny, I was more attracted to the zdb Black face unit than I was the all Sliver G-5500 face. And I like the tuner dial plus Digital readout along with the built in EQ. We will see how it goes, but besides a Soundcraftsmen amp and HK I have the SS 4000 was one of the best sounding Receivers I liked even a little better. My guess is this 8900zdb wakes up the SA's, but we will see how it goes? I am so thankful for the quick help here. So glad I made the move on the zdb. Those zdb's were listed for $500 - $800 on the bay LOL! Thanks and stay tuned for the review.

My next thing if everything works out with it is seeing about upgrading the amp and restore. I would think but not sure that if it was in the later series, that the electronics might not be in such bad shape? But what do I know? LOL? I read something about upgrading something in the Signal path with Nichicon Audio Capacitors. Or something like that. I'm sure many can tell me exactly what to do.

 

[jgscott]

The 9900Z sound is closer (though not 100% identical) to the G-9000 than it is to, for example, the 9090DB. Compared to the G-9000, I don't hear a major difference; 9900Z is a direct coupled amp with fairly high spec output transistors and has a sonic signature that is representative of what Sansui was doing circa 1980-81, prior to their next big step forward with X-balanced amp topology around 1984.

It lacks much of the apparent "coloring" of the sound clearly evident in older models using less advanced amp designs and heavily tweaked frequency response curves, but still has loads of clean power and a strong - but not boomy - low end that Sansui is rightfully famous for. Of course it has tone controls and a loudness contour to adjust to taste (if that's something you wish to do).

I think the Z series has been largely overlooked for a long time because they were a bit too visually flashy in that early 1980's way that seems to have demanded that more flashing lights are always a good thing. I'd guess many people didn't take them seriously due to the light show aspect of the design, and thus didn't bother to consider there was a good amplifier buried in there behind all the flame and fizz.

Consider that these were not cheap (the top 3 models 7900Z-9900Z) in 1980, list price on a 9900Z was about $1100. Sansui did put a solid effort into making a good product here, albeit in a way that had to account for changing economic realities of the day. I'd say give it a shot, I was surprised by my 9900Z as I didn't think it would be as good as it ended up being. That of course was based on my preconceptions before purchasing it. It's not my best piece of gear, but its no slouch.

Is the 8900zdb also? -"a direct coupled amp with fairly high spec output transistors and has a sonic signature that is representative of what Sansui was doing circa 1980-81, prior to their next big step forward with X-balanced amp topology around 1984". Thanks.

 

[kevzep]

Is the 8900zdb also? -"a direct coupled amp with fairly high spec output transistors and has a sonic signature that is representative of what Sansui was doing circa 1980-81, prior to their next big step forward with X-balanced amp topology around 1984". Thanks.

Yes, very much so. More than the G5500 to be honest.

 

[jgscott]

Went to check it out. And it jumped in the Car and followed me home. So I took it out of the car brought it in the house and gave it a clean up. Turned out it was just top dirt. Looks Good now!

Didn't realize the 8900zdb was so large. 23" long by 14" deep. Nice low profile. me like it!

Didn't turn it on yet. Thought about cleaning the Pots and Switchs before turning on, and remembered all the "if it aint broke don't fix it" advise I've read here. I don't know so I'm leaving along till later when I can hook it up with the Smaller Advents. Might be something. If it works?


8900zdb on left, G-5500 on right

 

[Sansuiman]

Glad it worked out!. These are good receivers, as I've already stated. A little more plastic and such than the stuff we normally consider classic Sansui gear, but still worthy of good care and use. I do like the look of them a lot, but as someone who grew up as this stuff was being made and sold new, I'll admit I've a certain nostalgia factor for gear of the mid 70's to early 80's. I can see where and why some people might think them a bit gaudy, but I don't dont think that's a fair assessment.

As Kev stated, they are not so easy to repair owing to a lot of digital logic in the tuner and display sections, the unconventional volume control (it was a long way to go just to get digital push button control of the volume) and the output transistors are end of life, so supplies are starting to run thin but still available AFAIK. Also, much of the circuitry is on one circuit board, without the pull out serviceable module approach Sansui utilized in some older series. This makes component level repair a bit more difficult.

And yes, they are physically large - much more so than the conventional receiver form factor. Makes them all the more impressive. They had a lot to get in there though, so it isn't really wasted space.

Keep us posted on your impressions. I really do think you'll like it.

 

[jgscott]

Its Works!!!!

So I did a little Listening and adjustment. The Pots for Balance, Bass and treble are a little scratchy. Not had lots of time yet. About 30mins my impression is its getting better and better. My 1st impression was that it was close to the G-5500.

At one point a made adjustments because I felt I was hearing Rasspyness up top for my SA tweeters. Dialed back the Treble a bit and it helped. Not sure if its the Digital music or SA's need a recap. Thinking maybe now this Receiver is exposing a needed recap of the SA's? A little more adjustment and its better now.

Am feeling a little more detail and instruments, especially fast instrument Jazz tracks sound more pronounced and detailed. But at the same time a little more natural and neutral. Another problem is I have Tinnitus of my ears and its a bad day. While typing this the horns a cymbals on a fast track started to have me see more of a difference. Better Sounding? Yes to me anyway. Need more time. The more time listening the better it sounds. Def a Sleeper Sansui. Oh yea!

One thing that Damm volume up/down is something to get use to. I like that spinnable FM Tuner dial tho.

Update- most definitely better cleaner separation and midrange are what I'm hearing. I'll report back more in time.

Anybody else's opinion of comparison would be of interest to me? Thanks all.

 

[Robisme]

Looks like your tuner is off a bit. I will get beat down here, but it is a simple fix. Search for it.

I have had just about receiver in this line up except the 9900Z. IMO, the 7900Z is the sweet spot. With push button tuning you don't have to wait for the digital display to catch up to the dial.

I also like how these sound, and they really open up as you turn up the volume.

Also, not recommending this just saying it, I ran two sets of 8 ohm speakers on my 7900Z for many years. Quite often at high volume.

Laid out well and easy to work on, IMO.

Rob

 

[ghazzer]

Do you have any 8Ω speakers that you can check it out with? The 8900Z might not be optimized for your 4Ω SA's.

 

[Robisme]

I have had many 7900Z receivers, and I can tell you that some have a sticker on the back stating A or B 8 to 16ohms, and others have a sticker that reads A or B 4 to 16 ohms.

I always assumed that the 8 to 16ohm models were the later ones, and the rating was changed after issues. But, I had two at one time and the 4 ohm unit was newer.

I did not see any obvious circuit differences.

Again, just sayin'.

Rob

 

[Sansuiman]

Not that I recommend thumbing ones nose at the suggested impedance limits on the unit, but have a buddy I sold a 7900Z to years ago, he has run it very hard (for some reason he never outgrew his taste in techno and electronica played at ear splitting levels) and it has never missed a beat in almost 15 years.

I thought sure he'd smoke the outputs in short order, but he's run 4 ohm load on it routinely and it has taken the abuse without protest. Take that information for what it's worth. Essentially, I think these are capable of 4 ohm but Sansui played it safe by upping the minimum to 8 ohms, probably to avoid frivolous warranty claims.

 

[jgscott]

Well the more I play it the more I like it with all sources including FM which it is really good on. Thus far its working very well with the 4ohm SA's.

I have a few 8ohm's and Ill give it a shot one day but there is only one speaker I would favor (maybe) with the SA's and that would be a Thiel. The Sa's just a right to my ears on the Receiver.

Thanks everyone for helping find this sleeper. I needed more Power than My SS 4000 or G-5500, and this is it. The one thing I am adjusting to is the power volume up/down buttons. Sometimes I go up, then still push the same button as if its one toggle and way up fast goes the Volume. LOL! I'

 

[jgscott]

Looks like your tuner is off a bit. I will get beat down here, but it is a simple fix. Search for it.

I have had just about receiver in this line up except the 9900Z. IMO, the 7900Z is the sweet spot. With push button tuning you don't have to wait for the digital display to catch up to the dial.

I also like how these sound, and they really open up as you turn up the volume.

Also, not recommending this just saying it, I ran two sets of 8 ohm speakers on my 7900Z for many years. Quite often at high volume.

Laid out well and easy to work on, IMO.

Rob

Ill have to check the Tuner. I though I look matched it and it was spot on.

 

[Sansuiman]

The digital readout in your one picture upthread shows 96.2Mhz. The North American FM band assigns stations at odd numbered tenths (96.1, 96.3, 96.5 and so forth) and even numbered tenths are unused to permit interstation spacing. Therefore, if the station you are turning there is either 96.1 or 96.3, the circuit driving the digital readout needs some minor adjustment to be correct. Not a big deal, but the kind of thing that eats at a perfectionist like myself.

Given the age of this model, unless it has been gone through somewhat recently, a proper tuner alignment is bound to be beneficial.

 

[jgscott]

The digital readout in your one picture upthread shows 96.2Mhz. The North American FM band assigns stations at odd numbered tenths (96.1, 96.3, 96.5 and so forth) and even numbered tenths are unused to permit interstation spacing. Therefore, if the station you are turning there is either 96.1 or 96.3, the circuit driving the digital readout needs some minor adjustment to be correct. Not a big deal, but the kind of thing that eats at a perfectionist like myself.

Given the age of this model, unless it has been gone through somewhat recently, a proper tuner alignment is bound to be beneficial.

Thanks. Do you know where the correct procedure link is?

And good catch. I didn't think about the .odd number.

 

[Robisme]

If you are receiving a stereo signal at an even number, the discriminator is off. It's not only the display that is off, but the station wont come in clear.

Rob