Which one A-90 or Spec series

[mdr3008]

Which set up do you feel sounds better A-90 or A-80 vs Spec 1 with either Spec 2 or 4 amplifiers? Just looking for opinions and discussions on which system to go with I already have a A-90 and a A-80 in for a resto and was thinking about trying the spec series out also.

 

[omri617]

You have the chance to listen to them?

 

[blhagstrom]

I have the SPEC 1/2, buddy has the A-90. I can't say I've A/B'd them. Different places, different speakers. But, I didn't notice a large difference in sound outside of what I expect to hear from different speakers.

 

[mdr3008]

Well the A-80 has been down for about 10 years now,never heard the A-90 bought it not working and never even seen a Spec series except on internet.

 

[rcs16]

If you look at the ckt design's the A-90 is a far better in many areas. Not too sure about the dynamic ckt part however!!
I would take the A-90 myself over a Spec1/2,SX-1250,SX1980 even. It is later design using Pioneers knowledge and competitiveness with Sansui at the time.
A-80 I do not think should be used in the comparison.
Looks/space, well that is your call. The Spec stuff would impress more people.
Spec1 has more controls, if that is what you need.
A-90 phono is jfet based and has a very good MC pre-amp, PA is advanced compared to Spec1. Spec1 has a bit more power if you really need it.
I am sure they both sound just fine. I'd listen to both using same source/speakers just to hear the difference.

 

[mdr3008]

Thank you all for your response (very nice rcs16) keep them coming other people will be interested in this thread also.

 

[Daunia 70]

I'd go with a Spec 1 and Spec 4.They've superb detailed sound quality with a really nice 'n wide upfront sound stage...Full dual mono with 2 power supplies (unlike the Spec 2).