Description
Sansui AU 999 amplifier. Fully revitalized. Classic Vintage. Premium version.
Sansui Electric Co., Ltd. was founded in 1947 as a manufacturer of transformers, but already in the 1960s it gained a reputation as a serious producer of audio components. Despite its huge popularity (especially in the United States) in the 60s and 70s, after 1985 the company began to bring much less profits than its rivals (Sony, Pioneer or Technics). It was the end of the heyday of hi-end equipment, which was related to an increase in sales of personal computers. At that time, Sansui Electric Co., Ltd. focused on the production of high-end components in Japan, and also started to produce high quality TV sets and other video equipment, while stopping exports. At the end of the 90s, the brand name was used on video devices manufactured by other companies. Eventually, Sansui Electric Co., Ltd. as part of Grande Holdings went bankrupt in 2014. It is worth noting that Sansui was the first company to use transformers in audio equipment, and first to introduce to the market a high-voltage tube-transistor (hybrid) amplifier and a QS / RM system (Quadrasonic System / Regular Matrix), which allowed to obtain four-channel sound from two-channel one.
The Sansui AU-999 is one of the most legendary integrated amplifiers in the history of Sansui and the most advanced professional control amplifier of its era. Designed for the most demanding music enthusiasts, it represents a perfect example of Japanese engineering from a time when build quality and sonic excellence were the primary goals of every designer. At first glance, the AU-999 stands out with its elegant matte-black front panel, characteristic of Sansui’s professional amplifier series. Its timeless appearance perfectly reflects the sophisticated technology hidden within the chassis. The preamplifier section was built using carefully selected low-noise PNP silicon transistors, while the power amplifier section employs advanced direct-coupled circuitry developed specifically to achieve maximum transparency, dynamics and musical realism. The sound of the Sansui AU-999 is exceptionally musical, rich and engaging. The amplifier delivers deep, perfectly controlled bass, a natural and highly detailed midrange, and a remarkably smooth high-frequency presentation. A wide soundstage, excellent instrument separation and realistic vocal reproduction allow this amplifier to remain a benchmark for many enthusiasts of classic analog hi-fi more than fifty years after its introduction.
The AU-999 is also equipped with an extensive range of features. Particular attention should be given to the advanced tone selector system, a further development of Sansui?s famous triple tone control design. The amplifier allows connection of three pairs of loudspeakers, two turntables and two tape recorders. Additional features include comprehensive tape monitoring and dubbing functions, precise channel balance adjustment and numerous facilities for integration into advanced audio systems. Today, the Sansui AU-999 is regarded as one of the most important and sought-after amplifiers ever produced by the company. It is a design that perfectly combines outstanding aesthetics, uncompromising build quality and timeless sound performance. Following professional revitalization, it serves not only as a superb source of musical enjoyment but also as a true collector’s piece from the golden age of hi-fi.
The presented unit has been fitted with a new rosewood enclosure that beautifully complements its distinctive 1970s design. The wood has been finished using traditional Chinese oil based on natural oils, followed by a natural beeswax finish made with turpentine. All metal cabinet components have been cleaned and refinished using professional automotive wet-paint techniques. The amplifier has undergone a complete inspection and comprehensive servicing and has been fitted with new aluminum feet.
Collector’s set. Condition is exceptional.
The device has been fully reviewed and serviced.
– the unit has been completely disassembled and thoroughly cleaned
– cleaning and maintenance of switches and potentiometers
– cleaning of circuit boards and removal of cold solder joints
– inspection and replacement of electrolytic capacitors where required
– re-soldering of all PCB boards as well as all rear panel input and output connections
– replacement of bias adjustment trimmers in both channels
– replacement of electrolytic capacitors in the power supply section
– adjustment of parameters according to the service manual
– replacement of screws
Technical data:
– power output – 2 x 50 W into 8 Ohms, stereo
– frequency response – 20 Hz – 70 kHz
– total harmonic distortion – 0.4%
– input sensitivity – 3 mV (microphone), 2 mV (MM), 200 mV (DIN), 200 mV (line)
– signal-to-noise ratio – 80 dB (microphone), 80 dB (MM), 85 dB (line)
– weight – approximately 24 kg
– output level – 200 mV (line), 30 mV (DIN)
– damping factor – 45
– dimensions – 49 cm width, 18.5 cm height, 20 cm depth
– year of production – 1970/72
– power supply – 100V, voltage step-down transformer included
– made in Japan