[fewtch]

I have a mid-fi Sony SS power amp in my closet, model TA-AX205 (nothing much on the Web about it). I think it's of late 80's vintage... it was originally part of a full system. It says on the front "power amp with all stages direct coupled" (not sure what that means) and has a monster size transformer inside. Even in the late 80's they built these much better than they do now...

Just wondering if anyone can identify it enough to tell if it's even half decent... I could include a picture of the insides (not many metal film resistors, but noticed a few Elna-branded caps). Very simple board that looks like it could be upgraded easily with better resistors and caps, if the urge ever strikes...

Edit -- moderators please put this in the proper forum, if this isn't it (couldn't decide where to post it).

 

[fewtch]

Just plugged this baby in and tested the headphone jack -- not half bad for a power amp! In fact, it's much better than I expected, well balanced and very authoritative -- sounds great hooked to my preamp/turntable/ phono stage. Since I'm the latest recipient of one of those Stax SR-34 electrets floating around the forum, the speaker outs will come in handy too.

 

[00940]

you should perhaps ask on www.audiokarma.org . Not to throw you out

, but there is a bunch of competent guys about vintage on this board.

 

[rickcr42]

most amps of that era used all discrete circuitry (usually based on the same comlpimentry/symmetrical top[ology) and big ass power supplies and heat sinks- superior to most modern mass production amps made now.

the main problem with vintage amps are

1-capacitor life , some are marginal as caps do not age well

2-obsolete transistors-making repairs a real pain

but as long as it works enjoy !

 

[fewtch]

Quote:

Originally posted by rickcr42 most amps of that era used all discrete circuitry (usually based on the same comlpimentry/symmetrical top[ology) and big ass power supplies and heat sinks- superior to most modern mass production amps made now. the main problem with vintage amps are 1-capacitor life , some are marginal as caps do not age well 2-obsolete transistors-making repairs a real pain but as long as it works enjoy !

I had a good look at the insides... it's definitely a discrete design, not a single op-amp in sight (I only wish the parts were a bit better quality -- that's a future possibility though as far as something to upgrade).

As for caps... sometimes I wonder if the whole thing with deteriorating electrolytics is a little overblown. My 1979-vintage preamp (maybe 8 or 9 years older than this one) is fine as far as I can tell... none of the telltale grain, hum or other issues from bad electrolytics. I suppose it would depend on a lot of different factors like storage conditions, amount of usage, how good the caps are, etc.

Anyway... the caps could be replaced & perhaps transistors substituted with similar values (?). I got this one free years ago from my parents anyway... if it dies eventually, it's all good.