What about older amps???

admin_exported

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Aug 10, 2019
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Hello there,

Im looking for an amp which i can use for stereo in my current system.

Can someone tell me about older amps, like if they're a good choice, even if the are 20 years old.

The one's i'm looking at are: Kenwood KA 7020, Sony F700ES, Denon pma 980r, 860 ect, ore an Marantz PM 80(mk2).

They are on internet in Holland for give or take 150 to 270 euro's.

Are these any good for sound now a days or i'm better of buying a new one like the Marantz pm 8003 or 7003.

Thanx.
 

gregory

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Sep 9, 2007
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There are amps that are 50 years old that are better than amps of today so the answer is yes as for the amps you've memtioned they could be the ideal choice but only you will know, the question is hard to answer.
 
T

the record spot

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Yep, go for it; just be as sure as you can be of what you're buying. I picked up a Technics SU-V6 recently which, after some initial reservations, has opened up to be a truly impressive bit of kit. Built like a battleship, big, full sounding amp, but crystal clear (a LOT more than I expected with Technics reputation for being "warm" sounding). A real find and all the better for just £70.

The downside? There isn't one from an audio perspective, but Mrs. R_S really dislikes it. So, it'll be going on sale again soon. I'll likely shift it for the price I paid, so not too worried there. Great amp though; really blew me away after a day or so to warm up a bit.
 
A

Anonymous

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The Sony ES series are very highly regarded by some ,ÿI've also heard that many Harman Kardon HK's from the 80's and 90's are classic kit,

One thing to watch out for is old capacitors at 20yrs old , have them checked out first if you can.
 

up the music

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Mar 13, 2008
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Older kit can be good. On the other hand it can be 20 years closer to it's demise than new kit. You've no guarantee that it's not been abused too. Remember the bathtub curve. Failures tend to occur either when an item is new (due to manufacuring errors etc) or when it's old (because it's worn out). Try to see amps in the flesh if at all possible, and preferably hear them. Look out and ask about noises from the knobs (volume, balance etc). Also listen for hums from the amp itself and stick your ears to the speakers with no music being played. Look at the case screws too. If the screws have worn heads there's a fair chance somebody has been inside to fix faults. Do some research on any models you're considering too.
Don't let this put you off though. There are bargains to be had, age is often reflected in price. I'd say 5 to 10 yyears old is the sweet spot. That's old enough to depreciate a lot, but new enough to have 10 or 15 years life left.
Good luck on your quest.
 

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