Denon TU-201SA (2001)

The TU-201SA is a compact FM/AM tuner from Denon's PRESTA201SA series, released in September 2001 at ¥25,000. It was built as a system component. The "SA" suffix and the included system code cable point to that. It could link with matching PRESTA components for timer recording, playback, auto function, and auto power-on. The built-in timer could be set for daily, once, or sleep operation. A switched AC outlet on the back let the tuner power down associated gear, and standby draw stays under 1W.

The front end is straightforward for the era. It has a random preset function for AM/FM stations, a 75Ω F-type antenna terminal for FM, and a low-impedance output circuit that Denon said was used "to achieve clear sound quality." FM sensitivity is rated at 1.2 µV/75Ω (12.8 dBf), with signal-to-noise at 71 dB stereo and 77 dB mono. AM coverage runs 522-1629 kHz with 18 µV practical sensitivity. The unit draws 9W, measures 250 × 90 × 352 mm, and weighs 2.8 kg.

The record on this model is thin beyond the basics. There is no production end date, no THD figures, and no period reviews have surfaced. Used listings show it in good condition, typically without a remote, at prices around £30-€60. It is a modest, functional component, not a collectible. One note for buyers: the FM band listed here (76-90 MHz) is the Japanese range, so a unit sold in Europe or elsewhere may have been modified or may not cover the full local band as expected.