Sansui AU 517 (1977-1979)

Market Value: $400-$800 depending on condition and restoration status
Collectibility Rating: 8/10

Name: Sansui AU 517
Brand: Sansui

Specifications

Feature	Specification
Year of Production	1977-1979
Power Specifications	60W per channel (8Ω, 20Hz-20kHz, 0.1% THD)
Impedance	4-16Ω
Sensitivity	Unknown
Key Features	DC amplifier design, dual power supplies, direct-coupled circuitry, FET differential input stage, Sansui's exclusive Super Feedforward (SFF) topology, speaker protection relay, phono MM/MC stage, tone controls, loudness switch

Historical Significance

Part of Sansui's highly regarded 'X17' series, representing the pinnacle of their 1970s integrated amplifier design. Known for exceptional build quality and engineering, it bridged the gap between mid-range and high-end models during the golden age of hi-fi.

Sound Signature

Clean, detailed, and neutral with excellent dynamics. Tight bass control, transparent midrange, and extended highs. Less colored than tube amplifiers but more musical than some solid-state designs. Praised for its authority and control over speakers.

Maintenance and Restoration Tips

Aging electrolytic capacitors, particularly in power supply. Dirty selector switches and potentiometers. Protection relay contacts may need cleaning. Fusible resistors can fail. Thermal paste on output transistors may need replacement.