Sansui TU-999
A solid-state AM/FM stereo tuner built for the coming FM era, with precision tuning and a low-noise MOS FET front end.
Overview
The Sansui TU-999 is a solid-state AM/FM stereo tuner made by Sansui Electric Company Limited. It was designed as a high-quality tuner in anticipation of widespread FM broadcasting. The front end uses dual-gate MOS FETs. A 2-meter tuning system has visual indicators for AM, FM, and stereo reception. There is a stereo-only switch, an FM/MPX noise canceller, a muting switch, level controls, and an adjustable AGC circuit for handling signals in varying reception conditions.
Specifications
| Receiving frequency (FM) | 76 MHz to 90 MHz |
| Sensitivity (FM) | 1.4 μV (20 dB) |
| Sensitivity (FM, IHF) | 1.8 μV |
| Total harmonic distortion (FM) | 0.5% |
| Signal-to-noise ratio (FM) | 65 dB |
| Selectivity (FM) | 70 dB |
| Capture Ratio (FM, IHF) | 1.5 dB |
| IF Rejection (FM) | 100 dB |
| Image rejection (FM) | 90 dB |
| Spurious response rejection (FM) | 100 dB |
| Stereo separation (FM) | 38 dB |
| Unwanted radiation suppression (FM) | 34 dB |
| Antenna input impedance (FM) | 300 Ω balanced, 75 Ω unbalanced |
| Receiving frequency (AM) | 535 kHz to 1605 kHz |
| Sensitivity (AM, bar antenna) | 150 μV |
| Sensitivity (AM, IHF) | 30 μV |
| Image frequency rejection (AM) | 80 dB |
| Selectivity (AM) | 20 dB |
| Output voltage | 0 - 2 V (Main), 0.4 V (Tape Rec) |
| Power consumption | 19 W |
| Dimensions (W x H x D) | 435 x 155 x 316 mm |
| Weight | 10.1 kg |
| Original price | ¥59,900 (circa 1970) |
Design
The front end uses three high-input-resistance, low-noise dual-gate MOS FETs and a four-gang linear variable capacitor. The IF stage has three ICs, a crystal filter, and a block filter. The multiplex circuit has an LC-type carrier leak filter and an SCA filter. The AM tuner uses a three-gang variable capacitor and a large ferrite bar antenna. The AGC circuit has a 3-stage switch for near/far reception adjustment. The 2-meter tuning system carries AM, FM, and FM Stereo indicators.
Context
Sansui positioned it as a high-quality FM/AM tuner developed in preparation for the full-scale FM era.
Market
An optional wood case, Model C-5, was available separately for ¥4,150.
eBay Listings
As an eBay Partner, we earn from qualifying purchases. This helps support our independent vintage technology research.
Related Models
- Sansui 2000 (1967-1969)
- Sansui 9090DB (1976-1979)
- Sansui 7700-AM
- Sansui TC-505 (1968)
- Sansui tu-555 (1968-1970)
- Kenwood KR 3200 (1973-1975)
- Kenwood KR 3400 (1977-1979)
- Kenwood KR 4070 (1977-1979)
- Kenwood KR 4200 (1975-1977)
- Marantz 1515 (1976-1978)