Technics SU-5 (1982)

A compact stereo pre-main amplifier released by Technics in 1982, combining low-noise performance with integrated tone controls and a direct-connect system for select components.

Overview

The Technics SU-5 is a stereo pre-main amplifier manufactured by Technics (a brand of Panasonic) and released in 1982. It delivers 33 watts per channel into 8 ohms with an exceptionally low total harmonic distortion of 0.005% at 1 kHz. Designed for compact system integration, it features multiple inputs including phono, tuner, aux, and tape, each with specified frequency response and signal-to-noise performance. The unit was originally priced at ¥34,800 in Japan.

Specifications

Effective power (EIAJ)	33W + 33W (8 ohm, 1 khz)
Total harmonic distortion factor	0.005% (at 1 khz, rated output -3dB)
Frequency characteristic: Phono	20 Hz to 20 kHz RIAA ± 0.8 dB
Frequency characteristic: Tuner, Aux, Tape	10 hz to 70 khz -3dB
Signal-to-noise ratio (IHF-A): Phono	73dB
Signal-to-noise ratio (IHF-A): Tuner, Aux, Tape	95 dB
Residual noise	0.8mV
Damping factor	30 (8 Ω)
Load impedance	8 Ω ~ 16 Ω
Input Sensitivity / Impedance: Phono	2.5mV/47k Ω
Input Sensitivity / Impedance: Tuner, Aux, Tape	150mV/27k Ω
Phono maximum allowable input	130 mv (1 khz, R. M.S.)
Tone control: Bass	± 10 dB (50 Hz)
Tone control: Treble	± 10 dB (20 kHz)
Power	100 VAC, 50Hz/60Hz
Power consumption	44W
External dimensions	Width 315x Height 50x Depth 290 mm
Weight	3.6kg

Design

The SU-5 uses a bridge type MFB circuit design and incorporates SLPT technology in its output stage. It features a slide-type volume control and includes an electronic protection circuit to guard against overcurrent, safeguarding both amplifier and speakers. The unit is equipped with a super base that enhances low-frequency response and uses a unique direct connector system—no pin cords are needed when linking to compatible 315 mm wide components like the ST-5 tuner or SH-E5 graphic equalizer.

Market Value

┌──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┐
│ TECHNICS SU-5                                                   Apr 2026 │
├──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┤
│ High      $229                                    Latest            $136 │
│ Median    $136                                    Trend             ▲ Up │
│ Low       $12                                     Volume           ~3/mo │
├──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┤
│   $300 ┤                                                                 │
│        │                                                                 │
│        │.                                                                │
│   $171 ┤                                                                 │
│        │                                                                .│
│        │                                                                 │
│        │                                                                 │
│     $0 ┤                                       .                         │
│        ├─────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────│
│    vol │█                                      █                        █│
│        └─────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────│
│         2026-02                      2026-03                      2026-03│
└──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┘

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