Technics SU-V3
A New Class A integrated DC amplifier from the Technics SU-V series, noted for low distortion and a clean signal path.
Overview
The Technics SU-V3 is a stereo integrated DC amplifier from the SU-V series. It uses a "New Class A" design with a linear feedback circuit aimed at minimizing distortion. It has tone controls with defeat switches, input selectors that use remote-action switches to reduce crosstalk, and built-in high and subsonic filters. It was priced at ¥49,800 around 1981.
Specifications
| Amplifier Type | New Class A |
| Power Output (8Ω) | 40 or 55 watts per channel (conflicting sources) |
| Frequency Response | 20 Hz ~ 20 kHz +0 -0.2 dB |
| Total Harmonic Distortion | 0.007% or 0.03% (conflicting sources) |
| Signal-to-Noise Ratio (IHF-A) | Phono MM: 82dB; Tuner/Aux/Tape: 100dB |
| Input Sensitivity / Impedance | Phono MM: 2.5mV/47kΩ; Tuner/Aux/Tape: 150mV/22kΩ |
| Tone Control Range | Bass: ±10dB (50Hz); Treble: ±10dB (20kHz) |
| Subsonic Filter | 30 Hz, -6dB/oct |
| High Filter | 7 kHz, -6dB/oct |
| Loudness Control | +9 dB (50Hz, Volume -30dB) |
| Damping Factor | 40 (8Ω) |
| Residual Noise | 0.5mV |
| Power Consumption | 83W |
| Power Supply | 100 VAC, 50Hz/60Hz |
| Dimensions (W×H×D) | 430 × 97 × 310 mm |
| Weight | 6.0 kg |
Design
The linear feedback circuit is designed to reach theoretical zero distortion. The synchronous bias circuit is unique to Technics and eliminates switching distortion. A concentrated power block keeps electromagnetic interference down, and the protection circuit is purely electronic. The tone control circuit builds on the linear feedback design and has a mid-point defeat with its own dedicated switch. The input and record output selectors are remote-action switches, which shorten cable runs and improve crosstalk and signal-to-noise ratio.
Market
The SU-V3 has turned up in recent sales for as little as £45, so units are easy enough to find secondhand. Forum discussions often cover repairs and recapping, which suggests capacitor replacement is a common job after decades of use.
Market Value
┌──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┐ │ TECHNICS SU-V3 Nov 2026 │ ├──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┤ │ High $306 Latest $152 │ │ Median $222 Trend — │ │ Low $152 Volume ~2/mo │ ├──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┤ │ $400 ┤ │ │ │ │ │ │ │ │ $271 ┤ . │ │ │. . │ │ │ . . . . │ │ │ .│ │ $100 ┤ │ │ ├─────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────│ │ vol │▄ ▄ ▄ ▄ ▄ █ ▄│ │ └─────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────│ │ 2026-03 2026-06 2026-08│ └──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┘
eBay completed sales. Excludes accessories, parts, and non-working units. Hover points for details.
eBay Listings
Recently sold on eBay: $212–$248 (median $222, based on 8 completed sales, past 12 months)
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