Yamaha A-520 (1985–1986)

A solid-state integrated stereo amplifier from Yamaha's mid-1980s lineup. It puts out 75 watts per channel with low distortion.

Overview

The Yamaha A-520 is a natural sound stereo integrated amplifier, built from 1985 to 1986. It belongs to a series with the A-320, A-420, A-720, and A-1020, and sits between the earlier A-500 and its successor, the AX-500. It uses Yamaha's ZDR (Zero Distortion Rule) technology. Users favor its clean, warm sound for driving demanding speakers. It also has a Direct-MC input, which likely means a dedicated moving coil phono stage.

Specifications

Power output	75 watts per channel into 8Ω (stereo)
Frequency response	20Hz to 20kHz
Total harmonic distortion	0.01%
Damping factor	150

Design

The Direct-MC input is noted in the header of the Yamaha PDF manual. That suggests specialized circuitry for moving coil phono cartridges.

Context

The A-520 was part of a Yamaha amplifier family that included the A-320, A-420, A-720, and A-1020. It replaced the A-500 and was succeeded by the AX-500. That makes it a mid-tier model in Yamaha's 1985-1986 integrated amplifier range.

Market

The A-520 originally sold for $272.99. Resale interest has picked up lately, and one unit was listed for $2,000 on Facebook. A service manual is available, and it often carries technician notes with repair tips and pricing. Some units in circulation have been modified, including capacitor upgrades.