All the equipment and accessories on these pages have been sold but you are welcome to browse. Keep an eye on the store for the latest equipment for sale.

Pioneer VSX-2021 Home Cinema Receiver

I don’t normally sell this sort of thing, but this nearly perfect one-owner Pioneer VSX-2021, with box, manuals, remote, microphone and antennas is a crazy good deal for someone wanting a complete home cinema and music control centre.

UPDATE: Sold!

The VSX-2021 got awesome reviews from back in the day too, like this one over at TechRadar.

With full HDMI capabilities, video upscaling and other stuff you won’t care about, this receiver is a stupid-good value and just $395!

Marantz PM-4000 Integrated Amplifier

Ariston RD-80 Transcription belt-drive turntable, with Grace G-707 tonearm. Wow!

That’s right, just in and fully serviced by Liquid Audio of course, this stunning, classic Ariston RD-80 transcription turntable with Grace G-707 tonearm and A&R Cambridge moving magnet cartridge and Garrot Bros stylus.

Update: SOLD!

As you can see, this Ariston RD-80 from Great Britain is in beautiful condition for her age and running perfectly.

What a combination. I’ve just adjusted the suspension, fitted a new belt, and set up the tonearm and cartridge geometry. She is purring and just crushes cheap new turntables at the $1000 price point.

Seriously, what would you rather have: plastic junk or a classic turntable made from metal and wood, from the golden era?

This little beauty is for someone looking for a vintage vinyl classic, or maybe their first decent deck. Just $895.

Chipamp LM4780 Deluxe Dual-Mono Amplifier Kit, NOS, Genuine Audiosector Kit

Many of you will have seen my LM3886 gainclone amplifier build and know how great that amplifier sounds. It is also for sale, here very soon. But here we have another kit from the same great vendor, Peter Daniel, who operates Audiosector and is famous for these kits and amplifiers.

UPDATE: Sold!

This is the LM4780 parallel kit, the highest power, highest-fidelity option available, with each LM4780 running in parallel, creating a 120 Watt per channel dual-mono hi-fi stereo amplifier. The LM4780 is two LM3886 dies in one package, the idea being to increase current capability and power output.

I wrote about my plans for the amplifier in this article, but never got around to building it!

These kits are super high-quality, with premium parts, thick boards, gold plated traces, the complete opposite of the kits you’ll find on eBay. I rate these which is of course why I bought it. I never got around to building it though and it needs to go to a new home.

For those wondering the dual-mono LM4780 has more than twice the 40 – 50 Watts per channel produced by the LM3886. This one also comes complete with the heavy-duty, high-capacity power supply capacitor option of 4 x 22,000uF capacitors.

To complete the kit, you can refer to Peter’s site, to the circuit diagrams that come with it and you’ll also need a suitable transformer, or transformers, depending on how you want to complete the kit and how far you want to take it. This is a premium kit with all genuine parts from the best vendors.

The LM4780 dual-mono chip amp kit, with the high capacitance upgrade and all the extras, is around $200 landed. I’m looking for just $125 for this complete and unused premium kit. (Hint: there’s more than this in parts alone!)

Amazing, Rare Sansui G-8000 Monster Receiver, One Owner, Outstanding Condition!

That’s right, I can hardly believe it but this Sansui G-8000 is mine, runs perfectly and is for sale!

UPDATE: Sold!

This stunning one-owner Sansui G-8000 receiver has just been serviced, received a minor repair and some board overhaul work and is now ready to start the next phase of her life with a new owner!

You can read more about this beautiful and almost museum-grade receiver in my recent article outlining the work I performed on her. Suffice it to say that, at 120 Watts per channel and with a completely discrete phono preamp, AM/FM stereo tuner and full-featured preamplifier, in one huge chassis, this is effectively a low-or-no compromise collection of three great pieces in one.

Remember, this wonderful old girl has just been expertly serviced, has received some critically important maintenance and has been detailed to perfection. Buying from us is very different to buying from a random Gumtree or Stereonet seller.

This stunning monster receiver can be yours, complete with a three-month warranty for just $2495. See what you can get new for that sort of money..!

UPDATE: Sold!

I knew it wouldn’t take long (two days) for such a wonderful piece, freshly serviced and in such great condition to find a new home. Here’s what the proud new owner of the Sansui G-8000 told me:

Hi Mike,

Just a quick note to share my utter joy with this thing, it’s barely been off all weekend. I hope the neighbours are also enjoying it.

Blair

Gorgeous Yamaha P-500 Fully Automatic Direct-Drive Turntable

Check out this gem, another one-owner beauty from a wonderful customer of mine. This very well-cared-for Yamaha P-500 direct-drive turntable is an absolute classic and naturally has also just been serviced. This great deck is good to go.

UPDATE: Sold!

This is a really decent machine, you’d spend a couple of thousand dollars now to get anything of this quality new and trust me, it won’t be full-auto, made in Japan or a vintage hi-fi classic like this one. This Yamaha P-500 is a literal world away from the cheap junk out there under $1000.

Specifications, courtesy of Vinyl Engine

• Drive system: FG servo direct drive
• Motor: 8-pole coreless DC hall motor
• Platter: 300mm, 1.0kg diecast aluminium
• Speeds: 33 and 45rpm
• Signal-to-noise ratio: 78dB
• Wow and flutter: 0.025% wrms
• Tonearm: straight arm
• Effective length: 222mm
• Overhang: 16mm
• Offset angle: 23 degrees
• Cartridge weight range: 2.5 to 9g
• Dimensions: 435 x 111 x 378mm
• Weight: 6.4kg

With this futuristically styled deck, you just hit play and she plays, doing everything from moving the arm to the first track, to lifting and lowering it gently onto the record.

This lovely, one-owner Yamaha P-500 direct-drive turntable perfectly suits the Yamaha collector or anyone looking for a simple but high-quality automatic deck for a main or second system. Let me know if that’s you! She’s just been serviced and is yours for $750.

Stunning Sony CDP-X202ES, Serious Player in Great Condition

Just added, this absolutely beautiful Sony CDP-X202ES player, from Sony’s ES line of heavyweight CD players.

UPDATE: Sold!

Specifications, courtesy HiFi Engine

Disc format: CD

Digital converter: CXD2562Q

CD Mechanism: KSS-240A

Frequency response: 2Hz to 20kHz

Dynamic range: 100dB

Signal to Noise Ratio: 116dB

Channel separation: 110dB

Total harmonic distortion: 0.0023%

Line output: 2V

Digital outputs: optical

Dimensions: 430 x 110 x 340mm

Weight: 5.8kg

This player is clean, almost unmarked on the front panel and runs very nicely. Like the other equipment featured here, she has been cleaned, tested and in this case lightly serviced as she runs very nicely.

This lovely machine needs a new home, let’s find her one!

Grab this lovely Sony CDP-X202ES for just $450!

Legendary Mission 753 Floorstanding Speakers, One Owner, Very Good Condition!

That’s right folks, just in, a lovely pair of classic and very highly regarded Mission 753 floor standing speakers, in black, from their original owner.

UPDATE: Sold!

There’s not much I can say about these that hasn’t already been written over the years, but I will say that these are genuinely serious, wide bandwidth loudspeakers with serious dynamic range. A pair of Mission 753s like this will enhance just about any normal system and to obtain something like these speakers now, you’d definitely need to spend $5000+ AUD.

If you want to read about them though, check out What Hi-Fi’s 30 best hi-fi speakers article where they get a mention!

You’ll note that these are a 5 driver, 2.5-way system. The multiple drivers mean high sound pressure levels at low distortion are easily attainable and the bass extension these speakers possess is really impressive too.

Specifications, courtesy HiFi Engine

Type: 2-way, 5-driver loudspeaker system

Frequency Response: 45Hz to 20kHz

Recommended Amplifier: 35 to 150W

Crossover Frequency: 2100Hz

Impedance: 6Ω

Sensitivity: 90dB

Bass: 4 x 130mm paper

Tweeter: 1 x 26mm ferrofluid cooled

Enclosure: 34 litre, sealed with bass assist

Finish: real wood veneer

Dimensions: 875 x 208 x 315mm

Weight: 50kg

Cosmetically they are pretty good, but not perfect. The grille cloth needs a little attention in places, there are a few little marks and scratches, but this is nothing serious, minor cosmetic stuff that one would expect at this age. All of it could be easily rectified by any fussy new owner.

I owned a set of the sister Mission 752 Freedoms, back in the day and they were also fantastic. The build quality of all of them is second to none, they are heavy little monoliths indeed!

So, if you are chasing a serious pair of larger hi-fi speakers, these really are an excellent choice. Grab them for $975.

Technics SA-GX670 Stereo Receiver

Just in we have a lovely Technics SA-GX670 receiver.

UPDATE: Sold!

Being a receiver, this unit has a radio, preamplifier and amplifier built-in. It even has a built-in phono preamp and so would make an absolutely perfect amplifier for a simple system with minimal boxes. or maybe a first proper hi-fi system, or even a second system.

Specifications

Tuning range: FM, MW

Power output: 110 watts per channel into 8Ω (stereo)

Surround output: 80W (front), 80W (center), 80W (rear)

Frequency response: 7Hz to 70kHz

Total harmonic distortion: 0.05%

Damping factor: 30

Input sensitivity: 3mV (MM), 200mV (line)

Signal-to-noise ratio: 80dB (MM), 85dB (line)

Speaker load impedance: 4Ω to 8Ω

Video Connections: composite

Dimensions: 430 x 158 x 352mm

Weight: 9.5kg

Surprisingly powerful at 110 Watts/ch and fan-cooled, this old girl is a bit of wolf in sheep’s clothing!

Just serviced and sold on consignment. Take her off my hands for $295!

Classic Technics SL-PD667 5-Disc CD Player

Look at this beauty, just in and on consignment! She works very well and is a classic multi-disc player for those who enjoy them.

UPDATE: Sold!

Grab this classic multi-disc player for just $250.

Premium Hakko Soldering and Rework Equipment

I’ve recently taken delivery of some new Hakko soldering equipment, so my Hakko FX-951 soldering iron and Hakko FR-301 desoldering gun need new homes!

Both pieces are professional-level tools and in like-new condition.

UPDATE: Sold!

The Hakko FX-951 soldering station comes with two tips, purchased separately, two handgrips and is available for $350. The station minus tips retails for around $540, then you have to add shipping, the tips you want and extra handgrips for each tip.

The Hakko FR-301 is less than a year old, comes with two tips, a genuine Hakko stand and tip cleaner, all of which are separate purchases and is available for $495. New, the FR-301 retails for around $650, plus shipping, plus tips, plus genuine Hakko stand, and all are included in this price.

UPDATE: The Hakko FR-301 is now sold!

Gorgeous Harman/Kardon 230e Receiver, what a beauty!

You just have to see and hear this lovely vintage Harman/Kardon 230e receiver to believe how rich and warm it sounds, and how amazing it looks!

The Harman/Kardon 230e is the last in a very famous H/K receiver lineage that goes back to the late ’60s. This final ‘E’ version really has some ’70s energy running through it. I mean just look at the kooky front and top viewable green tuning scale for a start. Plus is plays vinyl, of course, and has a headphone jack, super useful.

Specifications, courtesy HiFi Engine

Tuning range: FM, MW

Power output: 15 watts per channel into 8Ω (stereo)

Frequency response: 5Hz to 80kHz

Total harmonic distortion: 0.5%

Damping factor: 30

Input sensitivity: 3mV (MM), 200mV (line)

Signal-to-noise ratio: 60dB (line)

Dimensions: 406 x 356 x 108mm

Weight: 6.4kg

As usual, freshly serviced and this one was no mean feat, taking me several hours. That’s several hundred dollars of work you don’t need to have done, including four new LED lamps. these were such a pain to replace, I was only going to do it once, hence the LEDs.

This old girl has all the usual features of equipment from this era – solid build, serviceability, warm sound and retro/vintage looks that just cannot be replaced, no matter how hard they try.

This classic Harman/Kardon receiver is just begging to be situated in a cool, retro system somewhere. Grab her for just $395.

Immaculate, One Owner Vincent SP-331 Power Amplifier

Just in, this stunning and heavy-weight Vincent SP-331 power amplifier, with box and papers!

UPDATE: Sold!

The Vincent SP-331 is a powerful 150 Watt/ch power amplifier capable of driving almost anything with ease. Even better, it runs in class-A for the first 10 Watts, giving you a really beautiful warm sound that only class-A amplifiers can deliver.

This lovely stereo power amplifier comes on consignment from its original owner and presents and sounds like new.

Naturally, this beauty comes with a three-month warranty and will be an asset to most systems, especially for those people upgrading from cheaper integrated amplification. Paired up with the lovely Mission 753s just added to the speaker section of our store, you’d have a magnificent combo!

Priced to sell @ $995!

Absolutely Classic Pioneer Rondo 3000 Belt-Drive Turntable!

UPDATE: Sold!

Another new arrival, this gorgeous Pioneer Rondo 3000 belt-drive deck has just received a major service here @ Liquid Audio and is ready for a new home.

They certainly don’t make ’em like this anymore. All wood and metal, if you are chasing a basic, solid first turntable, this would be perfect.

Make it yours for just $295!

Classic Technics SU-Z65 Integrated Amplifier, New Class A, (almost as good as New Gold Dream!)

If you are after something with a little more power, this classic Technics SU-Z65 might be just what you need. With 50 Watts per channel, this lovely old girl has a bit more punch than either of the two smaller amplifiers I have for sale, all housed in a very slimline and stylish package.

UPDATE: Sold!

The New Class A amplifiers were very popular back in the day and this one is more reliable than some because it uses a discrete output stage rather than the chip hybrids common in amps of this type and which are prone to failure.

The SU-Z65 has some great features including vacuum fluorescent (VFD) meters that work well, phono preamplifier and lots of tape-switching capability for those with cassette deck fever! Technically, New Class A, filters, speaker switching and loudness round things out.

This particular unit has received the standard clean, service and adjustment we execute with precision because all the work is done here, in-house, just as if the amplifier was yours.

Specifications, courtesy HiFi Engine

Power output: 50 watts per channel into 8Ω (stereo)

Frequency response: 20Hz to 20kHz

Total harmonic distortion: 0.007%

Damping factor: 40

Input sensitivity: 2.5mV (MM), 150mV (line)

Signal-to-noise ratio: 75dB (MM), 86dB (line)

Channel separation: 50dB (line)

Output: 150mV (line)

Speaker load impedance: 4Ω to 16Ω

Dimensions: 430 x 86 x 288mm

Weight: 6.3kg

Overall, this is a lovely amp and has been serviced by me, for my customer, over a long period of time. Everything works well and she’s a beaut!

Don’t miss out on this little gem, this Technics SU-Z65 can be yours for just $450.

Rotel RD-850 Cassette Deck, Serviced, Dolby B & C!

Here we have another nice cassette deck, a Rotel RD-850, in very nice condition.

UPDATE: Sold!

I’ve also just serviced this deck, installing a new reel drive belt, cleaning and de-magnetising the tape path.

You can read a bit more about the Rotel RD-850 here.

This Rotel RD-850 is a great little first deck for someone. Grab it for just $250!

Stunning Marantz CD-65 CD Player, TDA1541, One Owner, Box & Manual, no kidding!

Yes, I have another classic Marantz CD player, this time a beautiful and perfectly functional Marantz CD-65, in the box, with manual and power cable, donated by her very kind original owner.

UPDATE: Sold!

The Marantz CD-65 is a classic Philips TDA1541 player, with CDM 2 mech. In other words, these sound fantastic and are generally very reliable.

This black beauty is made in Belgium of course and everything works perfectly under test. I just finished cleaning and testing her and, whilst I generally can’t offer a warranty on older players like this one, I’m pretty confident she will be as reliable as the stunning Marantz CD-84 I recently sold.

Specifications, courtesy HiFi Engine

Disc format: CD

Digital converter: TDA1541

CD Mechanism: CDM-2

Frequency response: 20Hz to 20kHz

Signal to Noise Ratio: 96dB

Channel separation: 90dB

Total harmonic distortion: 0.005%

Line output: 2V

Dimensions: 420 x 85 x 280mm

Weight: 3kg

Year: 1988

If you want a classic early Redbook TDA1541 CD player like this one, don’t miss this opportunity to own this beautiful example. This Marantz CD-65 can be yours for $595.

Timeless & Classic Quad 405-2 Power Amplifier!

Yes, I’m clearing inventory and one of the greats, this unrestored Quad 405-2, in perfect working condition and good overall condition must go.

UPDATE: Sold!

Many will already know that these are one of the nicest-sounding solid-state amplifiers ever. This example is no exception and sounds lovely.

I’ve written and worked on a ton of these over the years and you likely already know how much I love these amplifiers. This one could definitely benefit from our upgrade packages or an overhaul. You don’t need to do that immediately, she runs well now, but I would have those improvements done to any Quad 405. Once you’ve heard them, you’ll understand why.

Grab this hi-fi classic Quad 405-2 power amplifier for $595.

Kenwood DP-R5060 5-Disc CD Player

I’ve just listed this cool Kenwood DP-R5060 5-disc CD player. This is a multi-disc machine and not as nice as the Yamaha player listed elsewhere in the store, but still a good machine, perfect for a second system or to replace a dead multi-disc machine.

UPDATE: Sold!

This Kenwood DP-R5060 5-disc player is perfect for someone wanting a simple, easy-to-use machine. Grab this classic for just $175.

Cool Pioneer TX-540 AM/FM Tuner

Need a nice little analog radio for your hi-fi setup? Look no further than this lovely little Pioneer TX-540, yours for just $99.

UPDATE: Sold

Classic BIC Venturi Formula 4 Three-Way Speakers

Wow, look at this classic pair of legendary BIC Venturi Formula 4 three-way speakers, made in the US of A and just in. Feel the power of the Venturi!

UPDATE: Sold!

The BIC Venturi Formula 4 is a classic and well-regarded large three-way bookshelf style speaker from around 1975. These were quite famous back in the day, you can read more about them here.

Specifications

Power Handling:  100 watts RMS

Frequency Response:  25 – 23,000 Hz

Dispersal:  120° x 120°

Impedance:  6 Ω nominal

Woofer:  10″

Midrange:  Biconex

Treble:  Super Tweeter

Controls:  Manual and Automatic Dynamic Tonal Balance Compensation

Grille:  Reticulated, zero-loss removable foam.

Colour:  Brown, Black, Beige, Burnt Orange, Blue, Red

Dimensions (W x H x D):  13 ¼” x 25′ x 13″

Weight (shipping):  48 lbs

 Genuine three-ways aren’t a common thing, and desirable for a number of good reasons. A three-way design allows greater tailoring of drivers to suit a narrower band, very useful to improve power handling and reduce distortion.

This pair of BIC Venturi Formula 4 speakers are in excellent condition for their age. The original foam grilles have long since decomposed and been replaced with this quite stylish grille cloth which I prefer. Other work may have been done behind the grilles, but since these are now semi-fixed, I can’t say for sure. All drivers appear original though, from what I can see.

I cleaned and tested this pair and replaced the nasty, broken factory speaker terminals with some much more substantial gold plated banana terminals. I also replaced one of the attenuator fastener nuts.

These BIC Venturi Formula 4 speakers have a lot of bass for their size, it’s actually quite surprising on first listen. This was part of their appeal and meant that a high dynamic range was possible, even with smaller systems. Mids and highs are clean and the horn does a great job of increasing sensitivity and adding to that punch that horn drivers deliver.

These iconic speakers need a new home and I don’t have room to store them. Grab them for $495.

Beautiful Luxman DZ-111 CD Player, Lovely Sounding Player, Just Serviced!

Check out this very nice Luxman DZ-111 CD player, just serviced and with a new loader drive belt installed.

These players were excellent-sounding units from around 1990, so another early CD classic. These are heavy players for their size, and very nicely built and easy to service. I had the whole mech out, cleaned, lubricated and with a new belt installed in around an hour.

Specifications, courtesy HiFi Engine

Disc format: CD

Digital converter: LC7881C

CD Mechanism: KSS-152A

Frequency response: 50Hz to 20kHz

Dynamic range: 85dB

Signal to Noise Ratio: 100dB

Channel separation: 90dB

Total harmonic distortion: 0.08%

Line output: 2V

Digital outputs: coaxial

Semiconductors: 16 x IC, 21 x transistors, 2 x FET

Dimensions: 438 x 85 x 314mm

Weight: 5.5kg

You’ll note this player uses the venerable Sony KSS-152A, a great laser.

This lovely Luxman DZ-111 also comes with her original manual, courtesy of her careful previous owner/s.

Again, this is a classic player from the time when CD players were built to last. This serviced Luxman DZ-111 can be yours for $395.

Classy Sony TC-K33 Cassette Deck, One Owner, Serviced!

UPDATE: Sold!

Take a look at this really lovely Sony TC-K33 two-head cassette deck, just serviced with a new capstan drive belt, mechanism lube, tape path clean and de-mag. Proudly made in Japan, this deck needed some TLC as all do at this age, but she rewards with crystal clear sound, and rock-solid speed accuracy thanks to the new drive belt and heavy flywheel.

This deck comes from the same generous owner who donated several pieces featured here and he purchased the deck new. You can read a bit more about this delightful Sony deck, here.

Specifications, courtesy HiFi Engine

Type: 2-head, single compact cassette deck

Track System: 4-track, 2-channel stereo

Tape Speed: 4.8 cm/s

Heads: 1 x record/playback, 1 x erase

Tape Type: type I, CrO2, Metal

Noise Reduction: B

Frequency Response: 20Hz to 16kHz  (Metal tape)

Signal to Noise Ratio: 66dB  (dolby B)

Wow and Flutter: 0.07%

Total Harmonic Distortion: 1.0%

Input: 77.5mV (line), 0.25mV (mic)

Output: 0.435V (line)

Dimensions: 430 x 105 x 290mm

Weight: 4.5kg

Are you looking for a lovely, value-priced cassette deck for your collection? Look no further than this one-owner, made in Japan, just serviced Sony TC-K33, for just $375.

 Beautiful Sony TA-333 Integrated Amplifier, in Amazing Condition!

Just in, check out this absolute beauty! If you need a really high-quality, modestly powerful integrated with LED meters, a nice phono stage and all the features needed to run a great little hi-fi stereo system, this could be perfect.

UPDATE: Sold!

Just cleaned and serviced, she’s also received an LED lamp upgrade for the meters, full adjustments and switch and control maintenance, far beyond what almost any other retailers offer. That’s the advantage of buying directly from a specialist!

Specifications, courtesy HiFi Engine

Power output: 25 watts per channel into 8Ω (stereo)

Frequency response: 10Hz to 50kHz

Total harmonic distortion: 0.3%

Damping factor: 30

Input sensitivity: 2mV (mic), 2.5mV (MM), 150mV (line)

Signal-to-noise ratio: 72dB (MM), 95dB (line)

Output: 150mV (line)

Speaker load impedance: 4Ω to 16Ω

Dimensions: 430 x 135 x 290mm

Weight: 6.2kg

Year: 1979

I want to keep all the great gear like this that I come across, but that’s obviously ridiculous. She has to go, she’s a bit too pretty to have sitting around!

Please, take this lovely girl and give her a new home before I change my mind! She can be yours for $495.

Perfect Pioneer SA-408 Integrated Amplifier!

UPDATE: Sold!

You just have to see this old girl to believe the conditions she’s in. As always, just serviced and detailed, you could eat off this almost pristine Pioneer classic. She’s a very similar spec to the Sony TA-333 above, in other words, a high-quality, modestly powerful integrated amplifier, with a built-in phono preamp as all amplifiers had, back in the day.

Specifications, courtesy HiFi Engine

Power output: 25 watts per channel into 8Ω (stereo)

Dimensions: 420 x 88 x 220mm

Year: 1979

Like the Sony TA-333, this Pioneer SA-408 has just been cleaned and serviced and is ready for a new home. This would make a great first hi-fi amplifier for someone, she’s a lovely simple little unit from an era when gear like this was made to last.

This Pioneer SA-408 would be perfect driving a little set of bookshelf speakers and can be yours for just $375.

 Wow – Music Angel XD-845 Mk3 Class-A Tube Amplifier, Cosmetically Imperfect, NOS, Tested!

Check out this beautiful Music Angel XD-845 Mk3 class-A single-ended triode tube amplifier for sale. This is a cosmetically imperfect unit and sold as-is, without tubes. The amplifier package was dropped in shipping, resulting in some cosmetic damage.

UPDATE: Sold!

The damage is easily fixable by anyone good with their hands. I sold the replacement unit many years ago, you can see and read about it in this article. Since then, this original, shipping-damaged unit has been sitting in a box, unopened and unused.

UPDATE: By request, I’ve powered her up to reform her capacitors and test her. All voltages are present and correct and she powers up normally. The damage appears purely cosmetic. All that being said, this unit is being sold as-is, tested and working, but with no warranty.

The Music Angel Class-A 845 is a beast. This is 28kg of pure Class-A, single-ended triode (SET) tube amplifier that sounds nothing like any solid-state amplifier you’ve ever heard. The 845 is warm, liquid-smooth and powerful for its rated 20 Watt/ch rating.

With an amplifier like this, you’ll hear mid-range magic that only SET amps provide. The 845 also has prodigious bass and you get to look at those gorgeous output tubes glowing orange, with the lights out…

There is a ton of info out there on these liquid-smooth-sounding tube amplifiers, so just search for Music Angel 845 and loads of articles will come up. This unit has no tubes and is priced accordingly.

As mentioned, I don’t have any 845 tubes for this amplifier. I DO have some very nice NOS Russian military small signal tubes. A set of four would normally set you back $100, but I will include a set @ just $50 for any interested buyer. The big 845 output tubes can be purchased from around $150 per set of two, upwards. So you need say $200 worth of tubes and she is cosmetically imperfect but otherwise good.

This otherwise lovely, NOS, Music Angel XD-845 Mk3 Class-A amplifier comes in her original box and sold for around $1500 AUD new, in 2014. She is sold as-is, tested and running, needing a set of tubes and a little TKC. This would be a great project for someone wanting a sweet-sounding class-A valve amp.

Make me an offer on this beauty!

Attention Marantz Collectors: Stunning Marantz CD-84 CD Player For Sale!

That’s right, here is an original, classic, first-generation Marantz CD-84, with CDM1 mech and finished in classic Marantz champagne. I’ve just written about this beautiful CD player, so check that out, too.

UPDATE: Sold!

Regular readers will know that I have too many CD players and, despite having sold a ton of gear recently, and my desire to keep this classic piece of digital audio equipment, I just don’t need this plus the Sony CDP-X7ESD, Nak OMS-7, Meridian 207 etc, so she is up for grabs.

This player is in excellent condition for her age, with light scuffing noted on the top panel but no major scrapes and scratches.

The Marantz CD-84 isn’t true first-gen in terms of CD players but it’s damn close. These early players were really seriously built, the CD-84 weighing around 10kg, mostly because of its heavy-duty power supply, metal construction and serious Philips CDM1 mech. That’s right, the Marantz CD-84 uses the infamous and perhaps most highly sought-after mech of all, the all-metal and glass CDM1.

Not only that, but the Marantz CD-84 also uses Philips classic TDA1540 DAC chip. These chips are famous for having 14-bit resolution and a unique, warm sonic presentation. This CD-84 for example has a strong, robust sound, with the warmth and smoothness often lacking in early CD players. But this was an upmarket player, you’d expect a strong performance.

Specifications

Disc format: CD
Digital converter: TDA1540, 16-bit linear (almost!)
CD Mechanism: CDM-1
Frequency response: 4Hz to 20kHz
Dynamic range: 90dB
Signal to Noise Ratio: 90dB
Total harmonic distortion: 0.003%
Line output: 2V
Dimensions: 416 x 90 x 300mm
Weight: 9.2kg
Year: 1984

I’ve just repaired and serviced this machine. I repaired the drawer load motor wiring, fixed a bunch of dry joints on the DAC and front panel boards, cleaned and lubricated the metal loader mechanism and gave her a general clean.

Sound-wise, the CD-84 is punchy and warm. She’s not the highest resolution player, but these TDA1540 and 1541 machines have a warmth that belies their age. It’s strangely counterintuitive to think about older players which often sounded thin and shrill sounding warm and rounded, as this machine does.

Machines like this CD-84 are becoming very collectible, like other quality, historic audio gear. I’ve said before that CD is the new vinyl and it really is. With CD collections selling for as little as $1 per disc, you just can’t go wrong with great players from the ’80s, ’90s and 2000s.

Keep in mind that this CD-84 is completely original, apart from her recent repair and service. I’ve left her that way on purpose so that her next owner can make decisions about her future hopefully under the right guidance.

Sacrilegious as it is, the two TDA1540 DACs and the CDM-1 are so sought after now that some will see this as a part-out opportunity. I hope that doesn’t happen. This Marantz CD-84 is far too rare and collectible in her own right to be broken up for parts. She deserves to sit in a vintage hi-fi system, where someone can rightly enjoy her.

This beautiful piece of hi-fi history can be yours for $995.

Lovely Marantz CD4000 CD Player, Like New, In Box!

Just in, this very nice Marantz CD4000 CD player, from the golden era of CD, is ready for a new home.

UPDATE: Sold!

Specifications

Disc format: CD
Digital converter: TDA1545
CD Mechanism: CDM-12.1
Frequency response: 20Hz to 20kHz
Dynamic range: 95dB
Signal to Noise Ratio: 98dB
Channel separation: 85dB
Total harmonic distortion: 0.0063%
Line output: 2V
Digital outputs: coaxial
Dimensions: 435 x 86 x 265mm
Weight: 2.9kg
Year: 1999

Utilising the classic Philips CDM-12.1 mechanism and TDA1545 bitstream chipset, this is a great-sounding budget machine from a time when decent budget CD players like this lasted longer than a couple of years!

This Marantz CD4000 comes with her original box, manual and cable, but no remote. You can pick up remotes for $10, so I wouldn’t be worried about that. You can read more about the CD4000 in the original brochure, here: Marantz_cd4000_brochure_en

If you are after a good, proper old-school CD player that smashes other entry-level players like the new CD5005 for build quality and service life, look no further than this CD4000, for $395.

Legendary Pioneer A-400 Integrated Amplifier, One of the Best!

Alright, so many of you will know about this legendary classic integrated amplifier from Pioneer – the A-400. One of the best-reviewed amplifiers of its era, this little gem is still widely used in many good systems.

UPDATE: Sold!

The Pioneer A-400 hails from the early ’90s. She features 50 Watts per channel, solid build and a focus on sonic performance over features, hence the low switch and control count. More can be found here, including the very high review ratings.

This one is cosmetically and electrically perfect – EXCEPT – check out the back panel connectors. I have no idea what happened here, I don’t really care either. I’m not fixing it but someone else certainly can if they can be bothered.

Other than this back panel madness, the amplifier works perfectly. A good project for someone I reckon.

Grab this lovely old girl, in need of a little TLC, for $99!

 Lovely Yamaha CDC-705 Multi-Disc CD Player

Here is yet another beautiful CD player from back in the day. This CDC-705 was one of the best Yamaha five-disc machines, with impressive weight and build for this style of machine.

UPDATE: Sold!

Recently serviced with a new tray drive belt, clean and lube, this player runs very well and plays discs perfectly. You can read more about the CDC-705 here.

The CDC-705 is also in almost perfect physical condition, amazing given that she hails from 1990!

Need a good multi-disc player, with some classic vintage style and build quality? This classic Yamaha CDC-705 CD player can be yours for just $295, not much at all for such a cool player.

Stunning NAD Master Series M3 Dual Mono Integrated Amplifier

Just look at this beautiful and almost pristine NAD Master Series M3 Dual Mono Integrated Amplifier. It’s hard to imagine an amplifier in better condition than this beautiful integrated.

UPDATE: Sold!

This is one of NAD’s most powerful and advanced amplifiers and certainly their most expensive at around $5000 AUD new. The M3 packs a punch with around 200 Watts per channel from its dual-mono design, full preamplifier functions, stunning styling and massively heavy build.

You can read this Stereophile review of the M3 and check out the NAD datasheet for more information.

Specifications

Description: Solid-state, two-channel, remote-controlled integrated amplifier with seven line inputs (including one balanced XLR).
Maximum output power at clipping: 220W (23.4dBW)
Continuous average output power: 180Wpc into 4 or 8 ohms (22.5dBW)
Dynamic power: 300Wpc (24.7dBW) into 8 ohms, 520W (27.2dBW) into 4 ohms, 700W (28.4dBW) into 2 ohms
Frequency response: 20Hz–20kHz, ±0.3dB (–3dB at >80kHz)
Damping factor @ 8 ohms: >150
Amplifier input impedance: 20k ohms
Input sensitivity: 1.38V
Signal/noise (A-weighted): >107dB, ref. 1W; >130dB ref. rated power
Total harmonic distortion: <0.004%, 20Hz–20kHz.
Dimensions: 435mm W by 135mm H by 386mm D
Weight: 51.8 lbs (23.5kg) net, 67 lbs (30.5kg) boxed

I recently cleaned and serviced this lovely NAD M3, making all critical electronic adjustments and conducting reliability testing over an extended test period of several days. I had a good listen to her and she sounds fantastic, far better than most integrated amplifiers, as you would expect of an amplifier like this.

This NAD M3 is a plum one-owner example and comes with her original box, manual and remote. You won’t find many M3s for sale, let alone one in this condition.

This stunning example of the NAD Master Series M3 Dual Mono Integrated Amplifier can be yours for $1750. that’s a lot of amplifier for the money, especially compared to the class-D rubbish available new, for even more.

Stunning Pioneer/Centrex KH-5522 Home Stereo System with AM/FM Radio, Record Player, Cassette Deck & Speakers!

How’s this for a ripper home stereo set-up with the lot! Just look at this beautiful Pioneer KH-5522 Cassette Home Stereo Recording System with AM/FM Stereo and Record Player – to use its full title!

UPDATE: Sold!

This is a complete music system with a radio, cassette deck, turntable, amplifier and speakers.

This lovely system comes complete with speakers and sounds great. All sources and functions work well. She’s not perfect, but not much 45-year-old gear is. Balance varies a bit as you you change the volume but the balance control fixes that. The cassette deck plays very slightly slowly but sounds good nonetheless. Many potential owners won’t play tapes, but the facility is there.

The KH-5522 has the warm, rich sound so often associated with this older all-analogue gear. It would make an excellent first system or a cool second system for the spare room or kids.

The turntable part of this unit is pretty good. This deck is very similar to the iconic Pioneer PL-12, with a high-quality motor, bearing and mostly metal construction. It’s a bit better than the solid-mounted deck found in the common Rondo 3000 for example.

I serviced this unit for her original owner going back many years. This explains the nicely running turntable and Ortofon OM-10 cartridge, a solid choice for this turntable. He kindly donated the system to Liquid Audio earlier this year when it needed attention. Now, after some much-needed maintenance, she is ready for a new home.

I’ve just serviced her (Sept 2021) and spent time on the turntable, which received the usual premium rubber drive belt, full lubrication and new foam arm return buffer. I also cleaned and serviced the cassette deck which works well, and performed other general maintenance.

This one owner from new Pioneer/Centrex KH-5522 home stereo system is a piece of vintage home stereo history. It comes with the original owner’s manual and can be yours for $695.

Set of Four Vibrapod Model 3 Isolators

Vibrapod Isolators are classic equipment support and isolators, all the way from St Louis in Missouri, USA!

This set had light use before the item they were supporting was sold. They’ve been stored in the box since then and present like new.

UPDATE: Sold!

Vibrapod Isolators reduce vibration transmission and therefore improve the sound of just about anything you support with them.

Each Vibrapod Model 3 can support 3.5 – 5.5 kg. Some quick math gives a set of four supporting gear up to 22kg. Suggested uses include Medium Weight Amps, DAC’s, Transports, Turntables, Speakers.

Prices vary, but a set of four Vibrapod Model 3 Isolators retails for up to $152. Grab these for $75. Let me know if you find them for less and I’ll match or beat it!

Stunning Nakamichi PA-1 Five-Channel Power Amplifier

WOW! I was so pleased to repair and service this monster amplifier and I now present her for sale. Actually, I can’t believe she’s still here!

UPDATE: Sold!

This rare, five-channel Nakamichi beast weighs a ton. I deal with some heavy amplifiers, but this one is seriously dense! In terms of performance, the PA-1 is highly rated, and regarded as an exceptional amp for home cinema or stereo duties. Check out the 4.9/5 rating and reviews over on AudioReview.

Boasting five equal 100 Watt channels of proper old-school linear amplification, no class-D cost savings to be found here, the PA-1 is a made-in-Japan Nakamichi that will drive almost any speakers with ease. Use it as a stereo amp, bi-amplify a pair of speakers using four channels, or use all five channels driven by a home cinema preamplifier.

Specifications

Nakamichi is one of Japan’s most famous high-end hi-fi manufacturers and most things they made have become collectible. The PA-1 is rare and similarly desirable because of its performance-heavyweight build and Nakamichi, made-in-Japan pedigree.

If you’ve seen modern multi-channel amplifiers, you’ll know how many corners are cut to make them affordable. This amp would cost many thousands of dollars if it were made like this and sold now.

This Nakamichi PA-1 is in almost perfect condition. Recently fully serviced and thoroughly cleaned, she’s received dry joint repair and full electronic adjustment as per factory-specified methods. She’s also been bench-tested for reliability.

You can own this stunning Nakamichi PA-1 five-channel power amplifier for just $1395.

Beautiful Arcam Alpha 5 CD Player, Upgraded & Restored by Liquid Audio!

Wow, I’m selling yet another piece from my CD player collection. I figure I’ll keep two CD players, so all the others need to go.

UPDATE: Sold!

The Arcam Alpha 5 needs no introduction to most people who know their players. This one has a new TDA1541A DAC chip installed, with very few hours on it, so it should be good for many more years. All electrolytic capacitors were upgraded at the time of overhaul, along with special high-speed rectifier diodes and many other changes designed to improve performance.

This beauty has the classic Philips TDA1541 sound – organic, warm, lush, you know the terms. Nothing else sounds quite like the 1541 and nothing else probably ever will. Heaven forbid but if you needed a TDA1541A for another machine, this one is socketed and has very low hours. These chips are rare as hen’s teeth these days, so watch out for fakes.

The Arcam Alpha 5 also features the legendary Philips CDM9 swing arm laser mech, another rare and sought-after part these days. Naturally, this one performs flawlessly.

I made a video about this machine when I did the work, some years ago, you can watch it here:

This lovely, old-school CD player plays discs with ease and sounds fabulous. She now just needs a nice new home!

This heavily improved and restored Arcam Alpha 5 CD player can be yours for $750.

Gorgeous Sony XA-20ES CD Player, With Box and Remote!

Yet another piece of equipment from my personal collection for sale here, and believe me, they don’t build them like this anymore. Check out this gorgeous Sony XA-20ES CD Player, with the original box and remote. I even have the manual somewhere!

UPDATE: Sold!

I bought this player brand new, from Douglas Hi-Fi. I paid around $1000 AUD for her way back then and she has never missed a beat, an icon of Sony reliability and build quality.

Specifications

Disc format: CD
Digital converter: CXD8505BQ
CD Mechanism: KSS-213B
Frequency response: 2Hz to 20kHz
Digital outputs: coaxial, optical
Dimensions: 430 x 125 x 350mm
Weight: 7.5kg
Accessories: remote commander
Year: 1997
Price: GBP £450 (1997)

I made some small improvements to her but she is essentially factory original, apart from a couple of better op-amps and film caps. She still runs her original laser and performs perfectly. People love these players, they were from Sony’s ES series when that meant something. The frame and beam construction of the machine contribute to the substantial build quality and weight.

I’m sad to say goodbye to this beautiful Sony XA-20ES and the other Redbook CD equipment I’m selling, but CD is far from dead in my system or elsewhere. CD is the new vinyl in many ways, offering more and more from discs that are bargain-priced these days and it can sound superb with the right playback setup, finally, 40 years on from its release.

I’ve just purchased an even better sound new (old) machine and so I have to clear some of my collection. That’s the only reason I’m selling these pieces from my collection! This Sony XA-20ES can be yours for just $675.

Stunning, Upgraded PS Audio NuWave DSD DAC for Sale!

Check out this beautiful PS Audio NuWave DSD DAC, improved and loved by me in my system and now for sale, ready for a new owner!

UPDATE: Sold!

I’m having a special sale of items from my collection and this NuWave DSD is one of many lovely pieces that have to go. This is to make way for new acquisitions including a new (old) CD player, phono preamplifier and more. Stay tuned for some crazy rare and expensive NOS Siemens tube-rolling and other stuff!

The NuWave DSD is an affordable breakthrough digital-to-analog processor or DAC. Based on the acclaimed Sabre 32-bit Hyperstream architecture, the NuWave DSD accepts inputs from any digital source including I2S, coax, TOSLINK and USB, playing both asynchronous PCM (up to 192/32) and DSD (single or double rate) through our exclusive class A hybrid output stage with either single-ended (RCA) or balanced (XLR) connections.

I’ve been using this PS Audio NuWave DSD DAC with my Meridian 506 24-Bit CD Player, also for sale. This is a really spectacular combination and a killer Redbook CD duo. The NuWave DSD needs a really clean jitter-free digital feed and the Meridian provides it. Having said that, any good digital source will do the job. Feed it a lesser quality stream though and it won’t like it.

You can read a good review, here.

This is from my personal collection and features the improvements I developed for the DAC and which add to this DACs performance and value. I added these improvements to many NuWave DSDs from around Australia, for many very satisfied customers!

This DAC is a sublime performer, especially when the modest cost is factored in. Incredibly, it betters my previous reference Musical Fidelity TriVista 21 DAC in terms of power and control and punches way above its substantial weight.

The NuWave DSD is in pristine original condition and can be purchased for just $1095.

Legendary Meridian 506 24-Bit CD Player

UPDATE: Sold!

Another beautiful digital piece for sale from my collection, this Meridian 506 has been my staple disc-spinner for the last few years, taking over from my venerable Sony XA-20ES, also for sale.

The 506 24-Bit CD player is regarded as one of the best-sounding and constructed CD players available at the time and probably since. The 506 is made almost entirely of metal and glass, with a smooth loading drawer that has to be experienced to be believed.

Created by a British manufacturer famous for their pioneering work with digital and Redbook in particular, the 506.24 was a very expensive machine to purchase new. With three main iterations: the original 506, the later 506 20-bit and the last 506 24-bit iteration, this 506 is the best sounding and most desirable of the range.

The Meridian is a better player than the Sony, and a little fussier about discs, like a true thoroughbred. I deeply serviced and re-lasered this player a couple of years ago, so she has plenty of life left in her.

The build quality of these players is superb and, used on her own, she is a lovely smooth-sounding CD player, far better than machines from even just a few years before she was released and many since. These players are also well known for being one of the best transports from the RedBook CD era. Partnered up with a good DAC, you get superb results. I used this 506.24 with my PS Audio NuWave DSD DAC, also for sale (now sold). Either way, as a discrete player, or a rock-solid jitter-free transport, the 506 excels.

This Meridian 506 24-Bit CD player is one of the later versions with newer firmware and 24-bit processing, delivering even greater subtlety and detail in the sound. She is in almost perfect, pristine condition and will make her next owner very happy I’m sure.

This iconic Meridian 506 24-Bit CD player can be yours for just $895.

Lovely Sony CPD-295 CD Player

UPDATE: Sale pending!

This Sony CDP-295 is a cheaper machine, but still a proper Sony, from 1992. Predictably, she plays discs perfectly and is in remarkable cosmetic condition. Try finding a modern CD player in 30 years time and see if it still plays discs. I’ll save you the pain – it won’t.

I’ve just serviced her and installed a new power cable. The only blemish is what looks like some paint overspray on the lid. The lid finish is original and unmarked under this and the overspray will come off if it bothers her new owner.

Specifications

Disc format: CD
Digital converter: CXD2552AQ
CD Mechanism: KSS-240A
Frequency response: 2Hz to 20kHz
Dynamic range: 97dB
Signal to Noise Ratio: 100dB
Channel separation: 95dB
Total harmonic distortion: 0.005%
Line output: 2V
Dimensions: 430 x 100 x 280mm
Weight: 3.5kg

This very nice CD player has a headphone socket, variable headphone output for convenient listening and sounds really nice for a basic machine. She can be yours for just $250.

Awesome Luxman C-03B Preamplifier and M-03B Power Amplifier Combo

WOW! Now it’s not often you see a pair of these for sale in almost perfect condition! This beautiful Luxman C-03B and M-03B have just arrived for sale on consignment.

UPDATE: Sold on first audition to a very happy new owner!

These are the infinitely more desirable black ‘B’ variants, able to fit into most modern systems and still look quite space-aged to me anyway. I might be biased, but I love the look of these two and still miss my own pair!

For background, the Luxman C-03/M-03 pre/power combo is a famous Luxman duo from the golden era, when proper hi-fi equipment was still made of metal, in Japan. Others in this lineage are the famous C-05/M-05. Some readers will know that I owned a C-03B/M-03B pair for many years and can attest to the fact that these are very well-made great-sounding units. You can read a little more about the pair, here.

The C-03 is a very nice, full-featured preamplifier with an excellent phono stage featuring switchable loads for moving coil cartridges. It also has a direct signal selection option, bypassing unnecessary circuits, a great headphone amplifier and multiple outputs for added flexibility. You can read more about the class-A output stage, headphone amplifier, and other features here.

The full-featured phono preamp is a very useful touch if you are building a proper vinyl playback system. The ability to add good moving coil cartridges and listen to them properly, without needing to buy a phono preamp is a critical feature of a preamp like the C-03.

Oh and a phono preamp like the one in the C-03 would cost you at least a grand, probably two, to buy separately, so this is great added value. The headphone amp is icing on the cake.

I’ve just serviced this C-03, it runs perfectly and sounds great! These rarely come up for sale, so keep this in mind when you look at the next part of the pair!

The M-03 is a beast of a power amplifier. One of the densest amplifiers I’ve carried recently, this thing will drive any speakers with ease. You can watch a video I made about repairing my old M-03, now owned by a friend of mine and read more about the M-03 here.

I ran my old M-03 power amplifier on the test bench, delivering 200 Watts per channel into a test load and hardly working up a sweat! To say the M-03 is a powerful power amplifier is an understatement, but consider this: if you have two of these, each can be bridged to deliver around 1/2 a kilowatt per channel!

This M-03 received extensive maintenance and service from me only a few months ago so you can be confident she runs perfectly.

Sold as a pair to keep these stunning units together as they belong, this near-mint Luxman C-03/M-03 pre/power combination from the golden age can be yours for $2950. You’ll occasionally find others for sale, but they are usually gold and remember, these two have been carefully cleaned, and serviced and are sold with a 3-month warranty. Try to find that on Gumtree or eBay!

Sony Bravia 55 Inch HD 3D LED LCD TV

What a mouthful, but newly for sale, here is my much loved Sony Bravia 55-inch HD LED LCD TV, in perfect original condition!

UPDATE: Sold!

Owned by me from new, she is unmarked and has never missed a beat. This is a KDL-55EX720, full HD (1080p) 3D LED LCD TV.

You can have this lovely tv for less than half the price of a new, plastic 55-inch one. It’s much better made, mostly metal and glass, full info and specs here.

This is a great tv, with typical Sony reliability, build quality and excellent picture.

Comes with the original stand and remote, for just $495.

Sony STR-DE898 Home Cinema Receiver

Also for sale, this Sony STR-DE898 125W x 7 home cinema receiver is a solid 7 channel unit, in very good condition.

UPDATE: Sold!

The only issue is that the display is very dim. It can still be read, but the remote is included and the on-screen display functionality means you don’t really need the VFD, thankfully.

Aside from that, she sounds good and runs well. She even has a phono preamplifier, making it possible to use this unit as the heart of a basic stereo turntable setup.

Features

125 Watts x 7

This receiver packs plenty of power with 125 Watts over 7.1 channels all driven at 8 ohms with very little distortion for great sound at almost any volume.

Dolby EX, Pro Logic IIx, DTS-ES, DTS Neo:6, DTS 96/24 Compatibility

The STR-DE898 is compatible with the top digital audio formats.

Dot Matrix Fluorescent Display

This highly readable, classic display is pleasant to look at and easy to use.

Multiple Zone

This receiver can control up to 2 zones/rooms in your house at the same time making it a versatile solution for all your home audio and video needs.

30 Radio Presets

With 30 station presets, you’ll have all your favourite radio stations programmed and accessible in no time.

Component Video Upconversion

From both composite and s-video sources, this receiver will display in component video mode for the highest possible video clarity.

6 Digital Inputs/1 Output

With multiple digital inputs, this receiver has the versatility to hook up to all the latest digital devices.

Pre-programmed Learning Remote

Use the included remote to easily control all your home theatre equipment.

This Sony STR-DE898 can be yours for just $195.

Amazing Denon DCD-2560GL Limited Edition CD Player – Like New!

Wow, seriously this piece really blows my mind in terms of condition. This beautiful Denon DCD-2560GL CD player is in as close to like-new condition as I think it’s possible to find.

UPDATE: Sold!

The DCD-2560GL is a very high-spec player and built like a tank, unlike most modern machines this side of $5K. Using four Analog Devices DAC chips and a healthy dose of premium Elna and other parts where it matters, this CD player is a heavy hitter.

Specifications

Note: these specs are for the standard DCD-2560, this is the DCD-2560GL, with balanced outputs, better parts and an improved output buffer.

DAC: 4 x AD1862N-D, 20 bit, 16 x oversampling
CD Mechanism: Sony
Frequency response: 2Hz to 20kHz
Dynamic range: 100dB
Signal to Noise Ratio: 116dB
Channel separation: 110dB
Total harmonic distortion: 0.0018%
Line output: 2V
Digital outputs: coaxial, optical
Dimensions: 434 x 122 x 360mm
Weight: 10.5kg
Accessories: RC-232 remote control
Year: 1991
Price: GBP £570 (1991, standard edition..!)

Certainly, if you are looking for a classic CD player with balanced outputs, wooden side cheeks and the sort of build quality that you have to pay many thousands of dollars for these days, this DCD-2560GL could be perfect. It would also make for a superb CD transport for use with a more modern DAC.

I’ve tested this player and it has a very healthy laser, reading even burned discs in seconds. You should have zero reservations about buying this lovely old girl if you are interested.

She comes in her original box, with manual, remote control and three-month warranty for just $1100.

For comparison, you can buy a modern plastic CD player with a laser that will last two years, like this Marantz CD-6006, for $1250 AUD. I just replaced the laser in a CD-6006 for a customer, his lasted just over two years. The Sony laser in this DCD-2560GL is stronger after 30 years, sad, but this is how things are.

Gorgeous Technics RS-M45 Direct-Drive Cassette Deck

The Technics RS-M45 direct-drive cassette deck is a real classic from the golden era of cassette decks. This one wasn’t playing and needed some deep service work on the mech, including lots of cleaning and lubrication. She is now for sale.

UPDATE: Sold!

With that work completed, plus a deep clean of the tape path and head demagnetisation, this lovely old Technics RS-M45 is now running beautifully.

I have a real fondness for these old Technics machines. I love the styling, the nearly all-metal construction of the tape mech and the solid mechanical build quality. The bi-coloured VFD peak meters add to the appeal and timeless Technics styling.

This machine has no capstan belt, so that’s one less thing to worry about. The direct-drive capstan means low wow and flutter and the all-metal eject mechanism is so smooth you have to operate it to believe it.

Specifications

Type: 2-head, single compact cassette deck
Track System: 4-track, 2-channel stereo
Tape Speed: 4.8 cm/s
Heads: 1 x record/playback, 1 x erase
Motor: FG servo DC
Tape Type: type I, FeCr, CrO2, Metal
Noise Reduction: B
Frequency Response: 20Hz to 20kHz  (Metal tape)
Signal to Noise Ratio: 68dB  (dolby B)
Wow and Flutter: 0.035%
Input: 60mV (line), 0.25mV (mic)
Output: 0.7V (line)
Dimensions: 430 x 98 x 345mm
Weight: 6.1kg
Finish: black, silver
Year: 1980

This Technics RS-M45 is available for just $375. As always, contact me if you’d like to buy this beauty.

Beautiful Harman/Kardon TD4200 Transcription Quality Cassette Deck

Check out this beautiful, recently serviced Harman/Kardon TD4200 cassette deck, kindly donated by a customer and now for sale.

UPDATE: Sold!

The Harman/Kardon TD4200 was a very popular deck back in the day and one of the last decent decks H/K made. This transcription quality deck is very nicely put together and has great specifications.

In terms of service and operation, I’ve cleaned and demagnetised the tape path, calibrated the playback speed, serviced the drive belt, drivetrain and motor.

This stunning and nearly flawless machine now works perfectly but for peace of mind, she comes with a 90-day warranty and can be yours for just $275.

From Cassette Deck.Org:

The Harman Kardon TD4200 is a stereo cassette deck with Dolby B and C noise reduction. It was introduced by Harman Kardon in 1990 with a manufacturer suggested retail price of USD $329 and discontinued 5 years later in 1995.

The main features of the Harman Kardon TD4200 are: 2 heads, electronic linear tape counter with 4 digits, automatic tape type selection with support for normal, chrome and metal tapes, belt driven single-capstan transport.

Full-logic transport controls used on the TD4200 let it respond to the slightest finger contact for fast and effortless transport function selection. Dolby C-type used in the TD4200 provides 20 dB of noise reduction above about 1,000 Hz, doubling the amount given by B-type.

Specifications, thanks to HiFi Engine:

Type: 2-head, single compact cassette deck
Track System: 4-track, 2-channel stereo
Tape Speed: 4.75 cm/s
Heads: 1 x record/playback, 1 x erase
Motor: 1 x reel, 1 x capstan
Tape Type: type I, CrO2, Metal
Noise Reduction: B, C
Signal to Noise Ratio: 70dB  (dolby C)
Wow and Flutter: 0.05%
Total Harmonic Distortion: 1.5%
Dimensions: 442 x 126 x 320mm
Weight: 5.4kg

This quality cassette deck can be yours for just $295.

Stunning, Like New, Kenwood KX-7030 3-Head, 3-Motor Cassette Deck, with Box and Manual!

Wow! Check out this absolutely beautiful Kenwood KX-7030 cassette deck in like-new condition, with original manual, box and remote control.

UPDATE: Sold!

That’s right, this Kenwood KX-7030 3-head, dual-capstan, Dolby B/C cassette deck is in as close to brand-new condition as you’ll find. I’ve recently serviced her which includes cleaning, lubrication and demagnetisation of the tape path, plus some electronic adjustments to playback and record levels.

Specifications

Type: 3-head, single compact cassette deck
Track System: 4-track, 2-channel stereo
Tape Speed: 4.76 cm/s
Heads: 1 x combination record/playback, 1 x erase
Motor: 3 x DC
Tape Type: Normal, CrO2, Metal
Noise Reduction: Dolby B, C
Frequency Response: 20Hz to 20kHz  (Metal tape)
Signal to Noise Ratio: 75dB  (dolby C)
Wow and Flutter: 0.045%
Total Harmonic Distortion: 0.7%
Input: 77.5mV (line)
Output: 0.49V (line)
Dimensions: 440 x 127 x 324mm
Weight: 5.1kg
Accessories: remote control
Year: 1991

She runs like new, makes great recordings using the Dolby B & C noise reduction features and auto-biasing which is a nice added bonus, simplifying matching the deck to the cassette type used for recording.

With three heads, three motors and dual capstans, this KX-7030 has all the high end features more discerning cassette deck owners are looking for.

Don’t miss out on this absolutely lovely machine. She comes complete with box, manual, remote and 3-month warranty for just $595.

Beautiful Yamaha RX-777 Stereo Receiver

Check out this beautiful Yamaha RX-777 stereo receiver, newly listed for sale.

UPDATE: SOLD!

The RX-777 was one of the last good stereo amplifiers/receivers from Yamaha for some time it was released and the top of the ‘RX’ line-up.

Featuring 100 watts per channel, audiophile parts, phono preamp and AM/FM tuner built-in, the RX-777 packs in a lot of features. It also has video switching, but I’d stick to using it at the heart of a nice stereo system and be done.

Specifications, courtesy HiFi Engine:

Tuning range: FM, MW
Power output: 100 watts per channel into 8Ω (stereo)
Frequency response: 20Hz to 20kHz
Total harmonic distortion: 0.012%
Damping factor: 240
Input sensitivity: 2.5mV (MM), 150mV (line)
Signal-to-noise ratio: 87dB (MM), 110dB (line)
Output: 150mV (line), 1V (Pre out)
Speaker load impedance: 4Ω (minimum)
Video Connections: composite
Dimensions: 435 x 151 x 390.3mm
Weight: 9.8kg
Accessories: remote control
Year: 2001

I’ve just serviced her fitted a brand new volume potentiometer, so this most often used control should be good for many years to come. The remote control even still has the clear plastic protective film on it, ready to peel!

With several gold-plated inputs and made in Malaysia rather than China like everything now, this receiver even contains a handful of audiophile capacitors and other parts, given the focus on sound.

This lovely stereo receiver can be yours for just $500.