Pioneer - SA-506 Solid state integrated amplifier

Beautiful and well-functioning Pioneer SA-506 – vintage integrated stereo amplifier

This Pioneer SA-506 is a classic vintage stereo integrated amplifier from the late 1970s. This solidly designed model from Pioneer combines a warm, musical sound with solid technical performance for its time. With its retro look and characteristic illuminated VU meters, the SA-506 is popular among vintage audio equipment enthusiasts and collectors of retro hi-fi.

This Pioneer SA-506 delivers a continuous output power of 25 W per channel at 8 Ω — enough for many compact to medium-sized speakers. The amplifier features a phono input for turntables, multiple line inputs (such as Tuner, Aux, Tape), and extensive tone control with bass and treble, including a loudness contour for richer bass at low volumes. Thanks to its illuminated VU meters, your setup gains an authentic retro look, while the circuitry for low noise levels and precise RIAA correction contribute to music reproduction with character.

Specifications

Power & Audio
• Continuous power: 25 W per channel @ 8 Ω (stereo)
• Frequency response: 20 Hz – 40 kHz
Total harmonic distortion (THD): 0.08%
Dempingsfactor: 30
• Signal-to-noise ratio: 76 dB (MM phono), 92 dB (line)

Inputs & Functions
• Phono (MM), tuner, aux, tape inputs
• Tone controls: Bass, Treble, Balance
Loudness contour on Speaker A/B switches.
VU meters with lighting (can give a vintage look)

Exits
• Line output: 150 mV (line)
• DIN output: 30 mV

Physical characteristics
• Dimensions (W×H×D): 420 × 147 × 261 mm
Weight: approx. 5.9 kg
• Production year: circa 1978–1979

Features & Usage
Warm and musical sound — loved by retro enthusiasts.
Illuminated VU meters give a classic appearance.
The phono input makes it ideal for vinyl enthusiasts.
Compact size and lightweight construction — easy to place in a hi-fi rack.

Summary

The Pioneer SA-506 is a charming vintage integrated amplifier that combines classic hi-fi features with a nostalgic look. With its 25 W per channel, tone control, phono input, and illuminated VU meters, it is ideal for enthusiasts of retro audio experiences and for use with turntables and vintage speakers.