Sansui - AU-555 Solid state integrated amplifier

Sansui AU-555 Integrated Stereo Amplifier - Vintage Japanese Hi-Fi Classic

Offered here is the Sansui AU-555, a highly respected vintage integrated stereo amplifier made in Japan between approximately 1967 and 1972. This model belongs to Sansui’s classic early solid-state AU series, a period when the brand built its reputation for warm, musical sound, solid engineering, and elegant black-faced hi-fi components. The AU-555 remains appreciated by collectors and audio enthusiasts for its build quality, attractive vintage design, and classic Sansui sound character.

The amplifier offers multiple inputs including two phono inputs for turntables, tuner, auxiliary, and tape connections, making it a very flexible centrepiece for a vintage stereo system. It also features tone controls, loudness, filters, muting, headphone output, speaker outputs for two speaker pairs, and separable pre-amplifier / power-amplifier sections.

Features & Specifications:
• Model: Sansui AU-555
• Type: Integrated stereo amplifier
• Period: 1967-1972
• Country of manufacture: Japan
• Power output: 2 x 25 W into 4 ohms, both channels driven
• Dynamic power: 2 x 30 W into 4 ohms
• Total harmonic distortion: 0.5%
• Frequency response: 20 Hz - 30,000 Hz
• Damping factor: 12 at 8 ohms
• Inputs: Phono 1, Phono 2, Tuner, Aux 1, Aux 2, Tape Play
• Outputs: Tape Rec, Pre Out, headphone output
• Speaker outputs: 2 speaker pairs
• Tone controls: Bass and treble
• Filters: Low filter and high filter
• Loudness and muting functions
• Power consumption: 120 W
• Dimensions: 435 x 155 x 334 mm
• Weight: approx. 8.2 kg

Condition:
This Sansui AU-555 is functional, but it currently produces distorted audio and therefore requires service/maintenance. The most likely cause is aged electrolytic capacitors, especially in the power supply and audio signal path. This is very common in vintage amplifiers of this age, as electrolytic capacitors can dry out over decades and no longer perform within specification, resulting in distortion or unstable audio performance.

We highly recommend and advise that the electrolytic capacitors are replaced by a qualified technician. After proper servicing, this amplifier has excellent potential to be enjoyed for many more years. It is therefore offered transparently as a working vintage amplifier requiring restoration/service, not as a fully restored unit.

Collectable & Practical Value:
The Sansui AU-555 is a desirable classic for vintage hi-fi collectors, Sansui enthusiasts, and lovers of Japanese audio equipment from the golden era. Its combination of elegant design, strong construction, phono capability, and classic Sansui engineering makes it an excellent restoration candidate and a valuable addition to a serious vintage audio collection.

Tested, demonstrated, and proudly presented by SpaceTime Engineering - watch it in action on our YouTube channel:

https://www.youtube.com/@spacetimeengineering

Shipping:
Worldwide tracked and insured shipping according to Catawiki guidelines. The weight is approximate, including packaging.

Seller’s Story
We are a highly specialised company based in the Netherlands, offering high-quality audio and electronic equipment throughout Europe and worldwide, generally through Catawiki.