Yamaha - A-960II Solid state integrated amplifier

Very rare collector's item!

Yamaha A-960II Natural Sound Integrated Amplifier – Made in Japan

Up for sale is a Yamaha A-960II Natural Sound Integrated Amplifier, one of Yamaha's premium amplifiers from the early 1980s and an example of the excellence of classic Japanese Hi-Fi engineering.

Delivering 105 watts per channel into 8 ohms, the A-960II delivers exceptional clarity, powerful dynamics and the natural character of Yamaha Natural Sound. Featuring high-quality MM and MC phono inputs, Disc Direct and Main Direct signal paths, variable loudness control and flexible recording options, it is ideal for both vinyl lovers and high-quality line-level sources.

Built in Japan with outstanding craftsmanship, the A-960II remains a highly respected amplifier among audiophiles and vintage Hi-Fi collectors.

Features
Made in Japan
105 W × 2 RMS into 8 Ω
Natural Sound amplifier design
MM and MC phono inputs
Disc Direct and Main Direct modes
Variable Loudness control
Subsonic and High filters
Record selector
Heavy duty construction (10.6 kg)
Collector's rarity

☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆ (9/10)

The Yamaha A-960II is one of the most sought-after integrated amplifiers from Yamaha's classic "silver-face" era. Its excellent sound quality, advanced phono stage, robust Japanese construction, and relatively limited production run make it increasingly sought after by collectors and audiophiles.

Yamaha A-960II Natural Sound Integrated Amplifier
Description

The Yamaha A-960II is one of Yamaha's finest Natural Sound integrated amplifiers, produced between 1982 and 1983 in Japan. It was developed as an improved version of the A-960 and was positioned near the top of Yamaha's amplifier range, just below the top models of the period.

The amplifier is renowned for its Natural Sound philosophy — delivering a neutral, transparent sound with minimal coloration. It features high-quality MM/MC phono stages, variable loudness control, separate record selector, and Disc Direct and Main Direct signal paths for the shortest possible audio path.

Main Specifications
Manufacturer: Yamaha
Model: A-960II
Production Period: 1982–1983
Made in: Japan
Type: Integrated Stereo Amplifier
Power Output:
2 × 105 W RMS into 8 Ω (European/German specification)
2 × 180 W into 4 Ω
Frequency Response: 10 Hz – 100 kHz
Total Harmonic Distortion (THD): 0.005%
Signal-to-Noise Ratio: Up to 106 dB (Line Inputs)
Inputs:
MM Phono
MC Phono
AUX
Tuner
Tape 1
Tape 2
Outputs:
Speakers A/B
2 × Rec Out
Headphones
Special Features:
Variable Loudness
Disc Direct
Main Direct
Subsonic Filter
High Filter
Record Selector
Phono Impedance adjustable
Dimensions: 435 × 132 × 365 mm
Weight: 10.6 kg

Sound quality

The A-960II is highly regarded for:
Neutral, detailed sound in the "Natural Sound" presentation
Excellent stereo imaging
Tight and controlled bass
Three smooth, refined trebles
Outstanding MM/MC phono stage
Sufficient power for demanding speakers

Specifically matches Yamaha NS-series speakers, KEF, B&W, Celestion, Mission, JBL and many other classic European speakers.

How rare is it?
Collector's rarity: ☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆ (9/10)

The A-960II is considered rare because:
It was only produced for a short period (1982–1983).
It was one of Yamaha's best integrated amplifiers.
Clean, original units are becoming increasingly difficult to find.