A-S501 II Black
Description
Between the Yamaha A-S301 II and A-S501 II — not just a difference in model numbers. This is a qualitative leap in the component base, in the power reserve, in the material execution of the parts that touch the signal. A-S501 II remains true to the Natural Sound philosophy, but implements it more generously — with larger capacitors, with gold-plated contacts, with power that is enough for acoustics of any nature.
The ToP-ART architecture here is the same as in the younger models of the series: I/O Direct Symmetrical Design ensures geometric identity of the signal paths of the left and right channels, ART Base damps mechanical vibrations at the chassis level. But the component filling is noticeably more serious: a custom power transformer, 12,000 μF block capacitors - twice as large as in the A-S301 II - and aluminum radiators of an extruded profile. The result is 85 W RMS per channel at 20 Hz–20 kHz and a maximum power of 120 W × 2. This amplifier does not choke on complex loads.
Gold-plated terminals for speaker cables and RCA connectors for CD and phono input are not a decorative solution. The gold coating is resistant to oxidation and ensures stable contact for years regardless of storage conditions. Two independent speaker outputs (A, B or A+B), a subwoofer output, and an MM phono input make the A-S501 II ready to become the center of your evolving system.
Pure Direct mode cuts out all auxiliary inputs and leaves the signal on the shortest path from source to output—for those moments when you want to hear the recording without any interference. The Toslink optical input and digital coaxial input take the signal from your TV or Blu-ray player directly into the digital domain. The smooth Loudness control compensates for tonal imbalances during quiet listening—conveniently and precisely, without step switches.
The aluminum front panel, massive metal volume and source selection knobs, LED indicators for active input, and rotary encoder—all this creates the impression of a device made for long service, not for a spectacular appearance on a store shelf.
