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The AU-888 sits just below the AU-999 in Sansui’s early-’70s lineup and shares much of its circuit philosophy. Rated at ≈45W per channel into 8Ω, it delivers the warm-but-articulate Sansui house sound prized for jazz, soul, and classic rock listening. Inside, Sansui used a dual-differential, direct-coupled power amp with ± dual rails and complementary Darlington outputs, aiming for low distortion, strong damping, and clean bass control—hallmarks that helped this series earn its reputation among collectors. 
 
The preamp section favours low-noise PNP silicon transistors, with thoughtful parts selection (limited coupling caps, Mylar bypassing) to preserve high-frequency clarity. Day-to-day usability is excellent thanks to A/B/C speaker switching, flexible tone contouring, and multiple phono/line inputs.
 
Renowned for its robust build and warm, dynamic sound signature, the AU-888 remains a favourite among vintage audio enthusiasts seeking reliable, high-quality analog performance

Sansui AU-888

$1,499.00 Regular Price
$1,359.59Sale Price
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  • Inside, the AU-888 features a dual differential, direct-coupled amplifier design with complementary Darlington outputs, giving it excellent control, low distortion, and tight bass. The preamp section uses low-noise PNP silicon transistors, while Sansui’s careful parts selection—minimal coupling capacitors, Mylar bypass caps—preserves high-frequency clarity and natural tonal balance.

     

    One of the AU-888’s highlights is its Triple Tone Control (Bass, Mid, Treble) with selectable midrange frequencies, plus loudness compensation and high/low filters for flexible listening. It also allows independent preamp and power amp use, making it versatile for more advanced system setups.

     

    Built with 41 transistors, 12 diodes, and 2 SCRs, and weighing a solid 12.6kg, the AU-888 reflects Sansui’s dedication to reliability and craftsmanship. Collectors and audiophiles consistently praise it for its musical midrange, smooth highs, and engaging presentation—a slightly lower-powered but equally refined sibling to the legendary AU-999.

     

    The key design features of the Sansui AU-888 include:

     

    • 2-Stage Differential Amplifier & Direct Coupling: The main amplifier uses a sophisticated dual differential-amplifier circuit, coupled directly (without capacitors) and featuring a complementary Darlington circuit system. This design ensures consistent output, stable damping, and reduced distortion across the entire audio range, especially at low frequencies.

     

    • Triple Tone Control (TTC): Separate Bass, Midrange, and Treble controls for highly precise sound tailoring, along with selectable midrange frequencies for flexible tone shaping.

     

    • High-Quality Components: Extensive use of low-noise PNP silicon transistors in the preamp, direct-coupled circuits, and Mylar capacitors for improved frequency response and reduced noise.

     

    • Modular Pre/Main Sections: The preamplifier and main amplifier can be separated for use in expanding or customizing your audio system, such as bi-amping or servicing.

     

    • Protective Features: Advanced protection circuits with speaker relay and multiple fast-acting fuses keep both the amplifier and your speakers safe from damage due to electrical faults.

     

    • Versatile Input/Output: Multiple phono, microphone, tuner, auxiliary, tape, and headphone inputs, with robust speaker switching options (supports three parallel speaker pairs).

     

    • Filters & Convenience: Includes high/low frequency filters, loudness switch, muting switch, and headphone jack for flexible operation
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