Yamaha unveils a trio of analogue-only stereo amps with VU meters

Yamaha unveils a trio of analogue-only stereo amps with VU meters
(Image credit: Yamaha)

Yamaha has lifted the lid on three new integrated stereo amplifiers, the A-S1200 (pictured top), A-S2200 and A-S3200.

Appearing on the company's website today, the trio arrive as updates to the A-S1100, A-S2100 and A-S3000 respectively. While they look pretty similar to their predecessors with their black and silver chunky casework and VU meter-dominated front, they utilise new technology and components.

For structural integrity and to avoid unwanted vibration, all three amps adopt a 'Mechanical Ground Concept' that begins with the bolts of the heavy-duty brass feet (iron on the AS1200) welded directly to the main chassis, followed by the large heat sink, power transformer and block capacitors directly bolted to the chassis.

Yamaha A-S2200

Yamaha A-S2200 (Image credit: Yamaha)

Yamaha A-S3200

Yamaha A-S3200 (Image credit: Yamaha)

The A-S1200 and A-S2200 are 160 watt-per-channel designs, while the A-S3200 stands apart from its siblings by delivering 170 watts into each channel and featuring fully balanced circuitry and superior components, such as Gilding Oxygen Free Copper speaker terminals, thick PC-Triple C internal wires, and brass screws for the large block capacitors.

The A-S3200 naturally has more expansive connectivity, too, building on its siblings' five RCA inputs (one of which is a phono) and balanced XLR input (A-S2200 only). It too has a handful of RCAs – including a phono – in addition to two balanced XLRs – but note that not even this top-tier model sports digital connections. 

All three analogue-only models have preamplifier and line RCA outputs and dual speaker terminals for bi-amping, too.

Prices and availability are currently unavailable, but we'll endeavour to update this story when that changes.

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Becky Roberts

Becky is the managing editor of What Hi-Fi? and, since her recent move to Melbourne, also the editor of the brand's sister magazines Down Under – Australian Hi-Fi and Audio Esoterica. During her 11+ years in the hi-fi industry, she has reviewed all manner of audio gear, from budget amplifiers to high-end speakers, and particularly specialises in headphones and head-fi devices. In her spare time, Becky can often be found running, watching Liverpool FC and horror movies, and hunting for gluten-free cake.

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