Yamaha A-S1200SL Integrated Amplifier (Silver)

I purchased based off of many reviews that have praised this amp and the fact that I already own a lesser version of the AS Yamaha series. With all that said I found this amp to be way to forward and bright compared the AS-501. Just for reference my speakers are the Heresy IV's. Like it says in the title it's not for me, I like my sound more balanced and laid back. Just for the record I'm not saying the AS-501 is better, it's simply a way to give some contrast. The 1200 a beautiful amp and if it were closer in sound characteristics I would have kept it, but alas it's about the music/sound not all looks and fancy models. So, It still get's high marks but I think if you are purchasing this you should know that it's very bright, I'm sure it mellows a little after it burns in , but it's in your face at louder volumes, fatiguing for sure. I think with classical, guitar, and other mid and high range productions this would be great.

Pairs perfectly with my Wharfedale Lintons. High quality build. Same size as my Yamaha as701, but double the weight (24 lbs vs 48 lbs). That tells you something about the components inside. Phono stage is superior to my 701. Again, my Lintons sound much, much better with this beast (they should at that price point!) :-)