Pioneer QA 800A Integrated Quad Amp 'New'

1973~1975, Original list price was $400 USD. That's $1,790.61 in current money according to the inflation calculator or $2,354 AUD. That puts a bit of a contemporary perspective on the build quality of this amplifier which would have sold in Australia for quite a bit more than the US list price. Quite frankly I don't think you would get quite this build or sound quality for even for that sort of money.

http://www.dollartimes.com/calculators/inflation.htm

This is the best vintage Pioneer amp I have heard to date. Certainly superior to the SA 5500 and 7300 stereo models and a lot sexier too. A look inside the box (see pics) reveals a very well laid out amplifier. Plenty of shielding between the power amplifier and pre-amp. Large heat sinks for the output transistors. It is worth keeping in mind that Pioneer built its huge reputation around integrated amplifiers. The internal layout of this amp shows just how much can be achieved without resorting to putting the pre amp and power amps in separate boxes.

The sound was rich and detailed and I found that my typical experience with Pioneer, super separated instruments to be a lot less pronounced. I like to describe the super separated sound as a bit like being the conductor not a member of the audience. This amplifier (sorry budding conductors) is much more like being in the audience. From my point of view I find this sound much more realistic and pleasurable to listen to. Of course the quality of the sound was wonderfully clear and well defined. Very good sound stage and presence which I think will lend itself to truly wonderful ‘surround’ 4 channel sound.

All in all a superior Pioneer sound.

Input/Controls
Phono 1&2, Aux 1&2, Tuner, Tape 1&2.

Switches: Muting -20db, Matrix; Regular/SQ, Filters: Low, High, Loudness. Dual headphone Jacks, Front/Rear (on front). Speakers [A/B 4 channel power off].

Bass Treble for Front/Rear (4). Volume controls for the 4 channels in an array around the central volume knob. Mode; 2ch front/front & rear, 4ch Matrix, Discrete, Check channel 1/3. Rear, Pre in/out.

A very well laid out control face with a great mix of symmetry and asymmetry. The knobs are knurled; Bass and Treble are stepped pots, Volume smooth.

Estimated output into two channels,
60 watts RMS pc.

430 x 320 x 140 12Kg

****We have two of these units. One has a minor scratch on the face plate. See the specific picture for that amp. We are offering the pioneer with the scratch at the reduced price of $620 AUD.

Price $650/$620 AUD    contact us by email