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Yamaha AX-396 - Hi-Fi Amplifiers - Very Good
Why This One
Very good condition — light cosmetic wear, no functional issues
Fully tested — all applicable functions verified working
60W per channel, 0.008% THD, and a damping factor of 240 — serious specs at this price point.
A capable phono-equipped integrated amplifier available at a fraction of its original retail price.
Condition: Very Good
This Yamaha AX-396 is a very good-condition Hi-Fi amplifier. It has passed our 8-point functional test, with 2 item(s) not applicable to this unit. Please review all photos carefully, as they provide an accurate representation of the cosmetic condition of the product.
What's Included
Yamaha AX-396
No additional accessories included
About This Model
The Yamaha AX-396 is a stereo integrated amplifier delivering 60 watts per channel into 8Ω, with a notably high damping factor of 240 and exceptionally low total harmonic distortion of just 0.008%. Its input selection covers Phono MM, CD, Tuner, AUX, and two Tape loops, making it well suited to a classic hi-fi source stack, while a headphone output and dual loudspeaker terminals add everyday versatility. Bass and treble tone controls offer ±10 dB of adjustment, and the amplifier's signal-to-noise ratio of 110dB on line inputs keeps the noise floor impressively low. A hinged cover flap neatly conceals secondary controls, giving the front panel a clean, uncluttered appearance.
A great opportunity to own a Yamaha AX-396 at this price point.
Generating expert take…
Yamaha stands as one of the world's most storied audio manufacturers, with roots extending far beyond consumer electronics. Founded in 1887 by Torakusu Yamaha in Hamamatsu, Japan, the company began as a reed organ manufacturer before expanding into pianos and eventually becoming a comprehensive musical instrument maker. This deep heritage in acoustics and materials science would prove foundational to its later audio ventures. The company operated under its original name, Nippon Gakki Co., Ltd., until 1987, when it was renamed Yamaha Corporation in honor of its centennial.
Yamaha's entry into high-fidelity audio proved transformative for the industry itself. In 1954, the company released the Yamaha Hi-Fi Player, widely recognized as the world's first audio component to bear the "Hi-Fi" designation in its name. The company subsequently built a comprehensive product portfolio spanning amplifiers—beginning with the acclaimed A-100 in 1960—speakers, turntables, and digital audio equipment. The NS-1000 speakers, introduced in 1974 with beryllium drivers, became iconic reference monitors. Yamaha also pioneered digital audio technology, shipping the world's first CD recorder in 1988.
Today, Yamaha occupies a distinctive position as a mid-to-high-end generalist rather than a niche specialist. The brand commands respect among both casual listeners and serious audiophiles, balancing accessibility with genuine engineering credibility. Its reputation rests on six decades of consistent innovation, proven reliability, and the unique advantage of applying musical instrument expertise to audio reproduction. Vintage Yamaha components remain highly sought by collectors, while current products maintain the brand's tradition of delivering performance and durability across multiple price tiers.
See all Yamaha listings on RADAR.
