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One owner, always in conditioned space(no storage units) Functions as it should. Ships in the original container/box. Includes the original owner's manual as seen in the photo. The Yamaha MX-800U is a 1980's era classic power amplifier known for is ultra clean power delivery and robust build quality with large heat sinks and transformers. It features Yamaha's "Hyperbolic Conversion Amplification Circuit", which aims to eliminate the drawbacks of class A/B operation by maintaining consistent performance across its power range. Additionally, it incorporates Advanced Power Supply Circuitry (APS) for stable voltage under various operating conditions SpecsPower output: 170 watts per channel into 8 ohms (RMS, 20Hz–20kHz), scaling up to 230 watts into 4 ohms.Frequency response: 20Hz to 20kHzTotal harmonic distortion: 0.003%Damping factor: 90Input sensitivity: 1.32VSignal to noise ratio: 120dBSpeaker load impedance: 4Ω to 16ΩDimensions: 17-1/8 x 6-1/2 x 16-3/4 inchesWeight: 31.9lbsYear: 1987-1989
At US$595, this is clearly ambitious against the available market: recent comparable asks center at US$450, with the 75th percentile only US$523. That puts this listing US$72 above the upper quartile and US$145 over the median, so it would need unusually strong condition, provenance, or included extras to justify the premium.
The MX-800U is a substantial vintage Yamaha power amplifier, valued for its muscular stereo presentation, sensible build, and ability to drive demanding speakers with authority. A clean, fully serviced example can be worth stretching for, particularly with original documentation or packaging, but “unknown” condition makes that harder to defend here. Confirm both channels, protection-circuit behavior, meter operation, quietness, and evidence of service before considering an offer; around the market median would be the more attractive target.
Independent perspective — not a price guarantee. Always verify condition, accessories and provenance before purchase.
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.
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