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📌 LAB POINTS
hi-fi amplifier featuring Yamaha's ToP-ART (Total Purity Audio Reproduction Technology) circuit design + high quality parts
2-channels of 85W output
analog + digital inputs w/ dedicated phono preamp input
onboard controls for bass, treble, balance, loudness, volume
output to (2) A/B pairs of passive speakers
headphone output
features 'Pure Direct' mode for shortened signal route and purest sound quality
includes remote
available in Black + Silver finish
"The A-S501 is a classic-style hi-fi integrated amp. Utilizing Yamaha's 'Natural Sound' design with an emphasis on clean circuit design, this model is ideal for hooking up a turntable and/or a CD player to your passive speakers. We admire the omission of Bluetooth or streaming on this model, it's truly for the purist." - TTL
🔑 KEY FEATURES
rated power output: 85W per channel at 8 ohms
impedance rating: 8 ohms
number of speaker terminals: (4) stereo pairs
phono preamp: yes
DAC: n/a
EQ: 3-band
wired inputs: RCA, optical, coaxial
wired outputs: n/a
wireless inputs: n/a
wireless outputs: n/a
operating app: n/a
headphone output: 1/4" output
subwoofer output: yes
dimensions: 17.125" (w) x 6" (h) x 15.25" (d) / 435 x 153 x 388mm
weight (total): 22.7 lb / 10.3 kg
📦 COMES WITH
remote control
New examples are currently around US$650, so the used asking price of US$650 is ambitious rather than a compelling bargain. Your own 36-listing sample puts the median at US$419, with the 75th percentile at US$500; this one sits well above that range and offers no obvious used-price discount.
The A-S501 remains a very capable, sensible amplifier: 85 watts per channel, strong current delivery, a good built-in phono stage, optical and coaxial digital inputs, subwoofer output, and useful variable loudness control. It is especially appealing for a straightforward TV-and-stereo system, and Yamaha’s sturdy construction has earned this line a good reputation. At US$650, though, it needs to be exceptionally clean, complete with remote, and perhaps backed by original-owner history; otherwise, a fairer target is around US$400–US$500.
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.
See all Yamaha listings on RADAR.
