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New, the AU-9500 sold for roughly US$550 in the early 1970s, about US$2,800 in 2019 dollars. At US$1,800, this example is below your comparable-listing 25th percentile of US$1,913 and well under the US$2,471 median, making it a strong deal rather than merely fair—assuming it is functional and honestly represented.
The AU-9500 is a substantial, well-regarded integrated with a warm, authoritative presentation, 75 watts per channel into 8 ohms, dual phono inputs, unusually capable tone controls, filters, and plenty of switching flexibility. It is a particularly appealing choice for a vinyl-centered system or difficult-to-drive speakers, and its clean, purposeful build remains desirable. Because this is vintage direct-coupled equipment, confirmed servicing and a clean bill of health add real value; absent that, budget for a proper inspection, but the asking price leaves useful room.
Independent perspective — not a price guarantee. Always verify condition, accessories and provenance before purchase.
Sansui, a pioneering Japanese audio brand, traces its origins to 1947 when it was founded in Tokyo by brothers Sakurai and Shunichi Yamamoto. Emerging from post-war Japan, the company quickly established itself as an innovator in consumer electronics, leveraging precision engineering to craft components that rivaled Western counterparts. Its heritage is rooted in the golden era of hi-fi, where Sansui's commitment to sonic purity helped define Japan's rise as a global audio powerhouse.
The brand excelled in a broad spectrum of hi-fi categories, with particular renown for its integrated amplifiers, receivers, and tuners that delivered warm, dynamic sound. Sansui also produced acclaimed speakers, turntables, cassette decks, and later digital converters, emphasizing robust build quality and innovative features like direct-coupled circuitry for low distortion. These products catered to audiophiles seeking balanced performance across analog and early digital domains.
Today, Sansui holds a cherished position in the vintage collector market, revered for its mid-to-high-end gear from the 1970s and 1980s—icons like the AU-series amps remain sought after for their musicality and reliability. While no longer a frontline manufacturer, its legacy endures among discerning buyers restoring classics or hunting timeless performers, blending nostalgia with enduring value.
See all Sansui listings on RADAR.
