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Fully functional, some minor scratches to show its age. Have had In a rack for many years now, tested and working.
The SAE Mark XXX is a well-regarded 1970s preamp with solid specs—90dB signal-to-noise on line inputs and a clean 0.3% THD—but USD$350 is on the ambitious side for a 50-year-old unit in unknown condition. Comparable vintage preamps from that era typically move in the USD$200–$300 range used, and the Mark XXX, while respected for its build quality and film capacitors, doesn't command a significant premium over other quality 70s preamps. If it's truly mint with original documentation, USD$350 is defensible; otherwise, expect to negotiate down.
Before committing, verify the unit powers on cleanly and that all inputs (MM phono, line) pass signal without noise or channel imbalance. Film capacitors age well, but 50 years is 50 years—listen for hum, crackling, or intermittent dropouts. Confirm the output connectors are solid (no corrosion), and ask whether it includes the original power cord and any documentation. Most importantly, test it with your own amp to rule out any surprises; the Mark XXX works with non-SAE gear, but you want to hear it first.
Independent perspective — not a price guarantee. Always verify condition, accessories and provenance before purchase.
# SAE (Scientific Audio Electronics)
Scientific Audio Electronics emerged from Los Angeles in 1968 when Morris Kessler partnered with Ted Winchester and Beth Winchester to pursue an ambitious goal: building the world's finest audio amplifier. Kessler had been designing and hand-building amplifiers since the early 1960s, and the partnership formalized his vision into a commercial enterprise. The company operated through the 1980s, establishing itself as a significant player in the golden age of solid-state hi-fi before ceasing operations in 1988.
SAE built its reputation almost exclusively on power amplifiers, introducing the Mark 2—a 60-watt solid-state design that earned comparison to the legendary Marantz Model 9 tube amplifier in Stereophile magazine. Beyond amplifiers, the company pioneered several audio innovations, including the world's first graphic equalizer, the first digital read-out tuner, and the first phonograph pop-and-click filter. These products reflected SAE's engineering-forward philosophy and commitment to advancing high-fidelity technology.
SAE occupies a revered position in vintage hi-fi collecting and audio history. During the 1970s, the company was synonymous with high-end solid-state amplification, competing directly with established names like McIntosh, Marantz, Pioneer, and Sansui. Their equipment commanded premium pricing—a complete SAE rack system retailed for $6,000, equivalent to a top-tier Cadillac. Today, SAE remains a collector's brand, remembered by audiophiles as a legitimate innovator that produced musically open and refined components during hi-fi's most formative era.
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