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A RARE (110/60 USA VOLTAGE), PROTON AM-455. A WORKING UNIT THAT WOULD BENEFIT FROM SOME TLC BY AN EXPERIENCED DIY'ER. IT'S BEEN PLAYING NON-STOP FOR FEW DAYS WITH CD'S AND PHONO. NO HUMMING, NOISE AND NO FUNKY ODORS. I WILL STATE THAT I HAVE NOT TESTED EVERY IN/OUT ON THE UNIT. NO MISSING KNOBS OR BROKEN SWITCHES OR JACKS. THE UNIT IS CLEAN, COSMETICS ARE IN GOOD CONDITION. BUYER PAYS FLAT RATE $38.00 SHIPPING. DUE TO THE VINTAGE NATURE OF THIS PIECE, THERE ARE NO RETURNS OR EXCHANGES. PLEASE EMAIL WITH QUESTIONS. SINCERE INQUIRIES ONLY . THANK YOU. SPECIFICATIONS : Power output: 50 watts per channel into 8Ω (stereo)Frequency response: 20Hz to 20kHzTotal harmonic distortion: 0.02%Damping factor: 100Input sensitivity: 2.5mV (MM), 150mV (line)Signal to noise ratio: 80dB (MM), 100dB (line)Speaker load impedance: 4Ω (minimum)Dimensions: 420 x 96 x 280mmWeight: 5.3kg
Versus spending the same US$179 on a generic modern integrated, this Proton lands in a sweet spot: it is only a touch above the US$169 median for recent comps and sits within the US$164–US$174 interquartile band, so it reads as fairly priced rather than ambitious. It is not a bargain-bin score, but it is close enough to market that a clean example can be worth moving on.
That makes sense for a well-regarded late-’80s/’90s Proton integrated: these are valued for solid build, punchy, musical sound, and honest, no-fuss performance. If the listing is clean and original, the main upside is getting a competent vintage amp without paying a premium; just confirm basic function, quiet controls, and that no channel or relay issues are lurking.
Independent perspective — not a price guarantee. Always verify condition, accessories and provenance before purchase.
Proton Electronic Industrial Co., Ltd. emerged from Taiwan in 1981, establishing its base in Banciao, Taipei-Hsien, as a manufacturer targeting the U.S. consumer audio market with high-quality components. Linked to Fulet Electrical, which produced notable NAD amplifiers, the brand launched around 1984 to expand into consumer electronics, including acclaimed TV monitors like the 600M and 602M models. By 2009, it remained active, building on a heritage of precision engineering from shared facilities with brands like NAD and Dynaco.
The company focused on premium hi-fi gear optimized for real-world performance, emphasizing tuners, receivers, amplifiers, and integrated systems that drove everyday loudspeakers with exceptional clarity. While not delving into headphones or cables, Proton's lineup prioritized robust playback under practical listening conditions, from radio reception to vinyl and cassette sources, earning praise for its engineering rigor in the 1980s.
Proton holds a solid reputation in vintage hi-fi circles as a mid-tier powerhouse, favored by collectors for its reliable, high-value sound that punched above its price point. Positioned as an accessible alternative to elite brands, it appeals to discerning buyers seeking durable, no-nonsense performers rather than boutique exotica, with ongoing interest in its schematics and restored units.
See all Proton listings on RADAR.
