Did it blow me away? Yamaha AS2200 Integrated Amp review

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Updates from Yamaha: 1) The knobs are machined aluminum (even the smaller ones including the trim, speaker, meter knobs which was upgraded from the AS2100). They aren’t plastic. 2) The AS2200 also uses better feet than the A1200. They’re machined brass with chrome plating. The AS1200 is iron with chrome plating so they look the same but they’re not. The brass actually helps with the mid-range richness and lower bass.

[@howardskillington4445]

Brass knobs make this amp sound better? Give me a break.

[@Ceko]

Howard Skillington he’s talking about the feet... but still I can’t think of any reason brass would sound better than iron 😂

[@adleneboulebtateche156]

With all due respect Thomas, how could an expert reviewer like you be unable to tell if the knobs are made of plastic or metal ? The difference is usually obvious !!!

[@Ceko]

Adlene BOULEBTATECHE do you think Thomas owns every Yamaha on the planet

[@jessielees]

have you seen the guys video who did a full breakdown with the schematics of the previous gens a-s1100 vs a-s2100? they were deemed nearly identical in design, minor differences yes bigger caps and balanced inputs but any difference in sound imperceivable under most circumstances... I wonder if the same is true here or if they did a little more to make them different....

[@dominicmaddox95]

I have the A-S2100 and it's still one of the most beautiful sounding pieces of equipment I've owned. And I'm comparing it to McIntosh and Marantz etc. I have alot of equipment and yamaha never fails to impress

[@philipjacobsen6550]

may i ask which mcintosh? i am considering these two brands as well as luxman

[@tjp444]

I just bought a A-S2200 and am VERY happy with it. I'm using it with a Denafrips DAC via the balanced outputs. During my initial test with one of my test tracks I heard distortion. But since I had watched your video I was ready for this. I simply reached over and flipped the switch and bingo, problem solved :-). By the way, even this attenuation switch is a high quality mini chrome toggle switch, when other companies would have just put in a cheap slide switch or something. Nice to see attention to detail like that by Yamaha.

[@SSS-cv7dc]

Just received my Yamaha A-S2200. First impressions: 😱😱😱😱😱 The clarity in unbelievable, it is so reveling and unforgiving. You literally can’t listen to crappy recordings anymore. 🤣🤣🤣 The sound stage is big. The separation of the instruments is AMAZING! The power is more than enough for my B&W 606 speakers. I LOVE IT.

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Congrats, it will smoothenout over time, like 100hours

[@SSS-cv7dc]

@@ThomasAndStereo , Thank you! Yes, sure 👍🏼👍🏼

[@MrKevart66]

As a proud owner of an A-S2200 I have to echo Thomas' review. Although I have not heard nearly as many amps as him, I would concur about the high mid range/ low high bump. Just happens I love it! It sounds incredible. FYI, I have the tone controls at zero. This bypasses any op amps and is a direct circuit. The build quality is beyond reproach. This thing is built like a tank, (50 lbs), and the knobs, remote and inputs exude quality. The VU meters are awesome! The topology is very interesting, (a circlotron as well as mosfets), and one only has to go go to stereopolice on KZbin to see an extremely comprehensive review on an A-S1100, which has a similar topology to get a better idea. The big difference I would guess is the 2200 has a toroidal transformer, although there are more that are beyond this post. I imagine many think Yamaha as a "Best Buy" level amplifier, but rest assured, the A-S series are audiophile level pieces. These are magnitudes beyond consumer level products. Just my two cents. Take it or leave it.

[@kevinpreest3915]

Hi Kevin, would you mind sharing what speakers your are pairing with the S2200 please? Thanks Kevin.

[@MrKevart66]

@@kevinpreest3915 Sure thing. GoldenEar Triton 2's. I listen to just vinyl and have a front end consisting of a Transrotor Max with Jelco 750 arm and Hana EL cartridge. Using a Vertere Phono 1 phono preamp so I'm not using the Yamaha's phono stage, but I hear it is very good. Absolutely love how it sounds.

[@kevinpreest3915]

@@MrKevart66 Thanks Kevin. That sounds a pretty awesome setup! 👌. It certainly is interesting to see what others are pairing with this amplifier and give other tried and proven options. The caveat being the room of course. Thanks again!

[@wa2368]

As a piano & violin player of 30+ years (have owned different pieces from a handful of manufacturers), i fell in love with Yamaha's voicing after i picked up the A-S2100. I sense that Yamaha's musical instruments division and the engineers who voice these units talk to each other and i see where they're coming from. I suppose they have a unique position in the industry because in aidditon to audiophile gear they've also been making pianos and violins all along (100+ years for christ's sakes!). It is impractical for me to breakdown many aspects of pianos and many violins i've owned on a youtube comment. But, let me just say that It is unfortunate that so many people get "conditioned" to the boosted bass/treble v curve that's rampant in lower end equipment when they start off (not to mention the Class D stuff out there as well)..

[@kvrhifi]

👍 well said

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Interesting and nicely said. Thanks for sharing and it will give people something to think about.

[@dudemastermaster8944]

phantasm1004 touché well said.

[@wa2368]

@@phantasm1004 Pretty far from audiosnob. I bought the A-S2100 for around a 1000 bucks used (lucky me indeed). As far class D goes, in my personal experience.it takes a lot of cash to make Class D sound good. But, regular Class AB and some Chinese Hifi Class A can sound great for far less cash. I am in no position to argue this. I will let this compiled list of amp designers do the arguing instead. If you are a greater expert than these amp designers, please enlighten me. audiophilestyle.com/forums/topic/31671-class-d-turns-out-it-does-suck/

[@eetu2532]

@@wa2368 Those comments are from 2012..... Hypex NCore & Purifi have changed the game since.

[@2vintage68]

I own both the Yamaha A S1200 and the Yamaha A S2000 which is two generations older. The A S2000 has slightly more air and natural soundstage and sounds "tube" like in comparison. The A S1200 has MUCH tighter bass and overall more information in midrange and top end. When I change from one to the other after a few weeks of listening I am always very pleased with the sound I hear. They are both great amps in my opinion.

[@charlesking678]

If you only had one, which would you keep?

[@2vintage68]

Given that the A S1200 is about 8 years newer and might have a longer lifespan, probably the A S1200 if one had to go.@@charlesking678

[@Rocket9944]

If you had to choose one which one would you keep?

[@2vintage68]

I would keep the 1200. It is brand new and has a higher resale. But in my opinion the A S2000 is a screaming buy at the seven to 800 dollars they now sell for. @@Rocket9944

[@dfknyc78]

BTW these A-Sx200 measures virtually 100% perfectly on frequency response by an audio precision analyzer, collaborating with Yamaha's published spec of +0/-.3dB on 20Hz - 20kHz. So this means there is absolutely no bump anywhere on the audible frequency range, nor are there any forward sound as described by Zero Fidelity. This measurement was done by Soundstage. My theory as to why so many reviewers describes these A-Sx200 to have "forward" sound is because many HiFi listeners in North America have a cultural preference for bass or "warm" sound. So when they hear something neutral it's perceived that the treble region are too accentuated. Europeans tend to not prefer "warm" sound as much as North Americans, they tend to prefer more neutral sound. This theory is derived all based on my personal experience and observation.

[@connorduke4619]

Interesting, this reminds me that North Americans tend to find European chocolate "not sweet", since the Europeans add extra sugar to their chocolate before exporting it to North America, to compete with super sugary Hershey, etc.

[@Holychickendestroyer]

I’ve always drank the coolaid of “the upper mids/lower treble is accentuated”. This is eye opening because zero fidelity describes it as “emphasis on the upper mids”. But when he compares it he and also Andrew Robinson do it is to mellower sounding amps like accuphase and Cambridge, Luxman. One thing is those upper tier Yamahas don’t have the “natural sound” on the name like the 301, 501, 701 and 801. So that might point at that there’s some coloring of some sort.

[@kohnfutner9637]

I'm a big Yamaha fan. I'm adjusting my Yamaha Aventage 880 receiver right now using your voice, Thomas. Even my mom who is no audiophile appreciates Yamaha and Klipsch.

[@press227]

Hello! Thanks for the shooting gallery video! I bought a Yamaha 2200 a year ago. I live in Ukraine, I write through a translator. I agree with all of the above. The amplifier works in conjunction with SD 3000. Significantly, the sound of both devices, except for inter-unit ones, was influenced by the replacement of power cables. 12mm power cables play better than 4mm power cables. There was an opportunity to test.

[@genaishivatov1737]

Приветствую Вас из Риги ! Скажите пожалуйста, Ямаха 2200 действительно СЧ преподносит более ярко и они выделяются из всего диапазона ? Был опыт кратковременный с предыдущим поколением (A-S1100) и там этого точно не было. Заранее благодарен за ответ.

[@press227]

@@genaishivatov1737 здравствуйте! Привет из Киева! Она звучит так же как и 1100 по тональному балансу. Только глубже сцена, прозрачнее картинка. Думаю, за счет улучшения питания она мало чем отличается от 3000 линейки. В целом на все Ямахи озыв о выраженных ВЧ. Я думаю, что это из за повышенной детальности данные ощущения. Все это решается посредством подбора АС или кабелей, как и в других случаях.

[@genaishivatov1737]

Да, согласен на счёт ВЧ, сколько видел роликов - подключают к каким-то спорным АС с металлизированными или просто слабыми твитерами. Думаю, на хороших, фирменных динамиках эти усилители показали бы всё богатство Музыки.

[@press227]

@@genaishivatov1737 у меня американские SVS Pinacle к ним подключены, с алюминевыми дифуззорами. А у них звук, после шелка кажется ярковат сам по себе. Все решилось подбором межблочников и заменой силовых. Парень, который делает силовые предложил аж 12 мм немецкие, за реальные деньги. Звук поменялся фантастически. Я пишу лишь потому, что это повлияло на весь спектр и на высокие в том числе. В целом, я удивлен на "наезды" на японские бренды, в частности на ямаха. Я сравнивал в магазине и продавцы тоже гурманы, удивлены сказали, что этот уделывает макинтош за 10.000 и еще один гибридник из европы за 8.000 (названия не помню). Цитирую: "По всем параметрам и в одни ворота". Единственно, что долго грелся. Слушаю музыку тихо. Долгие месяцы ушло на великолепный бас, который может выдавать Ямаха. У меня еще 4 стойки с аппаратурой, так что это не то, что "уши привыкли". Так же долго грелся и Денон 1600. Поэтому тут без мистики.

[@musiconvinylisbetter.1449]

@@press227 so you belive that the power cable affect the sound. Can you explain that?

[@JG259-io4yd]

Thomas, After watching and reading everything I could find on the new Yamaha integrated amps A-s1200 through A-s3200. Found your review of the 2200 to be the most thorough and informative, specifically the email from Yamaha comparing 1200 and 2200 and the survey on before / after break in tone difference. Watched your review many, many times for about 10 months and the week before Christmas 2021 decided to go for the AS-2200. It replaces my 40 year old Yamaha R-1000 (100 WPC) driving 1981 vintage Infinity RSa's and 1984 vintage RS 6/b's music source is apple music and Yamaha WXC-50 So far I'm extremely pleased with the 2200's sound. Your reviews are entertaining and not saturated with meaningless audio snob terminology. Yamaha owes you a commission for closing a sale. Great job keep it up.

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Thanks for the heart warming feedback.

[@narcistimofte6448]

Hi! Do you stil have the a s2200? How you compare this to the vintage one? I m interesting to buy an as1200 and currently have myself a vintage unit.

[@JG259-io4yd]

@@narcistimofte6448 Yes I still have the 2200, The vintage amp that I have is a 1981 Yamaha R-1000, in general the 2200 has great sound, and has the classic Yamaha "Natural Sound" characteristic of the late 70's CR-440 through CR-2040 series and the early 1980's R-700 through R-2000 series integrated Amps. I have never listened to one of the mid 1970's CR-1020 through CR-3020 series to be able to comment. The New 2200 doe's not have a loudness control feature that my R-1000 had, nor the spatial Expander Function. That was only on the R-700 through R-2000 units. I have not yet used the XLR inputs on the 2200. the only source used so far is a Yamaha WXC-50 and apple music and I phone music library, which is what I was using with the R-1000 that I removed from service in Dec. 2021. The R-1000 has much more in the tone control - Bass, Trebble, Presence (Midrange) as well as Loudness, and Spatial Expander (imaging compensation for room influences). Main reason for replacing my R-1000 was that it made scratching sounds when turning the volume control and other tone controls and sometimes made crackling sounds in midrange frequencies, I assume due to 40 year old capacitors and other compoents in the output stages which are integrated non serviceable pieces. I'm driving old Infinity RS5/B speakers 3 way - 4 ohm, 88-89 dB - sensitivity level speakers rated by mfg to operate in the 35 to 125 Watt power range with no issues. Short answer after all of that, so far really happy with the 2200 remote control is one of the best features, The Yamaha "Signature Sound" of this unit is as expected strong in the midrange.

[@mikechivy]

Im so fricken happy you reviewed this. Im a massive fan of Yamaha and feel they're easily one of the best "value" amps

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Nice, it is great when we have more options to choose from and there are a lot of hidden gem out there like this one.

[@cameronkrause4712]

I am glad that you put so much emphasis on break-in. It can really surprise one as to how significant it is.

[@robmills537]

Hi Thomas that certainly is a beautifully built amp it must have been a pleasure to review.

[@ThomasAndStereo]

You bet!

[@Curi0u50ne]

my as501 has gold plated connectors, and that’s a cool amp even at its level. The as301 was given high reviews it’s known as a giveaway amp due to its cost against its overall performance. Yamaha amps are outstanding across the range. MSRP : manufacturers suggested retail price...thank u Siri

[@nl_2652]

These reviews have come such a long way!! Gorgeous video.

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Thank you so much!

[@Elop74]

I have the AS 2100 and my old JM Lab Focal Eletrcas 926, i am happy to have this combo 😎

[@marcusaurelius2988]

warm?

[@Elop74]

Its not getting to warm 😉

[@marcusaurelius2988]

@@Elop74 Is the sound on the warm side?

[@Elop74]

Sounds smooth n light warm

[@dominicvalois]

Yet another great review! Look and finish of this amp is impeccable!

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Glad you like it!

[@JFK-1984]

I have the AS3000 and i love it. This is my 5th Yamaha amp. I come from Rotel but like the sound of Yamaha more.

[@Chapterrifik]

Great review Thomas... Love Yammy's since my younger day when I would record in studios. I had a vintage CA-410 nothing wow factor but special. In the future I will surely own a yammy again.

[@ThomasAndStereo]

I would say at least the AS1200 and up.

[@Chapterrifik]

@@ThomasAndStereo after hearing the setup with the NS-5000 at the Montreal Audio Fest 2019 I was blown away. Maybe you should consider reviewing them loud speakers. That would be interesting 👀

[@mrrandy1]

I recently bought the Yamaha AS 3200 and love it. Hoping next year if I can afford it to buy the Yamaha separates C5000 and M5000 as I was told that you can hear a difference.

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Congrats. I was supposed to review the AS3200 actually. I am curious the difference.

[@mrrandy1]

@@ThomasAndStereo I sure hope there is a difference as I had to pay an additional $3,500.00 for the AS3200.

[@mrrandy1]

@@rickp6731 yes Rick, $20k for both is very expensive for just a little improvement

[@joshuamirabal8405]

The Yamaha will always have the truest voicing of any amplifier. There are no boosted frequencies. If you need a bass boost then turn the bass knob up. The so called mid-range bump you mentioned is just because the high and lows are recessed to where they need to be and allowing the mids to shine through and not sound veiled.

[@monkeypunker]

At 16:54 you finally point out the thing that is most important, at least for me. And the drums and bass, you mention that too. So great review again, thank you.

[@reflux1986]

Already liked the video, but I'm going to comment as well because this is a superb piece of equipment. I own the A-S2100 and it's glorious, the sound that comes out of this is awesome, just enough punch and attack to feel engaged but no treble hiss at all. The MOSFET-design sounds kinda tube-like but with the best of both worlds, especially male vocals and midrange pop a bit more making it exciting. I own a pair of 90db sensitive speakers and my watt-usage according to the meters never goes above 10W, and by then it's as loud as I can manage. I'll probably own this unit for the rest of my life, unless Yamaha comes out with a new range of much better products.

[@narcistimofte6448]

@@preude1 are you saying the older series (1100,2100), are better than new series ? Because of that MOSFET amplification? I'm interested to buy a new a s1200 , but I haven't heard the a s1100

[@rompstar]

Looks nice, I have the B&K 125.2 amp I picked up for $200 and I love it… nothing fancy to look at, but it sounds great and with my EPOS ES14 speakers, I have found my nirvana, really have no need to change anything with this particular system anyways, now I am upgrading the DAC, cheers!!

[@oysteinsoreide4323]

Nice way to test break-in. Good work. The sound was much cleaner after break-in to my ears.

[@ericm.5753]

What a great review...and very good idea to approach it on a slight different angle. It is quite rare when I don’t fast forward a review video...so bravo !

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@juliangst]

0:47 I think it’s the first time you said msrp instead of mrsp. I’m proud of you ;)

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Haha. My memory is so bad and I googled that so many times but keep making mistakes when I start filming.

[@lokerola]

Wow, it really sounds good through the Focals.

[@bobking7347]

You should review the 5000 flagship power amp or the flagship 3200 integrated, great review as always, very relaxing.

[@aceofspades6667]

Great video and review! This is a great example where T&S, TNTB, ZF, and NRD sharing gear and swapping opinions/feedback helps us all. We get the same gear 3 reviewed by 3 guys who all have different preferences & opinions. But they share information and rather than giving us 3 reviews regurgitating the same takes we get incremental content from each channel. So if we go to buy an AS2200 we are all well informed of almost every aspect of the product. Very helpful stuff! Now Sean and Thomas need to do a detailed series on the Spatial Audio M3 Sapphire chain.

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Thanks, I am tempted to ask for the M3 after watching Ron's review on it. Shipping will cost them an arm and a leg to get it to me.

[@aceofspades6667]

@@ThomasAndStereo Well Clayton Shaw from Spatial should have some Mktg budget free'd up from not attending all the trade shows this year. Plus your channel as well as Sean's would be right up the demographic of folks that would buy a speaker in the $ range where other reviewers might specialize on more of the budget end... I know he did Spatial M3 Sapphire + Lampizator Amber 3 dac and forget the integrated amp he did in the series.

[@ThomasAndStereo]

@@aceofspades6667 That would make sense. I guess I will eventually reach out to Ron asking him for an introduction.

[@marcfoss7687]

...the Four Musketeers! :-)

[@kloyster]

What a lovely review. Thank you Thomas!

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Glad you liked it!

[@SSS-cv7dc]

Great video. You were pretty instrumental in me buying the A-S2200. Thank you!

[@ChrisCeeKayKelley]

I REALLY wish someone would review the Yamaha R-N803 - It's really feature packed. But, I'm glad KZbinrs have finally started reviewing Yamaha :-) cheers.

[@walterpen371]

A bump in the midrange means for the money they cheaped out on adding the vintage midrange control. I still own the vintage CR-820.

[@artsound8638]

Superb review, and great comparisons to the McIntosh and the Cayin 845 - this approach really helps provide context. I hope to get some Yamaha amplifies in to Art&Sound, in London, in the future at some point!

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Glad it was helpful! Nice high production value youtube channel you have there!

[@gavincheng0394]

Among the Japanese brands, there are also Accuphase, Luxman and Denon. The first 2 brands only produce high end amp, so I see them as high end specialist.

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Yeah, I should be getting the accuphase and luxman in for review too.

[@deekay2]

You should do a new Yamaha AS2200 vs vintage Yamaha CA-1010 (about 1/4 the price, made in Japan quality, and VU meters) comparison video.

[@ChristianGoergen]

Finally someone appreciates the sound quality of film music/scores for listening comparisons.

[@marcfoss7687]

Great review Thomas, I've been waiting for this one, thanks so much! I enjoy your natural and engaging presentation style, always nice to listen to! You pretty much answered all my questions (fears and concerns) and really helped me to get my head around this amp. I am really looking forward to audition it and hope it will prove to be a good long-term marriage partner! :-) Also, fascinating to hear the results of your listening test, amazing that the additional break-in time changed the sound quite dramatically (at least to my ears). Keep up the great reviews!

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Thanks, glad the video gave you some new perspective on this amp.

[@cremersalex]

Smart movie from Yamaha with their VU meters. Roaming the used markets, I've noticed people go crazy for vintage receivers that have VU meters.

[@robk5745]

Thank you for proving break in, all the internet pirates running around explaining how it’s not possible, need to be stopped.

[@musiconvinylisbetter.1449]

I believe that even cables need a break in period.

[@robk5745]

@@musiconvinylisbetter.1449yes sir

[@exif6839]

Yamaha A-S2100 in Combination with Heissmann Acoustics DXT-MON. The perfect match. And the best is: they are mine!

[@kinkias]

U did it Thomas! You proved break in is a real thing!

[@musiconvinylisbetter.1449]

Break in! What breaks in on an amp?

[@markfischer3626]

You said one sentence. I counted 7. You get A for your review and F for keeping your promises. :-)

[@decoryder]

The Focal/Yamaha combination sounded absolutely stunning. Yes, way forward, but in a good way. I love forward sounding systems, but more often than not the forward sound comes with excessive 'ringing', which is an instant dealbreaker. The Focal/Yamaha combo had none of that, just a wonderful energetic and lively presentation. Thanks for the review Thomas, as always... damn, that sounded good... must resist the urge to buy that combo, otherwise there will be beatings from the wife...

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Yeah, I was surprised by the combo with the Focal myself.

[@decoryder]

@@ThomasAndStereo Ok, just ordered some Tekton Lore's with BE tweeters, funny enough Jay just reviewed those speakers:) If I survive the wife's inevitable yelling/nagging about yet another speaker pair, I will post a video review comparing the Zu Audio Omen DW2 and the Tekton Lore sometime around x-mas.

[@Baron_Blue_Max]

I'm using an A-S2000 with Focal Chorus 726's and they sound stunning. Previously was pairing the Focals with a Peachtree 125SE and before that a Cambridge Asur 851A

[@audiopath747]

There are some amplifier without round volume knob like gryphonaudio. Those are not for me. I think any amplifier must have vu-meters and big round volume knob, bigger is better. I like watching dancing vu-meters. The AS2100 has awesome design.

[@romainmarchese9935]

Just beautiful... good back face , ...

[@BigFarm_ah365]

The A-S2100 was exactly the type of integrated I could only dream of when I bought my first system, so it was exactly the integrated I got when I finally ditched the surround setup and got a stereo again.

[@Holychickendestroyer]

Great review. I really like the looks of this amp. Specially in silver.

[@nathanjones4039]

A-S2200 review It’s been a long road, a journey if you will, due to the unfortunate circumstances of COVID it’s proven to be a bit longer than I had anticipated to write up a full review, as I’m still waiting for my CD-S2100 to be delivered, as of writing this it’s on back order, may have in the next few weeks? So bare in mind, my assessment in my opinion is somewhat compromised by the evaluation only using a CD-S300, this amp is capable of so much more with a better source, but as of now I can attest to at least the following: I’m writing this first and foremost as a Yamaha owner, and a fan of the brand, so the following may or may not be biased. I’ve owned many different Yamaha AVR’s, 2 channel stereo receivers, and 2 channel integrated amps over the last 20 years, but my focus on audio shifted some years back from Home Theatre back to my roots of 2 channel stereo listening. For this review, this will be a direct comparison between my last amp, an A-S801 compared to my current iteration of the A-S2200. Upon immediate notice, first note worthy thing I noticed from the A-S801 to the A-S2200 was the more pronounced mid range the 2200 had over the 801, more authority of the soundstage, more control over the bass and transients, I mean the 2200 is quick, fast, and accurate and can stop on a dime, and when it does, a very eerie dark black background emerges. The soundstage has grown a bit in size as well with the 2200. The 801 mainly danced about between my speakers, imaged really well, laser focused phantom center channel, so how could the 2200 possibly be better than this? Well, the depth between front & rear wall has grown by at least 2 feet, the soundstage width now extends beyond my speakers clear to the dimensions of my room which is 15 feet by 13 feet with 10 foot vault. Upon a vast diversity of genre selection via CD and LP I have noticed a lower noise floor, like theres no noise there at all. My speakers are 96dB efficient, with the 801 there was just a touch of idle hiss on the tweeters between passages or when swapping media, but with the 2200, it’s dead silent, like zero, zip, zilch, there’s no audible hiss what so ever, there’s such a deep dark background that the music just emerges from, its spooky good! A direct comparison of the built in phono stage between the 801 and 2200 proves the 2200 takes Yamaha engineering up a notch or three...there’s literally no surface noise what so ever, at least at the level I listen at. I’m relatively a low level listener, I value my hearing, usually levels between 60-80 dB max measured in my room with a cheap probably inaccurate iPhone app, but it’s within ballpark of these levels. With the 801 while listening at my usual levels, there was just a tad of surface noise, now I’m not referring to the Rice Krispy pops of vinyl, that’s up to the user to clean your darn LP properly, I’m referring to the sound of the stylus upon the LP itself as it spins. In between passages with the 801, you could hear the stylus in the groove of the LP until the next track started, or in the run out groove on an LP, you’d hear just light surface noise of the stylus on the LP, with the 2200 playing same dB levels, the phono stage represents little to no surface noise, quite remarkable in my opinion with a built in phono stage. Here’s where things got a little interesting. While doing some real critical listening one evening, house was ultra quiet, room was dead silent I started to notice a buzz/hum from the 2200, of course I got worried and did some trouble shooting, posted a poll to fellow owners, users of the known associated amps in this class as to whether or not this was normal or if they had noticed any pick up on their units, to my avail, I was the lone survivor in this and started to research what could cause this hum. Upon my research, I concluded through vast forum threads, phone calls and emails to Yamaha, my conclusion was that there was a possibility of DC on the mains, in other words; direct current on the main line of AC within the home that can cause toroidal transformers to hum, in essence what can happen is the slight deviation within the AC electrical current 60/60 in and out for the 120 (respectively) if its off even just slight, say 61 in, 59 out, it can cause the windings within the laminate of the toroidal transformer (Ei Core too) to vibrate, hence-hum. This can happen regardless if one has a power-line conditioner, which I do, OR a dedicated circuit, which I do as well, so I was perplexed with a high dollar Panamax unit and a dedicated 20 amp circuit just for the stereo system itself, I was inclined to think it was the 2200 that was causing the issue, but alas it was not...I took a gamble and bought a device for DC offset (Humdinger @ AVAHIFI.com) plugged it into the Panamax and the 2200 into the Humdinger, problem solved, dead silent. I only side tracked from my initial review to let others know, as this may be an issue for others if you got less than stellar AC provided by your utility company. (Please note, said hum that I speak of, it’s in reference to mechanical hum, from the chassis itself, not to be confused with hum emitted from the speakers, that would be a ground loop hum, two totally and entirely different entities.) (Some causes of DC, low voltage devices in your home; dimmer switches, light bulbs, fans, air conditioning units, power fluctuations from neighboring homes) So, with Humdinger plugged in, away I go... I have about 27 hours on the amp at this point, not many hours in my opinion to really access, but this is an ongoing candid review, I can say at this juncture however, vocals are becoming more “breathy”, there’s a bit more decay on notes, you can really hear the harmony in some singers voices, Daryl Hall, Mark Knopfler, Stevie Nicks come to mind. The notes on Miles Davis trumpet just seem to travel further and further into the abyss, it’s quite amazing what great Yamaha equipment and a great mastered recording can sound like!! Approaching 50 hours on the A-S2200 the CD-S2100 was implemented into the system. Now we’re talking, the CD-S2100 really smoothed out the top end over my previous CD-S300, not that the CD-S300 had a shrill top end, it did not, but the 2100 adds finesse where the 300 just couldn’t, cymbals now sound more natural less metallic, strings have a very soothing sound, horns and trumpets sound more authentic, drums have a very robust presence. The CD-S2100 has a very warm, detailed signature, very analog like. The connection mating between the A-S2200 and CD-S2100 was done with Canare Star Quad balanced XLR cables at a 1 meter length (3 feet). The balanced connection provides a rich dark background from which music just emerges from, this allows such a quiet, low noise floor that I hear details in recordings I’ve heard dozens of times, that I’ve never heard before. There is such air and separation around each instrument and vocals that it provides a step further towards realism that my CD-S300 was just not capable of with the A-S2200. I truly believe to utilize the benefits of the A-S2200, the source is just as important as the amplifier itself. From this point forth I will obviously continue to evaluate, experience, and enjoy both the A-S2200 and CD-S2100. Myth or not regarding burn in/run in time...it may be an actual thing, it may just be the listener becoming use to or better acquainted with their gear, call it what you will but as time evolves I’m sure the use of both pieces will evolve into something of audio bliss

[@ThomasAndStereo]

OMG, I so envy you. You are so good at expressing your listening experience. Thanks for sharing your story and I loved it.

[@nathanjones4039]

Thomas & Stereo thank you Thomas, means a lot coming from you! I love your passion for all things audio and I’ve been a subscriber for quite sometime. I watch as many of your videos as I can, I really appreciate your channel!

[@kvrhifi]

@Nathan Jones : I had issues with IFI ac purifier . It’s causing some noise to the my Yamaha 3200 toroidal transformer . I also noticed with other components which uses toroidal transformers. After get rid of ifi ac purifier .. all problems solved. Did you try to find what causing DC offset in your home ? Disconnect all appliances and other electronics and only switch on amp . see if there is any thing causing by turning on one by one . also there is a tester to verify all lines properly wired or not . Test it . Why I am saying.. Yamaha requires direct connection from wall . If you add power conditioner or any other .. there is a significant impact on mids and bass.

[@nathanjones4039]

KVR Listening Room yes, thanks of the advice. I had tested everything in the very manner you mentioned, shut all circuits off and the only thing plugged in at the house was the 2200 and the hum persisted. I took the amp to another location and it was still there, but very, very faint, so I assumed some of what I was hearing was by design and Yamaha backed me up on that. I then had the power company come out and they changed all the grounds from my meter all the way back up the line to their transformer and that helped dramatically. What the power company did for me in combination to the Humdinger device I bought, the 2200 is now dead silent! Thanks for your advice, much appreciated.

[@rEdf196]

In 1978, at age 15 I bought a brand new Yamaha CA510 for around $280 It was almost Identical to the modern AS1200 and 2200. it was a great amp, but I would say the build quality was a bit cheaper end on the CA510.

[@LuxAudio389]

You got to get a Luxman 590 or 550 integrated and have a shoot out. 🤠

[@silviopimentel7247]

Yes that's the one I would like to see. Cause I love the luxman

[@LuxAudio389]

@@silviopimentel7247Amen. I love Luxman too. It's unbelievable how good their class A 590 sounds and how well it can drive just about any speaker. I liked it to a smooth ride in a big old-school car, like a Cadillac. Lol. There's a lot of Japanese Secrets in all their pieces. 👍

[@silviopimentel7247]

@@LuxAudio389 yes I have an old luxman & just got a naim 5si but I don't want it cause it doesn't sound as good as the old luxman so now I was going to get the Canadian moon 340i but im really thinking on pulling the trigger and getting the luxman 504 but im kind of stuck cause there's no luxman dealer around me. But there's something I can't explain that luxman has that excites! Very easy & full to listen to. Thank u brother

[@harryt988]

Great review and wonderful presentation Thomas I’m considering the A S2100 Your video helped me make my decision

[@boke75]

"If you don't agree....I got to smack you on the head, man". 😂😂

[@ramblinginmeath4950]

Greetings from Ireland - I am sitting on the fence about the AS1200 - its just about on my budget and I am upgrading from my very trusty Marantz PM6006 - I am old school and love bass and treble controls and the VU meters are always desirable - coupled to the obvious build quality of the AS1200 I am very close to pulling the trigger on my card and invest in what I think may and up as a classic amp .. I use Rega P6 and Monitor Audio Silver 100s

[@screedy1050]

Much of the styling has been copied from the old Akai AA1050 receiver. Some of the knobs and switches are the same.Even the finish is identical.

[@harrisedgar]

I love the fact that you (in particular) got to review this amp... I would have love some more comments on various speakers, I believe in this particular case was key.

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Thanks. originally I was going to include speaker pairing experience in the video but I took it out to keep the video short.

[@cocosloan3748]

Too much money for that amp ! Anyway that speakers are worth whatever you paid for them - and more :)

[@ranbymonkeys2384]

One of the best parts of replacing caps with good ones is listening to them change. I have actually thought I screwed stuff up they sounded so bad at the beginning and after 5 hours sounding amazing. It's not a (well, maybe) kind of difference. Same goes for op amps, they change.

[@dariusmoldovan6202]

stop saying other have already made a review about how it sounds,i clicked on your videos because i eant to know your opinion,if i wanted zero fidelity s opinion i would watch their video

[@ThomasAndStereo]

It is more for other people who don't follow me. My style is I will skip a lot of thing to keep the video short if someone already review it and I agree with. If I don't , then I will spend a bit of time on it. Thanks!

[@scottyo64]

@@ThomasAndStereo I don't mind!

[@Njabuloseh]

Totally agree with you here...it would appear they have a gentleman's to drive traffic to each other's channels, create a monopoly of sorts. It's annoying.

[@Velvet_Torpedo]

Hi Thomas, Great video as always! Re: Your decision decisions question at the end ... I say option C! get a LUXMAN - L-550AxII !!! 😊

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Yeah, they were supposed to send me something to review.

[@MultiKas2010]

Tharbamar, another Stereo reviewer on youtube, reviewed the mighty LUXMAN - L-550AxII last year when he claimed he is on his way looking for his reference amp. LUXMAN - L-550AxII came to his short list for a while. But eventually he said the LUXMAN has all the charms but lacking a bit base.

[@Velvet_Torpedo]

@@MultiKas2010 ​ Interesting I've never heard of Tharbamar. Seems like a humble guy. He seems happy with his set up. I get it, with bookshelves some people might want a little more bass response... but the midrange of the Luxman (all Luxman's really) is so sweet!

[@pliedtka]

How about Accuphase amps?

[@Excelgam]

“江苏卫视”， didn't realize you are also into Chinese talent shows. 😄

[@ThomasAndStereo]

I watch everything!

[@allanauyeung]

@@ThomasAndStereo Have you consider doing reviews in Chinese to target different audience? Do your reviews with Chinese music? I think you have many Chinese fans here in this channel. Have you heard this 18 year old? kzbin.info/www/bejne/jJrZeJporKdrqs0

[@shawnwu3170]

Same here

[@danlu8445]

“If cloud knows” love this song!

[@ThomasAndStereo]

@@allanauyeung Thanks, I will check it out. I guess if you look at chinese channel, feversound is probably the biggest and he has a lot of viewers. Someone did ask me if I can make my videos in Chinese before, I just don't have enough time.

[@reyiiteleco]

I have the A-S2100 and still very pleased with it I use phono, SACD and streaming, the sound is very natural, a true copy of what the engineer did in the studio, I don't like to modify the tone always use it in neutral model, no adjustment needed. Best purchase ever, when the time comes I'll go to A-S3200 :) thx for sharing.

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Nice, originally I was supposed to review the 3200 but since there are not any AS2200 reviews at the time, they offered me to review that instead.

[@steelydanfan100]

Agreed, R S . The phono section is a dedicated one and my A-S2100 is a great partner with my turntable MM cartridge setup.

[@bojcotrojc3096]

How do you know what the engineer did?

[@byronb.]

Sir, please don't use the words "beautiful" and "McIntosh" in the same sentence. Those things are hidious! Lol! 😂 Thanks for the review.

[@hurkamur1]

You're nuts

[@ThomasAndStereo]

'Charming', 'good looking', 'lovely' ok?🤣🤣

[@adaboy4z]

Thomas I recently acquired a Yamaha B-2 from an Estate sale for $300. It's 70s power. It blew me away. I figure this AS2200 is what they are bringing back minus the vfet.

[@Sams911]

made in Malaysia??? I remember when hi end Japanese audios were MADE IN JAPAN.... I'm sorry but for this price, I expect 1st world labor.

[@ThomasAndStereo]

It depends on the quality as everything is relative. At this quality, you will probably need to add another 30% to it with 1st world labor.

[@Sams911]

@@ThomasAndStereo And I certainly would... I think most audiophiles are very conscious of country of manufacture when buying (I know I am)... for one, in Japan they have a crazy sense of pride and work ethic, that even Germans and Americans can't match... I just bought McIntosh as you know, and dCS .. both top shelf items, and US and UK labor is solid, especially at boutique factories like these come from, but if they were made in Japan, I'd actually trust the quality even more.

[@Sams911]

@Jingle Nuts Taiwan and Singapore are in a different league from Malaysia and Indonesia ... and none of them, not even Taiwan are close to Japan...

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Yeah, Japan built quality is amazing, for my circle of friends, it is common knowledge.

[@user-bc6ok1yh4s]

The made in Malaysia is a no-go for me as well. Look's like my Yamaha CA-1000 will be my end times integrated amp.

[@MrPkimura]

Great review! That email from Yamaha was very explanatory -- it clearly noted the differences between the models. Very helpful in making an informed buying decision. Thanks Thomas.

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Glad it was helpful! I was really curious myself.

[@kendallhuseman3685]

Wow the clarity behind those 1008's compared to the Sonata's are huge. Sonatas seem laid back with a wider sound stage using my headphones. Crazy how different the sound signature is between the two. I like the 1008 clarity and impact!

[@ThomasAndStereo]

The beryllium tweeter is known for clarity. One thing I did not do was put the mic at tweeter level when recording from the Sonata so my bad.

[@scottmichaels1764]

This is a real fun review. Sounds like a very nice piece of gear.

[@robertkeefer1552]

I have the Yamaha AX900U integrated amp from 1988. I am not sure if you can compare that to the AS2200, however it pumps out 265 Watts RMS into 4 ohms. The amp sounds wonderful.

[@Rickky007]

If your thinking of using the xlr input , I recommend Mogami Gold series xlr made in Japan lifetime guarantee used by professional recording , live performance ect .

[@vatromet1]

I also love VU meters, they are the eyes on the amplifier.

[@tarekz9992]

Suggestion, do a score card, like Doug Demuro. Use 2 reference speakers you are intimately familiar with, one that is easy to drive, one that is harder to drive (like a 3 way that has potential to generate punchy bass). Use scoring categories like highs, mids , bass and a comments box describing, in 2 sentences, a little detail (ex: highs detailed, not rolled off, upper mids have emphasis, tight detailed bass)

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Yeah I did think about it, perhaps I would do it that way if I decide to go full time youtube in the future.

[@ekiquantameki7701]

Hello. I just bought a Yamaha As 2200, a great toy. I have had a Denon pma2020ae for two years, something like Mr. Pma2000IV. The first 10 hours yamacha plays calmly, wonderful vocals. After about 15 hours, it sounds more aggressive, like a broken Denon. I'll see after 60 hours which amplifier I like more. Regards.

[@onebylandtwoifbysearunifby5475]

The speaker break in was a surprise. The difference between A +B was similar to what i hear when an undersized inductor is used in the crossover of a speaker. More open upper midrange on B. This test shows how difficult it is to pin down a change in sound to 1 component. Yes i guessed it was the speaker itself that changed; but was wrong about the cause. (And i have designed my share of speakers). 😌

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Well, the speakers were also breaking in so it contributed to the overall sound change.

[@russb3n]

Thomas your Kanta and Sopra should be a perfect match combo with the AS2200 at low listening levels I have tested it personally with my AS3000. Also I highly recommend you try the "MAIN DIRECT" with your TUBE PREAMP it works very well with my system. Please note when doing this you will not be able to use the tone controls and other features headphone etc. I use mine like this Chord Dave (DAC MODE) > Feliks Euforia 4 x KT88 QUAD (as preamp) > Yamaha AS3000 (main direct) > Dynaudio Special 40 speakers = HEAVEN ;) There are some speakers that did NOT pair very nicely with it like my old Kef LS50's.

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Could, thanks for the tip.

[@Foxrock321]

Ya know, when you’re the largest music company in the world, and let’s not forget about their motor vehicles division as well,..you have some pretty strong resources at your disposal..Yamahas R&D dept. Is extensive ..so, it’s no coincidence that Yamaha makes kick ass stuff..And that goes for the Vintage stuff too. and I play their Trombone for a living YSL-697

[@craigcoughlin1834]

GREAT photography, Thomas!

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Many thanks!

[@user-tk7kz1fl2r]

Really nice review. I had a Yamaha in my youth and this is a trip down memory lane. They are nice kit and very fairly priced. I did the Krells, Pass Labs, McIntosh, ML, Gryphon over the years, and more. German hi end is exquisite sounding. Check out some brands. I won't mention any as it will sound like I'm plugging them.

[@morespinach9832]

Which German hi end for example? I have the RME dac and love it.

[@DeAudiofilosyLocos]

Great review. I see my old focal speakers, I miss them a little bit

[@gottrekk5798]

Hi Thomas, I have very similar taste of music, speakers and amplifiers. I really like that you are testing the speed of systems/amps.

[@jsmctch]

Great job Thomas. Ya know that high mid characteristic could prove very useful for alot of speakers that may lack in that area. BTW the Focals sounded great. Much better than second ones

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Thanks. The only thing is the focal speakers were closer to each other when I recorded them and also the mic was not at tweeter level when I record the 2nd sound clip. Having said that, in real life, I actually prefer it with the Focal and was very surprised. This is why I always say, you never know until you plug it in.

[@PAULGRILL]

The Wonder Woman Soundtrack Thomas plays is Track Nr. 14 "Action Reaction" - this passage starts at around 5 : 00.

[@Linnjazzy-93]

Great review , love the demo at the end ! Focal sound better

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Agreed!

[@aj9129]

Great coverage. The older gen of these models didn't get much press and it's hard to find out information on them. I almost considered the AS2100 but couldn't pull the trigger due to a lack of reviews. Thank you.

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Thanks for watching!

[@aj9129]

Jingle Nuts I settled on a Simaudio Moon i5.3 instead. No longer looking into Yamaha.

[@steelydanfan100]

@Jingle Nuts The AS2100 has XLR connections. Not sure about the "bigger caps." The AS2100 looks identical to the 2200.

[@JuanLega]

I just got the A-S1200 and it sounds very very good!

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Congrats!!

[@JuanLega]

@@ThomasAndStereo Thanks. This is the first Solid State Amp that I have owned that makes me question tubes....

[@tess6499]

@@ThomasAndStereodid you compare it to the Denon pma 2500ne? And what’s your opinion?

[@syhi7971]

Love the onkyo m5060r meters. Never gets old.

[@MB-uw6eh]

Good review! Perhaps that “bump” in the mid-range was designed by Yamaha intentionally to enhance the quieter passages in a movie soundtrack such as the dialogue scenes which are low in volume?

[@ernieschatz3783]

That bump sounds tailored to the Japanese ear and listening taste, which is more centered around vocals. Also, Yamaha has always placed an emphasis on "natural sound" which to me would more closely mimic a tube amplifier.

[@sizzam960]

The film score that you used has shown me that having my mains and my subs running bass (large on the mains and plus on the receiver) was more muddy than I realized after turning the mains to small with 80hz crossover the bass became much more clear and pronounced if not as loud (Cheers for that), also if your wondering my mains are Pioneer S-T500s and my subs are a pair of Dayton Audio SUB-1200s.

[@pliedtka]

With 80Hz filter the small midbass drivers don't distort because they don't have to handle bass signals. Unless the drivers are very well designed and linear (also expensive), anything below 100Hz makes the spkrs distort way more than in midrange where the cone excursion is very limited. Same as you can not ask tweeter to handle bass.

[@net_news]

OMG I was right about the sound clips!!! It was the burn-in!!! Wow

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Nice!

[@calaf_725]

I had the previous model AS2100 and i liked it but didn't love it. The sound was clean but forward and the bass was lean and not as deep as i hoped considering the size of the power supply. At the same time i had the Hegel H160 and while the Yamaha puts to shame the Hegel in build quality and WAF is off the charts, i preferred the Hegel.

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Yeah, I wonder if the improvement of the AS2200 from the AS2100 will win you over. I did read a review and the reviewer mentioned he was not really impressed with the AS2100 bass but he was with the AS2200.

[@calaf_725]

@@ThomasAndStereo If i had the money it would be a difficult choice between this and the new Denon.

[@calaf_725]

@Jingle Nuts Ar the time i had SVS Ultra Towers. Hegel drove them better with deeper bass.

[@MegaPete]

Thomas i learn alot from you so detail and watch your show allways Thank s Thomas love to show you my system cheers my friend

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Great to hear!

[@rickysnit2163]

So a few things. On the brass debate, it could have been Yamaha was referring to the binding posts. I could see their point that maybe in their tests the extra resistance of brass promotes a warmer sound - that could be, I see the posts as an area of improvement, should be copper in my opinion. Also the sound.. Yamaha used these dipped polypropylene capacitors throughout - kudos to them for bypassing everything by design, I however have not ever had great results with that particular style of capacitor and could look to replace a few of them with an alternate choice better bass, clarity, etc. I think with the A-s3200 they improved the internal wiring - board to post - their site refers to PC-Triple C, which I'd presume to mean Furutech wire. Regardless they used better wire, but if one had an A-S2200, a solid project could be to replace those posts with copper and substitute whatever wire they used with solid core silver, that would amount to a solid model upgrade in itself from whatever model you're starting from. Net, my take is that generally this one, whatever the model, carries an above average quality level out of the box - which is rare - but also as usual the manufacturer leaves behind a few items which causes some question..

[@nebulusnebulus6503]

Thanks for the review. I have had a Yamaha A-S3000 for 7 years. For me it is better to buy an A-S3000 New Old Stock or ex demo than a new A-S2200. What do you get? A substantial headroom factor, a delicious tube touch and an even more powerful, controlled and articulate bass. And last but not least, bigger vumeters!

[@ThomasAndStereo]

I think buying used usually is better value but not everyone is comfortable with the risk. I had a friend who got robbed once ! I also did buy a few things that turn out to have problems :(

[@nebulusnebulus6503]

@@ThomasAndStereo New old Stock products bought in an hi-fi store got Yamaha's full warranty service. To buy second-hand products it is better only to go to real friends. Not only those who buy but those who sell risk because they can have their close friend bothering them forever. Ha, ha, ha.

[@reyiiteleco]

I only buy used equipment, the deals I get are amazing, so far I’ve built an entire hi fi system buying an selling… like from Honda to Ferrari , super fun journey so far..it’s not the destination, it’s the ride 😉

[@Bob.martens]

I have the 1100, and for me it's endgame. My next amp will be a class x.

[@sofarsogoodsowot]

I love the meters, so retro!

[@VinnieMoore1986]

Focal Sound is Amazing🎼🎵🎶👌🏻👌🏻👌🏻👌🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻🎼🎵🎶

[@bclu7343]

thomas, great review, looking forward to R800i as well ! Cheer !

[@pm-kc8di]

Excellent sound. Bravo

[@reylopez4050]

Great vid Thomas.