Took a short break from vintage restoration but back with two fantastic receivers. Pioneer SX-838; the bigger brother of the SX-636 that was done a month ago. This unit boasted a factory 50wpc into 8 ohms and maintains that warm factory sound. This unit is in great shape and actually “works” pretty well. Both channels are strong and equal but not quite up to spec. There are some very notorious problem kid transistors in here and they need to go along with a good recap of the electrolytics.
Sansui 881 is one of the major underappreciated units of the early 70’s. Deep tube like warm sound with a huge soundstage. Factory rated 63wpc into 8 ohms gives it plenty to drive hungry speakers. This unit is coming in functioning but with a low 60hz hum and no where near factory power. It will get the right treatment and be returned to its former glory. Ground issues in this era Sansui is common or leaky filter caps should take care of the hum.
First up will be the Pioneer and many pictures to come. Next post should be preliminary bench test and overall inspection. To give a taste here are a few nude shots of the EQ, protection, power supply, and tone sections.
