First, just a brief backgounder on my personal sonic preferences.
If given the choice on all Sansui integrateds, the AU111 (first incarnation twin-colored knobs) would be top of the list without batting an eyelash. But since the Sui tube units are not included in the choices, let’s put the 111 aside for a while.
Yes the 9090db would definitely make it to my shortlist. Technically, this is a receiver though- but for the sake of discussion, isama na rin natin. The 9090db packs the power to drive most speakers. It has that vintage warmth that suits my preference. Often compared to the Marantz 2325, It lacks the midbass bloat of the 2325 that I usually look for in an amp - but nonetheless a stellar performer.
http://bb3blog.wordpress.com/2012/12/10/marantz-vs-sansui/I had the privilege of living with the G9000 for a few months when it was one of the candidates to power the speakers we were going to exhibit for the 2010 Nov HiFi Show. The other contenders were the Sansui 9090db and the Marantz 2325. I had the chance to amp-roll these three during that period. My personal pick was the Marantz, with the 9090db a close second. I’m sure a lot of fans of the G series would want to hang me upside down for this, but I found the G9000 a bit “hard” for my tastes – more solid-statey, if I may use the term. Anyway, I was outvoted by my other partners so we chose the G9000 for the show.
The Sansui triple digit series – The AU555 and 666 was truly a revelation for me. Don’t be fooled by its small footprint. These are very open sounding amps presenting a wide and deep soundstage. I have not heard the AU999 yet, but if the sonic signature is similar to the lesser-powered units, it would definitely be worth considering.
The AU9500 is one of my favorites. It has both the punch and midbass bloom that suits these ears. Not as open sounding as the triple digit series but still presents a very good soundstage. Unfortunately, I had to let go of this when I was offered a price I couldn’t refuse. Would love to have one back again.
The Sansui X1 is a lean but very clean sounding amp. Maybe a little too lean for my tastes though. I don’t know why but it somehow reminds me of the Cello in its sonic presentation. My good friend Sandawa has the X11. In fact, I think he has two of those. So I’m just concluding a marked improvement in the X11 as compared to the older X1.
The Sansui alpha series is a different class in itself. Just take a look at the insides of one of these and you can see why these units are so special. Even for someone, who is “technically challenged’ like me, gazing at the innards is jaw-dropping. I only have the alpha707 so I’m sure those in possession of the alpha907 are definitely happy campers. Yes, they do sound great!
http://bb3blog.wordpress.com/2013/01/30/the-sansui-alpha-series/The AU20000 for me, is the best compromise. It has the openness of the triple digit series while retaining the bloat of the AU9500. It is as clean-sounding as the X1 and alpha series with a dash of musicality for good measure. And yes, at 170 watts per ch, it has the power like a ’73 Camaro on an empty freeway.