The Yamaha A-S3000 integrated amplifier features a newly developed high-rigidity dual-structure design that ensures exceptionally pure and precise audio signal amplification. Its base and shock absorbers effectively dissipate and mitigate external vibrations. Each circuit board employs a “floating structure” principle, supported by individual frames to further minimize vibration interference. The power supply unit, which includes the power transformer and capacitors—key contributors to internal vibrations—is securely mounted on a three-dimensional structured frame, reinforced by the front and rear panels. The amplifier circuit board and substantial heat sinks are affixed to the left and right inner frames, ensuring that the power supply and amplifier boards are isolated from one another, with a carefully engineered structure that effectively absorbs vibrations. Additionally, there is ample space beneath the transformer frame, allowing for the shortest possible wiring paths to the circuits. This newly designed chassis optimizes the signal path and maintains low impedance, while also providing high rigidity and anti-vibration characteristics. The outcome is a significant reduction in signal loss and remarkably clear amplified sound.
The Yamaha A-S3000 amplifier features an isolated three-dimensional inner frame that provides robust support for its centrally positioned large toroidal transformer, ensuring optimal weight distribution. This copper-plated inner frame acts as a load-bearing structure, firmly connecting the front, rear, and side frames, which minimizes vibrations in all directions. After thorough analysis of various materials’ sonic properties, including extensive listening tests, brass was chosen for the transformer mount. This selection effectively dampens vibrations from the transformer, contributing to a clearer and more transparent audio experience.
To ensure absolute signal purity and capture the full range of musical nuances—whether delivering powerful low frequencies or the emotional depth of the human voice—we focused on maintaining low impedance throughout the Yamaha A-S3000 circuit. The dual design allows for ample space beneath the support frames, facilitating the routing of power cables from the transformer to the final stage, as well as audio signal cables, along the shortest possible path. This configuration minimizes signal transmission losses, enhances power supply stability during high-demand moments, and ultimately improves playback quality. The three-dimensional inner frame, which supports the transformer, is coated in copper, further reducing ground potential and achieving extremely low impedance. This results in a significant reduction in noise levels and a rich, emotive sound that faithfully conveys the artist’s expression.
The Yamaha A-S3000 amplifier features top and front panels constructed from non-magnetic aluminum, effectively minimizing any negative impact on the audio signal. Following an extensive evaluation of sound quality, the thickness of the front panel was set at 7 mm, while the top panel measures 6 mm. This design choice, combined with a high level of structural rigidity and efficient vibration dampening, enhances the naturalness and three-dimensionality of the sound. The ventilation openings on the top panel are crafted with precision cutting, reflecting meticulous attention to detail. The stylish slits, similar to those on the CD-S3000, are specifically designed to facilitate heat dissipation from the power supply and are proportionate to the size of the internal transformer.
The architecture of the Yamaha A-S3000 incorporates separate preamplifier and power amplifier sections, along with a perfectly symmetrical circuit layout for both the left and right sides. This separation of the preamplifier, which handles low-power signals, from the power amplifier, which operates at high voltage, significantly diminishes noise levels caused by interference. Furthermore, the symmetrical configuration of the isolated left and right sections enhances channel separation and improves the clarity of stereo imaging.
The Yamaha A-S3000 features a design rooted in proprietary technology that utilizes a potential-free symmetrical power amplifier. This design incorporates output elements with identical polarity on both the positive and negative sides of the output stage. Additionally, it separates the negative feedback (NFB) circuits and the power supply into four distinct positive and negative poles for each channel, facilitating symmetrical push-pull operation. By completely isolating the power amplifier from the ground, it effectively mitigates any adverse effects caused by minor voltage fluctuations or interference on the ground bus. Furthermore, the inclusion of MOSFETs contributes to a warm and natural sound profile. The use of MOSFETs with uniform polarity distribution enhances the fully symmetrical design, addressing any inconsistencies in audio signal quality that may arise from polarity differences. This characteristic is fundamental to the potential-free symmetrical power amplifier, resulting in a sound output characterized by an exceptional signal-to-noise ratio and a clearly defined soundstage.
The Yamaha A-S3000 amplifier features fully symmetrical signal transmission. Furthermore, the control circuits of the preamplifier, including volume and tone adjustments, are designed to operate in perfect symmetry, thereby achieving the concept of ideal symmetry throughout all stages.
The layout of the power transformer employs a clever technique to greatly minimize impedance. Unlike traditional designs, the transformer winding is secured to the terminals with screws, which significantly reduces energy losses typically associated with soldered connections. The choice of a toroidal transformer ensures a stable power supply, contributing to a more natural and expansive sound.
To completely prevent any loss of signal energy, threaded connections are utilized for critical components, even on printed circuit boards. In addition to the wired connections for block capacitors in the power supply—essential for handling high voltage—screw connections are implemented at all vital points in the signal transmission path, including where the preamplifier circuits connect to the power amplifier. Wires extend from the output stage of the power amplifier to the speaker terminals, which not only shortens the signal path but also significantly reduces impedance and signal loss.
The high-quality digital ladder volume control used in the Yamaha A-S3000 was specially developed by New Japan Radio Co., Ltd. It prevents the signal from being affected by uneven voltage rise rates (sound coloration), providing cleaner sound and a quick response to sudden jumps in dynamics and impulse sounds.
The turntable amplification circuit features an MC preamplifier and a frequency equalizer amplifier, both designed with discrete configurations. This setup delivers a rich sound characterized by pronounced musicality, effectively supporting vinyl playback on turntables equipped with either MC (moving coil) or MM (moving magnet) cartridges.
The Yamaha A-S3000 boasts prominent level indicators on its front panel, providing an immediate visual representation of the music’s dynamics and pulse. The gentle LED backlighting enhances the overall warmth and comfort of the device. In addition to the standard voltage level (VU) display, the indicators are capable of showing peak levels, allowing users to select their preferred mode. The indicator window is elegantly covered with beveled-edge glass, which is affixed to the interior of the front panel without visible screws, contributing to the unit’s sophisticated appearance.
The Yamaha A-S3000 model exemplifies the elegance expected from premium audio equipment, resembling a finely crafted musical instrument. Its surface is impeccably smooth, with no visible screws, showcasing the meticulous design and construction that Yamaha, a leader in musical instruments and equipment, is renowned for. The amplifier’s cabinet features advanced finishing techniques, ensuring a seamless blend between the top panel and the wooden side panels.
Attention to detail extends to the speaker terminals, which serve as the final connection in the amplifier’s audio signal path. These large-head screw terminals, made from brass, are designed to provide a reliable connection while maintaining superior sound quality. Their elegant design not only enhances aesthetics but also ensures they are easy to grip and require minimal effort to secure.
The user frequently interacts with the controls and switches, so we focused on ensuring they are comfortable to touch, emphasizing both design and texture. The volume knobs, input selector, and other controls, crafted from aluminum, exude a sense of sophistication and luxury. The toggle switches are designed with meticulous attention to detail and texture; their precision engineering ensures a seamless fit with the panel surface, regardless of whether the switch is in the up or down position.
The accompanying remote control mirrors the aesthetic of the amplifier’s aluminum panel, featuring a minimalist design, user-friendly button arrangement, and a pleasing metallic finish. This remote not only allows for volume adjustments and input selection on the Yamaha A-S3000 amplifier but also provides control over the CD-S3000 CD player.
Yamaha A-S3000 Specifications
Min. Power (4 Ohm, 1 kHz, 0.7% THD, for Europe) 170 W + 170 W
High Dynamic Power / Channel (8/6/4/2 Ohm) 120/150/200/300 W
Damping Factor 250
Frequency Response 5 Hz – 100 kHz (+0 dB / -3 dB)
RIAA Equalization Deviation 20 Hz – 20 kHz +/- 0.5 dB
Total Harmonic Distortion (CD to Speaker Out, 20 Hz – 20 kHz, CD) 0.025%
Signal-to-Noise Ratio (CD) 103 dB (S: 200 mV)
Input Sensitivity (CD) 200 mV / 47 kOhm
Dimensions (W x H x D) 435 x 180 x 464 mm
Weight 24.6 kg
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