The Pioneer SA-600 is a stereo amplifier designed for high-fidelity audio reproduction. It is available in three distinct versions: KUW, KCW, and FVW, each tailored to specific regional electrical standards and regulatory approvals. The KUW model operates on 120V and is UL approved for the U.S.A. market. The KCW model also operates on 120V and is CSA approved for Canada. The FVW model offers a 5-position voltage selector (110V, 120V, 130V, 220V, and 240V, switchable) for 50-60Hz operation and is SEV approved for Switzerland.
Function Description:
The SA-600 serves as the central hub for an audio system, amplifying low-level audio signals from various sources to drive loudspeakers. It incorporates both a preamplifier section for signal processing and a power amplifier section for output. The front panel features a comprehensive array of controls for source selection, volume, tone adjustment, and special audio effects.
Important Technical Specifications:
Power Amplifier Section:
- Music Power Output (IHF): 100 Watts (4Ω), 70 Watts (8Ω).
- Continuous Power Output (each channel driven): 31W/31W (4Ω), 25W/25W (8Ω).
- Continuous Power Output (both channel driven): 20W + 20W (4Ω), 19W + 19W (8Ω).
- Power Output (20Hz to 20kHz, both channel driven): 13W + 13W (8Ω, Harmonic Distortion Less than 0.5%).
- Harmonic Distortion: Less than 0.5% (Continuous power output).
- Intermodulation Distortion: Less than 0.5% (Continuous power output).
- Power Bandwidth (IHF): 10Hz to 50kHz (8Ω, Harmonic Distortion Less than 0.5%).
- Frequency Response: 15Hz to 70kHz, ± 1 dB.
- Input Sensitivity/Impedance (1kHz, Continuous power output): 420mV/70kΩ.
- Speakers: 4 to 16Ω.
- Damping Factor: 30 (8Ω, 1kHz).
- Semiconductors: 21 Transistors, 8 Diodes.
Preamplifier Section:
- Output Voltage: 1V (Rated output), 3V (Max.).
- Harmonic Distortion: Less than 0.1%.
- Frequency Response: 20Hz to 30kHz, ± 1 dB.
- Input Sensitivity/Impedance (1kHz, for rated output):
- PHONO 1, 2: 2.3mV/50kΩ
- MIC: 3.3mV/20kΩ
- TUNER: 200mV/95kΩ
- AUX 1, 2: 200mV/95kΩ
- TAPE MONITOR 1, 2: 200mV/95kΩ
- Recording Output:
- TAPE REC 1, 2 (Pin jack): 200mV
- TAPE REC (DIN connector): 30mV
- BASS Control: -15dB, +13dB/50Hz.
- TREBLE Control: -10dB, +9.5dB/10kHz.
- LOW Filter: -6.5dB/50Hz.
- HIGH Filter: -8dB/10kHz.
- Equalization Curve: PHONO: RIAA S.T.D.
- Loudness Contour: +13dB/50Hz + 7dB/10kHz with Volume Control set at -40dB position.
- Hum and Noise (IHF):
- PHONO: More than 80dB
- TUNER, AUX: More than 95dB
- Channel Separation (1kHz):
- PHONO: More than 50dB
- TUNER, AUX: More than 55dB
Miscellaneous:
- Power Consumption: FVW 145W (Max.), KUW and KCW 55W rating.
- Dimensions (overall): 16-15/16in./430 mm (width), 5-11/16in./145 mm (height), 13-1/4in./337 mm (depth).
- Weight: Without package 19 lb, 9oz/8.9kg; With package 24 lb,/10.9kg.
Usage Features:
The SA-600 offers a user-friendly interface with clearly labeled controls on its front panel.
- Input Selector: Allows selection between various audio sources including PHONO 1, PHONO 2/MIC, TUNER, AUX 1, and AUX 2.
- Tape Monitor: Dedicated switches for TAPE MONITOR 1 and TAPE MONITOR 2 enable real-time monitoring of recordings or connection of external processing units.
- Tone Controls: Separate BASS and TREBLE controls allow users to fine-tune the frequency response to their preference or room acoustics.
- Balance Control: Adjusts the relative volume between the left and right channels.
- Loudness Contour: A switchable feature that boosts bass and treble frequencies at low listening levels to compensate for the ear's reduced sensitivity to these frequencies.
- Filters: HIGH CUT and LOW CUT filters help remove unwanted noise such as record hiss or rumble.
- Mode Switch: Selects between STEREO and MONO playback.
- Speaker Selection: Independent switches for SPEAKER A and SPEAKER B allow users to connect and select between two pairs of loudspeakers.
- Headphones Jack: A convenient front-panel jack for private listening.
- Pre-Out/Main-In: A rear-panel switch allows the preamplifier and power amplifier sections to be separated, enabling the insertion of external equalizers or other signal processors, or using the SA-600 as a standalone preamplifier or power amplifier.
- AC Outlets: Switched and unswitched AC outlets on the rear panel provide power for other audio components.
Maintenance Features:
The service manual provides detailed instructions for maintenance and repair.
- Disassembly: Step-by-step instructions are provided for removing the top cover, bottom cover, and front panel, facilitating access to internal components for servicing.
- DC Balance Adjustment: A procedure is outlined to adjust the DC balance of the power amplifier section using an audio generator, oscilloscope, and V.T.V.M. This ensures optimal performance and minimizes distortion.
- Idle Current Adjustment: Instructions are given to adjust the idle current of the power amplifier section using a DC V.T.V.M. after a warm-up period. This is crucial for maintaining proper transistor operation and preventing overheating.
- Circuit Diagrams and Parts Lists: Comprehensive circuit diagrams for the unit connection, head amp unit, control amp unit, main amp unit, and power supply unit are provided. Detailed parts lists for miscellaneous components (capacitors, resistors, potentiometers, switches, semiconductors) are included for each regional model (KUW, KCW, FVW), aiding in component identification and replacement.
- Packing Procedure: Instructions for proper packing are included, which is useful for safe transportation or storage of the unit.