Athena Sales Brings Vintage Sansui Amplifiers Back to Life, Delivering Audiophile Sound to a New Generation

Bainbridge Island, WA – November 8, 2023 – Athena Sales LLC, a boutique audio equipment restoration and sales company based on Bainbridge Island, Washington, is making waves in the audiophile community. They're not building new amps – they're resurrecting legendary Sansui amplifiers from the golden age of audio, bringing that warm, powerful sound back into living rooms across the United States. “We’re a small operation, really,” says the founder of Athena Sales. “But we’re obsessed with quality sound, and we believe the original Sansui amplifiers – particularly those from the 70s and 80s – just hit differently. They weren't built like anything today. It's a feeling, you know? That rich, full sound. That’s what we're trying to share.” Why Sansui? A Legacy of Audio Excellence Sansui, a Japanese audio manufacturer, earned a legendary reputation for its commitment to high-fidelity sound reproduction. During the 1970s and 80s, the company produced a series of amplifiers that are now highly sought after by collectors and audiophiles. These weren’t just boxes making sound; they were engineering masterpieces. Models like the AU-717, AU-517, AU-9900, and G-series (G-7700, G-9700) are considered iconic – but finding one in good working order can be a real challenge. “These amps were built to last,” explains the Athena Sales team. “But after 40, 50 years… things wear out. Capacitors dry up, transistors fail, potentiometers get scratchy. A lot of units are sitting in attics or on eBay in need of serious TLC.” Athena Sales: More Than Just Restoration That’s where Athena Sales comes in. They don't just buy and sell old Sansui amps. They restore them. It's a painstaking process, and it's what sets them apart. “We completely disassemble each amplifier,” they detail. “Every component is inspected, tested, and either cleaned, replaced, or rebuilt. We use high-quality, audiophile-grade components when replacing anything – often exceeding the original specifications. We aren’t just getting it working again, we're making it better than new.” The Restoration Process: A Deep Dive The team at Athena Sales isn’t shy about the level of detail they put into each restoration. The process typically includes: Complete Disassembly: Each amplifier is carefully taken apart, documenting every screw and component. Cleaning & Deoxit Treatment: All chassis parts, connectors, and switches are thoroughly cleaned. Contact points receive a Deoxit treatment to eliminate corrosion and ensure a solid connection. Capacitor Replacement: All electrolytic capacitors are replaced with new, high-quality equivalents. This is crucial, as old capacitors are a common point of failure and drastically affect sound quality. Transistor & Diode Testing & Replacement: Each transistor and diode is tested, and any failing or questionable components are replaced. Potentiometer & Switch Cleaning & Lubrication: Potentiometers (volume, tone controls) and switches are disassembled, cleaned, lubricated, and adjusted for smooth, reliable operation. Bias & Offset Adjustment: Critical adjustments are made to ensure the amplifier is operating at its optimal performance level. Rigorous Testing: Each restored amplifier undergoes extensive testing, including signal tracing, frequency response measurements, and listening tests, to verify its performance and sound quality. Cosmetic Restoration (Optional): Athena Sales also offers cosmetic restoration services, including chassis cleaning, polishing, and wood cabinet refinishing. “We don't cut corners,” emphasizes the founder. “It takes time, it takes skill, and it takes a genuine passion for audio. But the results speak for themselves. When you fire up one of our restored Sansui amps, you’re hearing what the engineers originally intended – a powerful, warm, and incredibly detailed sound.” Popular Models & What to Expect Athena Sales typically offers a rotating selection of restored Sansui amplifiers, including: AU-717: A popular integrated amplifier known for its warm, musical sound and excellent value. Perfect for smaller to medium-sized listening spaces. AU-517: Similar to the AU-717, but with slightly less power. Another excellent choice for a vintage sound experience. AU-9900: A flagship integrated amplifier renowned for its powerful, dynamic sound and sophisticated features. A true collector's item. G-7700 / G-9700: These G-series integrated amplifiers represent the pinnacle of Sansui's engineering prowess. Known for their exceptional build quality, elegant design, and audiophile-grade performance. “Prices vary depending on the model, condition, and level of restoration,” explains the team. “But you’re not just paying for an amplifier; you’re paying for years of experience, meticulous craftsmanship, and a guarantee of performance.” Why Choose a Restored Sansui? In a world of disposable electronics, the appeal of a restored vintage amplifier is clear. Superior Sound Quality: Vintage Sansui amps are known for their warm, natural sound that many audiophiles prefer over modern designs. Build Quality: These amps were built to last, with high-quality components and robust construction. Investment Potential: Well-maintained vintage audio equipment can appreciate in value over time. Unique Character: A restored vintage amplifier adds a touch of history and character to any audio system. Sustainability: Restoring existing equipment is a more sustainable option than buying new. Getting in Touch with Athena Sales Interested in bringing the warm, powerful sound of a vintage Sansui amplifier into your home? You can contact Athena Sales LLC at: Address: 1110 Cherry Ave NE, Bainbridge Island, WA, 98110-3950, UNITED STATES Phone: 606-226-6123 They encourage potential customers to reach out to discuss their specific needs and preferences. “We’re passionate about what we do, and we love helping people rediscover the magic of vintage audio,” says the founder. “We’re not just selling amplifiers; we’re sharing a piece of audio history.”