★ *QOTD: Did we make the right call in updating the SX780?* ★ *Love our conversation/outtakes? Be sure to watch to the end* ★ *COMMENT RULES: Please be respectful. No outside links, URLs, email addresses, etc. Violations are automatically deleted.*
I LOVE the fact that: 1. You updated this unit. 2. The fact that it is possible to make these kind of updates. I love having stock vintage equipment around (not gonna lie, none of mine have been restored) but I think it is neat and fun idea to be able to update them as you did here with Just Audio. GREAT VIDEO!!!
You’ve done the best possible thing with the 780. By modernizing it you enabled yourself to use it more and therefore bring you more joy, and that’s what matters.
Dude, you said something about 15 mins in that literally bought a tear to my eye and a lump to my throat..... I have ALL of the vintage gear I grew up with from my Dad. It was bought a year after I was born in the early 70’s and it wasn’t just the music played on it, but the sound it created and the memories we had together. My Dad, now sadly passed, always loved to tinker, play and modify, adjust and so on and he passed his love of music but also the gear on to me. As a family, it was special moments created when listening to that gear that stick with me. I still use the turntable. I still occasionally use the speakers. They were good, very good back in 1973. They are still good now. The TT is my pride and joy. I slowly but surely acquired the gear over time around about 25+ years ago and it became mine. It was as if my Dad was passing his legacy to me, slowly but surely, knowing it would be taken care of and kept with pride. And it is. And that bit 15mins in? That’s what resonated......music IS the soundtrack to our lives. I can put a story, time and place to almost every single vinyl record and CD I own and it tells the book of my life. And to hear that story being played out on the gear that has a history and story of its own AND sound fantastic, even now.......yeah. You got me man. You got me right in the feels. I cracked at that point. Nailed it. This is brilliant guys. That SX is something to treasure now. Something you can start telling your own stores with. Treasure it. Enjoy it. Love it
I have just experienced this. I had my dad and mom’s 45 year old Marantz system restored. Running on Klipsch Cornwall IV. The sound is amazing but the memories it brings back of me watching my parents slow dancing in front of it is beyond price.
I appreciate the humanity you both bring to the subject, and especially in THIS video. I feel like I know you both a bit better now, and that’s a nice experience to have from this end. There is a lot of heart here- something that I think is absent a lot of the time in audio “reviews”. Thanks for doing this ❤️
Even I was starting to well up and become misty-eyed hearing Kristi off-camera and relating to her emotional connection to that Pioneer SX-780 receiver as not merely an audio device with some new 21st century modifications, but as a family heirloom in a way that provides so many fond family memories and which will provide many more wonderful memories to come. All the best always, Andrew and Kristi. :)
So awesome. What you and Kristy/Christy (sp?) have going on is awesome. This video brought a year to my eye. Having an ailing Dad, who made me a 3rd generation HiFi nerd, I feel this. So awesome. Thanks for this channel. 🙌🏼
i try to watch videos till the end ,hi-fi either than cars are my hobby i´m european and don´t even like to watch soccer games as you call it, in reality football also people get crazy in my country because CR7 or cristiano ronaldo is portuguese, i would prefer CR-7 ,the nakamichi cassette deck, maybe the only from this brand that works good
@@andrewrobinsonreviews Im being completely serious here Andrew, I can't explain sincerely enough how much I appreciate your honesty in all of your videos. You are a breath of fresh air in an arena of corporate drivin nonsense ! Well done my friend, you have my respect !
This is one of my favorite videos, or maybe my favorite video of you guys. It is incredible how vintage music equipment, especially if it has been a family piece for decades, can transport us to other eras and connect us internally in a way that no modern piece is capable of doing for now. I am very happy that everything turned out well with the modding of the Pioneer. You are one of my favorite channels, since I relate a lot with your way to view things. I also enjoy this beautiful world of audio and video with my partner, and I feel that you reflect that complicity of being able to share this world with the person that one loves, in a wonderful way. Congratulations!
Andrew you made a great choice in having that pioneer restored and modified. You gave it a new lease on life and future proofed it somewhat. However the most important thing is that you did something that your wife will remember and appreciate the rest of her life.
This project quickly changed from a cool idea to a love letter to Kristi as soon as we got it back and heard it on the LaScala's. We were in tears. This is what the hobby is all about!
I know exactly how you all feel. I have my Dad's marantz 2225 reciever. He passed away in 2014. He was my best friend. I love him and miss him very very much. His stereo is my prized possession. Keep up the good work. This video really hit home.
@@andrewrobinsonreviews My grandfather just past recently and I have been cleaning out his basement. I found a Sansui 441 and want to restore it and keep it going. I wanted to know fit u know anything about this model and if it was any good back in the day? I was born in 79 so its way before I got into loving stereo and home theater seeing it came out in 1974. I did the same thing as you and plugged it in for just a second to see if it would power on and if the lights work and everything worked but didn't connect speakers. It is missing the trouble knob which I found on eBay for $12 $9 shipping I don't know how it costs $9 to ship a knob🤔. Also the trouble rod is bent do you think I would be able to bend it back or would I have to buy that too. Thanks in advance for any advice you can give me You have a new subscriber love your vids❣
One of the most beautiful and meaningful videos I've ever watched in my entire life... I feel as though almost every person who's passionate about this hobby can relate to the emotion of your process and end result. Keep up the awesome work and continue to be safe.
Hi I’m 48 yrs old and I grew up with this receiver . My parents still have it after watching this video I decided I’m going to pick it up and added to my own collection of home audio. Awesome video thanks 🙏
Watching this video sparked my interest in vintage HiFi. I was looking on Facebook marketplace, and found a local listing for a Pioneer SX-780. It had been listed on there for about a month or so. It was originally priced at $500, then lowered to $400. I messaged the owner, and went and looked at it, and listened to it. I knew it looked awesome in the photos. It was even better in person. It belonged to the seller's sister who had bought it brand new. It has been very well maintained, and even serviced, and cleaned. I got it for $350, which I believe is a steal, given the fact that it is in like new condition. I absolutely love it. It is by far the best piece of audio gear that I have ever owned. I have an external DAC hooked up to it for TV audio, and a Bluetooth adapter hooked up to it for playing music via apps on my phone. I'm powering a pair of transmission line towers with it. This is the first time that I have ever been satisfied with the tone controls set in the flat position. This thing rocks, and has more than enough head room. I barely have to turn the volume up.
"KRISTI'S TAKE" was amazing! Everything is about memories and sentiment and I mostly like people who openly express their feelings the way you both do, apart from any "machinery" thing.
I'm 64 years old bought my first pioneer six 780 in 1978 . Biggest mistake I made was giving it up I'm still regretting it today . Been hunting for another 780 . Best damn reciever I've ever owned and I owned a few . Nothing even comes close to it . I had it paired with technics SB-L200 and a pioneer PL518 turntable loved that whole system it kicked ass .
Never mind lump in the throat; I’d gone before Kristi started speaking! How beautifully emotional. Some things have heart, soul and personality. This receiver seems to be one of them. Enjoy it and thanks for sharing.
Kristi's take is priceless. We do get attached to the historical artifacts from our lives, to be able to bring them back from the scrap heap and give them new life like this and bring them forward in time to still be with us is super cool. I say well done and kudos to Just Audio - amazing work. Check their video on this project as well ;)
I must have watched this five or six times... it's just everything I love about vintage hi-fi. You can't escape the history, you can't escape the classic design. It also reminds me of how much fun, how much joy my own vintage journey has taken me on with my Luxman R-1050. Nowhere near the mods you did, but still, resurrecting a beautiful vintage beast back to performing at its very best. It's my first major upgrade,and I was only able to buy it and restore it because of the money I inherited after my dad passed - so it's special to me, it's emotionally charged. It's something that brings me such immense joy - that's what this hobby is all about. Your videos reflect all of that, and they're warm and brilliant - and honest and just great. Thanks Andrew and Christy!! Awesome.
Excellent video l have a passion for vintage gear and it's so nice to see more people finding this. These old stereo products are the audio history that need our respect and passion. Thus by doing this we can help make a better future for the audiophile hobby. Thanks for the video
Good job Andrew, you brought back a piece of Kristi's cherished memories and made it possible to make new ones. When she needed a minute to compose herself, I almost cried, Thank you.
This is pure, pure gold. Love it. The idea to restore and even modernize vintage hifi has always tempted me, but doing it with a deeply personal object is so so much better. You absolutely did the right thing, and they did an amazing job. This will carry the memories of old while creating new ones. Wonderful.
Great story.. So happy for you. I restored my dad's old SX-737 and am enjoying it regularly hooked into the PC , FM, and vinyl. Not my main system but it holds more sentimental value so I know where she is coming from.. Worth all the work to do it for sure !
The industrial design esthetic of the golden age of audio has only gotten better with age, Andrew. That receiver is beautiful to look at. It is amazing to think it was a typical example of the many brands that were available back then.
Thank you Zack. We do our best to keep the focus on what we feel is most important and that is one's connection with music/movies more so than obsessing over gear/specs.
I think it was definitely a good thing to modify the receiver. The fact that it was part of the family makes it all that much more great. I wish you many years of listening pleasure with it. I was so moved by the video that I'm at a loss for words right now. Good bless and enjoy.
Hi guys, Christie had me tearing up listening to the emotion in her voice. I could see in my minds eye, her traveling back in time to her living room and the emotional connection she had with the music. Very special review. Thank you for sharing the journey. Isn’t this what music is really all about? The memories, the feelings even the smells and visuals. WRT the modifications you made, again it’s all about the enjoyment and I know you two are going to use and enjoy the receiver more with the changes than if you had left for it “stock”. Thanks again for sharing, brought back many memories of me listening to my families Curtis Mathis all in one entertainment center
Absolutely amazing! There’s nothing like the feeling of a restored piece like that! Amazing video as well! I always enjoy your content and look forward too it every week! 🙏😎👌
Thankyou so much, too the birth of you, for who you are and what you do. I have fallen in love with this channel for how genuine you are and how enjoyable these videos are. This has become my go to for indigenous in this field, and I truly enjoy what you do. Thankyou both again.
"...and to do all of that and not have it blow up, ..." This right here made me smile. Kudos to Andrew's project vision as well as to the guys at Just Audio for pulling this off.
I felt awfully silly crying to a hi fi video, but I couldn't stop thinking about my mom's old receiver; then Kristi came on and I felt pretty validated. :')))
I’ve got a SX 780. It works like new still. My dad bought it for me in 1980. Total work of HI FI Art and craft work. I will never get rid of it. Nice to see this video. Cheers!
Great video. My Dad is still running the sx 1980 that he bought new. It was restored by Ring Audio in Toronto Canada. He has it connected to a pair of JBL L220s and it sounds awesome.
Wow, the L220s are bit out of my range (spiritually) but I'm having the SX I picked up at a garage sale restored similar to what's covered in video. I had L100's back in the 70's and miss the aesthetic so considering picking up a pair of L52 bookshelves. My set up will be in a home office so space is limited but hoping that the L52 would be an option to integrate. I may be wrong!
Kristi's story about growing up with a 780 is practically the same as mine. As she was recalling it, I was checking off the boxes. When you reviewed the La Scalas, I mentioned that I was planning on buying a working 780 on EBay while I restored Dad's old unit. I bought the EBay unit, I had it working for a few weeks, and then the left channel input died. This video has inspired me to have Dad's restored by a professional, probably no mods for me, and I'll use the other one to tinker on and restore myself.
Amazing something I have wanted to do for years old school meets new the only way to go. And memories I don’t care what anybody says it will always makes it better. To hell with the haters.
I'm not a social media, tweeter guy. But I had to comment. Ok. My eyes started to produce excessive moisture (happy memories) during your wife's explanation of what her fathers receiver meant to her. I was immediately transported back to my childhood. I was about 10 when my father bought his Pioneer QX-949/A. I was there to help/watch my father set his system up for the first time and play Neil Diamond, recorded in 4ch stereo, through floor standing EPI's using a DD Dual turntable. I became an audioholic at that precise moment. I never roasted a tweeter (my brother did though and I got blamed for it) but I rocked that system all through my teenage years. My father understood that of me over time and has passed that system on to me. Complete with his music library and .........everything. Original boxes, original purchase receipt. WOO HOO With respect to your modifications to the SX780, good on you. I've been wondering how to incorporate my dad's system into our home. What you did to your Pioneer should be a model for others to "modernize" older equipment to be used, enjoyed, and passed on to the next generation. That said, it makes me wonder what the pioneer would sound like connected to his Infinity Kappa 8's. If I modify his 949 and showed him what it can do, with the mods, would he want it back? I agree with resto-moding vintage stuff. It's no fun/good if you can't use it. and besides, vintage adio equipment is soooo pretty. Thank you for the video reviews you do. Very insightful. Cheers from Canada!
The amp belongs to you guys. Giving it your personal touches makes it that much more meaningful. Anyone claiming that it's heresy to mod "your" equipment has no leg to stand on. I say it's great to give vintage gear a modern touch.
Andrew, this video really touched me in a special way. Let me explain why. Music is so deeply engrained in the fabric of my life that it’s difficult to even describe. During my first year of college, I bought my first stereo system. That first purchase was on 7/2/1970 because I still have my original receipt and I used that system through my college years and through my first two years of work after I graduated. While I was in college, I became good friends with the owner of the local audio store near the school, and he allowed me to use his listening rooms whenever I wanted as long as no customers were using them. So I was able to audition all sorts of equipment and over that time and it helped me decide what I wanted to buy when I graduated. After college when I started working, I saved up every single penny I could because I wanted to buy my “dream” system. On 8/26/1976 (again I still have the original receipts) I bought my 2nd system which was my “dream” system at that time. Over the years, I have listened to many new systems and all sorts of new audio gear, and I even bought some new gear from time to time. But now almost all of the interim equipment is gone. But the important point is that I still have all my original components I bought in August 1976 and I use them daily. It’s a McIntosh MA6100 integrated amp, a McIntosh MR 77 tuner, a Rega Planar 3 turntable with a Shure V15 Type III HE cartridge, and a Tandberg 3000 reel to reel. It’s all original, and I’ve been meticulous in caring for everything over all the years and there isn’t enough money in the world to buy this system because as you described in the video, all the memories of my life are an integral part of that system. I added an Apple Tv to the integrated amp via an audio extractor for streaming, but I find I enjoy the turntable more often because I still have all my original vinyl collection I started when I was in high school plus everything I’ve purchased over the years. Now using my original receipt from 1970, I’m assembling the very first system that began my journey so long ago. I found the receiver (Sony STR 6040) at Just Audio and I found a nearly mint pair of Wharfedale Linton speakers and they are being shipped to me as I write this message. I’m still looking for the turntable and I can’t wait to get that first system back in place. At that point, I’ll have both of the systems that represent my whole life in place to enjoy. I could hear the emotion in Kristi’s voice as she talked about what it meant to have her vintage receiver back again. I totally understand. For so many of us, this passion goes much, much, deeper that most people realize. When we are young and as we age, it’s quite literally about creating the memories and the soundtrack to our life. Now for me, it’s about truly enjoying the music in a way that only comes from being a certain age and now I hear those memories through my heart instead of just my ears and it’s even more beautiful than ever. You have a fantastic channel and I look forward to every new video. Hopefully you're inspiring a whole new group of young people to get involved in music the same way we have. I can assure them they won't be disappointed and perhaps one day in the future, they’ll be able to hear their own soundtrack and relive their memories with that special emotion that only music brings to the experience of life. It just doesn’t get any better than that.
Having a fully restored (and modified) 1978 Sansui AU-717 at the heart of my system (driving $6000 modern speakers) I fully relate. I have not found something better for my ear. Great video!
@@andrewrobinsonreviews A lot of great reference in the Sansui line. But as you both said, the main thing with vintage gear it's how you connect emotionally with it ... It really worth putting the effort ($$) in fully restoring them. My Sansui and my 1983 Oracle Alexandria MK2 are everything I could ask in audio equipments.
This is the most personal, touching, and insightful episode I've seen so far! Thanks you two for sharing your wonderful experiences on this one---at a rather deep philosophical and emotional level. Andrew, you actually drove a clear and important point here: that the equipment (and music) we use are also time machines which allow us to travel to the past and (re)experience those important events, ambience, and emotions----again and again. Thank you for driving that message--to keep focusing on what is really important when listening!
Beautiful video, Kristi and Andrew, sometimes (most of the time in the audiophile world) we forget why we fell in love with this hobby and why it's all about the music and the shared experiences that comes with it, this was so touching to see.
I have the Fischer 175 that I grew up with. What a beautiful sound. Sounds so good I am hesitant to get it re-capped. This video has me reconsidering that though. And Kristy - I heard your emotion in this. I feel the same way when I hear my vintage receiver sing classics my Dad and Grandad listened to. Miles, Cotrane, Thelonious, Brubeck. But in modern times also Khruangbin. Vintage is amazing. Thanks Andrew for all your excellent videos. All music has beauty and feeling. Keep it coming.
That was a fun video. The fact that you were able to give the Pioneer receiver a new lease on life and not have it end up in a landfill is wonderful. I remember those big silver receivers back when I was a teenager, and Pioneer was top of the game for most people.
Pioneers were everywhere during that era. I never had one myself, partially because Pioneer was always too expensive for my budget when I was a kid, but man did I want Pioneer!
Andrew - just got offered an SX780 / completely serviced, tested, all switches and pots cleaned and lubricated with Deoxit, and the wood veneer has been redone, stained and polished with warm white LED's installed for $400.00 . Think I should jump on this?
One of your best pieces yet, had me in tears too remembering back to 1972 at 4 years old in England listening to stereo on Mum and dads akai reel to reel so vivid, my brain felt like it was doing summersaults as the music created new wiring and pathways in my head ! Had soo much audio, currently enjoying B&W 702s2 with all the matching gear you can imagine, cheers from Queensland Australia 🇦🇺 ✌🏼ps ... my 7month granddaughter who had music since conception lights up and smiles and bops up and down when she hears music.... one happy Pop !
Hello I have a Pioneer SX-780 that I bought in 1978 when I was 16 years old. I looked in Consumer Reports at that time to see what would be the best stereo for my dollar. And if I remember right, it was SX-780. I have enjoyed the receiver ever since, The only problem I've ever had is that I've not been able to afford speakers that can handle the power output or know which speaker to use best. I had a meter hooked to the stereo and the output was 150 W per channel peak with chopping at 120 W . I've only taken this stereo in twice to have it cleaned and checked out. There were a few things that needed to be changed, but besides that, I was told that it was in really good condition. I didn't have anything capped or whatever they do Sometimes. I've always wanted a Pioneer SX-1980 I just don't have $10000 for that Monster. I did buy special cables about 3 or 4 years ago so I could hook my MP3 player to the stereo so I can play my MP3 through the receiver, And I do see they make a cable that goes from RCA to HDMI. I may buy one of those. I do have, which I bought in 1994, a Pioneer D903-S Receiver I have hooked up to my TV, But I do have to say with older speakers like I have, the Pioneer SX-780 sounds better with the older speakers, I would love to hook my SX-780 to the Pioneer HPM 150/1500 speakers Just to hear the sound. If I could ever afford those. Thank you for the video, and I hope you read this message.
@FooBar Maximus When I took the receiver in to get cleaned I asked the Electrician to hook a meter up to it, It peeked around a 150 W But the chopping point was around 120 W. Electrician said that was pretty amazing for this model, But he wasn't surprised because he Had worked on a SX 1980 Is who's power was higher than the ratings . So I tend to believe him because he had been working on stereo systems and owned a stereo shop for over 50 years.
@@tobybeau2112 Well, i've had my 780 since '79 and i know from everything i've ever read on it these receivers were definitely more powerful than the 45 watts per channel they were rated at back then.Just how much more powerful i'm not sure but since i've never dared turn the volume knob past half way for fear of blowing out my speakers it's more than enough to suit my purposes.
This was your best video ever. The thought of updating a cherished family piece, and updating so you can get another lifetime of use out of it is simply amazing. Plus, I'd love to have this thing..... I think there's an old Sansui in Dad's garage.......
Thanks for informing me on what I already knew 😂. My Father bought a 780 for my younger brother back in 1979. It's served him until the early 90s and was paired with many different speaker systems. When it was given to me I was a professional musician so out of curiosity I hooked it up to a pair 15in evm loaded in Perkins cabinets with the giant aluminum Bell JBL horns on top the power and the sound that receiver put out was nothing short of amazing. So I decided to use it for a home stereo and connected it to an older pair of Peavey Internationals with a 15-inch scorpion with the rx22 horns and played master of reality by Sabbath, besides Black Sabbath playing in my home every picture that was hanging on the wall ended up on the floor😂 over the years that amp has served as a monitor and for my band as a power amp for my Guitar Rig and we have done a and b comparisons with some really expensive amplifiers and we always came back to the 780 because it just has a magic sound that is so true to life it's scary. And don't let that 45 Watts fool you. I had to use it in place of a Crown XLS for our monitors on stage and the singer asked me what I did because she could hear herself perfectly. I am 61 years old I have been in professional recording studios I have heard $100,000 Infinity reference I have heard Westlake audio I have heard BMW Polk Carver the list goes on and on. Is it the best sounding there is no but it's not very far off and you would pay thousands of dollars to achieve the sound quality of this amplifier if it's paired with the right pair of speakers. I vote the 780 as the ultimate receiver that the average Joe can afford.
Great video guys! It immediately brought to my mind the memories of my father's The Fisher X-100 B, that I used for many years and unfortunately was stolen from storage. Now I own a Kenwood KA 7100 with its original wooden case and a Sansui AU 6600. Both in great original condition still sounding amazing. Even considering that I bought them in ebay and there is no personal history attached, I believe the beauty and quality built of this amazing pieces of vintage electronics compensate any possible little advantage in sound clarity or neutrality of a much more expensive modern amplifier. They sound amazing, look great and their quality is outstanding, that's more than enough for me.
Thank you both so much for this... I'm nearly 50 y.o. and the whole 70's hi fi era makes me particularly sentimental a.f. both uncles of mine were hifi guys, growing up with them putting on Rush or Black Sabbath , AC/DC, Rainbow etc and sticking me in their primary listening place all I can remember is being completely emersed in the sound stage, the quality, the warmth etc... all I've been dreaming of lately is finding a Sansui or Marantz quadraphonic from that era and doing similar mods that were done on your beloved sx780. Now I'm going to patiently wait for a decent example to list on Reverb or EBay hoping to land a Sansui QRX-9001 or similar. You Guys Rip🔥🔥
And after watching the video, I want one even more. My father in law had an SX-550 and that's what my wife grew up listening to music on. I'm saving up and want a restored 780 and some Klipsch Heresy speakers. I"m also going to surprise my father in law with a 550 at some point. I know it is from nostalgia, but there is just something special about the silver face Pioneers. Also, mod the hell out of it. Nothing wrong with making something old work well in modern times.
It was just 2 days ago I was watching my 6 yearold dancing to the music 🎶 being played on my old Kenwood receiver and I was speaking to my wife about my memories as a child racing home from school late 80s so I could so turn on the stereo on all to myself and be dancing the world away to a tape or the radio . The nostalgia can be so intoxicating so I could relate and I felt every tear every emotional word said or what had difficulty being said. Let my just simply say, best audio file post ever. The true meaning to why I watch was truly expressed. The memories and the emotions that music brings to us priceless and timeless.
Oh, this is really one of your best videos so far. I always enjoy your vintage related topics and while I would not have gone the modification way you did, I also don't consider this to be any kind of heresy, especially considering that it is has special memories to you but the model is not unique by itself. I still have that actual Shure pickup that once was on my parent's turntable when I started to get interested in records at the age of 3. That's my little piece of memories I still keep. You are actually responsible for me having caught the vintage Kenwood bug. And now, six amps (yes, that's 6) later I am considering to post a review myself, maybe in a few months. Just listened to your video via my latest fully re-capped Kenwood via hooked-up external Bluetooth receiver. Great job!
Restored my father's (now my) Yamaha CR-2040. What an incredible receiver. Huge soundstage wide and deep and 125 watts per channel. Now it is something I can pass down. Vintage!!!
You are lucky. My dad had a Yamaha 1020 with 1970s Heresy's. Something popped on the Yamaha in 2000. He got rid of it for a newer lesser Yamaha. I wish he had kept the broken 1020. At least we still have the Heresy's...
Love this episode. I hope my kids feel like you two feel about a parents legacy. They grew up with their parents music playing constantly in the house and car..and they do appreciate that as they've thanked me for the exposure. Be well.
Personally, I would have kept the Pioneer SX 780 original. My older brother gave me a Sansui 881 Stereo Receiver that sat in his basement for 25-30 years along with the SP-2500 three way speakers. Fortunately I' am a retired tech and looking forward in restoring the receiver to it's former glory.
In 1976 my dad came home with a pioneer sx5580 (European version of sx1050, only in black)and two hpm 100's. I think the first day he had it I asked him if when he dies do I get the stereo. 10 years ago he gave it to me. Not to worry, he's still kicking around. I maintain it in pristine condition. Every time I turn it on I hear him in my head to not turn it up passed half way. I also see my mom dancing away with the single pane widows flexing in their old house. It takes me right back to my childhood. It's an emotional attachment now not only for me but my kids as well. Im happy to see that I'm not the only one. Best video by far.(and they're all good)
Without prices, this doesn't mean much. How much did the overhaul (which *anyone* deciding to buy vintage needs to factor in) cost? How much more for the mods? If you spent $5,000 on the project it's interesting, but quixotic. For $500, or even $1,500, that's another story.
Your friends vintage prices are a tad high .... for us old guys, the fun of this stuff is finding it in the wild, FB Marketplace, Craigslist, etc. Probably 15 years ago, I got a pair of JBL L300s for $150. I quite literally was so excited that I threw up on their front lawn a little...
Amazing. Silver faced pioneers are a treasure. You didn't ruin anything with some mods. It seems to me you took a family heart/ soul/ time machine, and equipped it to " come with" you into the future. So emotionally satisfying. Well done to both of you.
So what did all that work cost? I have an SX980 that I paid 450 to have restored. Worth every penny. The guy removed and replaced every little electronic "bit" inside it. I have a huge bag of parts that he took out. It sounds great. I then had my Marantz 2240 done as well as my Sansui g-5700. You may laugh, but to my ear, the Sansui sounds better than the 980. It's a tad brighter, and crisper to my ear. The Marantz? Just great from A to Z but I am not an audio geek who can explain everything. I just turn 'em on and smile. I have ZERO interest in new gear. I'm an old man now who used to troll stereo stores when I was in HS, just dreaming about what gear I'd buy if I had more money than a guy delivering newspapers could save up. This gear gave me a chub when I was 16 and it still does today. My kid is going to inherit a motherlode!!
Fantastic segment Andrew. The fact that it made Kristi tear up like that and strike such a big emotional chord is worth every penny you spent to modernize this. Still amazing what Just Audio did to make this vintage piece versatile for your family's lifestyle. Well done!
Awesome content! You made the right call upgrading & restoring. Excuse me if I missed this but how much did it cost to restore roughly. They don't make them like they use to with nuts & bolts but damn we sure have come a long ways. I personally like the old school look.
Just finished watching this video to the end. Andrew, clearly you made the right choice to restore & modify Kristi's father's Pioneer SX 780. Andrew, All your videos on equipment are very insightful, but this one touched me as I'm certain it touched many of your viewers on another level. Well done Good on You.
thank you so much. This hobby (to me) is about more than gear. This video and project was very special to me and I hope to do something even bigger for someone else next time.
What am amazing video AND concept. I believe you guys will be starting a trend, vintage receivers converted to AIO modern unit with streaming? That's F'n cool! I wonder what you would think of the NAD 3020 sound signature compared to one of these units? I don't love the look of the 3020 but I love what people have to say about its sound and has always picked my interest. Anyway, congrats for that great video, I'm loving your channel more every time!
Thanks so much! Appreciate you tuning in. I hope more people find new and creative ways to live with and enjoy their vintage gear. As for the NAD, I'm not familiar with that piece so I cannot say for sure how it compares to the 780.
@@andrewrobinsonreviews great, thanks for responding and good luck with your channel. Been a fan for a few years and it just keeps getting better. Such a great balance of information we now get from multiple reviewers and I certainly enjoy the unique spin and amazing storytelling that you guys bring. Cheers!
What a fantastic project. Kudos to you and the guys @Just Audio. They do great stuff over there. The restoration video on their channel was fantastic. But I have to say the best part about this whole thing was listening to Kristi's response about how she felt about the Pioneer. There is nothing quite like having an emotional attachment to a piece of audio gear that gives you joy. The cost of a restored Pioneer SX-780 for the person you love? Priceless
Great story...I bought a SX650 in 1977, after saving up for several months . The ole Pioneer was 179.00, real money in 77. This unit has been in use since then. Recently it lost the right channel, so I put it away until I found some one to repair it. Now back in working order, I have passed it on to my Grandson. He got the unit, owners manual, and the original receipt from 1977.
Kristi, I was sobbing right with you! Andrew don't second guess yourself on the modifications! This is the reason I watch your channel (not just for the specs on each piece of gear). It is how you and Kristi both share how you truly feel about each item. I don't feel like I am watching a video when things progress to a personal level like they did in this one and many of your other videos. It is like I am sitting in your living room having this discussion in person. Thank you for saving this work of art (yes I consider these works of art). I just restored a Pioneer SX750 because of the memories of my youth that every time I turn it on come rushing back to me. Those receivers of that era are what helped me to become a DJ, to be able to share the joy of music with so many people. Please keep up the great work. I look forward to you finding more vintage gear to restore/review like how this one has brought so much happiness to yourself and Kristi. I have 2 mottos in life now, the first is "We are in this crazy thing called life together and together we will get through it". Second "Remember the only one who has to like the sound of your system is you!" Thank you again!
So glad you had this experience! Your comments about it being special now to you two and how the music you're playing together have brought you joy were spot-on. I am lucky enough to live in Baltimore and Just Audio is my go-to local shop. Just bought some KEFs and an integrated from them, and they couldn't be more knowledgeable or easier to deal with. So happy for you
I've been anticipating this video. Glad you hooked up with Just Audio as Lenny and all the staff are top notch. They have been my go to for the restoration of my vintage collection and are some of the nicest people on the planet. Visiting their shop is special and you need to add it to your list of things to do. You also touched on something I've been talking about for years. Vintage equipment is not always the best but it invokes emotion, has a personality, and brings the listening experience to a new level. Well done, you have a new fan.
That's when you know, it's a piece of the family, memories are strong and so amazing that ya just shaking your head while hearing and feeling the music.
Wonderful video, Andrew and Kristi. I can totally see why Kristi was so moved - this audio equipment is about so much more than the sum of its parts - it is evocative of childhood memories, perhaps of a time long gone...of people long gone...that speak to us of happiness and love. I know these recollections are very personal and specific to our own soundtrack. My Dad's Beogram 1203 was a thing of wonder to me as a child; excitedly rushing around listening to Ultravox before the Christmas when I got my first system, or listening to Queen's Greatest Hits Vol One as a freshly baked teenager. Happy memories. A few years back, I inherited the Beogram and, when my nine year old son suffered heart failure, we spent time together in the hospital ward's garden, lovingly restoring the Beogram to its former glory. It now sits in my son's room, a reminder of happy times past and how lucky we are to be together. Wow! That's a lot on one piece of kit, but Kristi's reaction resonated with me. You're a great team...thank you.👍❤
You went all the way with the restore ! Bravo 👏 A very emotional 😭 video. As a strong proponent of vintage audio I am @oldschoolaudio on Instagram I was really waiting for this video and it delivered on every level. I got into this hobby because I wanted to recreate my Dad’s system from my childhood and it has escalated from there. Now that he has been diagnosed with Parkinson’s our audio bond is even more important. We listen together and it is time well spent. Thank you for your insights and content.
I love that you did this. I finished getting my Luxman l-100u completely overhauled in 2020 and I absolutely love it. I thought about trying to modernize it, but decided to keep it as original as possible and connect a streaming preamp to it for the new digital workloads. The look of the SX-780 is just gorgeous! Mine is my forever amp, and I imagine yours is too. Congrats!
★ *QOTD: Did we make the right call in updating the SX780?*
★ *Love our conversation/outtakes? Be sure to watch to the end*
★ *COMMENT RULES: Please be respectful. No outside links, URLs, email addresses, etc. Violations are automatically deleted.*
I LOVE the fact that:
1. You updated this unit.
2. The fact that it is possible to make these kind of updates.
I love having stock vintage equipment around (not gonna lie, none of mine have been restored) but I think it is neat and fun idea to be able to update them as you did here with Just Audio.
GREAT VIDEO!!!
@@poanesbitt Thank you so much! We love this piece and the updates have proven to be well worth the effort!
You’ve done the best possible thing with the 780. By modernizing it you enabled yourself to use it more and therefore bring you more joy, and that’s what matters.
@@spitfire83 You get it! Thanks for tuning in!
i love the pioneer sx line i have sx 1980 and 1280 owned them for more then 30 years
Dude, you said something about 15 mins in that literally bought a tear to my eye and a lump to my throat.....
I have ALL of the vintage gear I grew up with from my Dad. It was bought a year after I was born in the early 70’s and it wasn’t just the music played on it, but the sound it created and the memories we had together. My Dad, now sadly passed, always loved to tinker, play and modify, adjust and so on and he passed his love of music but also the gear on to me. As a family, it was special moments created when listening to that gear that stick with me.
I still use the turntable. I still occasionally use the speakers. They were good, very good back in 1973. They are still good now. The TT is my pride and joy. I slowly but surely acquired the gear over time around about 25+ years ago and it became mine. It was as if my Dad was passing his legacy to me, slowly but surely, knowing it would be taken care of and kept with pride. And it is.
And that bit 15mins in? That’s what resonated......music IS the soundtrack to our lives. I can put a story, time and place to almost every single vinyl record and CD I own and it tells the book of my life. And to hear that story being played out on the gear that has a history and story of its own AND sound fantastic, even now.......yeah. You got me man. You got me right in the feels. I cracked at that point. Nailed it.
This is brilliant guys. That SX is something to treasure now. Something you can start telling your own stores with. Treasure it. Enjoy it. Love it
❤️ Thank you so much for watching.
Memories is all we really have. And keeping them alive and relevant is crucial to a life worth living. Beautiful video.
I have just experienced this. I had my dad and mom’s 45 year old Marantz system restored. Running on Klipsch Cornwall IV. The sound is amazing but the memories it brings back of me watching my parents slow dancing in front of it is beyond price.
I appreciate the humanity you both bring to the subject, and especially in THIS video. I feel like I know you both a bit better now, and that’s a nice experience to have from this end. There is a lot of heart here- something that I think is absent a lot of the time in audio “reviews”.
Thanks for doing this ❤️
Thank you so much!
Even I was starting to well up and become misty-eyed hearing Kristi off-camera and relating to her emotional connection to that Pioneer SX-780 receiver as not merely an audio device with some new 21st century modifications, but as a family heirloom in a way that provides so many fond family memories and which will provide many more wonderful memories to come. All the best always, Andrew and Kristi. :)
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If there is EVER a video to watch until the very end, it's THIS VIDEO.
So awesome. What you and Kristy/Christy (sp?) have going on is awesome. This video brought a year to my eye. Having an ailing Dad, who made me a 3rd generation HiFi nerd, I feel this. So awesome. Thanks for this channel. 🙌🏼
Focusing on what really matters
Of course it is ❤️❤️
The Bily Graham of youtube audiophiles... bringing them to tears through their ears..
i try to watch videos till the end ,hi-fi either than cars are my hobby i´m european and don´t even like to watch soccer games as you call it, in reality football also people get crazy in my country because CR7 or cristiano ronaldo is portuguese, i would prefer CR-7 ,the nakamichi cassette deck, maybe the only from this brand that works good
Without a doubt, this is one of the greatest things I've watched in a long time.
So glad you enjoyed it.
@@andrewrobinsonreviews Im being completely serious here Andrew, I can't explain sincerely enough how much I appreciate your honesty in all of your videos. You are a breath of fresh air in an arena of corporate drivin nonsense ! Well done my friend, you have my respect !
This is one of my favorite videos, or maybe my favorite video of you guys. It is incredible how vintage music equipment, especially if it has been a family piece for decades, can transport us to other eras and connect us internally in a way that no modern piece is capable of doing for now. I am very happy that everything turned out well with the modding of the Pioneer. You are one of my favorite channels, since I relate a lot with your way to view things. I also enjoy this beautiful world of audio and video with my partner, and I feel that you reflect that complicity of being able to share this world with the person that one loves, in a wonderful way. Congratulations!
This is the best video yet! You did exactly the right thing! You saved a precious bit of family history and kept it rolling for a new generation
Thank you Jon. Appreciate you tuning in!
That's really great. You literally gave it new life and you'll create brand new memories with it.
Andrew you made a great choice in having that pioneer restored and modified. You gave it a new lease on life and future proofed it somewhat. However the most important thing is that you did something that your wife will remember and appreciate the rest of her life.
This project quickly changed from a cool idea to a love letter to Kristi as soon as we got it back and heard it on the LaScala's. We were in tears. This is what the hobby is all about!
My allergies got really bad at the end of this video... or something.
I know exactly how you all feel. I have my Dad's marantz 2225 reciever. He passed away in 2014. He was my best friend. I love him and miss him very very much. His stereo is my prized possession. Keep up the good work. This video really hit home.
First, thank you for sharing and I hope that Marantz fills your life with joy for years to come. Second, thank you for watching.
Man, this makes me miss that Onkyo my Dad got when I was a kid even more. I think you are awesome.
I can relate. My grandparents had a stereo that I grew up with that I didn't think to save until it was WAY too late. Appreciate you watching!
This video made me think of my first high-end audio here which was luxman regga planner and kef I miss those days sometimes.
@@andrewrobinsonreviews My grandfather just past recently and I have been cleaning out his basement. I found a Sansui 441 and want to restore it and keep it going. I wanted to know fit u know anything about this model and if it was any good back in the day? I was born in 79 so its way before I got into loving stereo and home theater seeing it came out in 1974. I did the same thing as you and plugged it in for just a second to see if it would power on and if the lights work and everything worked but didn't connect speakers. It is missing the trouble knob which I found on eBay for $12 $9 shipping I don't know how it costs $9 to ship a knob🤔. Also the trouble rod is bent do you think I would be able to bend it back or would I have to buy that too. Thanks in advance for any advice you can give me You have a new subscriber love your vids❣
One of the most beautiful and meaningful videos I've ever watched in my entire life... I feel as though almost every person who's passionate about this hobby can relate to the emotion of your process and end result. Keep up the awesome work and continue to be safe.
❤️ Thank you so much for watching.
@@KristiWright absolutely my pleasure!
Hi I’m 48 yrs old and I grew up with this receiver . My parents still have it after watching this video I decided I’m going to pick it up and added to my own collection of home audio. Awesome video thanks 🙏
Watching this video sparked my interest in vintage HiFi. I was looking on Facebook marketplace, and found a local listing for a Pioneer SX-780. It had been listed on there for about a month or so. It was originally priced at $500, then lowered to $400. I messaged the owner, and went and looked at it, and listened to it. I knew it looked awesome in the photos. It was even better in person. It belonged to the seller's sister who had bought it brand new. It has been very well maintained, and even serviced, and cleaned. I got it for $350, which I believe is a steal, given the fact that it is in like new condition. I absolutely love it. It is by far the best piece of audio gear that I have ever owned. I have an external DAC hooked up to it for TV audio, and a Bluetooth adapter hooked up to it for playing music via apps on my phone. I'm powering a pair of transmission line towers with it. This is the first time that I have ever been satisfied with the tone controls set in the flat position. This thing rocks, and has more than enough head room. I barely have to turn the volume up.
100% agree with what you have done with your Pioneer, it is all about what you guys want and your listening experience! Fantastic video!
Kristi🥰...BEST Audiophile Spouse ever!!
"KRISTI'S TAKE" was amazing! Everything is about memories and sentiment and I mostly like people who openly express their feelings the way you both do, apart from any "machinery" thing.
I'm 64 years old bought my first pioneer six 780 in 1978 . Biggest mistake I made was giving it up I'm still regretting it today . Been hunting for another 780 . Best damn reciever I've ever owned and I owned a few . Nothing even comes close to it . I had it paired with technics SB-L200 and a pioneer PL518 turntable loved that whole system it kicked ass .
Never mind lump in the throat; I’d gone before Kristi started speaking! How beautifully emotional. Some things have heart, soul and personality. This receiver seems to be one of them. Enjoy it and thanks for sharing.
Kristi's take is priceless.
We do get attached to the historical artifacts from our lives, to be able to bring them back from the scrap heap and give them new life like this and bring them forward in time to still be with us is super cool. I say well done and kudos to Just Audio - amazing work. Check their video on this project as well ;)
I must have watched this five or six times... it's just everything I love about vintage hi-fi. You can't escape the history, you can't escape the classic design. It also reminds me of how much fun, how much joy my own vintage journey has taken me on with my Luxman R-1050. Nowhere near the mods you did, but still, resurrecting a beautiful vintage beast back to performing at its very best. It's my first major upgrade,and I was only able to buy it and restore it because of the money I inherited after my dad passed - so it's special to me, it's emotionally charged. It's something that brings me such immense joy - that's what this hobby is all about. Your videos reflect all of that, and they're warm and brilliant - and honest and just great.
Thanks Andrew and Christy!! Awesome.
This is one of my favorite ones from you guys. I have been waiting for it and it did not let me down. Simply a wonderful watch.
Thank you so much Marcus!
Excellent video l have a passion for vintage gear and it's so nice to see more people finding this. These old stereo products are the audio history that need our respect and passion. Thus by doing this we can help make a better future for the audiophile hobby. Thanks for the video
The idea of updating a vintage receiver with modern functions is great! Great video. Thank you.
Thank you so much for watching David! Be sure to watch part 2 on Just Audio's channel to see what it took to get this project done.
Good job Andrew, you brought back a piece of Kristi's cherished memories and made it possible to make new ones. When she needed a minute to compose herself, I almost cried, Thank you.
Thank you for watching until the end Tony!
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This is pure, pure gold.
Love it. The idea to restore and even modernize vintage hifi has always tempted me, but doing it with a deeply personal object is so so much better.
You absolutely did the right thing, and they did an amazing job.
This will carry the memories of old while creating new ones.
Wonderful.
Thank you so much!
Great story.. So happy for you. I restored my dad's old SX-737 and am enjoying it regularly hooked into the PC , FM, and vinyl. Not my main system but it holds more sentimental value so I know where she is coming from.. Worth all the work to do it for sure !
The hi fi manufacturers MUST return to make NEW BEAUTIFUL machines identical to the attractive 70's equipment.
Yamaha actually makes some really good modern amplifiers with the same look and build quality, one is shown in this video, minus the wood though.
if they do itll be a few grand
The industrial design esthetic of the golden age of audio has only gotten better with age, Andrew. That receiver is beautiful to look at. It is amazing to think it was a typical example of the many brands that were available back then.
Beautiful video Andrew, so touching. I love how you always have a different perspective on audio compared to most of the channels on RUclips.
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Thank you Zack. We do our best to keep the focus on what we feel is most important and that is one's connection with music/movies more so than obsessing over gear/specs.
Agreed the lascala video was awesome. Showed a personal side that most youtubers just dont show!
I think it was definitely a good thing to modify the receiver. The fact that it was part of the family makes it all that much more great. I wish you many years of listening pleasure with it. I was so moved by the video that I'm at a loss for words right now. Good bless and enjoy.
The very idea that she is the original owner does away with any modification heresies, she can do anything she wants.
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Agreed.
Absolutely. I'd say they took it to 11
Hi guys, Christie had me tearing up listening to the emotion in her voice. I could see in my minds eye, her traveling back in time to her living room and the emotional connection she had with the music. Very special review. Thank you for sharing the journey. Isn’t this what music is really all about? The memories, the feelings even the smells and visuals.
WRT the modifications you made, again it’s all about the enjoyment and I know you two are going to use and enjoy the receiver more with the changes than if you had left for it “stock”.
Thanks again for sharing, brought back many memories of me listening to my families Curtis Mathis all in one entertainment center
Absolutely amazing! There’s nothing like the feeling of a restored piece like that! Amazing video as well! I always enjoy your content and look forward too it every week! 🙏😎👌
Thank you so much Night!
Thankyou so much, too the birth of you, for who you are and what you do. I have fallen in love with this channel for how genuine you are and how enjoyable these videos are. This has become my go to for indigenous in this field, and I truly enjoy what you do.
Thankyou both again.
Love IT❤️ please more of this! By modify it you make it more usabile. 👍
"...and to do all of that and not have it blow up, ..." This right here made me smile. Kudos to Andrew's project vision as well as to the guys at Just Audio for pulling this off.
I felt awfully silly crying to a hi fi video, but I couldn't stop thinking about my mom's old receiver; then Kristi came on and I felt pretty validated. :')))
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I’ve got a SX 780. It works like new still. My dad bought it for me in 1980. Total work of HI FI Art and craft work. I will never get rid of it. Nice to see this video. Cheers!
Great video. My Dad is still running the sx 1980 that he bought new. It was restored by Ring Audio in Toronto Canada. He has it connected to a pair of JBL L220s and it sounds awesome.
Wow, the L220s are bit out of my range (spiritually) but I'm having the SX I picked up at a garage sale restored similar to what's covered in video. I had L100's back in the 70's and miss the aesthetic so considering picking up a pair of L52 bookshelves. My set up will be in a home office so space is limited but hoping that the L52 would be an option to integrate. I may be wrong!
Kristi's story about growing up with a 780 is practically the same as mine. As she was recalling it, I was checking off the boxes.
When you reviewed the La Scalas, I mentioned that I was planning on buying a working 780 on EBay while I restored Dad's old unit. I bought the EBay unit, I had it working for a few weeks, and then the left channel input died. This video has inspired me to have Dad's restored by a professional, probably no mods for me, and I'll use the other one to tinker on and restore myself.
Amazing something I have wanted to do for years old school meets new the only way to go. And memories I don’t care what anybody says it will always makes it better. To hell with the haters.
I'm not a social media, tweeter guy. But I had to comment.
Ok. My eyes started to produce excessive moisture (happy memories) during your wife's explanation of what her fathers receiver meant to her. I was immediately transported back to my childhood. I was about 10 when my father bought his Pioneer QX-949/A. I was there to help/watch my father set his system up for the first time and play Neil Diamond, recorded in 4ch stereo, through floor standing EPI's using a DD Dual turntable. I became an audioholic at that precise moment. I never roasted a tweeter (my brother did though and I got blamed for it) but I rocked that system all through my teenage years. My father understood that of me over time and has passed that system on to me. Complete with his music library and .........everything. Original boxes, original purchase receipt.
WOO HOO
With respect to your modifications to the SX780, good on you. I've been wondering how to incorporate my dad's system into our home. What you did to your Pioneer should be a model for others to "modernize" older equipment to be used, enjoyed, and passed on to the next generation. That said, it makes me wonder what the pioneer would sound like connected to his Infinity Kappa 8's. If I modify his 949 and showed him what it can do, with the mods, would he want it back? I agree with resto-moding vintage stuff. It's no fun/good if you can't use it. and besides, vintage adio equipment is soooo pretty. Thank you for the video reviews you do. Very insightful.
Cheers from Canada!
The amp belongs to you guys. Giving it your personal touches makes it that much more meaningful. Anyone claiming that it's heresy to mod "your" equipment has no leg to stand on. I say it's great to give vintage gear a modern touch.
Thanks Claude!
@@andrewrobinsonreviews 'orthodoxy' and 'heresy'? Some terms may NOT be being used by their intent, meThinks, eh......
Andrew, this video really touched me in a special way. Let me explain why. Music is so deeply engrained in the fabric of my life that it’s difficult to even describe. During my first year of college, I bought my first stereo system. That first purchase was on 7/2/1970 because I still have my original receipt and I used that system through my college years and through my first two years of work after I graduated. While I was in college, I became good friends with the owner of the local audio store near the school, and he allowed me to use his listening rooms whenever I wanted as long as no customers were using them. So I was able to audition all sorts of equipment and over that time and it helped me decide what I wanted to buy when I graduated. After college when I started working, I saved up every single penny I could because I wanted to buy my “dream” system. On 8/26/1976 (again I still have the original receipts) I bought my 2nd system which was my “dream” system at that time. Over the years, I have listened to many new systems and all sorts of new audio gear, and I even bought some new gear from time to time. But now almost all of the interim equipment is gone. But the important point is that I still have all my original components I bought in August 1976 and I use them daily. It’s a McIntosh MA6100 integrated amp, a McIntosh MR 77 tuner, a Rega Planar 3 turntable with a Shure V15 Type III HE cartridge, and a Tandberg 3000 reel to reel. It’s all original, and I’ve been meticulous in caring for everything over all the years and there isn’t enough money in the world to buy this system because as you described in the video, all the memories of my life are an integral part of that system. I added an Apple Tv to the integrated amp via an audio extractor for streaming, but I find I enjoy the turntable more often because I still have all my original vinyl collection I started when I was in high school plus everything I’ve purchased over the years. Now using my original receipt from 1970, I’m assembling the very first system that began my journey so long ago. I found the receiver (Sony STR 6040) at Just Audio and I found a nearly mint pair of Wharfedale Linton speakers and they are being shipped to me as I write this message. I’m still looking for the turntable and I can’t wait to get that first system back in place. At that point, I’ll have both of the systems that represent my whole life in place to enjoy. I could hear the emotion in Kristi’s voice as she talked about what it meant to have her vintage receiver back again. I totally understand. For so many of us, this passion goes much, much, deeper that most people realize. When we are young and as we age, it’s quite literally about creating the memories and the soundtrack to our life. Now for me, it’s about truly enjoying the music in a way that only comes from being a certain age and now I hear those memories through my heart instead of just my ears and it’s even more beautiful than ever. You have a fantastic channel and I look forward to every new video. Hopefully you're inspiring a whole new group of young people to get involved in music the same way we have. I can assure them they won't be disappointed and perhaps one day in the future, they’ll be able to hear their own soundtrack and relive their memories with that special emotion that only music brings to the experience of life. It just doesn’t get any better than that.
Having a fully restored (and modified) 1978 Sansui AU-717 at the heart of my system (driving $6000 modern speakers) I fully relate. I have not found something better for my ear. Great video!
Thanks so much! Sansui is one of the brands I plan on looking into in the future!
@@andrewrobinsonreviews A lot of great reference in the Sansui line. But as you both said, the main thing with vintage gear it's how you connect emotionally with it ... It really worth putting the effort ($$) in fully restoring them. My Sansui and my 1983 Oracle Alexandria MK2 are everything I could ask in audio equipments.
This is the most personal, touching, and insightful episode I've seen so far! Thanks you two for sharing your wonderful experiences on this one---at a rather deep philosophical and emotional level. Andrew, you actually drove a clear and important point here: that the equipment (and music) we use are also time machines which allow us to travel to the past and (re)experience those important events, ambience, and emotions----again and again. Thank you for driving that message--to keep focusing on what is really important when listening!
Beautiful video, Kristi and Andrew, sometimes (most of the time in the audiophile world) we forget why we fell in love with this hobby and why it's all about the music and the shared experiences that comes with it, this was so touching to see.
I have the Fischer 175 that I grew up with. What a beautiful sound. Sounds so good I am hesitant to get it re-capped. This video has me reconsidering that though. And Kristy - I heard your emotion in this. I feel the same way when I hear my vintage receiver sing classics my Dad and Grandad listened to. Miles, Cotrane, Thelonious, Brubeck. But in modern times also Khruangbin. Vintage is amazing. Thanks Andrew for all your excellent videos. All music has beauty and feeling. Keep it coming.
That was a fun video. The fact that you were able to give the Pioneer receiver a new lease on life and not have it end up in a landfill is wonderful. I remember those big silver receivers back when I was a teenager, and Pioneer was top of the game for most people.
Pioneers were everywhere during that era. I never had one myself, partially because Pioneer was always too expensive for my budget when I was a kid, but man did I want Pioneer!
Thank you, Andrew, for sharing this story. I consider this one of your best videos to date.
Andrew - just got offered an SX780 / completely serviced, tested, all switches and pots cleaned and lubricated with Deoxit, and the wood veneer has been redone, stained and polished with warm white LED's installed for $400.00 . Think I should jump on this?
er yes I hope you bought it
@@kymvalleygardensdesign5350 I did - couldn't resist. The condition is flawless. I can't believe I got this for only $400.00.
One of your best pieces yet, had me in tears too remembering back to 1972 at 4 years old in England listening to stereo on Mum and dads akai reel to reel so vivid, my brain felt like it was doing summersaults as the music created new wiring and pathways in my head ! Had soo much audio, currently enjoying B&W 702s2 with all the matching gear you can imagine, cheers from Queensland Australia 🇦🇺 ✌🏼ps ... my 7month granddaughter who had music since conception lights up and smiles and bops up and down when she hears music.... one happy Pop !
Hello I have a Pioneer SX-780 that I bought in 1978 when I was 16 years old. I looked in Consumer Reports at that time to see what would be the best stereo for my dollar. And if I remember right, it was SX-780. I have enjoyed the receiver ever since, The only problem I've ever had is that I've not been able to afford speakers that can handle the power output or know which speaker to use best. I had a meter hooked to the stereo and the output was 150 W per channel peak with chopping at 120 W . I've only taken this stereo in twice to have it cleaned and checked out. There were a few things that needed to be changed, but besides that, I was told that it was in really good condition. I didn't have anything capped or whatever they do Sometimes. I've always wanted a Pioneer SX-1980 I just don't have $10000 for that Monster. I did buy special cables about 3 or 4 years ago so I could hook my MP3 player to the stereo so I can play my MP3 through the receiver, And I do see they make a cable that goes from RCA to HDMI. I may buy one of those. I do have, which I bought in 1994, a Pioneer D903-S Receiver I have hooked up to my TV, But I do have to say with older speakers like I have, the Pioneer SX-780 sounds better with the older speakers, I would love to hook my SX-780 to the Pioneer HPM 150/1500 speakers Just to hear the sound. If I could ever afford those. Thank you for the video, and I hope you read this message.
That SX-780 doesn't produce 150W per channel.
@FooBar Maximus When I took the receiver in to get cleaned I asked the Electrician to hook a meter up to it, It peeked around a 150 W But the chopping point was around 120 W. Electrician said that was pretty amazing for this model, But he wasn't surprised because he Had worked on a SX 1980 Is who's power was higher than the ratings . So I tend to believe him because he had been working on stereo systems and owned a stereo shop for over 50 years.
@@tobybeau2112 Well, i've had my 780 since '79 and i know from everything i've ever read on it these receivers were definitely more powerful than the 45 watts per channel they were rated at back then.Just how much more powerful i'm not sure but since i've never dared turn the volume knob past half way for fear of blowing out my speakers it's more than enough to suit my purposes.
This was your best video ever. The thought of updating a cherished family piece, and updating so you can get another lifetime of use out of it is simply amazing. Plus, I'd love to have this thing..... I think there's an old Sansui in Dad's garage.......
Thanks for informing me on what I already knew 😂. My Father bought a 780 for my younger brother back in 1979. It's served him until the early 90s and was paired with many different speaker systems. When it was given to me I was a professional musician so out of curiosity I hooked it up to a pair 15in evm loaded in Perkins cabinets with the giant aluminum Bell JBL horns on top the power and the sound that receiver put out was nothing short of amazing. So I decided to use it for a home stereo and connected it to an older pair of Peavey Internationals with a 15-inch scorpion with the rx22 horns and played master of reality by Sabbath, besides Black Sabbath playing in my home every picture that was hanging on the wall ended up on the floor😂 over the years that amp has served as a monitor and for my band as a power amp for my Guitar Rig and we have done a and b comparisons with some really expensive amplifiers and we always came back to the 780 because it just has a magic sound that is so true to life it's scary. And don't let that 45 Watts fool you. I had to use it in place of a Crown XLS for our monitors on stage and the singer asked me what I did because she could hear herself perfectly. I am 61 years old I have been in professional recording studios I have heard $100,000 Infinity reference I have heard Westlake audio I have heard BMW Polk Carver the list goes on and on. Is it the best sounding there is no but it's not very far off and you would pay thousands of dollars to achieve the sound quality of this amplifier if it's paired with the right pair of speakers.
I vote the 780 as the ultimate receiver that the average Joe can afford.
This was very encouraging to hear as I recently bought one. Thank you
Great video guys! It immediately brought to my mind the memories of my father's The Fisher X-100 B, that I used for many years and unfortunately was stolen from storage.
Now I own a Kenwood KA 7100 with its original wooden case and a Sansui AU 6600. Both in great original condition still sounding amazing.
Even considering that I bought them in ebay and there is no personal history attached, I believe the beauty and quality built of this amazing pieces of vintage electronics compensate any possible little advantage in sound clarity or neutrality of a much more expensive modern amplifier. They sound amazing, look great and their quality is outstanding, that's more than enough for me.
Great video. I have the same attachment to my grandfather’s early 70’s H-K 330b receiver.
I always love the vintage pieces, something about the wood grain, chrome and VU meters is so charming, sleek and mesmerizing. Great video
Modifying is what makes it your own. I’m very interested in knowing what this would cost based the exact mods you had done. Great video!!
Thank you both so much for this... I'm nearly 50 y.o. and the whole 70's hi fi era makes me particularly sentimental a.f. both uncles of mine were hifi guys, growing up with them putting on Rush or Black Sabbath
, AC/DC, Rainbow etc and sticking me in their primary listening place all I can remember is being completely emersed in the sound stage, the quality, the warmth etc... all I've been dreaming of lately is finding a Sansui or Marantz quadraphonic from that era and doing similar mods that were done on your beloved sx780. Now I'm going to patiently wait for a decent example to list on Reverb or EBay hoping to land a Sansui QRX-9001 or similar.
You Guys Rip🔥🔥
Been waiting for this one! My dad had an SX-780 and I'm looking to get one soon.
And after watching the video, I want one even more. My father in law had an SX-550 and that's what my wife grew up listening to music on. I'm saving up and want a restored 780 and some Klipsch Heresy speakers. I"m also going to surprise my father in law with a 550 at some point. I know it is from nostalgia, but there is just something special about the silver face Pioneers. Also, mod the hell out of it. Nothing wrong with making something old work well in modern times.
Awee , you couldn't wipe the smile off my face . How fun was that. Congrats Christy ❤️. That was great Andrew it's beautiful, for sure , enjoy! ✌️
Lucky you. Having a wife that shares your passion.
It was just 2 days ago I was watching my 6 yearold dancing to the music 🎶 being played on my old Kenwood receiver and I was speaking to my wife about my memories as a child racing home from school late 80s so I could so turn on the stereo on all to myself and be dancing the world away to a tape or the radio . The nostalgia can be so intoxicating so I could relate and I felt every tear every emotional word said or what had difficulty being said. Let my just simply say, best audio file post ever. The true meaning to why I watch was truly expressed. The memories and the emotions that music brings to us priceless and timeless.
Oh, this is really one of your best videos so far. I always enjoy your vintage related topics and while I would not have gone the modification way you did, I also don't consider this to be any kind of heresy, especially considering that it is has special memories to you but the model is not unique by itself. I still have that actual Shure pickup that once was on my parent's turntable when I started to get interested in records at the age of 3. That's my little piece of memories I still keep.
You are actually responsible for me having caught the vintage Kenwood bug. And now, six amps (yes, that's 6) later I am considering to post a review myself, maybe in a few months. Just listened to your video via my latest fully re-capped Kenwood via hooked-up external Bluetooth receiver. Great job!
Thanks! 6 amps! WOW. The Kenwood amps are great! If you post a video, shoot me a link so I can watch it.
Restored my father's (now my) Yamaha CR-2040. What an incredible receiver. Huge soundstage wide and deep and 125 watts per channel. Now it is something I can pass down. Vintage!!!
You are lucky. My dad had a Yamaha 1020 with 1970s Heresy's. Something popped on the Yamaha in 2000. He got rid of it for a newer lesser Yamaha. I wish he had kept the broken 1020. At least we still have the Heresy's...
Such a warming and enjoyable video to watch 🤗!!
Thanks so much!
Love this episode. I hope my kids feel like you two feel about a parents legacy. They grew up with their parents music playing constantly in the house and car..and they do appreciate that as they've thanked me for the exposure. Be well.
What a fantastic video and project this was!
It was so much fun Robert. Thank you for tuning in!
Incredibly sweet story.
Reminds me of my experience with my dad's gear, with which I daily annoyed the neighborhood.
Thanks, for that.
Personally, I would have kept the Pioneer SX 780 original. My older brother gave me a Sansui 881 Stereo Receiver that sat in his basement for 25-30 years along with the SP-2500 three way speakers. Fortunately I' am a retired tech and looking forward in restoring the receiver to it's former glory.
In 1976 my dad came home with a pioneer sx5580 (European version of sx1050, only in black)and two hpm 100's. I think the first day he had it I asked him if when he dies do I get the stereo. 10 years ago he gave it to me. Not to worry, he's still kicking around. I maintain it in pristine condition. Every time I turn it on I hear him in my head to not turn it up passed half way. I also see my mom dancing away with the single pane widows flexing in their old house. It takes me right back to my childhood. It's an emotional attachment now not only for me but my kids as well. Im happy to see that I'm not the only one. Best video by far.(and they're all good)
Without prices, this doesn't mean much. How much did the overhaul (which *anyone* deciding to buy vintage needs to factor in) cost?
How much more for the mods? If you spent $5,000 on the project it's interesting, but quixotic. For $500, or even $1,500, that's another story.
Any time some one saves a vintage piece...I’m for it. If modifying it makes it more useful to you and your family...rock on!
Your friends vintage prices are a tad high .... for us old guys, the fun of this stuff is finding it in the wild, FB Marketplace, Craigslist, etc. Probably 15 years ago, I got a pair of JBL L300s for $150. I quite literally was so excited that I threw up on their front lawn a little...
Amazing. Silver faced pioneers are a treasure. You didn't ruin anything with some mods. It seems to me you took a family heart/ soul/ time machine, and equipped it to " come with" you into the future. So emotionally satisfying. Well done to both of you.
Thank you Tom!
So what did all that work cost? I have an SX980 that I paid 450 to have restored. Worth every penny. The guy removed and replaced every little electronic "bit" inside it. I have a huge bag of parts that he took out. It sounds great.
I then had my Marantz 2240 done as well as my Sansui g-5700. You may laugh, but to my ear, the Sansui sounds better than the 980. It's a tad brighter, and crisper to my ear. The Marantz? Just great from A to Z but I am not an audio geek who can explain everything. I just turn 'em on and smile. I have ZERO interest in new gear. I'm an old man now who used to troll stereo stores when I was in HS, just dreaming about what gear I'd buy if I had more money than a guy delivering newspapers could save up. This gear gave me a chub when I was 16 and it still does today. My kid is going to inherit a motherlode!!
I think you're right. The Sansui seems to sound the best out of all that silver-era stuff, but the Pioneer was the most popular I think.
Fantastic segment Andrew. The fact that it made Kristi tear up like that and strike such a big emotional chord is worth every penny you spent to modernize this. Still amazing what Just Audio did to make this vintage piece versatile for your family's lifestyle. Well done!
Awesome content! You made the right call upgrading & restoring. Excuse me if I missed this but how much did it cost to restore roughly. They don't make them like they use to with nuts & bolts but damn we sure have come a long ways. I personally like the old school look.
Thank you so much David.
Just finished watching this video to the end. Andrew, clearly you made the right choice to restore & modify Kristi's father's Pioneer SX 780.
Andrew, All your videos on equipment are very insightful, but this one touched me as I'm certain it touched many of your viewers on another level. Well done Good on You.
thank you so much. This hobby (to me) is about more than gear. This video and project was very special to me and I hope to do something even bigger for someone else next time.
What am amazing video AND concept. I believe you guys will be starting a trend, vintage receivers converted to AIO modern unit with streaming? That's F'n cool!
I wonder what you would think of the NAD 3020 sound signature compared to one of these units? I don't love the look of the 3020 but I love what people have to say about its sound and has always picked my interest.
Anyway, congrats for that great video, I'm loving your channel more every time!
Thanks so much! Appreciate you tuning in. I hope more people find new and creative ways to live with and enjoy their vintage gear. As for the NAD, I'm not familiar with that piece so I cannot say for sure how it compares to the 780.
@@andrewrobinsonreviews great, thanks for responding and good luck with your channel. Been a fan for a few years and it just keeps getting better. Such a great balance of information we now get from multiple reviewers and I certainly enjoy the unique spin and amazing storytelling that you guys bring.
Cheers!
What a fantastic project. Kudos to you and the guys @Just Audio. They do great stuff over there. The restoration video on their channel was fantastic. But I have to say the best part about this whole thing was listening to Kristi's response about how she felt about the Pioneer. There is nothing quite like having an emotional attachment to a piece of audio gear that gives you joy. The cost of a restored Pioneer SX-780 for the person you love? Priceless
Yesss!!! Finally!
Hopefully it was worth the wait! Thanks for tuning in!
@@andrewrobinsonreviews it was so worth the wait. Beautiful job and beautiful conversation with Kristi. Thank you so much.
Great story...I bought a SX650 in 1977, after saving up for several months . The ole Pioneer was 179.00, real money in 77. This unit has been in use since then. Recently it lost the right channel, so I put it away until I found some one to repair it. Now back in working order, I have passed it on to my Grandson. He got the unit, owners manual, and the original receipt from 1977.
Awesome!
Thanks for tuning in! Enjoy the video!
Still have my 780 from high school, paired with a PL200 turntable, I'm still listening to vinyl. Great video and family story.
In before the purists get triggered by the modifications!! 🤣. Great vid! I love my old pioneer receiver! Hope to find a 780 or higher one day.
Thanks for tuning in! What did you think of our modifications?
Kristi, I was sobbing right with you!
Andrew don't second guess yourself on the modifications! This is the reason I watch your channel (not just for the specs on each piece of gear). It is how you and Kristi both share how you truly feel about each item. I don't feel like I am watching a video when things progress to a personal level like they did in this one and many of your other videos. It is like I am sitting in your living room having this discussion in person. Thank you for saving this work of art (yes I consider these works of art). I just restored a Pioneer SX750 because of the memories of my youth that every time I turn it on come rushing back to me. Those receivers of that era are what helped me to become a DJ, to be able to share the joy of music with so many people. Please keep up the great work. I look forward to you finding more vintage gear to restore/review like how this one has brought so much happiness to yourself and Kristi. I have 2 mottos in life now, the first is "We are in this crazy thing called life together and together we will get through it". Second "Remember the only one who has to like the sound of your system is you!" Thank you again!
Klipsch forte 4 is a fact now
Fact? I mean, it's a fact that we have them.
@@andrewrobinsonreviews Fact? I mean, it's a fact that there is going to be a great review in the future 😋👍
@@BreathNino They've made a couple of appearances now and yes, a review is forthcoming.
@@BreathNino YES!
So glad you had this experience! Your comments about it being special now to you two and how the music you're playing together have brought you joy were spot-on. I am lucky enough to live in Baltimore and Just Audio is my go-to local shop. Just bought some KEFs and an integrated from them, and they couldn't be more knowledgeable or easier to deal with. So happy for you
That FM-deemphasize input looks just like an HDMI connection! What’s with that?!
I've been anticipating this video. Glad you hooked up with Just Audio as Lenny and all the staff are top notch. They have been my go to for the restoration of my vintage collection and are some of the nicest people on the planet. Visiting their shop is special and you need to add it to your list of things to do. You also touched on something I've been talking about for years. Vintage equipment is not always the best but it invokes emotion, has a personality, and brings the listening experience to a new level. Well done, you have a new fan.
That's when you know, it's a piece of the family, memories are strong and so amazing that ya just shaking your head while hearing and feeling the music.
Wonderful video, Andrew and Kristi. I can totally see why Kristi was so moved - this audio equipment is about so much more than the sum of its parts - it is evocative of childhood memories, perhaps of a time long gone...of people long gone...that speak to us of happiness and love. I know these recollections are very personal and specific to our own soundtrack. My Dad's Beogram 1203 was a thing of wonder to me as a child; excitedly rushing around listening to Ultravox before the Christmas when I got my first system, or listening to Queen's Greatest Hits Vol One as a freshly baked teenager. Happy memories. A few years back, I inherited the Beogram and, when my nine year old son suffered heart failure, we spent time together in the hospital ward's garden, lovingly restoring the Beogram to its former glory. It now sits in my son's room, a reminder of happy times past and how lucky we are to be together. Wow! That's a lot on one piece of kit, but Kristi's reaction resonated with me. You're a great team...thank you.👍❤
You went all the way with the restore ! Bravo 👏 A very emotional 😭 video. As a strong proponent of vintage audio I am @oldschoolaudio on Instagram I was really waiting for this video and it delivered on every level. I got into this hobby because I wanted to recreate my Dad’s system from my childhood and it has escalated from there. Now that he has been diagnosed with Parkinson’s our audio bond is even more important. We listen together and it is time well spent. Thank you for your insights and content.
I love that you did this. I finished getting my Luxman l-100u completely overhauled in 2020 and I absolutely love it. I thought about trying to modernize it, but decided to keep it as original as possible and connect a streaming preamp to it for the new digital workloads. The look of the SX-780 is just gorgeous! Mine is my forever amp, and I imagine yours is too. Congrats!