TECHWEEK
The Yamaha A-S3200 integrated amplifier is based on proprietary potential-free balanced power amplifier technology. The use of output elements with the same polarity on the positive and negative sides of the output stage, as well as the separation of the negative feedback (NFB) circuits and the power supply on a total of four positive and negative poles of the left and right channels, ensures symmetrical push-pull operation of the output stage.
Complete isolation of the power amplifier from ground eliminates all negative effects from the slightest voltage fluctuations or noise on the ground bus. In addition, the output elements include MOSFETs for a warm and natural sound. The use of MOSFETs with equally distributed polarity develops the idea of a fully symmetrical design to eliminate the unevenness of the audio signal quality due to the difference in polarity – this is the main feature of the potential-free balanced power amplifier. The result is a sound with an excellent signal-to-noise ratio and a well-defined sound field.
The insulated 3D inner frame of the Yamaha A-S3200 amplifier provides solid support for a large toroidal transformer that is mounted in the center of the S3200 for ideal weight distribution. The copper-plated inner frame is a load-bearing structure that rigidly bridges the front / rear and side frames, reducing vibration in all directions. Brass was selected for the construction of the support on which the transformer is mounted, after a comprehensive analysis of the sonic properties of various materials (including the use of listening sessions). This material effectively reduces vibration transmitted from the transformer, helping to create a clearer, more transparent sound.
In order to achieve a signal of absolute purity, to convey all the nuances and dynamism of music, for example, when reproducing powerful low frequencies or the emotion of a human voice, we aimed to achieve impedance reduction throughout the Yamaha A-S3200 circuit. The dual design provides free space under the support frames for the shortest route of power cables from the transformer to the end stage, as well as wires for the transmission of audio signals. This helps to eliminate signal transmission loss, improve power stability even with powerful pulses, and as a result, improve performance. The three-dimensional inner frame that supports the transformer is copper-clad. Lowering the ground potential provides extremely low impedance.
The top and front panels of the Yamaha A-S3200 are made of a non-magnetic material, aluminum, to eliminate any adverse effect on the audio signal. After a comprehensive analysis of the sound quality, it was decided to define a thickness of 7 mm for the front panel and 6 mm for the top panel. Thanks to its high degree of rigidity and effective vibration suppression, the sound is more natural and spacious. The vents on the top panel are precision cut with the utmost attention to detail. Stylish slots like the CD-S3000 are designed to dissipate heat from the power supply and match the size of the transformer installed inside.
The Yamaha A-S3200 is designed with independent pre-amp and power amp blocks and perfectly balanced circuitry on the left and right side of the interior. Separating the preamplifier, which deals with low power signals, from the power amplifier, where high voltages are present, greatly reduces the noise in sound caused by mutual interference. In addition, the symmetrical design of the fully isolated left and right sections provides better channel separation and enhances the clarity of stereo images.
The Yamaha A-S3200 amplifier provides fully balanced signal transmission. In addition, the control circuits (volume, timbre, etc.) of the preamplifier function absolutely symmetrically, thus realizing the idea of perfect symmetry in all stages.
Power transformer routing uses an ingenious method to significantly reduce impedance. Unlike conventional wiring, the transformer winding is fixed to the terminals with screws. This allows you to significantly reduce the energy loss that occurs when connecting using soldering. The toroidal transformer has been selected to provide stable power supply, which helps to achieve a more natural and spacious sound.
In order to completely eliminate signal energy loss, threaded connections are used for important components – even on printed circuit boards. In addition to the wiring for block capacitors in the power supply, which is the core of the amplifier, requires high voltage, screw connections are used at all key points of signal transmission, including where the pre-amplifier circuits are connected to the power amplifier. Wires also run from the output stage of the power amplifier to the speaker terminals. In addition to drastically shortening the signal path, this can significantly reduce impedance and signal loss.
The high quality digital staircase volume control used in the Yamaha A-S3200 was specially developed by New Japan Radio Co., Ltd. It prevents an uneven slew rate (tone coloration) from affecting the signal, providing a cleaner sound and faster response to sudden changes in dynamics and impulse sounds.
The turntable amplification circuit consists of an MC pre-amplifier and a frequency equalizer amplifier, each of which is discretely configured to achieve rich, musical sound when playing vinyl records on both MC (Moving Coil) and MM turntables. (with moving magnet).
The Yamaha A-S3200 is equipped with large front panel level meters for a direct visual display of the dynamics and heart rate of the music. Soft LED lighting creates a warm and cozy feeling. In addition to the standard display of the voltage level (VU), the indicators can show peaks. The user can choose the desired mode himself. The indicator window is covered with a beveled glass that is screw-free to the inside of the front panel. This gives the device an extremely elegant look.
As befits high-end audio equipment, the Yamaha A-S3200 looks like a musical instrument: a clean smooth surface, no screws are visible. Every aspect of construction and design reflects the high level of craftsmanship and dedication to the high quality inherent in Yamaha products, the global manufacturer of musical instruments and equipment. Advanced processing technologies have been used to finish the amplifier cabinet, including the integration of the top panel and side wood panels without gaps.
The speaker terminals – the last link in the amplifier’s audio signal chain – have also been crafted with the utmost care and attention to detail. The original large-head screw terminals are machined from brass and provide a reliable connection without any loss in sound quality. Not only are they elegant in appearance, their shape is perfect for gripping and tightening requires minimal effort.
Since the user is constantly touching the knobs and switches with their hands, we aimed to make them feel good to the touch, paying close attention to design and texture. The volume knobs, input selector and other machined aluminum controls literally give off a sense of elegance and luxury. The rocker switches are made with the utmost attention to detail and texture: the precision with which these elements are made ensures that there is no gap with the surface of the panel in any toggle position – up or down.
The Yamaha A-S3200 integrated amplifier uses a new high-strength dual structure design for extremely clean and accurate audio amplification. The underbody and shock absorbers dissipate and absorb external vibration. Each board is designed as a “floating design” and is supported by an individual frame to further eliminate vibration.
The power supply unit, consisting of the power transformer and capacitors, which are the main sources of internal vibration, is securely anchored to a 3D structured frame and is firmly supported by the front and rear panels. The left and right inner frames hold the amplifier PCB and heavy heat sinks. Thus, the power supply and amplification boards are separated from each other, and the well-thought-out design reliably absorbs vibration. Under the frame, on which the transformer is mounted, free space is provided for laying wires to the circuits along the shortest path.
The redesigned chassis of this innovative design minimizes signal path and achieves low impedance, while also providing a high degree of rigidity and anti-vibration properties. As a result, signal loss is significantly reduced and the amplified sound is exceptionally clear. The included remote is made in the same style as the amplifier’s aluminum panel – simple design, intuitive button layout, nice metal texture.
