Yamaha A S801 Review – Check What It Can Offer

Yamaha A-S801 blends powerful 100W per channel output, versatile connectivity with USB DAC support, and a sleek aluminum finish that screams premium. Whether you’re streaming high-resolution audio or spinning vinyl, this amp delivers clean, detailed sound with ease.

Table Of Contents hide
1 What Yamaha A-S801 Offer?
2 Pros & Cons
3 Comparison

What Yamaha A-S801 Offer?

  • The Yamaha A-S801 has an ESS SABRE 32-bit DAC for ultra-precise digital-to-analog conversion to deliver clear, more dynamic audio.
  • Yamaha A-S801 features 100W per channel of Class AB amplification to provide powerful, clean sound that drives a wide range of speakers with accuracy and control.
  • It features a USB input that supports PCM 384 kHz and DSD 5.6 MHz formats to enable high-resolution audio playback with exceptional depth and fidelity.
  • The Yamaha A-S801 features a built-in phono input to connect a turntable directly and enjoy rich, analog vinyl playback without external preamp.
  • Yamaha A-S801 has ToP-ART circuitry and symmetrical design for minimizing signal interference and preserving the integrity of sound from input to output.
  • It has coaxial and optical digital inputs for connecting TVs, CD players, and more to offer flexible integration into analog and digital setups.
  • The Yamaha A-S801 has tone control knobs for adjusting bass, treble, and balance to match room acoustics or personal preference.
  • Yamaha A-S801 has a sleek brushed aluminum front panel with tactile controls for a refined, vintage-inspired look that complements modern or classic audio setups.

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Pros & Cons

Pros
  • Exceptional sound clarity with SABRE DAC

  • Powerful 100W per channel output

  • High-res audio support including DSD and PCM

  • USB, coaxial, optical, and phono inputs

  • Elegant design with tactile controls

  • Great build quality and long-lasting durability

Cons
  • No built-in Bluetooth or Wi-Fi

  • Lacks HDMI input

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Comparison

FeatureYamaha A-S801Cambridge CXA81Marantz PM8006
DACESS SABRE 32-bit DACESS SABRE ES9016K2MNone
Power Output100W per channel80W per channel70W per channel
InputsUSB, Optical, Coaxial, PhonoUSB, Optical, Coaxial, RCAOptical, Coaxial, Phono, RCA
High-Res AudioYesYesNo
Tone ControlsYesNoYes
Build QualityBrushed AluminumBrushed AluminumBrushed Aluminum
Dimensions (W x H x D)17.1 x 6 x 15.25 in16.9 x 4.5 x 13.4 in17.3 x 5.1 x 14.6 in
Weight26.7 lbs19.1 lbs26.5 lbs
PriceCheck A-S801 PriceCheck CXA81 PriceCheck PM8006 Price

FAQ

Does the Yamaha A-S801 support Bluetooth or Wi-Fi?
No, the A-S801 does not have built-in Bluetooth or Wi-Fi. For wireless streaming, you’ll need to add a Bluetooth or Wi-Fi audio receiver separately.

Can I connect my turntable directly to the A-S801?
Yes, the Yamaha A-S801 has a built-in phono input designed for moving magnet (MM) cartridges, so no external phono preamp is required.

What type of DAC does it use, and why does it matter?
The A-S801 uses an ESS SABRE 32-bit DAC, which is known for delivering excellent clarity and low distortion. It significantly improves digital audio playback quality.

Is this amplifier suitable for high-res audio files?
Absolutely. The A-S801 supports DSD 5.6 MHz and PCM 384 kHz audio, making it ideal for playback of high-resolution music files.

Can I use it with a subwoofer?
Yes, it includes a line-out connection that can be used with a powered subwoofer for extended low-end response.

Does it come with a remote control?
Yes, the A-S801 includes a remote that allows you to control input selection, volume, and other settings from across the room.

How does it compare to an AV receiver for music?
While AV receivers are better for surround sound setups, the A-S801 delivers superior stereo sound quality and is better optimized for pure music listening.

What speakers pair well with the Yamaha A-S801?
It works well with bookshelf and floorstanding speakers from brands like Klipsch, KEF, ELAC, and Polk. Look for speakers rated between 6 to 8 ohms for optimal performance.

Can I connect my TV to it?
Yes, if your TV has an optical or coaxial digital output, you can connect it directly to the A-S801 for better audio.

Is there a headphone jack?
Yes, there is a front-panel ¼-inch headphone jack that allows for private listening with excellent audio fidelity.

How loud can it get?
With 100 watts per channel, the A-S801 can easily power large speakers to room-filling volumes with clarity and low distortion.

Does the Yamaha A-S801 have tone controls?
Yes, it has dedicated knobs for bass, treble, and balance, allowing you to adjust the sound profile to your liking.

What’s the build quality like?
The A-S801 features a rigid chassis with a brushed aluminum faceplate and high-quality knobs, giving it a sturdy and premium feel.

Can it be used as a power amp only?
No, it doesn’t include a power amp input, so it cannot bypass the preamp section to act as a standalone power amp.

Is the Yamaha A-S801 good for beginners?
Yes, it’s very user-friendly. Despite its audiophile-grade performance, setup is straightforward, and the controls are intuitive even for first-time users.