YAMAHA A-S501SL Natural Sound Integrated or YAMAHA Audio A-S701BL Natural Sound? Which YAMAHA Model to Buy
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This guide compares the yamaha a s501sl natural sound integrated vs audio a s701bl natural models. Both units deliver THD of 0.019% and offer digital coax, optical, and phono inputs. They share identical dimensions and speaker output options. The main difference is power output. The A-S501SL provides 85 watts per channel. The A-S701BL delivers 100 watts per channel. You also get a color choice between silver and black.
Key differences
| Aspect | Yamaha Silver Stereo Integrated Amplifier | Yamaha A-S701 Integrated Stereo Amplifier |
|---|---|---|
| Power Output | 85 W + 85 W | 100 W + 100 W |
| Color | Silver | Black |
| Weight | 22.7 pounds | 24.7 pounds |
| Auto Standby | not listed | 8 hours |
Which one should you choose?
Choose Yamaha Silver Stereo Integrated Amplifier if
- You prefer a silver finish for your setup
- You want a lighter unit at 22.7 pounds
- Your speakers require 85 watts per channel
Choose Yamaha A-S701 Integrated Stereo Amplifier if
- You need 100 watts per channel for demanding speakers
- You prefer a black finish
- You want the auto standby feature for energy savings
Verdict: Choose the A-S501SL if you value a lighter weight and silver aesthetic. Select the A-S701BL if you need higher power output and the black color option. Both models offer identical distortion levels and connectivity.
Power Output and Physical Build
Power Output
The Yamaha A-S701BL Natural Sound Integrated Stereo Amplifier delivers 100 W + 100 W at 20 Hz to 20 kHz with 0.019% THD. The Yamaha A-S501SL Natural Sound Integrated Stereo Amplifier provides 85 W + 85 W under the same distortion conditions. Both units maintain identical distortion levels, ensuring clean signal reproduction. However, the A-S701BL offers a higher wattage output. This extra power can drive more demanding speakers with greater ease. If you plan to use high-impedance or low-sensitivity drivers, the higher output of the A-S701BL may provide better headroom. The A-S501SL is sufficient for most standard setups, but the A-S701BL has the edge in raw power capacity.
Physical Dimensions
Both amplifiers share identical external dimensions. The Yamaha A-S501SL and the Yamaha A-S701BL both measure 15.3 inches in width, 6 inches in height, and 17.1 inches in length. This consistency means they will fit into the same shelf spaces or audio racks without issue. You do not need to adjust your furniture layout when choosing between these two models. The footprint on your desk or entertainment center remains exactly the same. This makes the decision easier if space is a primary concern, as neither unit offers a size advantage over the other.
Weight
While the dimensions are identical, the weight differs between the two models. The Yamaha A-S501SL weighs 22.7 pounds. The Yamaha A-S701BL weighs 24.7 pounds. The A-S701BL is 2 pounds heavier. This additional mass may contribute to better stability and reduced vibration, which can be beneficial for audio fidelity in some setups. However, the difference is slight. For most users, this weight variation will not impact placement or stability significantly. It is a minor distinction that does not drastically change the user experience regarding handling or shelf loading.
Connectivity
Both amplifiers offer the same core connectivity options. They include gold-plated digital coaxial inputs, Toslink optical inputs, and analog inputs including a phono stage. The Yamaha A-S701BL also explicitly mentions digital audio inputs for TV and Blu-ray Disc players, though this is likely part of the standard digital input suite. Both units support Speaker A, Speaker B, and A+B outputs. The input selection is robust for both models, allowing you to connect turntables, digital sources, and multiple speaker sets. There is no significant difference in connectivity capabilities between the two.
Color Options
The primary visual difference lies in the finish. The Yamaha A-S501SL comes in Silver. The Yamaha A-S701BL comes in Black. This choice depends entirely on your existing equipment and decor. If you have other silver components, the A-S501SL will match better. If your system is predominantly black, the A-S701BL will blend in seamlessly. This is a purely aesthetic decision with no impact on performance. You should choose the color that complements your current audio gear and living space preferences.
Auto Standby
The product data for the Yamaha A-S701BL explicitly lists an auto standby feature that activates after 8 hours. The data for the Yamaha A-S501SL does not mention this feature. While it is possible the A-S501SL has it, the absence of this specification means you cannot confirm it from the provided data. If energy saving and automatic power management are important to you, the A-S701BL is the safer choice based on the available information. This feature helps reduce power consumption when the unit is not in use.
Which Yamaha Integrated Amp Fits You
You need maximum power for large speakers
The A-S701BL delivers 100 W + 100 W, which is 15 W more per channel than the A-S501SL. Both units maintain 0.019% THD for clean audio. If your speakers require higher wattage to reach optimal volume levels without strain, the extra power in the A-S701BL provides better headroom and dynamic range for demanding listening environments.
You prefer a lighter unit for easy moving
The A-S501SL weighs 22.7 pounds, making it 2 pounds lighter than the A-S701BL. Both models share identical dimensions of 15.3 by 6 by 17.1 inches. The silver finish offers a distinct visual option. If you plan to move the amplifier frequently or have weight constraints on your shelf, the lighter build of the A-S501SL is a practical advantage.
You want auto standby to save energy
The A-S701BL includes an auto standby feature that activates after 8 hours. This specification is not listed for the A-S501SL in the provided data. If you want the amplifier to enter a low-power state automatically during long periods of inactivity, the A-S701BL offers this convenience. Both units still provide the same digital coax, optical, and phono inputs.
You want identical connectivity with lower power
The A-S501SL offers the same digital coax, Toslink optical, and phono inputs as the A-S701BL. It also supports Speaker A, B, and A+B outputs. If your speakers are efficient and do not require the extra 15 W per channel, the A-S501SL meets your connectivity needs. You get the same input options and distortion performance at a lower power rating.
The products compared
Yamaha Silver Stereo Integrated Amplifier
Best for: two-channel setups with turntables and digital sources
- Power Output
- 85 W + 85 W
- Audio Inputs
- Digital Coax, Toslink Optical, Phono
- Audio Outputs
- Speakers A, B, A+B
- Total Harmonic Distortion
- 0.019% Thd
- Color
- Silver
- Dimensions
- 17.1 × 15.3 × 6 inches
View on Amazon: Yamaha Silver Stereo Integrated Amplifier Affiliate link
This stereo integrated amplifier delivers 85 watts per channel at 0.019 percent total harmonic distortion. It features dedicated phono, digital coaxial, and optical connections alongside dual speaker terminals for A, B, or simultaneous playback. You get clean analog and digital signal routing in a silver chassis, making it suitable if you run a turntable and digital audio sources.
Pros
- 85 W + 85 W output at 0.019% total harmonic distortion
- Gold-plated phono, digital coaxial, and optical inputs
- Independent A, B, and A+B speaker terminal switching
- Full-metal silver chassis design
Cons
- Chassis requires at least 17.1 inches of shelf depth
- No built-in Bluetooth or wireless streaming listed
Good fit if
- You want dedicated phono and digital inputs in one amplifier.
- You plan to switch between two pairs of speakers using A and B outputs.
Skip if
- You need built-in Bluetooth or wireless streaming.
- You have media console shelves shallower than 17.1 inches.
Verdict: Yamaha 85W Silver Integrated Amplifier fits audio listeners who want dedicated phono and digital inputs driving up to two sets of speakers. Its 85-watt output delivers low-distortion stereo playback across analog and digital sources.
Yamaha A-S701 Integrated Stereo Amplifier
Best for: Wired digital audio setups with phono needs
- Power Output
- 100 W plus 100 W
- Audio Inputs
- Digital coax, TOSLINK optical, Phono
- Audio Outputs
- Speakers A, B, A plus B
- Wireless Connectivity
- Bluetooth
- Total Harmonic Distortion
- 0.019% THD
- Color
- Black
View on Amazon: Yamaha A-S701 Integrated Stereo Amplifier Affiliate link
The Yamaha A-S701 is a black integrated stereo amplifier delivering 100 W per channel. It features digital coax and TOSLINK optical inputs, plus a built-in phono stage. You get speaker outputs for A, B, or both. Auto standby activates after eight hours. This model suits you if you need multiple digital connections and high power output for your speakers.
Pros
- 100 W per channel output
- Built-in phono input
- Digital coax and optical inputs
- Supports Speakers A, B, and A plus B
Cons
- No Bluetooth connectivity listed
- No remote control included
- Heavier build at 24.7 pounds
Good fit if
- You need a dedicated phono input
- You want multiple digital audio sources
- You prefer a black finish
Skip if
- You require wireless streaming
- You want a compact lightweight unit
- You need a remote control
Verdict: Yamaha A-S701 Black Integrated Amp offers robust power and versatile digital inputs. It fits you if you prioritize wired connections and phono capability over wireless convenience.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Yamaha Silver Stereo Integrated Amplifier | Yamaha A-S701 Integrated Stereo Amplifier |
|---|---|---|
| Power Output | 85 W + 85 W | 100 W plus 100 W |
| Audio Inputs | Digital Coax, Toslink Optical, Phono | Digital coax, TOSLINK optical, Phono |
| Audio Outputs | Speakers A, B, A+B | Speakers A, B, A plus B |
| Wireless Connectivity | not stated | Bluetooth |
| Total Harmonic Distortion | 0.019% Thd | 0.019% THD |
| Connectivity | not stated | Bluetooth |
| Color | Silver | Black |
| Dimensions | 17.1 × 15.3 × 6 inches | 17.1 × 15.3 × 6 inches |
| Weight | 22.7 pounds | 24.7 pounds |
| Model | A-S501SL | A-S701 |
| Size | not stated | 8.40 |
Frequently asked questions
What is the main difference in power between the Yamaha A-S501SL and A-S701BL?
The A-S701BL delivers 100 watts per channel, while the A-S501SL provides 85 watts per channel. Both models maintain a total harmonic distortion of 0.019%. This means the A-S701BL offers more headroom for driving demanding speakers.
Do these Yamaha amplifiers have the same physical dimensions?
Yes, both the silver A-S501SL and the black A-S701BL share identical external dimensions. They measure 15.3 inches in width, 6 inches in height, and 17.1 inches in length. The only physical difference is their weight, with the A-S701BL being slightly heavier at 24.7 pounds compared to 22.7 pounds.
Which model is better for vinyl enthusiasts?
The A-S501SL is rated best for vinyl listeners needing optical inputs. Both units include phono inputs for turntables. However, the A-S501SL is specifically noted for its suitability in setups that value wired connections and vinyl playback over wireless convenience.
Can I connect digital audio sources to both amplifiers?
Yes, both the A-S501SL and A-S701BL support digital coaxial and optical inputs. This allows you to connect digital sources like CD players or computers directly. You do not need an external DAC if your source has these outputs.
Is the A-S701BL worth the extra weight?
The A-S701BL weighs 24.7 pounds, which is 2 pounds more than the A-S501SL. This additional mass corresponds to its higher 100-watt power output. If you prioritize maximum power for large speakers, the extra weight is part of the robust build that supports that performance.
What color options are available for these Yamaha integrated amps?
The A-S501SL is available in silver. The A-S701BL is available in black. Both models share the same chassis design and dimensions. You can choose the color that best matches your existing audio equipment or rack setup.