YAMAHA A-S701 Integrated Stereo Amplifier vs YAMAHA A-S801 Natural Sound Stereo (2026): Key Differences
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You are comparing the yamaha a s701 integrated stereo amplifier vs a s801 natural sound. Both units deliver 100 W per channel with low distortion. They share optical and coaxial digital inputs. The main difference is connectivity. The A-S801 adds a USB DAC for high-res files. It also uses larger internal components. The A-S701 stays simpler with just digital and phono inputs. You choose based on your source needs.
Key differences
| Aspect | Yamaha A-S701 Integrated Stereo Amplifier | Yamaha A-S801 Natural Sound Stereo Amp |
|---|---|---|
| Power Output | 100 W plus 100 W | 100 W plus 100 W |
| THD | 0.019% | 0.019% |
| Digital Inputs | Coax, Optical | Coax, Optical, USB |
| USB DAC | Not listed | DSD, PCM 384 kHz |
| Weight | 24.7 pounds | 26.7 pounds |
Which one should you choose?
Choose Yamaha A-S701 Integrated Stereo Amplifier if
- You need a straightforward amp with optical and coaxial inputs.
- You prefer a lighter unit for your shelf.
- You do not need to play high-resolution USB audio files.
Choose Yamaha A-S801 Natural Sound Stereo Amp if
- You want to connect a computer for high-res PCM or DSD files.
- You value larger internal capacitors and heat sinks.
- You do not mind the extra weight for potential stability.
Verdict: The A-S701 is for users who only need basic digital and phono connections. The A-S801 is better if you want to stream high-resolution audio files via USB. Both offer identical power and distortion specs for your speakers.
Yamaha A-S701 vs A-S801 Specs
Power output
Both the Yamaha A-S701 and the A-S801 deliver identical power ratings. Each amplifier provides 100 watts per channel into both channels. This measurement is taken at 20 Hz to 20 kHz with a total harmonic distortion of 0.019%. You get the same driving capability for your speakers with either model. The power specs are exactly the same, so you do not need to choose one over the other for raw output strength. The performance numbers are tied across the board for this metric.
Digital connectivity
The A-S701 offers gold-plated digital coaxial and TOSLINK optical inputs. It also includes a phono stage for turntables. The A-S801 adds a significant feature: a USB DAC function. This allows you to connect a computer directly and play high-resolution audio files. The A-S801 supports DSD at 2.8 MHz and 5.6 MHz, as well as PCM up to 384 kHz and 32-bit resolution. It also handles WAV and FLAC formats. If you listen to digital files from a PC, the A-S801 is the better choice.
Analog inputs
Both units include gold-plated analog inputs and a dedicated phono stage. You can connect turntables, CD players, or other analog sources to either amplifier without issue. The A-S801 lists these inputs explicitly in its features, and the A-S701 includes the phono input as a standard feature. There is no difference in the analog connectivity options available to you. Both models support the same basic analog signal paths for your existing collection of vinyl and digital players.
Speaker outputs
You can connect two pairs of speakers to either amplifier. Both the A-S701 and A-S801 provide terminals for Speakers A, Speakers B, and a combination of A plus B. This allows you to switch between different rooms or different types of speakers. The switching logic and output terminals are identical on both models. You have the same flexibility for multi-room setups or swapping out your main listening speakers. The speaker output options are a complete tie.
Build quality
The A-S801 is built with a custom-made power transformer, 12,000 µF block capacitors, and extruded aluminum heat sinks. These components suggest a more robust internal power supply and thermal management system. The A-S701 data does not list these specific internal components. The A-S801 is also slightly heavier at 26.7 pounds compared to the A-S701 at 24.7 pounds. The dimensions are swapped, but the A-S801 has a wider footprint. The added weight and listed components give the A-S801 an edge in perceived build quality.
Which Yamaha Integrated Amp Suits You
High-res digital music listener
The A-S801 includes a USB DAC function. It supports DSD up to 5.6 MHz and PCM up to 384 kHz. You can play WAV and FLAC files directly. This unit handles high-resolution audio formats that the A-S701 cannot process. It is the better choice for your digital library.
Vinyl record collector
The A-S701 features a dedicated phono input alongside gold-plated coaxial and optical ports. You get straightforward connectivity for turntables and digital sources. The power output matches the A-S801 at 100 watts per channel. It offers essential analog and digital inputs without the extra complexity of USB DAC processing.
Budget-conscious audiophile
The A-S701 provides core stereo amplification with 100 watts per channel. It includes auto standby to save energy after eight hours. You get optical and coaxial digital inputs for TV or Blu-ray players. It delivers the same power and distortion specs as the A-S801 at a lower price point.
The products compared
Yamaha A-S701 Integrated Stereo Amplifier
Best for: Direct digital and phono connections
- 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
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The Yamaha A-S701 is a black integrated stereo amplifier delivering 100 W per channel with 0.019% THD. It features gold-plated digital coax and TOSLINK optical inputs, plus a built-in phono stage for turntables. You can connect speakers A, B, or both. Auto standby activates after eight hours. This unit suits listeners who want reliable digital and analog connectivity in a compact chassis.
Pros
- 100 W per channel output
- Built-in phono input
- Digital coax and optical inputs
- Supports Speaker A, B, and A+B
Cons
- No Bluetooth connectivity listed
- No remote control included
- No app control available
Good fit if
- You need a phono input for a turntable
- You want digital inputs for TV or Blu-ray
- You prefer a compact black amplifier
Skip if
- You require wireless Bluetooth streaming
- You need app-based control
- You want a remote included
Verdict: Yamaha A-S701 Black Stereo Amp fits users who value direct digital and analog connections without wireless features. It is a practical choice for setups prioritizing phono and optical inputs.
Yamaha A-S801 Natural Sound Stereo Amp
Best for: Wired hi-fi setups with vinyl
- Power Output
- 100 W plus 100 W
- Audio Inputs
- USB, digital coax, TOSLINK, Phono
- Audio Outputs
- Speakers A, B, AplusB
- Total Harmonic Distortion
- 0.019% THD
- Color
- Black
- Dimensions
- 15.3 × 17.1 × 6 inches
View on Amazon: Yamaha A-S801 Natural Sound Stereo Amp Affiliate link
The Yamaha A-S801 is a black integrated stereo amplifier delivering 100 W per channel. It features a USB DAC supporting DSD and high-resolution PCM. You get gold-plated digital coax and TOSLINK inputs alongside a phono stage. This unit suits listeners who want high-resolution digital playback and dedicated analog inputs for vinyl.
Pros
- 100 W power output per channel
- USB DAC supports DSD and 384 kHz PCM
- Includes phono input for turntables
- Gold-plated digital and analog inputs
Cons
- No Bluetooth connectivity listed
- No remote control mentioned
- Heavier build at 26.7 pounds
Good fit if
- You need a dedicated phono input
- You want high-resolution USB DAC support
- You prefer wired digital connections
Skip if
- You require wireless streaming
- You need a remote control
- You want a lightweight unit
Verdict: The Yamaha A-S801 Natural Sound Stereo Amp delivers precise digital audio and vinyl support. It fits listeners prioritizing wired high-resolution playback over wireless convenience.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Yamaha A-S701 Integrated Stereo Amplifier | Yamaha A-S801 Natural Sound Stereo Amp |
|---|---|---|
| Power Output | 100 W plus 100 W | 100 W plus 100 W |
| Audio Inputs | Digital coax, TOSLINK optical, Phono | USB, digital coax, TOSLINK, Phono |
| Audio Outputs | Speakers A, B, A plus B | Speakers A, B, AplusB |
| Wireless Connectivity | Bluetooth | not stated |
| Total Harmonic Distortion | 0.019% THD | 0.019% THD |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth | not stated |
| Color | Black | Black |
| Dimensions | 17.1 × 15.3 × 6 inches | 15.3 × 17.1 × 6 inches |
| Weight | 24.7 pounds | 26.7 pounds |
| Size | 8.40 | not stated |
| Model | A-S701 | A-S801BL |
Frequently asked questions
Which Yamaha amp is lighter and easier to mount?
The Yamaha A-S701 is the lighter option. It weighs 24.7 pounds, while the A-S801 weighs 26.7 pounds. This makes the A-S701 slightly easier to handle during installation. Both units are black and share the same height of 6 inches. The A-S701 is also slightly narrower in width.
Does the A-S701 support high-resolution digital audio?
The provided data does not list specific high-resolution audio support for the A-S701. It highlights direct digital and phono connections as its main strengths. The A-S801 is noted for its USB DAC function and high-res playback. If you need to play high-res files directly, the A-S801 is the better choice based on available specs.
Are the physical dimensions of both amplifiers the same?
The dimensions are very similar but not identical. Both models share a height of 6 inches. The A-S701 measures 15.3 inches wide and 17.1 inches long. The A-S801 measures 17.1 inches wide and 15.3 inches long. You should check your shelf space to ensure the width fits your equipment rack.
Which model is better for vinyl enthusiasts?
Both amplifiers include phono inputs for turntable connections. The A-S701 is specifically noted as fitting users who value direct analog connections. The A-S801 is described as suitable for wired hi-fi setups with vinyl. Since both support phono inputs, your choice depends on whether you prioritize the A-S701's simplicity or the A-S801's digital features.
Is there a significant weight difference between the two?
There is a small weight difference of 2 pounds. The A-S701 weighs 24.7 pounds. The A-S801 weighs 26.7 pounds. This difference is minor and unlikely to affect stability on a sturdy shelf. Both units are built with a similar black finish and compact footprint.
Does the A-S701 have a USB DAC input?
The data for the A-S701 does not mention a USB DAC input. It focuses on optical and coaxial digital inputs. The A-S801 explicitly includes a USB DAC for high-resolution audio playback. If you plan to connect a computer via USB for digital audio, the A-S801 is the supported option.