This review delves into the vintage audiophile experience offered by the SABA 9241 receiver and its accompanying Professional 1300 speakers. Released in 1978, this German-engineered system boasts impressive specifications and a unique sonic signature that captivates vintage audio enthusiasts. We'll explore the technical details of both the receiver and speakers, examining their performance characteristics and design elements that contribute to their distinct sound. From the powerful 70-watt-per-channel amplifier and its surprisingly high power output under testing to the meticulously chosen drivers within the 1300 speakers, we will unravel the components that make this a compelling vintage audio setup.This detailed analysis will include dyno test results that reveal the receiver's exceeding power capabilities, surpassing its rated output. We'll also discuss the subjective listening experience, acknowledging the noted "muffled" quality while highlighting the warm and mellow character that contributes to the overall enjoyable sound. Ultimately, this review aims to provide a comprehensive assessment of the SABA 9241 and 1300 system, considering its technical merits, unique sonic characteristics, and its overall appeal to collectors and audiophiles interested in a powerful and immersive vintage listening experience.
Pros And Cons
- Performed well in several magazines
- Delivered 99 watts into a 4-ohm load per channel (continuous power at 1kHz)
- Delivered 93 watts into a 4-ohm load per channel (continuous power at 50Hz)
- Delivered 115 watts into a 4-ohm load per channel (dynamic burst power test with 1kHz, 20 cycles)
- Delivered 121.5 watts into a 4-ohm load per channel (dynamic burst power test with 1kHz, 8 cycles)
- Delivered 133 watts into a 4-ohm load per channel (short-term peak RMS output power test with 1kHz, 1 millisecond)
- Features a 12-inch woofer (VG acoustic PMT 31050 sl100)
- Mid-range driver (model number LP km 130/50 SL 120t)
- Two tweeters (Phillips or Valvo, model number AD 0162 T8 or T4)
- Treble localizator allows adjustment of treble
- Able to reproduce frequencies up to 16kHz
- Treble is a little bit dampened
- Sound described as 'a little bit like standing behind a curtain'
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The SABA 9241 Receiver: A 1978 Relic
The SABA 9241 receiver, released in 1978, boasts impressive specifications for its time. Originally priced at around 1,500 German marks, it offered a robust 70 watts per channel into a 4-ohm load, with remarkably low THD (0.03%). This powerful amplifier garnered positive reviews in various audio magazines, signifying its quality and performance.
Its design showcases the sophisticated engineering of the era. This receiver is a testament to the enduring appeal of classic audio equipment and the attention to detail that characterized high-end components in the late 1970s.
SABA Professional 1300 Speakers: A Deep Dive into Components
The accompanying SABA Professional 1300 speakers are equally fascinating. These speakers featured a 12-inch woofer from VG Acoustic (Godob Vitman), model PMT 31050 SL100, with an aluminum basket and a 52mm voice coil. This combination provided deep bass response and impactful low-frequency reproduction.
The mid-range driver, an ITT LP KM 130/50 SL 120T, contributed to a balanced and detailed mid-range, while the Phillips or Valvo tweeters (model AD 0162 T8 or T4) offered a crisp high-frequency extension. The speakers' unique treble localizer allowed for adjustable treble response, a sophisticated feature not always found in speakers of this era.
Dyno Power Test Results: Exceeding Expectations
The dyno test results were remarkable, exceeding the receiver's rated power. Continuous power tests consistently showed outputs above the 70-watt rating, peaking at 99 watts per channel into a 4-ohm load. Dynamic burst tests, simulating real-world music playback, yielded even higher results, reaching 115 watts per channel. Even with 8-ohm loads, the receiver delivered impressive power.
These tests showed the amplifier's capability to handle demanding loads and its robust power supply. Its ability to reach such high power outputs demonstrated the quality of its design and component selection.
Sound Quality and Listening Impressions
The sound produced by the SABA 9241 and 1300 speaker combination was described by some as having a slightly muffled quality, similar to listening behind a curtain. While this might be a subjective interpretation, it also speaks to the warm and mellow character of the sound.
Although some noted this characteristic, this does not necessarily detract from the overall listening experience. The balance of the three-way speakers ensured an enjoyable sound across various genres. The detail and imaging provided by this vintage setup make it a noteworthy vintage system.
Conclusion: A Worthy Vintage System
The SABA 9241 receiver and Professional 1300 speakers represent a significant piece of audio history. The receiver's superior power output and low distortion, paired with the speakers' detailed sound reproduction, make this a compelling system for vintage audio enthusiasts.
Despite the occasional subjective critique of a slightly muffled sound, the overall listening experience is highly enjoyable. For those seeking a unique vintage audio setup, the SABA 9241 and 1300 speakers provide a powerful and immersive listening experience, and stand the test of time.