Yamaha A-S801

Overview

The Yamaha A-S801 is a solid state integrated amplifier that brings serious two channel engineering and a capable built-in DAC into one clean, disciplined chassis. It draws on Yamaha's ToP-ART (Total Purity Audio Reproduction Technology) philosophy along with the Mechanical Ground Concept, which routes vibration away from sensitive circuitry to keep the sound stable and low in noise. Rated at 100 watts per channel into 8 ohms, it delivers effortless dynamics and a controlled, natural tonal balance suited to a wide variety of speakers.

A key distinction of the A-S801 is its onboard ESS SABRE ES9010K2M DAC, which handles USB, optical, and coaxial digital sources with support for high resolution PCM and DSD. That makes it a genuine digital hub as well as a traditional analog amplifier, complete with a moving magnet phono stage for turntable listeners. The symmetrical layout, discrete output stage, and generous power supply reflect Yamaha's long heritage in audio design, tracing back to its founding in 1887.

The A-S801 is for the listener who wants one honest, well built component to anchor a real hi-fi system. It suits vinyl fans, CD collectors, and computer audio users alike, and its clarity and grip reward pairing with quality bookshelf and floorstanding speakers across small to medium rooms.

Key Features

• 100 watts per channel into 8 ohms of solid state power with high dynamic headroom
• Built-in ESS SABRE ES9010K2M DAC supporting high resolution PCM and DSD via USB
• ToP-ART design and Mechanical Ground Concept for low noise and vibration control
• Discrete, symmetrical amplifier layout for clean channel separation
• Moving magnet phono input for vinyl playback
• USB, optical, and coaxial digital inputs alongside multiple line-level analog inputs
• Pure Direct mode that bypasses tone controls for the shortest signal path
• Speaker A and B switching with support for two speaker pairs
• Sturdy build with a clean front panel, tone controls, and a large volume dial

How the A-S801 Compares

Yamaha A-S801 vs Yamaha A-S1200

The A-S1200 sits higher in Yamaha's ladder and leans further into the classic separates philosophy with its Floating and Balanced Power Amplifier design and fully balanced XLR inputs. It focuses on pure analog performance and heavier construction rather than an onboard DAC, so it suits a listener building around dedicated external sources. The A-S801, by contrast, integrates an ESS SABRE DAC and digital inputs for a more all-in-one digital and analog hub. See the Yamaha A-S1200.

Yamaha A-S801 vs Yamaha R-N800A

The R-N800A is a network receiver that adds MusicCast, AirPlay 2, Qobuz, Spotify Connect, and YPAO room calibration for a fully connected streaming experience. Choose it if wireless streaming and room correction are central to how you listen. The A-S801 keeps things focused as a wired integrated amplifier with a built-in USB DAC and phono stage, ideal for a source-driven, cable-based system. See the Yamaha R-N800A.

Yamaha A-S801 vs Audiolab 6000A MKII

The Audiolab 6000A MKII offers a similarly minded integrated with an onboard DAC and a slim, understated presentation. Its character tends toward a refined, delicate balance. The A-S801 counters with a bit more heft in the chassis, higher rated power, and Yamaha's signature natural, composed voicing, making it a strong fit for listeners who want dynamic authority. See the Audiolab 6000A MKII.

Recommended Speakers

The A-S801 has the power and grip to drive a wide range of speakers, and pairs naturally with a Yamaha source to complete a system.

• Mission 700 These classic standmounts have an engaging, musical balance that the A-S801's 100 watts drive with ease, delivering full dynamics in small to medium rooms.
• LEAK Sandwich 150 A characterful bookshelf design that rewards the A-S801's clean power and detailed DAC, offering a rich yet articulate sound for near-field and medium spaces.
• KLH Model Three Their acoustic suspension design likes real power, and the A-S801 provides the current and control to bring out their warm, room-filling presentation.
• Yamaha CD-S303 CD Player A tonally matched digital source that complements the A-S801's SABRE DAC and tidy aesthetic for a coherent, disc-focused system.
• Audioquest Rocket 44 A solid full range speaker cable that supports the A-S801's high damping factor and clean output for reliable, low-loss connections to your speakers.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the rated power of the Yamaha A-S801?
It is rated at 100 watts per channel into 8 ohms with both channels driven, and 120 watts per channel into 4 ohms.

Does the A-S801 have a built-in DAC?
Yes, it uses an ESS SABRE ES9010K2M DAC that handles USB, optical, and coaxial digital sources.

What digital resolutions does the USB input support?
The USB Type B input supports PCM up to 384 kHz/32-bit and DSD up to 11.2 MHz.

Does it include a phono stage?
Yes, it has a built-in moving magnet phono input for turntables fitted with a moving magnet cartridge.

Can I connect two pairs of speakers?
Yes, it offers Speaker A and B terminals, so you can connect and switch between two speaker pairs.

What is Pure Direct mode?
Pure Direct bypasses the tone controls and other circuitry for the shortest, cleanest signal path from source to speakers.

Does the A-S801 have network streaming?
No, it is a wired integrated amplifier. For MusicCast and streaming services, consider the Yamaha R-N800A network receiver or the XDA streaming amplifier.

Is there a headphone output?
Yes, it includes a front-panel headphone jack for private listening.

What is ToP-ART?
ToP-ART is Yamaha's Total Purity Audio Reproduction Technology, a design philosophy that shortens signal paths and reduces noise for cleaner reproduction.

What is the Mechanical Ground Concept?
It is a construction approach that routes internal vibration away from sensitive circuitry to keep the sound stable and low in noise.

Does the A-S801 have a subwoofer output?
It does not include a dedicated subwoofer output, so it is best paired with full-range or standmount speakers.

What speakers pair well with the A-S801?
Its power and grip suit bookshelf and floorstanding speakers across small to medium rooms, such as the Mission 700, LEAK Sandwich 150, or KLH Model Three.

Can I use it with a computer?
Yes, connect a computer via the USB Type B input to use the onboard SABRE DAC for high resolution playback.

What are its dimensions and weight?
It measures roughly 435 x 157 x 396 mm and weighs about 13.1 kg.

How does the A-S801 differ from the A-S1200?
The A-S1200 sits higher in the range with a Floating and Balanced Power Amplifier design and balanced XLR inputs, focusing on pure analog performance, while the A-S801 adds a built-in DAC and digital inputs.

Does it have tone controls?
Yes, it offers bass and treble tone controls, which can be bypassed using Pure Direct.

Can it drive 4 ohm speakers?
Yes, it is rated at 120 watts per channel into 4 ohms and has a high damping factor for good control of demanding loads.

Is the A-S801 a good match for vinyl?
Yes, its moving magnet phono stage lets you connect a turntable directly, and it pairs well with the Yamaha GT-5000 for a serious analog front end.

What warranty does it include?
It carries a 2 year parts and labor warranty from Yamaha Corporation of America for the original owner when purchased from an authorized dealer.

Why buy from All Elite Audio?
All Elite Audio is an authorized Yamaha dealer, so your A-S801 arrives with full factory warranty and expert support. We help you match it with the right speakers and sources, and it is in stock and ready to ship.