Yamaha A-S701 Integrated Amplifier User Manual

Yamaha A-S701 Integrated Amplifier Manual

Introduction to the Yamaha A-S701 Integrated Amplifier

The Yamaha A-S701 Integrated Amplifier is a high-power stereo amplifier designed for listeners who want detailed, dynamic sound from a traditional two-channel audio system. It combines a robust analog amplifier section with optical and coaxial digital inputs, making it suitable for CD players, televisions, network streamers, game consoles, and other digital sources.

With 100 watts per channel into 8-ohm speakers, the A-S701 can drive many bookshelf and floor-standing speakers with authority. Yamaha’s ToP-ART design, Pure Direct mode, and high damping factor are intended to preserve signal clarity while controlling speaker movement. The amplifier also includes a dedicated subwoofer output, switchable speaker terminals, a phono input for compatible turntables, and a remote control.

This Yamaha stereo amplifier suits music enthusiasts, home theater users who prefer a separate two-channel system, and anyone upgrading from a compact receiver. It works well for vinyl playback, CD listening, television audio, and high-quality stereo streaming through an external digital source. Pure Direct bypasses selected tone-control circuitry for a shorter signal path, while the bass, treble, balance, and loudness controls allow practical adjustment for different rooms and listening levels.

Use this guide to review the Yamaha A-S701 specifications, connect speakers and source components safely, configure digital and analog inputs, and resolve common sound or protection problems.

Yamaha A-S701 Specifications and Features

• Amplifier type: Two-channel integrated stereo amplifier with analog and digital audio inputs.
• Rated output power: 100 W + 100 W into 8 ohms from 20 Hz to 20 kHz at 0.019% THD.
• Dynamic power per channel: 140 W at 8 ohms, 170 W at 6 ohms, 220 W at 4 ohms, and 290 W at 2 ohms.
• Frequency response: 10 Hz to 100 kHz with a tolerance of ±1.0 dB.
• Total harmonic distortion: 0.019% for CD input to speaker output at 50 W into 8 ohms.
• Signal-to-noise ratio: 99 dB for the CD input under Yamaha’s specified test conditions.
• Digital inputs: One optical input and one coaxial input for PCM-compatible digital audio sources.
• Analog connectivity: Multiple line-level inputs, a phono input, record output, and subwoofer output.
• Speaker connections: Speaker A and B terminals with an A+B bi-wiring selection.
• Sound features: Pure Direct, ToP-ART construction, CD Direct Amplification, bass, treble, balance, and loudness controls.
• Power management: Auto power standby and approximately 0.5 W standby consumption.
• Dimensions and weight: Approximately 17-1/8 inches wide, 6 inches high, 15-1/4 inches deep, and 24.7 pounds.

How to Set Up the Yamaha A-S701

1. Place the amplifier on a stable, level surface with open space around the ventilation openings. Do not install it in a sealed cabinet or directly above another heat-producing component.
2. Turn the amplifier off and disconnect AC power before making connections.
3. Connect the left and right speakers to the SPEAKERS A terminals. Observe correct polarity: connect the red or positive terminal on the amplifier to the positive speaker terminal, and the black or negative terminal to negative.
4. Connect a CD player, streamer, or other analog source to a matching audio input using left and right RCA cables.
5. Connect a television or digital source to the optical or coaxial input. Set the source to PCM stereo output if the amplifier does not recognize its digital signal.
6. Connect a turntable to the PHONO input and attach its ground wire when provided. Use a turntable with the appropriate moving-magnet phono output specification.
7. Connect a powered subwoofer to the SUBWOOFER OUT jack. Do not connect a passive subwoofer directly to this output.
8. Set the IMPEDANCE SELECTOR according to the connected speaker configuration and speaker impedance instructions in the owner’s manual. Turn the amplifier off before changing this selector.
9. Connect the power cord, select the desired input, start playback, and raise the volume gradually.

If there is no sound, confirm that the correct input and SPEAKERS selection are active. Keep speaker wires from touching each other or the amplifier chassis.

Yamaha A-S701 Troubleshooting Guide

No power

Confirm that the power cable is firmly connected to the amplifier and wall outlet. Check the outlet with another device, and press the front-panel power switch. If the unit remains unresponsive, disconnect it briefly and contact an authorized Yamaha service center.

No sound or incorrect input

Verify that the source component is powered on and playing. Select the matching input with the front-panel selector or remote control. Check RCA, optical, and coaxial connections at both ends. Also confirm that the SPEAKERS selector is set to A, B, or A+B as required.

One speaker is silent

Turn the amplifier off and inspect the speaker cable for loose strands, reversed connections, or a broken plug. Check the balance control and test the source with another input. Never allow exposed speaker conductors to touch one another.

The amplifier shuts down or enters protection

Reduce the volume, turn the unit off, and inspect the speaker wiring for short circuits. Confirm that the speakers meet the selected impedance setting. Allow the amplifier to cool, reconnect the cables carefully, and restart it. Repeated protection activation may indicate an internal fault and requires authorized service.

Digital audio is silent

Check that the optical or coaxial cable is fully inserted and that the source outputs PCM stereo rather than an unsupported multichannel format. Select the correct digital input and test another cable or source.

For model-specific diagrams, replacement documentation, and service assistance, use Yamaha’s official A-S701 owner’s manual and regional support channels. Keep the model name, serial number, purchase documentation, and a description of the problem available when contacting Yamaha or an authorized service center.

Yamaha A-S701 Pros and Cons

Advantages

• High stereo power: The 100-watt-per-channel rating provides substantial headroom for many home listening rooms and demanding musical passages.
• Flexible source connectivity: Optical and coaxial inputs complement RCA line inputs, a phono input, and a subwoofer output.
• Direct listening modes: Pure Direct and CD Direct Amplification provide options for minimizing additional signal processing.
• Speaker versatility: Speaker A/B operation and bi-wiring support accommodate common two-channel system layouts.
• Practical controls: Bass, treble, balance, and loudness controls make it easier to adapt sound to room acoustics and listening volume.
• Conventional hi-fi design: A sturdy integrated amplifier layout can be preferable to a compact all-in-one system for users who value simple operation and separate components.

Limitations

• No built-in network streaming: Streaming services require an external streamer, television, computer, or other digital source.
• No HDMI inputs: The A-S701 is not a full home theater AV receiver and cannot switch HDMI video sources.
• No USB audio input: A computer may need an external USB DAC or another compatible digital device.
• Large and heavy chassis: Its full-size dimensions require more shelf space than compact desktop amplifiers.
• Best for two-channel listening: Users who need surround decoding, room correction, wireless speakers, or integrated multiroom features may need a different product category.

The Yamaha A-S701 Integrated Amplifier is best suited to listeners building a traditional stereo system with passive speakers, wired sources, and optional external streaming equipment. It may not be the right choice for a single-box wireless music system or an HDMI-based surround setup.