Sansui TU-517 AM/FM Stereo Tuner


Image attribution: Sansui brochure (pictured with rack handles)

Wavebands FM, AM (Medium Wave only)
Number of FM gangs 4
Number of AM gangs 2
Center Tune Indication Illuminated analogue meter
Signal Strength Meter Analogue (illuminated)
Switchable MPX filter Yes
FM IF Band Switch Yes
Illuminated analogue tuning dial Yes
Flywheel assisted tuning knob Yes
FM stereo 50dB quietening sensitivity 34 dBf
Ultimate S/N Ratio 82dB (mono), 78dB (stereo)
FM capture ratio 1.0 (wide), 1.5 (narrow)
Width x Height x Depth (cm) 43.0 x 16.8 x 40.2
Weight (Kg) 8.7 (without rack handles)
When manufactured 1977 to 1979
UK new price £180 (in 1979)
eBay price guide (full working order and in good condition) £90 - £130
ClassicHiFi.info Rating
Rarity

The Sansui TU-517 is a nice looking, well made tuner with true audiophile standard sound quality that beats virtually all modern tuners regardless of price. It was almost identical to the slightly more expensive TU-717 with outwardly the only difference being the absence of a calibration level switch (to aid setting of recording levels on tape decks) and LEDs to indicate the selected waveband. The internal circuitry inside a TU-517 is virtually identical to a TU-717 and they sound identical. The TU-517 is the better buy as they tend to be significantly cheaper on eBay.


The TU-517's tuning capacitor. Note the 4 FM gangs and the 2 AM gangs.
Image attribution: Sansui brochure

Like all Sansui's amplifiers and tuners manufactured in the late 1970's the TU-517 has a thick aluminium front panel painted in matt black. It looks tasteful but the paint finish can be easily chipped/scratched when subjected to careless handling. When new, the TU-517 was supplied with professional style rack mounting handles to allow mounting into a 19" equipment rack. The rack handles are attached to the sides of the unit by two screws and are of course detachable.


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