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The Technics SA-C600 and SA-C100 are two impressive stereo amplifiers that share many similarities but cater to different needs. The SA-C600 is the more advanced model, offering higher power output, additional connectivity options, and a more premium finish.
Key Features & Specifications
Here's a side-by-side comparison of the key features and specifications of both models:
| Feature | Technics SA-C600 | Technics SA-C100 | |---------------------------------|----------------------------------------|----------------------------------------| | Power Output | 60W per channel | 50W per channel | | Built-in CD Player | Yes | Yes | | Streaming Services | Chromecast, Spotify Connect, Tidal, Deezer, Amazon Music | Same as SA-C600 | | Wireless Playback | AirPlay 2 | AirPlay 2 | | Phono Input | MM Phono input for turntable | MM Phono input for turntable | | Digital Inputs | Optical input (for TV, etc.) | Optical input (same) | | USB Ports | More USB ports (extra USB) | One less USB port | | MQA Support | Yes | No | | Room Compensation | Space Tune and ‘in-shelf’ options | Same as SA-C600 | | App Control | Technics Audio Center app support | Technics Audio Center app support | | Awards | Multiple What Hi-Fi? awards including Product of the Year | Nigh-on identical but fewer awards | | Finish | Different finish than SA-C100 | Different finish than SA-C600 |
Performance
The Technics SA-C600 is renowned for its expressive, punchy sound with a solid rhythmic drive and detailed yet cohesive musical presentation. It's a benchmark in its price and category, earning multiple accolades from industry experts.
The SA-C100 offers a very similar sonic performance but with slightly lower power output and fewer ports, making it a good budget option without major compromises in core functionality.
Pricing Comparison
The SA-C600 typically retails around £899 but can be found on deals (e.g., £759 on Richer Sounds), making it the premium option between the two. The SA-C100 is cheaper than the SA-C600, although exact pricing varies, it is generally recommended if the £759+ price of the C600 is too high, providing great value with minor feature reductions.
Additional Notes
Both models support control via the Technics Audio Center app, enabling network playback, tuning, bass/mid/treble adjustments, and streaming services management. They integrate well in multi-device setups and support linking with compatible Technics speakers for stereo or multi-room listening.
Both feature a built-in phono stage allowing easy turntable connectivity without extra equipment.
The Technics SA-C100 streaming system, while not yet reviewed, is expected to deliver a similar sonic performance to the SA-C600 with some compromises in power and connectivity options. It's currently on sale for £699 (save £151).
In conclusion, the SA-C600 is the ideal choice for audiophiles seeking premium sound and connectivity options, while the SA-C100 offers a more affordable alternative with nearly identical features and a slightly reduced power output.
[1] Richer Sounds - Technics SA-C600 [2] Richer Sounds - Technics SA-C100 [3] What Hi-Fi? - Technics SA-C600 Review [4] What Hi-Fi? - Technics SA-C100 Review
- The Technics SA-C600 and SA-C100 amplifiers both include MM Phono inputs for connecting a turntable.
- The Technics SA-C600 offers more USB ports compared to the SA-C100.
- The Technics SA-C600 comes with MQA support, a feature that the SA-C100 lacks.
- The Technics SA-C600 has a more premium finish compared to both the SA-C100 and itself.
- The Technics SA-C600 is capable of higher power output than the SA-C100.
- Both the SA-C600 and SA-C100 amplifiers support streaming services like Chromecast, Spotify Connect, Tidal, Deezer, and Amazon Music.
- You can control the SA-C600 and SA-C100 amplifiers using the Technics Audio Center app, which also allows for network playback, tuning, and bass/mid/treble adjustments.