Fact-checked by Grok 2 weeks ago

Dynaco

Dynaco was an American high-fidelity audio equipment manufacturer founded in 1955 by engineers David Hafler and Ed Laurent in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, specializing in affordable vacuum tube amplifiers, preamplifiers, tuners, and loudspeakers sold primarily as DIY kits. The company quickly gained prominence in the post-World War II hi-fi boom for democratizing high-quality sound reproduction through cost-effective designs that emphasized performance over luxury, with its flagship ST-70 stereo tube amplifier—introduced in 1959 and featuring four EL34 output tubes—becoming one of the best-selling hi-fi components ever, with over 350,000 units produced. Building on Hafler's earlier work at Acrosound, where he developed output transformers in the early 1950s, Dynaco's initial product was the Mk II monoblock amplifier (50 watts, 1955), offered as a kit to appeal to hobbyists and reduce manufacturing costs, with the PAS-1 preamplifier following in the late 1950s. The lineup expanded rapidly with models like the Mk III amplifier (60 watts, 1957), FM-1 tuner (1961), and Stereo 70 integrated system, establishing Dynaco as a leader in tube audio during the 1950s and 1960s golden age of hi-fi. By the mid-1960s, responding to market shifts, the company transitioned to solid-state designs, introducing products such as the Stereo 120 amplifier and PAT-4 preamplifier, while also venturing into speakers like the A-25 bookshelf model. Dynaco was acquired by Tyco Laboratories in 1968, after which Hafler departed in 1973 to found his own Hafler brand, though the company continued producing updated versions until its closure in 1980 amid industry changes toward more commercial audio gear. Its legacy endures among audiophiles, with vintage Dynaco equipment still sought after for restorations and upgrades, influencing modern tube amp revivals and underscoring the brand's role in making superior sound accessible to the masses. The brand has since been revived, notably by Panor Corporation in the 1990s and by Radial Engineering Ltd. starting in 2016, which issued updated versions of classic products until discontinuing production around 2020.

History

Founding and Precursors

David Hafler, born in 1919 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, graduated with a degree in mathematics from the University of Pennsylvania before serving as a communications specialist in the U.S. Coast Guard during World War II. After the war, Hafler briefly worked for a market research company while developing an interest in audio electronics, particularly high-fidelity sound reproduction. In 1950, he partnered with his longtime friend Herb Keroes to establish Acrosound, a Philadelphia-based company specializing in the design and manufacture of high-quality audio transformers. This venture marked Hafler's entry into commercial audio production, building on his post-war experiments with amplifier circuits and transformer designs. Acrosound quickly gained recognition for producing superior output transformers essential for tube amplifiers, which were prized for their low distortion and wide frequency response. The company's transformers were sold both individually to electronics hobbyists assembling their own amplifiers and to original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) integrating them into commercial products. This dual-market approach catered to the burgeoning post-war hi-fi enthusiast community, where DIY audio projects were popular, and helped Acrosound establish a reputation for reliability and performance in the early 1950s audio scene. By refining designs like the Williamson amplifier topology, Acrosound's components became foundational for affordable, high-performance tube-based systems. In 1955, Hafler, seeking to expand beyond transformers, co-founded The Dyna Company (later known as Dynaco) with engineer Ed Laurent in Philadelphia. The new venture initially focused on producing audio kits and components, allowing hobbyists to build complete systems at lower costs than factory-assembled units. One of Dynaco's earliest products was the Z-565 output transformer, a compact and efficient design that enabled cost-effective tube amplifier construction while maintaining audio quality. This approach embodied Hafler's philosophy of delivering "good sound at good value," achieved through kit-based assembly that minimized manufacturing overheads and empowered users with hands-on involvement.

Growth in the 1950s and 1960s

Dynaco's growth accelerated in the mid-1950s with the launch of its first Dynakit DIY products, including the Mark II amplifier in 1955, which was offered as an affordable kit for audiophiles seeking high-fidelity performance without premium pricing. Priced at $69.75 for the kit, the Mark II quickly gained traction, reaching sales of about 1,000 units per month after a distribution partnership with Acoustic Research. This success was bolstered by the introduction of the FM-1 tuner kit in 1957, expanding Dynaco's lineup to include essential components for complete hi-fi systems assembled by enthusiasts. By the early 1960s, Dynaco had expanded its offerings to include factory-assembled units alongside kits, catering to a broader audience beyond dedicated DIY builders while maintaining sales momentum. Annual sales across products climbed into the hundreds of thousands, driven by the hi-fi boom and Dynaco's reputation for value-driven engineering. A pivotal milestone came in 1959 with the introduction of the Stereo 70 (ST-70) amplifier, available as a $99.95 kit or fully wired unit, which delivered 35 watts per channel using EL34 output tubes and became the best-selling tube amplifier in history, with over 350,000 units produced. Dynaco's marketing strategy emphasized accessibility for the middle class through advertisements in leading audio publications like Audio magazine, which featured the company's kits and components throughout the 1950s and 1960s. This approach, combined with endorsements from hi-fi clubs and a focus on straightforward assembly instructions, positioned Dynaco as a gateway to professional-grade sound reproduction for hobbyists and everyday consumers alike. From its origins as a small Philadelphia-based operation, Dynaco evolved into a major player by the mid-1960s, employing around 150 people and establishing international distribution networks in Europe, Asia, and notably Japan, where it outsold competitors like McIntosh in unit volume. This expansion reflected the surging demand for home audio during the era, with Dynaco's innovative kits democratizing high-fidelity technology.

Decline in the 1970s

By the late 1960s, consumer preferences in the hi-fi industry began shifting decisively toward solid-state electronics, which offered greater reliability, cooler operation, and lower maintenance compared to vacuum tube designs. This transition eroded the market for Dynaco's flagship tube amplifiers, such as the ST-70, as audiophiles and casual listeners increasingly favored the compact, efficient solid-state receivers flooding the market from Japanese manufacturers. Compounding this external pressure was the 1974 Federal Trade Commission (FTC) ruling on amplifier power output claims, which standardized testing to require continuous RMS power measurements across the full audio bandwidth (20 Hz to 20 kHz) at low distortion levels with all channels driven. Amplifiers like Dynaco's SCA-80 integrated amp suffered under these rigorous conditions, necessitating a de-rating from 40 watts per channel to 30 watts due to excessive heat buildup during preconditioning, which diminished their perceived power and competitiveness against solid-state rivals that handled the tests more favorably. Internally, Dynaco faced mounting challenges, including rising component costs amid broader economic inflation and supply constraints for tubes and transformers. Founder David Hafler, after approximately 13 years at the helm since establishing the company in 1955, grew weary of the demands of running the business and sold his interest in 1968, citing fatigue from a workaholic lifestyle. These factors contributed to a notable sales decline from the company's peak in the mid-1960s, with production of iconic models like the ST-70 slowing significantly by the mid-1970s and ceasing entirely around 1977, after cumulative sales exceeded 350,000 units. In response, Dynaco attempted to adapt by expanding its solid-state lineup, including integrated amplifiers and receivers, but these products struggled to capture the same enthusiast loyalty and sonic reputation as the tube-era classics, further accelerating the brand's downturn.

Products

Tube Amplifiers and Preamplifiers

Dynaco's tube amplifiers and preamplifiers represented a cornerstone of affordable high-fidelity audio during the mid-20th century, emphasizing simplicity, reliability, and performance through innovative circuit designs. These products, often sold as kits under the Dynakit brand, allowed enthusiasts to assemble professional-grade equipment at home, fostering a DIY culture in hi-fi audio. The lineup focused on vacuum tube technology to deliver warm, dynamic sound with low distortion, prioritizing ultralinear topologies that balanced power output and linearity. Key models included the ST-35, a compact stereo power amplifier introduced in 1963 that delivered 17.5 watts per channel using EL84 output tubes and a 7247 dual triode driver, noted for its smooth midrange and efficiency in smaller systems. The ST-70, launched in 1959 as a stereo powerhouse, became the company's flagship with 35 watts per channel from push-pull EL34 pentodes driven by a 7199 (or 6AN8) pentode-triode stage, enabling robust performance for home listening. Complementing these were preamplifiers like the PAS-3, released in 1960, which featured a dedicated phono stage with two 12AX7 tubes per channel for RIAA equalization, alongside line-level inputs and tone controls for versatile source integration. Central to these designs was the ultralinear tube topology, pioneered by David Hafler and Herb Keroes under US Patent 2,710,312, which applied screen-grid feedback from the output transformer to reduce distortion while preserving power efficiency. In the ST-70, this configuration used Acrosound A-470 output transformers with interleaved windings to achieve low internal resistance (0.72 ohms on the 8-ohm tap), ensuring stable operation across loads and minimizing damping issues. The topology combined pentode power with triode-like linearity, employing a cathodyne phase splitter for balanced drive, which Hafler optimized for transient accuracy and compatibility with demanding speakers. Hafler's circuit innovations emphasized simplified topologies for low distortion and kit reliability, such as the ST-70's short signal path with minimal open-loop gain to curb transient intermodulation distortion (TIM) below 0.03% at low levels. Feedback loops—one global from the transformer secondary and another local to the EL34 screens—stabilized the amplifier against variations, while the absence of complex compensation networks enhanced high-frequency response and reduced phase shift. These designs achieved high reliability in user-assembled kits by using robust components like metal-film resistors and avoiding point-to-point wiring pitfalls through pre-printed circuit boards. Production incorporated high-quality Acrosound transformers, custom-wound for Dynaco's circuits to support ultralinear operation and wide bandwidth, with the ST-70's A-470 model exemplifying interleaved construction for low leakage inductance. Kits came with detailed assembly instructions, including step-by-step wiring diagrams and bias adjustment procedures, enabling DIY users to complete builds with basic tools; the ST-70's signature "Dynaco triangle" layout arranged components in a triangular chassis configuration for optimal heat dissipation and signal isolation. This approach, scaled by company growth in the 1960s, facilitated mass production of over 350,000 ST-70 units while preserving kit accessibility. Performance metrics underscored the designs' effectiveness: the ST-70 offered a frequency response of 20 Hz to 20 kHz within 0.25 dB, extending to 10 Hz (-0.3 dB) and 40 kHz (-1.2 dB), with total harmonic distortion under 1% at full 35-watt-per-channel output across the audio band. At 1 kHz, distortion measured 0.18% for a single channel at 27 watts, rising to 0.32% for both channels driven, reflecting the ultralinear stage's ability to maintain linearity under load. The PAS-3 complemented this with phono stage noise below -70 dB and flat response to 20 kHz, ensuring transparent signal handling from vinyl sources.

Speakers and Systems

Dynaco entered the speaker market in the late 1960s with the introduction of the A-25 bookshelf speakers in 1969, featuring a 10-inch extended-excursion woofer and a 1.5-inch soft-dome tweeter housed in an aperiodic bass-reflex cabinet designed for compact placement. Priced at $79.95 per speaker, the A-25 quickly became accessible for budget-conscious audiophiles seeking high-fidelity sound reproduction. Its design emphasized a neutral tonal balance and high sensitivity of 92 dB, making it particularly compatible with low-power tube amplifiers for optimal performance in home setups. The A-25's engineering incorporated innovations such as foam surrounds on the woofer for enhanced durability and reduced resonance, alongside a simple crossover network tuned at 1,500 Hz to achieve a flat frequency response from 30 Hz to 20 kHz. This aperiodic enclosure, with a heavily damped rear port, minimized bass overhang while providing smooth transient response, earning praise in Audio magazine for delivering "the finest tone-burst response of any speaker tested in this manner, regardless of price." Marketed as an affordable hi-fi solution, the A-25 achieved massive commercial success, with estimates of sales exceeding 600,000 units through the 1970s, solidifying its status as one of the best-selling bookshelf speakers of its era due to its value and uncolored sound. Expanding its lineup, Dynaco introduced the A-40 as a larger floorstanding model in the early 1970s, utilizing a three-way configuration with a 10-inch woofer, a 6.5-inch midrange, and a dome tweeter in a ported enclosure measuring 32 inches tall for extended bass extension and greater room-filling capability. The premium A-50 followed, featuring twin 10-inch woofers and a dome tweeter with an acoustic lens in a sealed walnut cabinet, priced at $189 per speaker, to offer robust power handling up to 100 watts continuous and a smoother crossover transition at 1,000 Hz for enhanced midrange clarity. Dynaco's overarching design philosophy across these models prioritized neutral sound reproduction, high sensitivity exceeding 90 dB, and seamless integration with low-wattage amplifiers, using high-quality SEAS drivers to ensure compatibility and fidelity in affordable systems. Dynaco also offered integrated systems, such as pairings of the A-25 or A-50 speakers with amplifiers like the Stereo 120 for complete hi-fi setups that emphasized ease of assembly and balanced performance. These speakers' market impact was profound, with the A-25 in particular lauded for democratizing quality audio; reviews highlighted its ability to outperform pricier competitors in natural timbre and dynamic range, contributing to Dynaco's reputation for value-driven innovation during the company's peak years.

Solid-State Equipment and Accessories

Dynaco entered the solid-state era in the late 1960s as transistor technology gained prominence in high-fidelity audio, introducing products designed for greater efficiency and reliability compared to their tube-based lineup. The Stereo 120 power amplifier, first released around 1966 and continuing production into the early 1970s, represented this pivot with its 60 watts per channel output into 8 ohms, utilizing silicon transistors in a minimalist design with only six active devices per channel. This amplifier achieved total harmonic distortion below 0.5% at full power and a damping factor of 40, contributing to tight bass control and dynamic performance. It incorporated patented protection circuits that automatically limited current to prevent damage from shorts or overloads, eliminating the need for fuses or breakers while maintaining instant recovery. Building on the Stereo 120, Dynaco expanded its solid-state offerings with higher-powered models like the Stereo 80 (80 watts per channel) and Stereo 400 (200 watts per channel), both featuring similar low-distortion profiles under 0.1% at rated output and high damping factors exceeding 100 for improved speaker control. Preamplifiers complemented these amplifiers, notably the PAT-5 introduced in 1974, which provided five line-level inputs, two phono inputs for moving-magnet cartridges, and adjustable tone controls for bass and treble shelving. The PAT-5 delivered a frequency response of 10 Hz to 50 kHz with total harmonic distortion as low as 0.007% and signal-to-noise ratios of 70 dB for phono and 90 dB for line sources, enabling precise signal handling without coloration. Tuners such as the FM-5, launched in 1972, supported this ecosystem with FM multiplex stereo decoding, auxiliary inputs for versatility, and sensitivity of 1.75 µV for reliable reception, alongside distortion below 0.5% and selectivity of 65 dB to minimize interference. Dynaco also produced accessories to enhance solid-state system performance, including specialized FM antennas like 300-ohm twin-lead models optimized for the FM-5 tuner's input, which improved signal capture in challenging environments. Speaker cables were offered in kits with low-capacitance construction to preserve high-frequency detail, and upgrade components such as replacement power transistors and protection modules allowed users to retrofit earlier amplifiers for solid-state compatibility. These features emphasized protection against thermal runaway and DC offset, with many designs incorporating instant-acting sensing circuits. Overall, Dynaco's solid-state line sought to challenge competitors like Marantz by prioritizing measurable performance metrics—such as sub-0.1% distortion and damping factors over 50—yet received mixed feedback from audiophiles who felt the clinical efficiency diverged from the company's renowned tube warmth.

Corporate Evolution

Initial Sale and Ownership Changes

In 1968, Dynaco was acquired by Tyco Laboratories, a diversified technology conglomerate, marking a significant transition for the company from its independent roots under founder David Hafler. Hafler, who had co-founded Dynaco in 1955 with Ed Laurent, remained with the firm in an advisory capacity until 1974, providing continuity during the initial integration. This sale occurred amid growing pressures on the hi-fi industry in the late 1960s, including rising competition and shifting consumer preferences toward solid-state technology. Under Tyco's management, Dynaco underwent operational restructuring, including a relocation of its manufacturing facility from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, to Blackwood, New Jersey, in the mid-1970s to streamline production. The company accelerated its emphasis on solid-state amplifiers and preamplifiers, such as the Stereo 120 and PAT-4 series, while gradually phasing out vacuum-tube designs and kit-based assembly by the early 1970s, reflecting broader industry trends away from DIY tube equipment. These changes impacted production lines, leading to the discontinuation of classic tube models like the ST-70 and the end of the original tube amplifier offerings that had defined Dynaco's early success. Following his departure from Dynaco, Hafler founded the David Hafler Company in 1978, initially based in Blue Bell, Pennsylvania, to develop high-quality solid-state audio components, including preamplifiers like the DH-101 and power amplifiers such as the DH-200 series, carrying forward his legacy of accessible, performance-oriented designs. In the late 1970s, Tyco divested Dynaco to ESS Laboratories in 1979, but ESS struggled with profitability and closed the Dynaco division in 1980, selling its remaining assets—including inventory, parts, and branding rights—to Stereo Cost Cutters (later rebranded as Sound Values), effectively ending the original manufacturing operations and resulting in significant layoffs among employees.

Revivals Under Panor and Radial Engineering

In 1991, Panor Corporation of Hauppauge, New York, acquired the rights to the Dynaco trademark and began reissuing select products, including solid-state amplifiers such as the ST-400 Series II and tube-based clones like the Stereo 70 II. These efforts focused on budget-oriented solid-state equipment alongside updated tube designs to appeal to cost-conscious audiophiles seeking affordable high-fidelity options. Panor's production run proved limited, with the reissues emphasizing economical solid-state models that faced challenges from market saturation and shifting preferences toward more premium tube revivals; by the late 1990s, the line was discontinued amid low demand. The company's tube clones, such as the ST-70 II, retained core elements of the original designs but incorporated minor updates for modern components, though they did not achieve widespread adoption. In 2014, Radial Engineering Ltd., based in Port Coquitlam, British Columbia, Canada, acquired the Dynaco brand, partnering with its subsidiary Jensen Transformers to ensure authenticity in output transformer design and audio fidelity. This acquisition aimed to revive the legacy through high-quality manufacturing, drawing on Jensen's expertise in premium transformers historically valued in hi-fi applications. Radial Engineering itself was acquired by Ultimate Support Systems in January 2018. Radial's flagship revival was the 2018 release of the ST-70 Series 3, a 35 watts-per-channel ultralinear tube amplifier priced between $1,499 and $3,000, featuring three 12AU7 driver tubes in place of the original 7199 for improved stability and performance. Despite positive reviews for its balanced sound and build quality, the Series 3 was discontinued in August 2020 due to insufficient sales. As of November 2025, Ultimate Support Systems (via Radial Engineering) retains the Dynaco rights but has introduced no new products under the brand. In the interim, third-party providers like Update My Dynaco offer licensed-compatible parts and upgrade kits to support maintenance and restoration of vintage units.

Legacy

Impact on Hi-Fi Culture

Dynaco played a pivotal role in democratizing high-fidelity audio by offering affordable kit-based components that allowed hobbyists to assemble professional-grade systems at a fraction of the cost of factory-built alternatives. In the 1960s, the company's Stereo 70 (ST-70) amplifier kit, priced at $99.95, combined with the PAS-2 preamplifier kit at $69.95, enabled users to build an amp and preamp setup for under $200, making tube amplification accessible to a broad audience beyond elite enthusiasts. Over its production run from 1959 to 1979, the ST-70 sold more than 350,000 units, becoming the best-selling hi-fi amplifier of all time and introducing countless individuals to the warmth and dynamics of tube sound. The ST-70 emerged as a cultural icon within the audiophile community, symbolizing the golden era of DIY hi-fi and earning widespread acclaim from influential reviewers. Julian Hirsch, in his Stereo Review evaluations, praised Dynaco products like the A-50 loudspeaker for their exceptional value and performance, highlighting it among the 13 key components he deemed exemplary in audio history. He also praised the PAT-4 preamplifier in separate reviews. Stereophile magazine similarly recognized the ST-70's enduring appeal, noting its role in shaping listener expectations for musicality and reliability during the vinyl-dominated 1960s and 1970s music scenes. This visibility helped cement Dynaco's status as a staple in home audio setups, fostering a sense of community among builders who shared schematics, modifications, and listening experiences. Dynaco's technical contributions, particularly in amplifier design, set lasting standards for the audio industry. Co-founder David Hafler, along with Herbert Keroes, introduced the ultralinear output configuration in their 1951 Audio Engineering article "An Ultra-Linear Amplifier," which optimized power output and linearity in tube amps, a topology Dynaco popularized through models like the ST-70 and still employed in boutique amplifiers today. Their innovative, cost-effective output transformers further enhanced efficiency and sound quality, influencing design principles that persisted in both American and international brands. This emphasis on value-driven engineering spurred the formation of dedicated Dynaco clubs and online forums, such as the Dynaco Tube Audio Forum and enthusiast groups on platforms like Facebook, where members exchange restoration tips and celebrate the brand's history. Hafler's philosophy of delivering high performance at budget prices left a profound long-term imprint on hi-fi culture, inspiring subsequent generations of affordable audio innovations into the 21st century. By prioritizing simplicity and accessibility, Dynaco paved the way for the budget segment's growth, with Hafler's later Hafler-branded solid-state designs like the DH-200 continuing this legacy and influencing modern entry-level systems from brands targeting value-conscious consumers. His work cultivated a DIY ethos that endures in contemporary audiophile communities, emphasizing hands-on engagement over premium pricing.

Modern Collectibility and Modifications

In the modern era, Dynaco equipment remains highly sought after by audio collectors and enthusiasts, with restored original ST-70 kits commanding market values between $500 and $2,000, depending on condition, originality, and included upgrades. Pairs of A-25 speakers typically sell for $300 to $800 on platforms like eBay and HiFiShark, reflecting their enduring appeal for vintage speaker systems. This collectibility is driven by the gear's reputation for warm, detailed sound reproduction, often positioning it as a foundational piece in retro hi-fi setups. Popular modifications enhance reliability and performance while preserving the classic Dynaco sound. Capacitor replacements, such as those in comprehensive restoration kits, address age-related degradation in electrolytic components. The VTA boards from Vacuum Tube Audio offer improved driver circuits for the ST-70, available as kits priced around $100 to $200, which replace the original 7199-based design with more stable alternatives. Enthusiasts frequently combine these with chassis upgrades for better heat dissipation and input connectivity. Community resources support ongoing restoration efforts. The Dynaco Tube Audio Forum provides a dedicated space for discussions on preservation and upgrades, including customer support for aftermarket kits. Services like Update My Dynaco specialize in rebuild kits for preamplifiers such as the PAT-5 and PAS-3, offering modernized components to restore full functionality. These platforms foster knowledge sharing among hobbyists worldwide. Restoration challenges include tube shortages and part obsolescence, notably the 7199 driver tube, which is increasingly difficult and expensive to source in reliable condition as of 2025. Vintage wiring often requires safety updates to meet contemporary standards, such as replacing deteriorated insulation to prevent hazards. As of 2025, the vinyl revival has heightened demand for tube preamps, amplifying interest in Dynaco models, though official support from entities like Radial Engineering remains absent following the discontinuation of the ST-70 Series 3 in 2020, leading to reliance on third-party clones and kits. The revived ST-70 Series 3 from Radial Engineering, produced from 2018 to 2020, serves as a benchmark for evaluating original versus modernized versions.

References

  1. [1]
    The History Of Dynaco
    ### Summary of Dynaco Audio Company
  2. [2]
    The Absolute Sound's High-End Audio Hall of Fame 2022's Inductees
    Feb 3, 2023 · In 1954, Hafler happened to connect with Ed Laurent, a talented engineer, and together they went on to form Dynaco—flawless timing at what ...
  3. [3]
    David Hafler - Hi-Fi Hall of Fame
    Founding of Dynaco. David Hafler teamed up with an engineer named Ed Laurent to found Dynaco in 1954. Their goal was to build affordable, high quality Hi-Fi ...Missing: history | Show results with:history<|control11|><|separator|>
  4. [4]
    David Hafler 1919–2003 | Stereophile.com
    Jun 1, 2003 · In 1954, he founded Dynaco, a name that became synonymous with good sound and good value. Hafler's entire career was built on the concept of ...
  5. [5]
    The Hub: History of Dynaco part 1 - Audiogon Discussion Forum
    May 20, 2010 · Hafler forged a new partnership with Ed Laurent in 1955: The Dyna Company, commonly known as Dynaco. The new company was located in ...
  6. [6]
    The Fifth Element #44 | Stereophile.com
    Oct 28, 2007 · David Hafler's first company, Acrosound, which he founded in 1950, was dedicated to making audio-output transformers. Although Acrosound's ...Missing: interview | Show results with:interview
  7. [7]
    Z-565 OUTPUT TRANSFORMER - Dynakit Parts
    17.5 watts, 8000 ohm c.t. "Updated Design" with 4 and 8 ohm output taps. For mounting and wiring details, refer to dimensional/electrical schematic.
  8. [8]
    Dynaco and Heathkit: The Budget Audiophiler - ecoustics.com
    Mar 23, 2021 · Dynaco was formed in 1955 by Ed Laurent and David Hafler in Philadelphia, and the brand quickly became popular for its affordable and wide range ...
  9. [9]
    [PDF] Audio magazine March 1960 - World Radio History
    the stereo tape market, particularly in the four-track. 7Y2-ips reel-to-reel ... DYNACO, INC., 3916 POWELTON AVENUE, PHILA. 4, PA. CABLE ADDRESS: DYNACO ...
  10. [10]
    The Most Popular Tube Amp in History Is Still a Classic Piece of Hi ...
    Oct 2, 2024 · Before Dynaco, cofounder David Hafler and his childhood friend Herb Keroes started another company, Acrosound. Notable in its own right, ...
  11. [11]
    Has the FTC Failed Consumer Audio Regarding Amplifier Power ...
    Apr 2, 2018 · FTC on Amplifier Power Claims. On May 3, 1974, the FTC instituted its Amplifier Rule to combat the unrealistic power claims made by many hi-fi ...
  12. [12]
    Dynaco ST-70 Series 3 Tube Power Amplifier - The Absolute Sound
    Feb 4, 2019 · With the advent of stereo in 1959, Dynaco launched its first stereo amp, the ST-70, available as a kit for $99.95 (cover included). A review in ...<|control11|><|separator|>
  13. [13]
    Dynaco ST-35 - vintage tube amplifier - TNT-Audio
    The Dynaco ST-35 is a rare, small, 17.5 watt per channel tube amp with fantastic sound, known for its famous iron and smooth, mellow midrange.Missing: key models 120
  14. [14]
    Dynaco Stereo 120 transistor power amplifier | Stereophile.com
    Jul 9, 2019 · The Stereo 120 is designed to deliver its maximum power of about 65Wpc channel into a load of 6 ohms, which allows it to feed its rated 60Wpc ...
  15. [15]
    Dynaco PAS-3 series II - Vacuum Tube Preamplifier - HiFi Engine
    The PAS-3 series II includes as standard a true state of the art phono preamp section and full provision for tape dubbing for the home recordist.
  16. [16]
    [PDF] Dynaco ST-70 Base Line Performance Testing.cdr
    With a constant impedance and normal loading, a flat power response at 35 watts RMS across the full aud io bandwidth is produced, at the lowest distortion ...
  17. [17]
    The Return of the Legendary Dynaco ST70 Tube Amplifier
    May 23, 2016 · The low open-loop gain of the original 70 is maintained, thereby minimizing Transient Intermodulation Distortion (TIM). The Pentode-Triode gain ...
  18. [18]
    Amplifier Kits Archives - Dynakit Parts
    Each classic Dynakit vacuum tube amplifier kit contains all the required parts including the chassis, transformers, circuit boards, components, hardware, wire ...Missing: Acrosound | Show results with:Acrosound
  19. [19]
    Dynaco A-25 Aperiodic Loudspeaker System Manual | HiFi Engine
    The Dynaco A-25 aperiodic loudspeaker is a compact, high performance two way speaker system. A 10 inch extended excursion woofer is matched to a specially ...
  20. [20]
    Dynaco A25 Loudspeaker - Hi-Fi Hall of Fame
    The Dynaco A25 loudspeaker was a two-way bookshelf loudspeaker that delivered excellent sound quality at a very affordable price.Missing: 1967 | Show results with:1967
  21. [21]
    Dynaco A25 Loudspeaker
    The A25 is a two-way speaker with a 10" woofer and a 2.25" mid-tweeter. The crossover is quite simple, just a 5 uF capacitor in series with a variable resistor ...
  22. [22]
    Dynaco A-25 loudspeaker | Stereophile.com
    Apr 13, 2017 · These speakers were able to put out rather more clean sound than some slightly-higher-efficiency systems, including the Janszen Z-600s, which ...Missing: introduction 1967
  23. [23]
    Dynaco A-40
    Nov 29, 2006 · The A-40s are 32" tall by 12" wide by 12" deep and are a three way speaker. I just acquired these and they sound great.dynaco A40xlUnusual DynacosMore results from community.classicspeakerpages.net
  24. [24]
    Dynaco A-50 Aperiodic Loudspeaker System Manual | HiFi Engine
    The two 10" woofers provide 1/3 more radiating area than a 12" cone, avoid mechanical instability problems, and provide a smoother crossover to the tweeter at ...
  25. [25]
    Busting The Myth of the "early" A-25 - Dynaco
    Jan 11, 2008 · The A-25 was developed by SEAS in cooperation w. Dynaco/Hafler, and produced in Denmark at SEAS from 1969 with SEAS Drivers produced at SEAS ...Missing: Edwin | Show results with:Edwin
  26. [26]
    Dynaco Stereo 120 Stereo Power Amplifier Manual | HiFi Engine
    The Dynaco Stereo 120 is an all silicon transistor basic power amplifier for use with separate preamplifiers such as the Dynaco PAT-4 or PAT-5.
  27. [27]
    Dynaco PAT-5 Stereo Preamplifier Manual | HiFi Engine
    ### Dynaco PAT-5 Preamplifier Summary
  28. [28]
    Dynaco FM-5 FM MPX Stereo Tuner Manual - HiFi Engine
    The Dynaco FM-5 is the culmination of more than 6 years of Dynaco design research with the avowed goal of exemplary performance under a wide range of reception ...
  29. [29]
    [PDF] VACUUM TUBE VALLEY - World Radio History
    In the mid-1970s, Dynaco moved their design and manufacturing facility to. Blackwood, New Jersey and expanded pro- duction there. The later versions of the.
  30. [30]
    Dynaco Stereo 70 II power amplifier | Stereophile.com
    Aug 31, 2004 · Panor Corp. has acquired the rights to the Dynaco name and reintroduced the venerable line of tube gear, including the classic PAS-3 II tube ...
  31. [31]
    Dynaco Museum in Mesa, AZ has Acquired Rare Stereo 400 Series ...
    Sep 12, 2023 · Recently, Bob was able to win an eBay auction for a super-rare 1990's (Panor-era) Dynaco ST-400 Series II power amplifier. ... Dynaco ST-400 ...Missing: reissue | Show results with:reissue
  32. [32]
    Dynaco ST-70 Series III | Page 3 - diyAudio
    Apr 7, 2015 · The latest scoop is that this amp has been discontinued by Radial Engineering do to poor sales. They tried to take the Dynaco trade name " ...
  33. [33]
    Dynaco Stereo 70 II power amplifier Page 2 - Stereophile.com
    Aug 31, 2004 · Located on the rear of the 70 II are four single 5-way binding posts per channel for ground, plus 4-, 8-, and 16-ohm output transformer taps.<|separator|>
  34. [34]
  35. [35]
    Radial Engineering Acquires Jensen Transformers - Radio World
    Jul 8, 2014 · Radial Engineering has acquired well-known audio transformer OEM Jensen Transformers. Radial Engineering, maker of audio equipment and ...Missing: Dynaco partnership
  36. [36]
    Jensen Transformers – The Secret To Better Sound In Radial Gear
    May 12, 2025 · The short answer is Jensen transformers ensure your sound comes across clearly, accurately, and as you intended. With over 40 years of design ...Missing: Dynaco authenticity
  37. [37]
    Dynaco ST-70 Series 3 Stereo Tube Amplifier David Hafler's ...
    The 35-Watt stereo amplifier was powered by four EL-34 output tubes running in what we know as ultralinear mode; perfect for the then burgeoning audiophiles.
  38. [38]
    The Dynaco ST-70 Series 3 Tube Amplifier is Now (Finally!) Shipping
    May 1, 2018 · Building on the legacy of David Hafler's enormously successful Stereo 70, the new Dynaco ST-70 - MSRP: $2,999.99 USD - incorporates advancements ...
  39. [39]
    Dynaco ST-70 Series 3 Tube Amplifier Review
    Jul 6, 2024 · This is a review and detailed measurements of the Dynaco ST-70 Series 3 tube stereo amplifier. It is on kind loan and cost $3000 (seems to be discontinued now).
  40. [40]
    Dynaco ST-70 Series 3 Tube Amplifier Review
    Jul 7, 2024 · However, they discontinued Dynaco products in August 2020, leaving the brand dormant. Since then, there have been no public announcements ...Dynaco ST-70 Series 3 Tube Amplifier Review | Page 5Dynaco ST-70 Series 3 Tube Amplifier Review | Page 4More results from www.audiosciencereview.com
  41. [41]
    Update My Dynaco
    The Dynaco Stereo 120 Power Amp was revolutionary when it came out in the mid 1960's. It had some problems, though, mostly related to under-biasing of the ...Missing: international distribution
  42. [42]
    Listening #114 The List of the Month - Stereophile.com
    Jun 14, 2012 · 13 Products Julian Hirsch Got Right. Adcom GFA-555 amplifier. Advent 300 receiver. Apt Holman preamplifier. Dynaco A-50 loudspeaker. Dynaco ...
  43. [43]
    [PDF] An Ultra-linear Amplifier - Pearl HiFi
    AUDIO ENGINEERING •. NOVEMBER, 1951 required over a wide frequen ty band. New standards of audio fidelity are rapidly making obsolete the five or ten watt ...
  44. [44]
    The Dynaco Tube Audio Forum
    Dedicated to the restoration and preservation of all original Dynaco tube audio equipment - Customer support for Tubes4hifi VTA tube amp and preamp kits.Missing: owners club
  45. [45]
  46. [46]
    Dynaco St 70 for sale - eBay
    4.5 3K · Free deliveryDynaco ST-70 Classic Tube Power Amplifier with/ VTA 70 v20-CSS Driver Kit ST70. Pre-Owned · Dynaco. $900.00. or Best Offer. $89.61 shipping.
  47. [47]
    Used Dynaco A25 Loudspeakers for Sale | HifiShark.com
    Used Dynaco A25 Loudspeakers for sale on 400+ second hand hifi sites & shops. Use Hifi Shark to monitor pricing and global availability.<|control11|><|separator|>
  48. [48]
    Dynaco Vintage Speakers for sale - eBay
    4.5 3K · Free deliveryDiscover high-quality vintage Dynaco speakers including A25, A35, and A50 models. Enhance your audio experience. Shop now on eBay!
  49. [49]
    Dynaco ST70 ST-70 Deluxe Stereo 70 Tube Amplifier Restoration Kit
    In stock $23.45 deliveryThe kit includes the main filter capacitor. Instructions with schematic included and Technical support as needed. This where we separate ourselves from the ...Missing: HiFiShark | Show results with:HiFiShark
  50. [50]
    Vacuum Tube Audio ST70 parts - Tubes4HiFi
    This board uses three 6SN7 tubes rather than the smaller 12AU7 type tubes, with a CCS (constant-current-source) for perfect phase-splitter balance.Missing: audiophiles | Show results with:audiophiles
  51. [51]
    Dynaco ST-70 Tubes4HiFi upgrade board (bare PCB) - eBay
    up for sale is the famous VTA-70 upgrade board, best selling and best performing modification for your Dynaco ST-70 amp for the past 30+ years.
  52. [52]
  53. [53]
    Vacuum Tube Audio – Dynaco - FarMedia
    There were very popular, with at least 300,000 sold. – Some portions ... Dynaco-ST-70-clips/n-LqS77n/i-zsvDGRP. Summary: The thermistor indeed appears ...
  54. [54]
    Dynaco Dynakit ST-70 Tube Amplifier Restoration Kit repair upgrade
    A proper restoration must replace all electrolytic, paper, film, oil capacitors. Do not fall for partial kits.Missing: HiFiShark | Show results with:HiFiShark
  55. [55]
    GETDYNACO
    ### Summary of Dynaco History