Yamaha CR-2020 Receiver AM/FM (1977-80)

Specs: 

Tuning range: FM, MW

Power output: 105 watts per channel into 8Ω (stereo)

Frequency response: 10Hz to 100kHz

Total harmonic distortion: 0.05%

Damping factor: 40

Input sensitivity: 0.05mV (MC), 2mV (MM), 120mV (DIN), 120mV (line)

Signal to noise ratio: 95dB (mic), 100dB (MC), 85dB (MM)

Output: 150mV (line), 30mV (DIN), 0.775V (Pre out)

Speaker load impedance: 4Ω (minimum)

Semiconductors: 6 x IC, 3 x FET, 109 x transistors, 58 x diodes, 7 x zener diodes

Dimensions: 540 x 167 x 415mm

Weight: 19.3kg

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You probably know that Yamaha offers one of the world's most powerful and complete ultra low distortion home audio component systems. It's also one of the most expensive.

But with the CR-2020's excellent cost performance you get many of the unique features developed for the spare no expense audiophile.

The CR-2020 is part of a new series of Yamaha audio components created for one key purpose: to provide distortion free natural sound in your home under real listening conditions.

To realize this goal we had to create a whole new method of measuring performance Noise Distortion Clearance Range. What does it show? NDCR is a range, the whole range of powers for which total harmonic distortion and noise are below a given level.

It requires that all pertinent measurements be made under actual listening conditions; through all amplification circuits used in actual listening (i.e., Phono Input to Speaker Out), and at the volume control settings preferred for normal listening levels.

Up to now distortion has usually been measured for only part of the amplifier circuitry (main amp, equalizer amp). What's more, this measurement has usually been made at maximum volume setting. But components which perform well at this level often show remarkably inferior signal to noise, distortion and even frequency response characteristics at realistic listening levels.

That is why Yamaha's Noise Distortion Clearance Range is measured at -20 dB volume setting rather than the conventional 0 dB: the performance ratings you see represent the actual in home sound you hear, not simply test bench figures. The actual NDCR range for the CR-2020 is a superb achievement in distortion free performance: 100 mW to 100 W.

Translated into home listening, think of it this way: if you set your volume control for most normal listening, average power to your speakers will be 1-2 watts. A pianissimo passage in this case will be approximately 100 mW. So the full NDCR range achieved by the CR-2020 means superb, pure fidelity in every conceivable listening situation.

To us at Yamaha NDCR is more than just a measurement. It reflects the design approach to all our music products. Because we pay such close attention to their sound in actual use, our engineers developed this assessment method to help build in the same tonal response for home audio enjoyment.

Nice story: https://classicreceivers.com/yamaha-cr-2020