JVC AX-V4

The AX-V4 (also known as AX-V4BK), was an integrated AV amplifier with (RM-SAV4U or RM-SA4U) remote control, manufactured in approximately 1996 by the JVC Corporation at their Malaysian factory. In its time, it was a high specification quality amplifier boasting Dolby Surround Pro Logic, CompuLink Remote, and servo controlled volume knob. The maximum power output of the front channels (in stereo mode) is 40-watts per channel through 4 Ω speakers. With 8 Ω speakers, you can expect 30-watts per channel, and the total harmonic distortion (THD) is 0.9 % with either loads. This is a large and heavy amplifier measuring 435 mm × 147 mm × 346 mm, and mass 7.4 kg. These late 90s designs were sturdy and well made, which is why they are still found today.

Review

This amplifier uses the 2SA1633 and 2SC4278 complementary pair of silicon transistors in a symmetrical push-pull configuration. These are extremely hardy transistors with DC collector current rating (Ic) of 10 A. An advantage of having an amplifier with these transistors is that they are readily and cheaply available, which makes replacements and repairs cost effective.

Providing you have a good pair of loudspeakers for the front channels, you should get very good sound from them in stereo mode. The centre and back channels are optional, however if you have some extra cash, then you can always get some cheap speakers to see what it sounds like. Being a purist, I tend to stay well clear of things like Pro-Logic because I prefer my sound to be plain stereo.

This amplifier has some interesting features such as a locking power switch at the back. Modern amplifiers tend not to have additional power switches because it usually confuses the owners. Therefore, if your amplifier does not power ON, then check the switch at the back. Another feature worth noting is that both of the rear speakers require installing; otherwise, you will not hear any sound from just a single one when you choose surround sound mode.

"The Fonz" of the Electronics World

Monday is always the happiest day and it began with the Greek god of disappointment screeching his van outside the front to deliver my amplifier. Blaring on the van radio was that Britney Spears song "Oops I did it again..." The brown box did not appear to have much packing, and I had that sinking feeling that my amp would be smashed like all the other amps this god has delivered, however this time it was all in one piece!

This amplifier was in the "Spares and Repairs" section therefore I did not expect it to work at all. Switching ON the amp, I heard the power supply relay of the standby circuit click, however the second click of the protector relay did not make any sound, so I knew straight away that there was a short in the audio power output section. Looking at the service manual, I noticed that this amplifier uses the 2SA1633 and 2SC4278 complementary pair of silicon transistors, so I decided to order these first and keep the amplifier to one side.

Cost / eBay

It is a very robust amplifier with good electronic design and choice of components. Although most people keep Dolby Surround Pro Logic OFF and listen to it in stereo, the sound quality is good providing you have a good pair of speakers. Depending upon the condition, this huge beast can sell for as little as thirty pounds and onwards, which is a great bargain.

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