Yamaha M-5000 High-End Power Amplifier, Silver
Yamaha M-5000 High-End Power Amplifier, Silver
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The Yamaha M-5000 is a fully balanced stereo power amplifier that consistently applies Yamaha's "Floating and Balanced" principle to power amplification.
It's the muscle of the 5000 series: built to translate the C-5000 preamp uncompromisingly into sound pressure – without adding anything of its own to the signal. Balanced channel layout, a massive toroidal transformer, brass binding posts. Understatement at 27 kilos.
Why the M-5000?
Because control isn't just a phrase here: with a damping factor of over 300, the M-5000 keeps the speaker on a tight rein – bass becomes dry and precise instead of flabby. The fully balanced circuit keeps interference out, and the large toroidal transformer supplies the reserves for dynamic peaks. 100 watts per channel into 8 ohms sounds modest – until you hear how assuredly they're delivered (200 into 4 ohms, and as much as 400 in mono).
What you'll hear
Calm, authority, and an almost eerie cleanliness. The M-5000 paints a large soundstage, separates instruments cleanly, and keeps its composure even in complex passages. Nothing is pushed forward, nothing is prettified – you hear what's on the recording, with an ease that relaxes rather than tires you.
Who is the M-5000 for? (and who it isn't – straight talk)
For anyone looking for a reference-worthy power amp for demanding speakers – ideally paired with the C-5000 and via XLR. Straight talk: a power amp isn't an all-in-one device. You absolutely need a preamp in front of it (the C-5000 or another good preamp with an XLR output). If you want one device for everything, go for an integrated amp. And it runs warm to the touch during operation – adequate ventilation is a must, no snuggling inside a closed cabinet.
Our verdict
The M-5000 plays in the league where power amps let the price tag do the asking – and delivers build quality and composure at High-End level. The Absolute Sound rated the 5000 series as Yamaha's serious return to High-End. We're happy to help you find out together whether the M-5000 suits your speakers.
Technical data
- Type: fully balanced stereo power amplifier (Floating and Balanced)
- Power: 2× 100 W (8 Ω), 2× 200 W (4 Ω), 400 W (mono bridged, 8 Ω), 20 Hz–20 kHz, 0.07% THD
- Dynamic power: 125 W (8 Ω) up to 500 W (2 Ω) per channel
- Damping factor: over 300 (8 Ω, 1 kHz)
- Frequency response: 5 Hz – 100 kHz (+0/-3 dB)
- Inputs: 1× balanced XLR, 1× RCA, trigger in
- Binding posts: massive brass, mechanical ground routing
- Power consumption: 400 W (typical)
- Dimensions (W × H × D): 435 × 181 × 464 mm
- Weight: 26.9 kg
- Included: M-5000 power amplifier, power cable
Frequently asked questions
Can I run the M-5000 without a preamp?
No. The M-5000 is a pure power amp and absolutely needs a preamp with level control in front of it – for example, the matching C-5000. Only the preamp provides input selection and volume; the M-5000 handles nothing but power delivery.
Which speakers does the M-5000 drive?
Practically all common Hi-Fi speakers. With 2× 100 W into 8 ohms, 2× 200 W into 4 ohms, and a damping factor over 300, it confidently handles even demanding loads like the NS-5000. For very large rooms, it can also be bridged to mono.
What does mono operation (bridging) do?
In mono mode, two M-5000s work as monoblocks with 400 W each into 8 ohms. That brings more headroom and even better channel separation – interesting for very large rooms or especially demanding speakers. For most setups, a single M-5000 in stereo mode is easily enough.
Does the M-5000 get hot?
It gets warm to the touch during operation – that's normal for a powerful power amp. Free ventilation above and to the sides is important; it won't feel comfortable in a closed rack with no air circulation.
Why buy the M-5000 at HD Zürisee?
Because a power amp of this class needs to match the right preamp and the right speakers. As a Yamaha dealer in Wädenswil, we put together the right chain for you, deliver, and connect it properly – wiring included. Call us, we'll give you honest advice.
Goes well with
You'll find the matching preamp and other amplifiers under Amplifiers, plus speakers under Speakers. More from the brand in the Yamaha collection.
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