Harman Kardon Citation 16a Power Amplifier

(AMP1015)

1976

Designed and Made in New York,

A legendary device from the renowned brand. Beyond its raw power, several of its features allowed it to stand out from the competition, making it highly versatile. Initially designed for residential use in American homes, it quickly became a favorite among nightclub and concert hall owners. Its high power output, excellent damping, and ease of use ensured its appeal to any audience. However, as you can see from the photos, the example offered here has not had a rough life; it comes from the private collection of an audiophile who has cared for it meticulously over the past few decades.

Version A is the most up-to-date version produced by Harman Kardon. The previous version had a toggle switch. Recognizing the popularity of this model for commercial use, Harman Kardon replaced the toggle switch with a push button, as the switch tended to break during transport and repeated installations. The two round buttons on the front were also replaced with larger, more robust ones. The driver boards were also improved, and LEDs were added to indicate the output. It was with this edition that the black color became available as an option, making the device even rarer.

Unique modern/industrial look. Its VU meters, composed of colored LEDs positioned in a V, have given it its trademark.

Here is a description that Mr. Robert Greenberg, president of Harman Kardon, gave of the Citation 16 in 1976:

Very rugged idiot-proof home consumer stereo amplifier that was used often as a commercial grade amplifier in clubs because it was "built like a tractor"

Description

Harman Kardon has improved an already superb power amplifier.

The Citation 16 has been hailed as rock stable and capable of handling any speaker load with ease.

The amplifier will realize the full potential of any loudspeaker; it is a power amplifier made for the most discriminating listener.

Specifications

• Power output: 150 watts per channel into 8Ω (stereo)
• Frequency response: 4Hz to 120kHz
• Total harmonic distortion: 0.05%
• Damping factor: 300
• Input sensitivity: 1.25V
• Signal-to-noise ratio: 100dB
• Dimensions: 232 x 486 x 344mm
• Weight: 24.9kg
• With an original MSRP of US$795,