You can’t help but be charmed by the team behind Unitra. Once Poland’s flagship in a closed hi-fi world, they’re back with modern products wrapped in a classic retro design.
Back in the 70s, many Polish music enthusiasts probably dreamed of McIntosh or Bowers & Wilkins, but the availability of Western hi-fi products was sparse. So they made their own stuff. Like Unitra. A manufacturer I’d never heard of before, but who re-emerged in Munich, where they exhibited and demonstrated everything you see in the pictures here. Except for this one:
Altus was the name Unitra used for its export products and this integrated amplifier from the 1970s was known as Altus or Emerson, depending on where it was being exported to. It’s quite a serious amplifier with two circuits, one for each channel, and they even have separate transformers.
The WSH-205, as it’s called, is the inspiration for Unitra’s new products. Amplifiers, CD players, speakers and turntables. Like Edmund in the picture below.
Or GSH-801, as it is also called. It’s a direct-drive affair with a motor control that they developed themselves and an arm that they also invented. It’s quite luxurious with an external power supply and a rather massive plinth to dampen resonances.
Just like in the old days, exports are minimal, but the Unitra team is looking for foreign distributors, and judging by listening impressions, they deserve it.
Unitra was well known abroad all time long. I had two pairs of speakers about 140 W RMS which sounded very good. If the price is correct I’ll buy at least an amplifier now.