Ok, so...watched the viddy, jumped on line, and although I have had bad experiences with eBay, I am now the proud owner of my first piece of Harmon and Kardon electronics. Thanks for turning me on Brother Haha! If it needs work, I know where to go... Oh and it was 450 bucks for that juicy 730 twin. So I've had this H and K 730 Twin for a month or better, cleaned it in my own blundering way, hooked it up to my same era Technics TT and played it through some small bookshelf speakers from the mid 80's. Sounded so good, that I was motivated to buy a set of new speakers. A set of Wharfedale Linton Heritage's. WOW, WOW, WOW! There is no reason to even take the volume past 25 percent. What a beast this amp is. So clear, almost tubelike sound and it has to be putting out more power than it advertises. I was further motivated to try my first phono pre amp, the Fosi, and vinyl sounds have just come alive. Best 450 dollars ever spent I do believe. I'll be keeping my out for another one of these. So thanks again Kevin. I appreciate you and all the time spent on producing these video's. P.S. My wife is holding a big heavy mallet and say's she wants to meet you. 🔨🔨
Picked up a rare early 70s Toshiba SA500 in near mint condition. Picked it up for free from the original owner who just wanted it to go to a good home. Works great except for the lamp circuit. Patience pays off
All I would add is, make sure the receiver has pre-amp outputs. If the internal amp gets tired or if you like the sound but just want more power it makes it simple to plug in an external amp.
I have a Yamaha CR-820 and I agree with your pick. I like the looks and it has all the inputs and features I need. The sound is great and has plenty of power for my ADS 710's.
My best vintage deal: A local buy (bid site purchase with local pickup) of a Pioneer SX-82E receiver (21 "tube"/"valve" beauty, circa 1965) for ~US$130. This unit is in MINT condition and is fully tested and functional. The man I purchased it from is a retiree who did not have the energy to fully revise the unit and wanted it to go to someone who would take care of it. It had been given to him by his sister-in-law, who had inherited it from her father (original owner) on his recent passing. When I arrived, he took me down to his workshop, which is immaculate and fully spec'd...a variac integrated into his workbench plus every instrument necessary to do a professional revision; including a tube tester. The guy also had a professional cabinet neatly organizing a full parts inventory that he purchased from an electronics shop (which had sadly exited the repair business). He even had a separate room with a small lathe to fabricate mechanical parts, as needed. There were a series of rooms next to the workshop full of industrial audio equipment he had revised over the years; each was a museum piece in perfect order. From a mobile tape cart that had been used by a local radio station in the mid 70's to a wall mounted amp used by the local movie theater. Each piece was built like a milspec'd tank. He was very kind to demonstrate to me how all of these industrial pieces were designed for accessibility and ease of maintenance. Also, a fully revised mixing station, a church organ, numerous guitar amps and vintage receivers/amps. He had meticulously revised all of these pieces when he had been in better health. This was a passion he had pursued after retiring from optometry. Although the Pioneer SX-82E was tested sat, it still needs careful attention before routine use. For sure, a recap...which he strongly recommended. This thing is all point-to-point repair work...so I will definitely have to work up to this challenge after doing a few other projects first (Sanyo DCX6000K, Pioneer LX626, Hitachi SR-903-spare unit). The goods news, the owner had kept all of the documentation, including a service manual that he had maintained "up-to-date" with the latest service bulletins (from the late 1960's). Unbelievable.
My brother still uses a Marantz that my Dad bought back in 1971. It needs a power switch, and the volume pot could use a good cleaning. It also needs some back lights for the dial display, but it still cranks out the decibels.
Best audio channel on you tube. Just the facts, No BS. No mythology. Just got done watching your vid where you said there is no material difference between carts costing $100. This would cause heads to explode on a certain FB vintage audio page, and I love it (cuz it’s true)
Love your lists Kevin, especially on a budget. You’ve really ignited a new passion in vintage audio for me, there’s something special about listening through gear that was made so many years before I was born, it’s like listening through a piece of history
Those brushed gold-tone Sansui G-Recievers are the best looking & best sounding vintage audio. Albeit, they can be higher maintenance then it's competition..& like Yamaha, everyone can't successfully work on them. I always liked the big Pioneers also. Just all the knobs are identical. Asking the wife to turn one up needs a diagram. The Sansui..the left large knob. Lol
I had an HK 930 and i was better sounding than many high end separate systems. It was destroyed by a repair shop. Your video has inspired me to find a replacement. Thanks. My Onkyo integrated amp is just OK before fatigue sets in.
Nice video! I just got a Marantz 2245 on eBay for $700! Said to be in complete working condition. I’m sure all the seller did to test it, was turn it on. But after a week of regular use, the main filter caps blew, and several caps needed to be replaced, as well as the EQ and phono cards needed to be rebuilt! It was already relamped with new LED and incan bulbs though. Luckily I have a Stereo Repair shop in my contacts. So… 860 bucks later, my Marantz 2245 is like brand new inside and out. Now I see why these go for so much! But it was well worth it! And the 45 watts per channel drives my towers and sub perfectly! It actually puts out closer to 50 watts/channel. So I wouldn’t put too much importance on that model number rating
You should use a box fan to cool off your receiver I had a Marantz 2226. 45 years never had a problem with it because I used a box fan to keep it cool sad part is I sold it for nothing 😢. But he was a good guy So I know it’s in good hands.
I have a Harmon Kardon 430 twin power unit, rated at 25 watts per channel. These are well built receivers too, they are heavy and wide for it size, they are very under rated too but a very great receiver to have.
Great video! HK didn't seem to get alot of respect back in our high school days; silver face anything was the rage. I've heard 2 of these over the years and they not only have that warm, full sound, they will drive just about any 8 ohm speaker you throw at it. Thanks for your time!
I honestly believe the pricing tends are based on what models are trending on social media. There are a few influential voices on audio forums and YT that hype up a few models and suddenly the prices on ebay skyrocket. If you go by specs, there are plenty of lesser known units that can be had at a reasonable cost.
Yup, that's probably the exact same list I would have put together. I often recommend receivers like these to friends. From now on, I'll just forward them your video. Cheers!
I landed a Hitachi SR-903 for $140 in mint condition. Love it. A beast with Class G amp with 2x75W (plus standby 160W for peaks). Well built with a great look, too. Very nice sound...not as warm as a Marantz, but excellent. This once sits in the family room. However, the mint Yamaha CR-420 (second hand for $150) gets the most use at my desk; paired to a Marantz EQ20 that came wrapped and is like new ($120). I swap the CR-420 out with a Nakamichi SR-2E (circa 1980. Used for $110; Nelson Pass designed STASIS amp!) from time to time. All of them are in perfect cosmetic order. All fully function. Had the Hitachi professionally checked out by a local audio specialist. Recapping all of them over the next year as a DIY project, for fun. I did clean and inspect each before use...no issues observed...will do the recaps nonetheless.
I had the Pioneer SX-737, the little brother to SX-838. I would have liked to have had the 838 but couldn't afford it at the time. I loved that receiver and realize now I was really dumb to sell it 30 years ago. There is something about the old vintage unit sound that the new ones just don't have.
I have certainly been bitten by the vintage stereo bug. Watching your channel and the info it brings is great for all. I can remember in the 70’s friends and family getting rid of the vintage receivers because they weren’t working , and buying something new . What a big mistake that was . I recently met a guy at the local resale shop and we struck up a conversation about golf clubs we were looking at for sale , and told him I’m looking for a vintage receiver of some sort. He then told me he had one for sale . I ended up buying a Pioneer QX-8000 quad receiver and a pair of CS-66 speakers from him for a great price . This equipment came with a very interesting story as well. It turns out he was in the service during Vietnam war and ordered the equipment thru the government catalog while he was stationed over seas. Everything is working on the receiver , but it is a little scratchy.
Yup, great audio in the 70s kr6600 the 50 series of Pioneer sg9500 Eq CT- F2121 tape deck built like a tank the SX 850 and SX950 are great receivers...the list goes on...
If you have fairly efficient speakers, there's no reason to start at 50 wpc. There's some wonderful units in the 30-50 range that won't break the bank and they sound great. Pioneer SX-737, Sony STR 7045, Sansui 2000X, etc. Paying a premium for power that's never needed is wasteful. I'd also consider integrated amps unless you really need broadcast. They are so much easier to repair/rebuild when you don't have to deal with RF. (ex: Sansui AU-555a is a wonderful unit and the best build quality I've ever seen for working on).
Picked up a Realistic sta 2000 for under $300 and it was super clean. 75 watts per channel and it has more bells and whistles on it than more of the bigger brand names out there. Great deal on a bad ass reciever.
My HK 930 still powers and is the main house amp love it. I have a pioneer SA608 but need a bit work, love the blue lines too super clean. great UA-cam channel
I love that first Onkyo you showed, that would be my pick because that's a lot of Hi-Fi for the price... And if I remember correctly, the Harman Karman's were high-end and expensive back in the day..
The HK 730 seems quite rare in my neck of the woods indeed. I owned a Sony STR V 3 and it was the only receiver that didn’t require an antenna. The Sony ST 5130 is also highly regarded which i own. So I thought Sony made the best tuners? I guess I am feeling a little feisty 😈 tonight. Love the list! I Always put your suggestions on my permanent radar. Value ❤.
I started out learning guitar and singing because I loved all kinds of music then I worked selling audio at a store that sold JBL and McIntosh later working in the seventies and eighties at a big store that sold many brands. I did minor service calls and sales. Harmon Kardon and Marantz were two of my favorites but then we brought in more high end lines like audio research corporation. I got to buy and try at staff discount prices and visit factories where the stuff was made. Many years of music and listening with neat gear.
My system now is light-years better than anything I drooled over back in my youth. The loudspeakers, particularly. aDs 910s are everything I could want in a full-range loudspeaker. 4ohms; 93db efficiency; high-power handling, and goes down to 25htz in-room due to the dual-10.5" bass drivers built into their own separate enclosures inside the cabinets, thus why these stand-mounts weigh 130lbs/each with stands. The dome mids are magic. Gassing them up with the NAD 208thx balanced power amp and an Emotiva xda-2 balanced preamp/DAC. I also have a pair of Adcom 555's and a Carver M-500, so plenty of power with different sounds.
Thank you Kevin - 8 minutes so well spent! Thank you for those recommendations. I will check out to see which of these may be currently available here in Kent UK ☺
This is great information and a valuable service, Kevin. Keep an eye on thrift stores like Habitat for Humanity Restores. You can get some great deals and they come with a 30 day warranty.
Was wondering if you'd mention the HK730. I have one (and a couple of HK330's) bought for not a lot ~15 years ago. When I put them back in the system I always wonder why I took them out!! Beautiful sound.
Still lots of great under the radar gear, even better since I do my own repairs. I just loaded up with a bunch of winter projects. Always wanted to open my own store, maybe someday 😎
The Marantz 2220b or even the 2215b run speakers great and sound great plus you have the advantage of fewer circuits in their path so they just seem cleaner to me.
Not to argue with The Boss (Kevin), but if you're not driving big speakers in a big room, the 838's little brother (SX737) at 35 wpc does kick some butt. I have a 50wpc late 90s NAD integrated with the usual NAD high dynamic power rating, but the old fella from '74-76 stomps it in some ways. Certainly it wins in the bass, general fullness and general "snap" factor. Tone controls are much better. I'm not sure about headroom or things like imaging, as I've never AB'ed them, but I know which one is the one that will be kept alive as long as possible. In it's life before me, it was driving PSB 500s (large 8" two-way monitor) in a 20 X 25 room with ease.
I see the HK-730 mentioned elsewhere too. I bought an HK-930 new, and still have it as well as my vintage Bang & Olufsen speakers. It has a couple of contacts that need to be cleaned but sounds great. How does the 930 stand up in your opinion?
Good video thanks, prices are crazy this is more realistic I grew up with those old wooden cabinet units with floor speakers. Small bedrooms in every neighborhood blasting Led Zeppelin from old pioneer equipment. Ha ha what?
I see many locally on marketplace and occasionally CL for quite reasonable prices many that have already been serviced. I recently picked up an Onkyo TX-5000 one owner in mint condition for $75. Had a buddy clean and lube it awesome unit. That may not be common but I see plenty of nice units for $200 to $300.
Have you guys ever worked on any Heathkit recievers! Specificaly the AR15-15? They are around 65 watts per channel and have one of the best sound quality of 70s era recievers, just would like to know your opinion of the AR15-15 please.
I know my sansui 331 isn't anything spectacular but its worlds above in sound quality than any present day stuff. For less than 50 bucks I couldn't pass it up.
I picked up a Vector Research VR-7000 that really impressed me all the way around. Build quality. Function. Looks. Ever had one? I’m curious. I’ve owned many Sony, Marantz, Pioneer and Sansui vintage pieces. Liked them all really.
I've had some monsters before (Pioneer SX1010 and SX 1280), and some smaller, like Marantz 2216 and 2238, but I've been looking for something like this list. I have an Onkyo TX-5000, assuming that's similar to 4500MKII? I am curious about the Pioneer SX 929 too.
The HK 730 Twin is amazing and goes for about 1/3 the price of what I could get for my Marantz 2240. It looks nearly as good and it sounds better. I wonder how long before these get ‘discovered’?
Kenwood kr 5030 60wpc fairly bullet proof. I've had two of them, the first was a Dixie hifi floor model that was on 16 hours a day for a year plus. I then tried to cook ontop of it for years, very reliable. Still have both units and the only problem was the relay in the second one.
Kevin, great video. Would like a video on under 50 watts. Most of my collection falls into that category. Listen at 80db max so old school 50 watts is overkill for my needs.
Kevin , I love your videos on receivers and amplifiers. Specially this one. I hear you talk a lot of the major brands. What think f the Nikko , Sanyo plus series , Akai receivers etc. on sound and build quality and easy to work on ?
We have struggled with several nikko schematics not including voltages. Kind of a pain in the ass. Have experienced any Sanyo Plus Series. have had a few Akai receivers, and they seemed decent.
Nice videos,but what about Superscope R-1270? Not 50 Watts, but 35 Watts and a lot cheaper than Marantz but with Marantz components inside. Very nice looking and performing great, nice warm sound as well....
Thanks for the info, I am looking for a receiver to go with my Duel 1019 and crazy rare Yamaha speakers that Yamaha can not even find ever built. NS-A88
Hey Kevin, I just bought a Rotel RX-2002 circa 1979 that I purchased from the original owner in amazing condition. I have a set of Energy C-500's attached to it right now but know I could probably do better on the speakers to really challenge this receiver. Any ideas what you would suggest to power this receiver properly? I'd love you to hear from you or some of your followers. New to the vintage receiver scene and just looking to make a really nice sounding system to play LP's and tuner. Thanks in advance!
They were known to be the Roll Royce of receiver amps. You can still pick up used working Tanbergs in the 4-500 dollar range from what I have seen. Go for it!
Watching this video almost made me cry......thinking about the MONSTER that was stolen. Back in 1979, I purchased a Technics SA-1000 (330 watts per channel). I was in the military and had a very nice system - including a pair of studio-grade loud speakers that were able to handle about half volume of the tuner. I should have kept my mouth shut about my system - but couldn't help but brag about it. After only owning it for about six weeks - I came home to a kicked-in door and Technics was gone........
Hi great information! I live in Australia and the problem I have is that I have a pair of Bose 901 series 2 here Bose was a very limited brand back in the day! Currently I have to use 901 box! I know some Bose amps had a built in unit that was specifically designed for the 901's! Here in Australia Bose was high end so it has become very difficult to find vintage amps! Can you please tell me what Bose amp I should be looking for? Here's hoping I can find what you suggest! Thanks
Yes Sir. Marantz and Sansui (even though I just bought a Marantz 2100 FM Tuner, was a decent price). Thanks for the tip on Sony and FM Reception. Agree with your picks.
Hm... I am a kid from the 90s and stuck with my hk amplifiers and disc players. Current setup is hk6950R amp, hd7725 cdp with highest selection grade Burr&Brown DAs as 2 per channel and the big JBL hp570 that really can take the 2x90Amps output from my harman. Also got hk1400, 1200, the AP/HK preamp amp combination and my first ever bought better amp hk6150. Those look timeless, sound great and can really shake the room. Prices are going north...
Great list. But I have to ask. I rarely see anyone mention Technics on these types of lists. I'm a fan. Having many over the years and currently a SA-5270, 4270, 500, 700 and 800 models. Just wondering why they aren't mentioned more.
Honestly, some Technics from this era are a complete pain in the ass to work on. They are also guilty of corner cutting. Small power supplies, fiber board chassis ect ect. Technics made some incredible turntables and some ok receivers. You could say the exact opposite for most of the manufacturers I listed. Just my opinion!
Got a used and abused Sony STR-V4 from ebay for 225.00 shipped. Perfect restoration project. Had a dodgy power button, and loose volume knob, both were easy fixes. Also very filthy inside and out, so after an extensive cleanup, put some new caps in it, except for the tuning board, left that alone. Adjusted bias, and boom amazing reciever. BTW anyone know what the DC offsets should be for this? Mine measures around 50mv on each channel, is that normal?
....my 2215B has plenty of power for our use - although I also do have the Onkyo TX4500 and also a Marantz 2265 if needed! 🎵🎵 Question - after recap - is there a "break-in" period or is that just fluffy myth?
What are your thoughts on JVC? I have a VN-700 that I use daily, bought it broke and as someone with only amateur repair skills the board style insides made it much easier to fix.
Kevin, any recommendations you'd make to drive a pair of Magnepan LRS+? This speaker is on my Christmas list for myself, but I know like all Magnepans it has a reputation for being power-hungry.
Newb question but it seems like most the vids i have seen you shoot for 50 to 60 watts / channel. Is this enough? When looking at speakers you have suggested in other videos like ba a400, jbl hls 810 etc all seem to be above this wattage rms meaning essentially we would be underpowering all of these ?. Am I missing something? Thanks!
I agree -- great video. Thoughts on Technics speakers. Found a pair of SB-L200s, that look still in good shape, driver wise. Even though speakers are the most subjective part of the set, could you do a video of what y'all see the most ? REALLY enjoyed your video with Randy the other day. Back to speakers, do y'all have to re-cap crossovers generally ?? Take care, Rip
Not super familiar with Technics speakers. Have had a few over the years, but nothing super memorable, to be honest. Replacing crossover caps depends on whether speakers are worth it. We don't "always" replace unless their caps are notorious for being bad- IE AR2ax and the like and their condition is worth the investment. Sorry- best I got for ya. Thanks
Im not receiver enthusiast. I bought pioneer Elite c90 /m90a for approx 1000 USD which is quite cheap considering this separates where more expensive than pioneer sx 1250 or sx 1980 when New.
Ok, so...watched the viddy, jumped on line, and although I have had bad experiences with eBay, I am now the proud owner of my first piece of Harmon and Kardon electronics. Thanks for turning me on Brother Haha! If it needs work, I know where to go...
Oh and it was 450 bucks for that juicy 730 twin.
So I've had this H and K 730 Twin for a month or better, cleaned it in my own blundering way, hooked it up to my same era Technics TT and played it through some small bookshelf speakers from the mid 80's. Sounded so good, that I was motivated to buy a set of new speakers. A set of Wharfedale Linton Heritage's. WOW, WOW, WOW! There is no reason to even take the volume past 25 percent. What a beast this amp is. So clear, almost tubelike sound and it has to be putting out more power than it advertises. I was further motivated to try my first phono pre amp, the Fosi, and vinyl sounds have just come alive.
Best 450 dollars ever spent I do believe. I'll be keeping my out for another one of these. So thanks again Kevin. I appreciate you and all the time spent on producing these video's.
P.S. My wife is holding a big heavy mallet and say's she wants to meet you. 🔨🔨
Picked up a rare early 70s Toshiba SA500 in near mint condition. Picked it up for free from the original owner who just wanted it to go to a good home. Works great except for the lamp circuit. Patience pays off
All I would add is, make sure the receiver has pre-amp outputs. If the internal amp gets tired or if you like the sound but just want more power it makes it simple to plug in an external amp.
I have a Yamaha CR-820 and I agree with your pick. I like the looks and it has all the inputs and features I need. The sound is great and has plenty of power for my ADS 710's.
My best vintage deal: A local buy (bid site purchase with local pickup) of a Pioneer SX-82E receiver (21 "tube"/"valve" beauty, circa 1965) for ~US$130. This unit is in MINT condition and is fully tested and functional. The man I purchased it from is a retiree who did not have the energy to fully revise the unit and wanted it to go to someone who would take care of it. It had been given to him by his sister-in-law, who had inherited it from her father (original owner) on his recent passing. When I arrived, he took me down to his workshop, which is immaculate and fully spec'd...a variac integrated into his workbench plus every instrument necessary to do a professional revision; including a tube tester. The guy also had a professional cabinet neatly organizing a full parts inventory that he purchased from an electronics shop (which had sadly exited the repair business). He even had a separate room with a small lathe to fabricate mechanical parts, as needed.
There were a series of rooms next to the workshop full of industrial audio equipment he had revised over the years; each was a museum piece in perfect order. From a mobile tape cart that had been used by a local radio station in the mid 70's to a wall mounted amp used by the local movie theater. Each piece was built like a milspec'd tank. He was very kind to demonstrate to me how all of these industrial pieces were designed for accessibility and ease of maintenance. Also, a fully revised mixing station, a church organ, numerous guitar amps and vintage receivers/amps. He had meticulously revised all of these pieces when he had been in better health. This was a passion he had pursued after retiring from optometry.
Although the Pioneer SX-82E was tested sat, it still needs careful attention before routine use. For sure, a recap...which he strongly recommended. This thing is all point-to-point repair work...so I will definitely have to work up to this challenge after doing a few other projects first (Sanyo DCX6000K, Pioneer LX626, Hitachi SR-903-spare unit). The goods news, the owner had kept all of the documentation, including a service manual that he had maintained "up-to-date" with the latest service bulletins (from the late 1960's). Unbelievable.
My brother still uses a Marantz that my Dad bought back in 1971.
It needs a power switch, and the volume pot could use a good cleaning.
It also needs some back lights for the dial display, but it still cranks out the decibels.
I am a long time audiophile and this is the best series I have seen. No nonsense and great info. thank-you
Best audio channel on you tube. Just the facts, No BS. No mythology. Just got done watching your vid where you said there is no material difference between carts costing $100. This would cause heads to explode on a certain FB vintage audio page, and I love it (cuz it’s true)
Appreciate it, Ed!
Love your lists Kevin, especially on a budget. You’ve really ignited a new passion in vintage audio for me, there’s something special about listening through gear that was made so many years before I was born, it’s like listening through a piece of history
A Pineer sx750 is a very nice rcvr, 50 a channel, lots of inputs and a fine looking receiver as well.
Kevin, your videos are really great! Straight ahead, no bs, educational tutorials for folks who like music and vintage style. Lots to like here!
I have been waiting for you to review the Onkyo. I picked one up last year for $150.
Love my Harmon Kardon 730! This receiver sounds tremendous with my vintage Klipsch heritage speakers!
Agreed. My 730 and Fortes are a match made in heaven.
Love vintage receivers. The tough thing is finding a good technician close by.
@Kevin Roberts appreciate that but I'm in the New Orleans area.
Gold Sound in Denver refurbs before selling. They also service.
Those brushed gold-tone Sansui G-Recievers are the best looking & best sounding vintage audio. Albeit, they can be higher maintenance then it's competition..& like Yamaha, everyone can't successfully work on them.
I always liked the big Pioneers also. Just all the knobs are identical. Asking the wife to turn one up needs a diagram.
The Sansui..the left large knob. Lol
Just picked up a pristine Pioneer TX 9100 tuner for 80 bucks. I'm over the moon.
I had an HK 930 and i was better sounding than many high end separate systems. It was destroyed by a repair shop. Your video has inspired me to find a replacement. Thanks. My Onkyo integrated amp is just OK before fatigue sets in.
Nice video! I just got a Marantz 2245 on eBay for $700! Said to be in complete working condition. I’m sure all the seller did to test it, was turn it on. But after a week of regular use, the main filter caps blew, and several caps needed to be replaced, as well as the EQ and phono cards needed to be rebuilt! It was already relamped with new LED and incan bulbs though. Luckily I have a Stereo Repair shop in my contacts. So… 860 bucks later, my Marantz 2245 is like brand new inside and out. Now I see why these go for so much! But it was well worth it! And the 45 watts per channel drives my towers and sub perfectly! It actually puts out closer to 50 watts/channel. So I wouldn’t put too much importance on that model number rating
after having my 2245 rebuilt the output was 52 watts / channel !
A good tech is hard to find. But you’ll have years of listening pleasure
You should use a box fan to cool off your receiver I had a Marantz 2226. 45 years never had a problem with it because I used a box fan to keep it cool sad part is I sold it for nothing 😢. But he was a good guy So I know it’s in good hands.
I have a Harmon Kardon 430 twin power unit, rated at 25 watts per channel. These are well built receivers too, they are heavy and wide for it size, they are very under rated too but a very great receiver to have.
Great video! HK didn't seem to get alot of respect back in our high school days; silver face anything was the rage. I've heard 2 of these over the years and they not only have that warm, full sound, they will drive just about any 8 ohm speaker you throw at it. Thanks for your time!
I support this sentiment, HK 730 is a Master.
I honestly believe the pricing tends are based on what models are trending on social media. There are a few influential voices on audio forums and YT that hype up a few models and suddenly the prices on ebay skyrocket. If you go by specs, there are plenty of lesser known units that can be had at a reasonable cost.
Hi, a challenge for you what are the top 5 dual mono vintage integrated amplifiers deals?
Yup, that's probably the exact same list I would have put together. I often recommend receivers like these to friends. From now on, I'll just forward them your video. Cheers!
I landed a Hitachi SR-903 for $140 in mint condition. Love it. A beast with Class G amp with 2x75W (plus standby 160W for peaks). Well built with a great look, too. Very nice sound...not as warm as a Marantz, but excellent. This once sits in the family room. However, the mint Yamaha CR-420 (second hand for $150) gets the most use at my desk; paired to a Marantz EQ20 that came wrapped and is like new ($120). I swap the CR-420 out with a Nakamichi SR-2E (circa 1980. Used for $110; Nelson Pass designed STASIS amp!) from time to time. All of them are in perfect cosmetic order. All fully function. Had the Hitachi professionally checked out by a local audio specialist. Recapping all of them over the next year as a DIY project, for fun. I did clean and inspect each before use...no issues observed...will do the recaps nonetheless.
I had the Pioneer SX-737, the little brother to SX-838. I would have liked to have had the 838 but couldn't afford it at the time. I loved that receiver and realize now I was really dumb to sell it 30 years ago. There is something about the old vintage unit sound that the new ones just don't have.
I have certainly been bitten by the vintage stereo bug. Watching your channel and the info it brings is great for all. I can remember in the 70’s friends and family getting rid of the vintage receivers because they weren’t working , and buying something new . What a big mistake that was .
I recently met a guy at the local resale shop and we struck up a conversation about golf clubs we were looking at for sale , and told him I’m looking for a vintage receiver of some sort. He then told me he had one for sale . I ended up buying a Pioneer QX-8000 quad receiver and a pair of CS-66 speakers from him for a great price . This equipment came with a very interesting story as well. It turns out he was in the service during Vietnam war and ordered the equipment thru the government catalog while he was stationed over seas.
Everything is working on the receiver , but it is a little scratchy.
Yup, great audio in the 70s kr6600 the 50 series of Pioneer sg9500 Eq CT- F2121 tape deck built like a tank the SX 850 and SX950 are great receivers...the list goes on...
If you have fairly efficient speakers, there's no reason to start at 50 wpc. There's some wonderful units in the 30-50 range that won't break the bank and they sound great. Pioneer SX-737, Sony STR 7045, Sansui 2000X, etc. Paying a premium for power that's never needed is wasteful. I'd also consider integrated amps unless you really need broadcast. They are so much easier to repair/rebuild when you don't have to deal with RF. (ex: Sansui AU-555a is a wonderful unit and the best build quality I've ever seen for working on).
Great video,I'm a very happy owner of Pioneer SX-838 and I'm in love with it...:)
The HK receiver is probably the most underrated of the list, they are very well made. Similar to the citation 12 power amplifier.
WOW Marantz receivers thru the roof? Wish I had kept my Marantz QUAD channel 4040 I believe? Wonder what that would be worth today?
I agree 100% with these recommendations.
The Onkyo is a real looker.
Great list, Love Love Love the 730 Twin Powers look... On my hunting list!!! Some Realistic s were also plentiful and pretty good.
Good list Kevin, I picked up a Harmon Kardon HK 730 for under $400 shipped. I remember these from the 70s so I was happy to find one. Cheers!
Picked up a Realistic sta 2000 for under $300 and it was super clean. 75 watts per channel and it has more bells and whistles on it than more of the bigger brand names out there. Great deal on a bad ass reciever.
I bought my Realistic sta 2000 D 4 or so yrs ago from you and it's a keeper I need to come see you and work a deal on some of my extra equipment !!!
I scooped an STR-V4 for $150cad, the STR-V4 to V7 are some of the best looking vintage receivers imo
My HK 930 still powers and is the main house amp love it. I have a pioneer SA608 but need a bit work, love the blue lines too super clean. great UA-cam channel
I love that first Onkyo you showed, that would be my pick because that's a lot of Hi-Fi for the price... And if I remember correctly, the Harman Karman's were high-end and expensive back in the day..
The HK 730 seems quite rare in my neck of the woods indeed. I owned a Sony STR V 3 and it was the only receiver that didn’t require an antenna. The Sony ST 5130 is also highly regarded which i own. So I thought Sony made the best tuners? I guess I am feeling a little feisty 😈 tonight. Love the list! I Always put your suggestions on my permanent radar. Value ❤.
I started out learning guitar and singing because I loved all kinds of music then I worked selling audio at a store that sold JBL and McIntosh later working in the seventies and eighties at a big store that sold many brands. I did minor service calls and sales. Harmon Kardon and Marantz were two of my favorites but then we brought in more high end lines like audio research corporation. I got to buy and try at staff discount prices and visit factories where the stuff was made. Many years of music and listening with neat gear.
My system now is light-years better than anything I drooled over back in my youth. The loudspeakers, particularly. aDs 910s are everything I could want in a full-range loudspeaker. 4ohms; 93db efficiency; high-power handling, and goes down to 25htz in-room due to the dual-10.5" bass drivers built into their own separate enclosures inside the cabinets, thus why these stand-mounts weigh 130lbs/each with stands. The dome mids are magic.
Gassing them up with the NAD 208thx balanced power amp and an Emotiva xda-2 balanced preamp/DAC. I also have a pair of Adcom 555's and a Carver M-500, so plenty of power with different sounds.
Thank you Kevin - 8 minutes so well spent! Thank you for those recommendations. I will check out to see which of these may be currently available here in Kent UK ☺
This is great information and a valuable service, Kevin. Keep an eye on thrift stores like Habitat for Humanity Restores. You can get some great deals and they come with a 30 day warranty.
I haven’t checked lately what the SONY STR 7065 is currently going for . I picked one up 5 years ago for 75$ perfect condition and wood case
Was wondering if you'd mention the HK730. I have one (and a couple of HK330's) bought for not a lot ~15 years ago. When I put them back in the system I always wonder why I took them out!! Beautiful sound.
I use the 730 on my primary system and the 330C on my secondary . No reason to change what works!
I’ve been buying Akai. Broken or working. The AA-1050 AA-1175 flying under the radar. These are in your power range.
Still lots of great under the radar gear, even better since I do my own repairs. I just loaded up with a bunch of winter projects. Always wanted to open my own store, maybe someday 😎
There a shortage of good tech who love the work join in save landfill room for a great collectable good luck !
The Marantz 2220b or even the 2215b run speakers great and sound great plus you have the advantage of fewer circuits in their path so they just seem cleaner to me.
Not to argue with The Boss (Kevin), but if you're not driving big speakers in a big room, the 838's little brother (SX737) at 35 wpc does kick some butt. I have a 50wpc late 90s NAD integrated with the usual NAD high dynamic power rating, but the old fella from '74-76 stomps it in some ways. Certainly it wins in the bass, general fullness and general "snap" factor. Tone controls are much better. I'm not sure about headroom or things like imaging, as I've never AB'ed them, but I know which one is the one that will be kept alive as long as possible. In it's life before me, it was driving PSB 500s (large 8" two-way monitor) in a 20 X 25 room with ease.
Thanks, Leonard. The whole SX x3x line kicks butt, in my opinion :)
I see the HK-730 mentioned elsewhere too. I bought an HK-930 new, and still have it as well as my vintage Bang & Olufsen speakers. It has a couple of contacts that need to be cleaned but sounds great. How does the 930 stand up in your opinion?
Thinking of buying an SX-3700 Pioneer. Opinions please?
I had a H&K 730 which my ex ended up with, and I've been trying to buy one for years; and yes, they are a beautiful receiver.
Good video thanks, prices are crazy this is more realistic
I grew up with those old wooden cabinet units with floor speakers.
Small bedrooms in every neighborhood blasting Led Zeppelin from old pioneer equipment.
Ha ha what?
I really enjoy your videos. Thanks for making them.
Yes! Onkyo. Original, no mkii, even better. A good workhorse
I see many locally on marketplace and occasionally CL for quite reasonable prices many that have already been serviced. I recently picked up an Onkyo TX-5000 one owner in mint condition for $75. Had a buddy clean and lube it awesome unit. That may not be common but I see plenty of nice units for $200 to $300.
Have you guys ever worked on any Heathkit recievers! Specificaly the AR15-15? They are around 65 watts per channel and have one of the best sound quality of 70s era recievers, just would like to know your opinion of the AR15-15 please.
I know my sansui 331 isn't anything spectacular but its worlds above in sound quality than any present day stuff. For less than 50 bucks I couldn't pass it up.
I picked up a Vector Research VR-7000 that really impressed me all the way around. Build quality. Function. Looks. Ever had one? I’m curious. I’ve owned many Sony, Marantz, Pioneer and Sansui vintage pieces. Liked them all really.
I bought a Vector Research in the late 80's. Wasn't that a Fred Rated (Federated) house brand?
I've had some monsters before (Pioneer SX1010 and SX 1280), and some smaller, like Marantz 2216 and 2238, but I've been looking for something like this list. I have an Onkyo TX-5000, assuming that's similar to 4500MKII? I am curious about the Pioneer SX 929 too.
Hey Kevin how about the Sansui g 4700. ?I love this list. Specially the H/K and the Onkyo ?
The HK 730 Twin is amazing and goes for about 1/3 the price of what I could get for my Marantz 2240. It looks nearly as good and it sounds better. I wonder how long before these get ‘discovered’?
Kenwood kr 5030 60wpc fairly bullet proof.
I've had two of them, the first was a Dixie hifi floor model that was on 16 hours a day for a year plus. I then tried to cook ontop of it for years, very reliable.
Still have both units and the only problem was the relay in the second one.
I've got an HK 430 and it sounds wonderful.
I need to get my hands on a 430 . (I have a 730 and a 330C ... both sweet sounding )
Kevin, great video. Would like a video on under 50 watts. Most of my collection falls into that category. Listen at 80db max so old school 50 watts is overkill for my needs.
Kevin , I love your videos on receivers and amplifiers. Specially this one. I hear you talk a lot of the major brands. What think f the Nikko , Sanyo plus series , Akai receivers etc. on sound and build quality and easy to work on ?
We have struggled with several nikko schematics not including voltages. Kind of a pain in the ass. Have experienced any Sanyo Plus Series. have had a few Akai receivers, and they seemed decent.
Nice videos,but what about Superscope R-1270? Not 50 Watts, but 35 Watts and a lot cheaper than Marantz but with Marantz components inside. Very nice looking and performing great, nice warm sound as well....
Thanks for the info, I am looking for a receiver to go with my Duel 1019 and crazy rare Yamaha speakers that Yamaha can not even find ever built. NS-A88
What is your opinion on M&K MX 100s subwoofer for $100 ? Says it works good.
Hey Kevin, I just bought a Rotel RX-2002 circa 1979 that I purchased from the original owner in amazing condition. I have a set of Energy C-500's attached to it right now but know I could probably do better on the speakers to really challenge this receiver. Any ideas what you would suggest to power this receiver properly? I'd love you to hear from you or some of your followers. New to the vintage receiver scene and just looking to make a really nice sounding system to play LP's and tuner. Thanks in advance!
How do you feel about Tandberg receivers.
They were known to be the Roll Royce of receiver amps. You can still pick up used working Tanbergs in the 4-500 dollar range from what I have seen. Go for it!
Watching this video almost made me cry......thinking about the MONSTER that was stolen. Back in 1979, I purchased a Technics SA-1000 (330 watts per channel).
I was in the military and had a very nice system - including a pair of studio-grade loud speakers that were able to handle about half volume of the tuner. I should have
kept my mouth shut about my system - but couldn't help but brag about it. After only owning it for about six weeks - I came home to a kicked-in door and Technics was gone........
Hi
I have an HK 730 in good working condition but recently bought a renovation kit
How much does it cost to restore
I have purchased 2 FISHER receivers and had good luck with them
HK! I am with you on loving some HK. Might be because I used to work for there. ;-)
Hi great information! I live in Australia and the problem I have is that I have a pair of Bose 901 series 2 here Bose was a very limited brand back in the day! Currently I have to use 901 box! I know some Bose amps had a built in unit that was specifically designed for the 901's! Here in Australia Bose was high end so it has become very difficult to find vintage amps! Can you please tell me what Bose amp I should be looking for? Here's hoping I can find what you suggest! Thanks
No Technics? No Sansui?
Yes Sir. Marantz and Sansui (even though I just bought a Marantz 2100 FM Tuner, was a decent price). Thanks for the tip on Sony and FM Reception. Agree with your picks.
Hm... I am a kid from the 90s and stuck with my hk amplifiers and disc players. Current setup is hk6950R amp, hd7725 cdp with highest selection grade Burr&Brown DAs as 2 per channel and the big JBL hp570 that really can take the 2x90Amps output from my harman. Also got hk1400, 1200, the AP/HK preamp amp combination and my first ever bought better amp hk6150. Those look timeless, sound great and can really shake the room. Prices are going north...
Kevin, what do you think, is the best ways to play via Bluetooth on vintage receiver?
Once again, great content - good show
Great list. But I have to ask. I rarely see anyone mention Technics on these types of lists. I'm a fan. Having many over the years and currently a SA-5270, 4270, 500, 700 and 800 models. Just wondering why they aren't mentioned more.
Honestly, some Technics from this era are a complete pain in the ass to work on. They are also guilty of corner cutting. Small power supplies, fiber board chassis ect ect.
Technics made some incredible turntables and some ok receivers. You could say the exact opposite for most of the manufacturers I listed. Just my opinion!
Love your vids! I would love to see a video on a deep clean on a receiver.
Got a used and abused Sony STR-V4 from ebay for 225.00 shipped. Perfect restoration project. Had a dodgy power button, and loose volume knob, both were easy fixes. Also very filthy inside and out, so after an extensive cleanup, put some new caps in it, except for the tuning board, left that alone. Adjusted bias, and boom amazing reciever. BTW anyone know what the DC offsets should be for this? Mine measures around 50mv on each channel, is that normal?
....my 2215B has plenty of power for our use - although I also do have the Onkyo TX4500 and also a Marantz 2265 if needed! 🎵🎵
Question - after recap - is there a "break-in" period or is that just fluffy myth?
I am going to lean towards "myth" but I can't prove that, and I am sure there will be another 10 people that will say I am wrong... Sorry
What are your thoughts on JVC? I have a VN-700 that I use daily, bought it broke and as someone with only amateur repair skills the board style insides made it much easier to fix.
Where is the Concept 5.5 and Tandberg TR 2055 on this list? They look and sound better than at least 2 of the receivers mentioned on your list.
Kevin, any recommendations you'd make to drive a pair of Magnepan LRS+? This speaker is on my Christmas list for myself, but I know like all Magnepans it has a reputation for being power-hungry.
Lots of great "high current" amps out there. Depends on your budget, really. Ask the Magnapan owners on Audiokarma.org they would know best.
Newb question but it seems like most the vids i have seen you shoot for 50 to 60 watts / channel. Is this enough? When looking at speakers you have suggested in other videos like ba a400, jbl hls 810 etc all seem to be above this wattage rms meaning essentially we would be underpowering all of these ?. Am I missing something? Thanks!
Went to your website to see what you have, nothing listed. 😢
I agree -- great video. Thoughts on Technics speakers. Found a pair of SB-L200s, that look still in good shape, driver wise. Even though speakers are the most subjective part of the set, could you do a video of what y'all see the most ? REALLY enjoyed your video with Randy the other day. Back to speakers, do y'all have to re-cap crossovers generally ?? Take care, Rip
Not super familiar with Technics speakers. Have had a few over the years, but nothing super memorable, to be honest.
Replacing crossover caps depends on whether speakers are worth it. We don't "always" replace unless their caps are notorious for being bad- IE AR2ax and the like and their condition is worth the investment.
Sorry- best I got for ya. Thanks
Im not receiver enthusiast. I bought pioneer Elite c90 /m90a for approx 1000 USD which is quite cheap considering this separates where more expensive than pioneer sx 1250 or sx 1980 when New.
One of our favorite stores in Des Moines
Great video. I collect Realistic components. There are plenty of quality products out there and prices are very down to earth.
Cool. What models do you feel sound the best?
because its a cheap unknown brand. Most people prefer quality and prestige.
my realistic 2100 ua-cam.com/video/1WLDB8oSZiE/v-deo.html
I worked at Radio Shack and they made some great stuff on the higher end.
Can you identify the machine with the red light is in the background?
I have the TX-4500 Mkii - wonderful amp
What's the Wattage? I just found one for S440 in excellent working condition.
Hi Kevin, great videos! I have a question. I've noticed on your videos that you rarely speak about the vintage Kenwoods, why is that?
That's an upcoming video for sure! Thanks!
I’m assuming you guys repair them. I have a Sony STR-DE597 that needs repair.
We do not. Sorry
Never heard of a dual mono receiver. Interesting. Thanks!
Neither have I. And at 70, I’ve seen a few receivers.