Top 5 Monster HiFi Stereo Receivers from the 70's! SCARY!

[@eddiepierce7028]

When I was 16, in 1974 and we had no money, I worked all summer, got me $500, got on the bus to the city, and bought a Sansui 331 and Pioneer turntable. I lugged both boxes back to the bus stop. I’ve still have, and use both!

[@mikeschock9225]

My dad back in the day was considering the SX-1250 but he thought it was too much receiver. He opted for the SX-1050 instead. This was passed down to me. Now that he is gone this is now my most prized possession! I spent many a hour with my dad listening to music on this unit!

[@skylabsaudio]

Glad you still have it! Definitely a great receiver to share as a bond with your Dad.

[@insolentstickleback3266]

That is awesome, I lost my dad in 2018, while I don’t play banjo, I sometimes take out his OME banjo and plug in a cassette of him playing it, with his dad on fiddle.

[@lehmanc100]

I bought a SX-850 back in 1977. Still sounds and looks excellent.

[@secondaryunit]

I love hearing this story, never worry about missing out on the 1250. You have the better sounding receiver for a day to day listening stand point. Plus the 1050 is no slouch either from a volume perspective either. Thank you for sharing.

[@paulciprus9582]

My dad bought the 1250..and a PL560..along with a pair of Snell Type A loudspeakers..layer he bought an Audio Source EQ.aiwa cd player..and I added a Realistic APM power meter..awesome stuff.

[@jim010109]

Relax! Its just Audio, that was a awesome line. I wholeheartedly agree with that, breathe folks,lol.

[@skylabsaudio]

Lol

[@joerosen5464]

And if it wasn't... would we be here watching?😊

[@MP-qn1jw]

Next to cooking, audio is the most subjective. In live sound the newest, & purest consoles intentionally have noise makers like "tube effect" built in. lol You listen and make up your own mind because no one hears what you do. Cheers!!

[@mikeobearle]

This channel got me really down the rabbit hole of vintage receivers. I picked up a kenwood kr3600 just to get my toe wet and then quickly jumped all the way in with a pioneer sx780 which looks brand new. My father then picked me up an old pioneer 4 channel from a goodwill for twenty bucks. Worked like a charm. Now have 3 vintage receivers in total.

[@PlymouthVT]

The SX780 was the first amp that Pioneer went to a STK Power pack. Its a big integrated black plastic package the entire amp section is in this module.They failed alot many from loose mounting screws and poor dielectric. That amp cannot tolerate high volume for lengthy periods. I replaced 100's of stk modules back in the day. In fact between all the techs we would have a contest who could swap both packs out faster lol. There's a you tube about these modules search YT: SX780 Upgrade

[@harry8097]

Me too!

[@mikecampbell5856]

You are correct sir! Everybody loves VU meters. I have been buying stereo equipment since 1975 and sadly I never had VU meters except on cassette decks. I just bought a One Little Bear VU3 and I absolutely love it. I'm driving it with my Harman Kardon PM 650 from 1983. I agree about the Marantz beauty. I just bought a new faceplate from vintage hi fi audio and my 2220b is so pretty now. With new vellum and new lamps, it looks like a museum piece.

[@stevenpotts3056]

Thanks for the amazing channel and videos, Kevin!!! Glad to see you are a Pioneer man too. I worked my way through college as a salesman at a Pioneer authorized audio/video dealership from 1979-1981. What a fantastic time to work at such a place, between selling such audio equipment as the SX-1280, RX-909, CT-1250, and, of course, beginning in 1980, my favorite "toy" in the video world at the time, the VP-1000 Laserdisc player!! Most of my clients were physicians, successful attorneys and businessmen and women, so, needless to say, I did very well in sales and commissions, enough to pay for a SX-1280 (I opted for the receiver, rather than separate components), a CT-1250 cassette deck, and a PL-500 Turntable (unfortunately I had to buy a MM cartridge, as the 1280 does not have a MC input, which, like you, I prefer to MM), all at store cost, of course, since I worked there. I always wanted an RX-909, but, I could not get a hold of one all the time I worked at the store. Never could figure that one out, especially being an authorized dealer. I would have had to settle for the 707, which I passed on - 7" tape reels are useless in real serious recording situations. I had to look elsewhere for speakers, as I really was never a big fan of the sound of Pioneer speakers (I know, it's weird, because I love the rest of their lineup), and I went with a set of Boston Acoustic towers a little later (listened strictly with headphones for the first few months of owning the system, with a pair of Seinnheisers). No, I do not have any of this equipment anymore (sigh and many tears). The CT-1250 was the first item to go, as the VFD's went out on the unit around 1992, making it totally useless as a recorder. I totally agree with you respecting your inclusion of the SX-1250 over the 1280. Actually, at the time, I preferred the 1250, but as I bought my system in 1980, the 1250 was history, so I had no choice but to buy the 1280 for the "WOW" factor, and, of course, for the sound quality. The damn thing weighed about 60 pounds, so I had to buy a special table in order to accommodate the receiver. The receiver sure came in handy, however, when, in the fall of 1983, I purchased my very first CD player, the Sony CDP-101 (Pioneer did not have a model out yet). Man, did those CD's sound great through that beast!! Thanks again, Kevin, for the great vids!! I will be subscribing and watching more on your awesome channel!!! Cheers!!!!

[@johnsonRobinsonJr]

Great Video... I own a SX-1250 and I absolutely love it. I have a G8000 right next to it. Love these old receiver's, they are great conversation pieces!

[@Reflectiveness]

I love the way you say the tone controls are there for a reason. I can make up for most deficiencies with a treble, bass, and loudness control.

[@skylabsaudio]

Use them damn things! I do!

[@bryandickerson5365]

Woohoo - my 1250 comes in 1st! It was the one I wanted as a kid and thanks to Craigslist I found mine along with a pair of HPM 100s about 20 years ago! Now, if I could only be that lucky finding a ‘70 Porsche 911S, a ‘76 BMW R90S, Nikon F and an original Stickley Morris chair that I can afford. Like Dad always said - “son, you’ve got Champagne taste on a beer budget.”

[@hkguitar1984]

I purchased a Sansui G8000 back in 1980, it was a great unit. My Father bought it for me as my High School Graduation Gift, because it was a 1979 Model Year we got it at a huge discount, only $350 brand new!

[@brendaokeefe2096]

WOW, very nice

[@cheapaudioman]

Great video, brother. I really enjoyed this one.

[@skylabsaudio]

Thank you, Randy! Hope you get to feeling better!

[@lobstame]

Thanks Kevin, I was a teen in the late sixties and early seventies, my friends were almost all music lovers and owned at least one of each during those golden years. I’m fortunate to have a SX1010 and owned a few different amps/receivers of the years you covered. They are all good and unique. Everyone should own or have one at some point to understand why we love them. Thanks for the entertainment and humor.

[@kylealsberry8602]

Fortunately, I own the Yamaha CR 3020 ( Weighing in at a crazy 80 plus pounds 😮) And just had it totally restored to add to my completely restored CR 2020 and 1020 receiver's. Along with the Pioneer SX 1250 ( restored by the same person I've trusted for a decade), I consider myself pretty lucky to have all of them working in tip-top condition for years to come, Now the sonic comparison can at least be an equal one. Keep the videos coming, Great Channel 👍🏾

[@carlosoliveira-rc2xt]

I owned the CR 3020 back in '79 when I was 18 years old.

[@stpierreorama]

What is your conclusion of the sonic comparison?

[@joerosen5464]

I know what my choice would be! I haven't heard the 3020, but the CR-2020 just SMOKES (not literally, of course😬) the Fry-An-Ear by comparison. You're comparing mid-fi to true High End!

[@johnnewcomb5162]

I have the cr2020 and it's not going anywhere and it hangs with a bunch of the big boys. Guys online use them with $25 thousand dollar speakers. They get the job done.

[@tombergman7780]

A guy I worked with had a Sansui G-7000 just lying around unhooked up. It was in near-mint condition. He wasn’t really into audio and I never found out how he had come to own it. I asked him what he wanted for it. He said make me an offer. I said how about 50 bucks. He said fine. I slapped fifty into his hand and literally ran out of the place before he changed his mind. Clearly he didn’t realize the value of what he had. I think this was one of the better bargains in my lifetime. The baby worked perfectly and looked great.

[@allenallen5005]

I have a working Pioneer SX1050 gifted to me by my brother. Its beautiful sounding and good looking receiver. I've always loved the old Pioneers.

[@plowking57]

The Kenwood Kr 9600 is my favorite receiver. I sold off both my Sansui 9090db's . I kept the sleeper of the bunch. It still plays like new . Along with my jbl100's it can still shake the house .

[@AUTISTICLYCAN]

I have a collection of nine certified monster receivers. Of the nine you selected one of my lot as your top 5 list of monster HI FI receivers. However I totally agree the star of my collection is my Pioneer SX-1250. I got my Pioneer SX-1250 from EBay in bad condition. It worked but was dirty and the pots were insanely scratchy. Even beat up from years sitting in a dusty warehouse my Pioneer SX-1250 sounded great. I spent $4,000 having my Pioneer SX-1250 completely recapped and restored till now it sounds so good it makes you cry to listen to anything it plays. My techs have restored my Pioneer SX1980, SX1280, SX1050 and my SX1250 is the best sounding of the bunch. The Pioneer SX1250 has an almost Marantz 2330B sound.

[@harlest71]

Great List Kevin !! Unfortunately I can't buy any of those because I'm still on the buy up old McIntosh train you put me on a while back and because of your last video I just received a DynaKit ST-70 😂 Thanks for the great content man.

[@Foxrock321]

Yay Kevin! I just picked up the G-8000 and it too is a Monster..I found it at my repair techs store on consignment for $1250. I offered $800 and they jumped on it..apparently it had been there a while..and it really takes up shelf space.. great video..and you know I’m a Yamaha fan boy and I picked up the CR-1020 a while back for a reasonable price, it’s in the bullpen waiting for restoration..I know it’s only 70 watts but it’s a bigboy cab..

[@Slonge92]

I’m pretty sure my Marantz 2330 weighs just under 2 tons. She’s currently the queen of my vintage fleet, and sounds very sweet. Thank for the great videos.

[@tmdillon1969]

I have a good friend who's selling me a 2330. I'd already have it but he's very reluctant to ship it.

[@empoweryou1]

I have one too. My 2330 is designated "BD" I'm told the "D" was in reference to Dolby when Marantz was considering upgradable dolby cartridges. On the back panel there's a location to change out the dolby cartridge. I haven't seen this option on other receivers but the technician who serviced it, recognized it immediately.

[@williamerlewein3983]

Bless you brother I wish I still had mine

[@empoweryou1]

@@tmdillon1969 Did you ever receive it?

[@blackwaterdogs4256]

Great review, thanks for sharing !I agree with your top choice, I also have an SX-1250, restored a couple years back by one of the gents from AudioKarma. It was cosmetically mint, and now has sonics to match. In a secondary system, I am running a Luxman R117 receiver (their TOTL at that time). Rated at 160 wpc, it delivers a significant amount of headroom, and would be a good choice for someone looking for a very capable black-faced unit.

[@drewbizdev]

When I was a kid growing up in New York, my dad owned an electronics repair shop. When people would not pick up their repaired units, my father had a legal obligation to dispose of them. Dozens of units ended up in the three bedroom apartment over our two car garage. Our main stereo in the house from 1973-1981 was the Pioneer SX-6000. Never sold in America. Guys coming home from Vietnam by way of Japan would stop in and buy receivers and mail them home. Got to see some pretty cool stuff. ...Love your channel by the way.

[@wildflower1542]

What a good review about the receivers during the '70s & '80's era ..Thanks for sharing ...👏💓

[@DaveFoehring]

One of my favorites of your videos. Maybe sometime you could do a beginner's tutorial on receiver controls and inputs/ outputs? For example, pre-out main in; turnover switch, etc. for some of us newer to the hobby. Thanks and keep 'em coming!

[@skylabsaudio]

Good idea, thanks!

[@joen2423]

These are some serious pieces of HiFi gold. I would love an SX-1250 someday, that must be massive! I am currently cleaning up the SX-950 my dad just gave me, wish I was close enough to your shop to stop in!

[@stighenningjohansen]

My local electronic stuff pusher in Sarpsborg, Norway sold everything from Dark side of the moon Pink floyd 73 cassette and in their Deep carpet heavy glass isolated listening room sold Japanese recivers equipped with a receiver front end, connected to a power amplifier via a thick cable.. I heard one of those pushing a set AR3 speakers. Fantastic, first there was a news guy, telling the news. And it was as he sat 1m away and gave us the news, after that, The Dark side started, and the expensive glass started to rattle.. Nice

[@andregoulet3446]

Another great video :) In my perception of a monster receiver The first that comes to mind is the Harman kardon Citation receiver :)

[@RaiderCBR6.5]

Great review, I run my all my audio through my SX-1250, TV, computer etc. Have been doing this since finding it in my landlords garage new in the box 2 years ago. I use it hour's every day and it spends more time than most at above 50% volume. The 1250 with the SDA 2's is a good combo.

[@vantowers9017]

I got a Kenwood KR 9600 with new purple outputs, and instead of original rack handles it has cabinet pulls that look surprisingly better to me. I also have the little brother 7600 that also has rack handles.

[@jskobe808]

Outstanding video. I have the Kenwood 9600 that I got at a garage sale a few years back. Absolutely love the sound quality and looks. 👍

[@varsitycamplife]

Just saw a Sansui G-22000 up close and personal last week. I was in awe.

[@huronchess4810]

I always had a stereo back then but could never afford a good system being a teenager. For nostalgia I bought a Marantz 2235B last year and absolutely enjoy it!

[@skylabsaudio]

I'd be happy with a 2235b all day long! The receivers in this list are 50% bragging rights.

[@DanielJacobs-t8q]

Sold these in 1978 as the young guy with long hair and electronic knowledge, I got to set the stereos, and I bought the next model receiver down.The MCS stuff was great I loved selling the MCS series

[@Aswaguespack]

👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻 repair and serviceability are extremely important criteria and should be a high priority when making a decision on any vintage/classic consumer electronics products. Great info!!

[@geeo57]

I bought my Pioneer SX-1250 Around 16 years ago, It is a Monster for sure and it will be with me Until my Grandkids Inherit it.

[@robertwright5487]

Damn, some of these receivers when new were under $1,000. I was stationed in Germany, and we had some great pricing from the audio stores plus they were tax free .

[@hayest9872]

You just answered my 2 questions I posted in your other video on the 9600vs9050 and the powerpack retrofit kits.

[@jfrchevyguy]

I liked your top 5 choices, and being a Pioneer fan I do admire the SX-1250. When I was overseas while serving in the Air Force I picked up a Pioneer SX-D7000 receiver, 120 wpc, and it does have the moving magnet/moving coil selector for phono preamp. While my SX-D7000 doesn't have commanding presence like the 1250, it's a beast! The tech who serviced it (replaced some capacitors) called it a "speaker eater"!

[@johnclintonmusicandmore]

thanks for the info last week on the Boston Acoustics A100. i got some Series III these are what i had in 1988 i found a pair 3 hours away really clean so i got them and now i ordered a set of matching Boston Acoustics A60 Series ii its nice to have a sealed cabinet i have been using klipsch klf-20's and klipsch rb 35's for years thanks for the cool video i had a Sansui 9900Z a few years ago

[@Sunrayman123]

Kevin, when I saw that first receiver, the Kenwood KR 9600 I almost fell outta my chair! What a beauty! Now for the rest of the pack...

[@TurboDV8]

Still have mine!

[@pietromanno8916]

LOVE ALL OF THEM!!!!!!!!! NOT JUST THE LOOKS!!!!! BUT THE SOUND !!!!!!

[@mjg263]

Totally agree on the Pioneer SX-1250. I’ve got all of the SX-x50 series from the SX-850 on up because of their excellent build quality, flexibility and serviceability. Love working on them and listening to them and have for many years!

[@richyz01]

Nice Recievers. I own a MCS 3125 that is a monster reciever and was built by NEC. The biggest reciever you could get from JC Penny in the late 70's. Great sound.😊

[@louieatienza8762]

I have a Kenwood KR-9400, which was Kenwood's former flagship, and I always floored at how "responsive" it is, and how well it drives virtually every speaker set I threw at it even at lower volumes. I also love its looks, is built like a tank, and weighs about as much as one too. My space is not big, and really the only time I get it past 3 is when I'm showing off to friends who get blown away. I can't imagine what more power sounds like...

[@TheHomeExpert5]

All right, Dexter Manley, this was a very very good episode. What about some love for some 80s receivers, make an episode with those even though they are currently unloved. Secondly what makes a great volume knob is that heavyweight and quality feel.

[@todwilson5239]

Loved this, I own both the Kenwood KR9600 that I bought in 1977 and a pair of of Cerwin Vega H15 speakers 👍Ii also own a Pioneer SX 1250 paired to some KLIPSCH K horns! I have been a vintage stereo lover forever!

[@mikechurch4703]

While like many on here, I have several 70’s amps and receivers (marantz, spec 2 rack, etc). I must say, it was really good to see Sony make your list. I have the str7800 sd which I believe was the flagship of it’s time @120 watts per at 8ohms. Seems like the old Sony’s never get a lot in the recognition department. This simply validates why I like your channel. Honest, no hype reviews. I appreciate your style sir.

[@skylabsaudio]

Appreciate it, Mike. Thank you!

[@carlosoliveira-rc2xt]

The Sony str 7800 is rated at 125wpc but is somewhat lightweight at 50lbs for a flagship.

[@joerosen5464]

I appreciate Kevin's style too...but not Sony's! Who beat their components with the ugly stick? They must have deliberately hired the Japanese Olympic Form Squad to style those 70's receivers & integrateds!🤦 Those 2 big knobs standing far off in the top right-hand corner, with the little rectangular depression on the volume knob. Reminds me of the dumb kid in grade school who always had a booger hanging from one of his nostrils...🤪🤨

[@joerosen5464]

I HATE "auto-correct"!!!🤬🤬🤬 POS Motorola DUMBphone! (Hint: Don't buy one!). I wanted to say: "Japanese Olympic DORK Squad"! Not "Form" Squad... Maybe the Chinese Olympic DORK Squad at Motorola can enlighten us as to WTF that is!🙄

[@damirhlobik6488]

Sansui G 22000, completely restored by expert, 2000 euro, sold in three days, here in Croatia

[@rotaxtwin]

I can sure see why you take serviceability into account, some of the large receivers get seriously heavy and complex. Flipping a 60 lb unit over would get tiring pretty quick. There are some very handsome units on the list, love all that silver!

[@tonyclark6235]

Great Video!!… love my Rotel RX1603. Fortunately still has its original Sanken output transistors too. Had it serviced recently by my tech here in Sydney lots of caps and diodes replaced just cause of age .. sounds superb as all of these Receivers do really..

[@lorindamikaela]

Your ROTEL is a beautiful looking receiver, I own a ROTEL RA-1312, LUXMAN R-1120 and AKAI AA-1200. The AKAI is not the best looking receiver but the most beautiful sounding.

[@tonyclark6235]

@@lorindamikaela … also have an RA1312 & RA1412. 1412 is what I’m listening to at the moment I had my tech change the main filter caps with some Nichicons and any others that needed doing although most were done a few years ago …

[@lorindamikaela]

@@tonyclark6235 - personally I think ROTEL have some of the best looking vintage receivers. I don't collect vintage gear anymore as I sold off 90% of my collection. Like yourself I had my gear rebuilt/serviced and I will keep what I have left. The ROTEL RA-1412 is also a nice piece of gear. I brought my RA-1312 for $25 yes you read right $25 about 2 years ago, it wasn't working but cost $175 for a service and it's in mint condition. Also from the same seller I brought KEF Concerto speakers for $25 and had crossovers rebuilt and upgraded. My favorite though is the AKAI AA-1200, on paper rated at 120wpc but tests at 170wpc way more power than anybody needs but it has the best sound to my ears.

[@nadude98]

Good job Kevin. I bought an SX-1250 when they came out. As an Airman First Class back then I actually took out a loan to buy it and a pair of speakers. i fondly remember blasting out Aerosmith's Toy in the Attic in the barracks on it. Actually the 1250 was $650 brand new. That was over 2 months pay for me back then. I totally agree with your assessment. Definitely the best receiver ever made.

[@icmman7]

nakamichi had some premium stuff back then, too costly for my A1C pocketbook.where i was stationed you could take out deferred loans to buy whatever...i chose hi end hifi!!!

[@billfunk3168]

I remember the 1250 Pioneer having a lot of power. I had Phase Linear. (Carver) power.

[@mopar3502001]

I love my SX-1250. I have an entire collection of the silver face SX series all the way up to the SX-1280. The two that I use the most are the SX-1250 and the SX-950. I have a boat load of these old Pioneers and I love every single one of them. One day I hope to have an SX-1980, but that day is still a long ways off I think. I love the channel too! Excellent content!

[@D2112-o8f]

I have a lot too. Including spec series

[@stevennelson7444]

I have a 9090 my brother has a 1980 I’ve listened extensively to both. Great sounding and looking receivers and perfect long term KEEPERS that said the G9000 and SX1250 are top notch choices I’d love to add either to my collection! Both are beautiful units that can be a focal point for any vintage stereo system

[@rcowens7]

Cool video. Love the Marantz 2325! 🎸

[@joes7166]

About 15 years ago a friend gave me a Kenwood 9600. Yes, a monster. Only problem are the missing handles. The volume control is a bit scratchy. I use it nearly every day.

[@DavidDarrow]

Great video as always! One favorite of mine, especially aesthetically, is the Marantz 4400. I'd imagine it's a pain to work on, but that mini oscilloscope is just hypnotizing.

[@carlosoliveira-rc2xt]

aesthetically 😉

[@DavidDarrow]

@@carlosoliveira-rc2xt 👍 fixed thanks

[@dustmaker1000]

Well done. When I read the title of this video, my first thought was the best vintage receiver ever is the Pioneer SX-1250. While I don’t own one, I do have a SX-1050, a SX-850 and a SX-750. As an amateur technician, I find the Pioneers easy to work on and the quality of the build is evident when you take the bottom plate off. Very well done. For the mid-tier receivers, my favorite is the SX-850. For most people, this has all the power one needs, great features and excellent build quality. The 850 is an audiophile receiver and is superior to the 750 which looks like the top of the line consumer grade. In today’s market, $1000 will get you a rebuilt/refurbished SX-850. You can save thousands and still have a top quality vintage receiver.

[@skylabsaudio]

Always a very large premium on the flag ship. Usually the model below is half price, I agree that the sx850 is a great receiver.

[@johnhilton7048]

I rock a Rotel RA-1312 80 wpc @ 8ohms I think it’s a close to a monster receiver as I need to get. The phono pre amp sounds excellent!!! Plenty of onboard EQ options And the -15db input switch is great for hooking up a phone via the aux

[@DanielHog13]

GREAT vid. Love the necessary caveats. Love the pics. 💪

[@stephen579]

This is a fantastic video, I have a passion for vintage receivers, so I will check through your list now and see what is available.

[@babs1450]

Hello and thank you for the vid. It was a long time ago. dumpster diving at radio shack, collected many new electronic parts, still in the package. I was a regular customer at a pawn shop back in the day. then I saw a Marantz unit. bought it for 20$ I think, a little while later, I saw the 2325. For 40 $ and the dumpster finds I had my first true unit. I had no idea what I had. Thanks for the info.

[@kurtburkhardt5862]

Good Video! I admit, I was hooked and obsessed with monster receivers in the late 70's. I wanted a big 160 watt+ Marantz, Yamaha or Pioneer. I ended up with a 8010 Kenwood (more in my budget). 125 WPC BIG, 3 speaker outputs and even a mic input on the front. Huge and heavy, at over 21" wide and 16" deep. I had to widen and extend the shelving on my stereo rack to hold it. Had it for many years (wish I still had it), eventually replacing it with a R-100 Yamaha 100 WPC. Much smaller and only 17" wide so it fit in a standard rack system. Have been a Yamaha guy all along, have a CR-820 only 55 WPC but at 20" wide in a wood case it does look more like a monster receiver. If they weren't so expensive now I might get another monster. I know I sound old now...I'm happy with my McIntosh C-26 Preamp and 2100 amp and don't need another giant, However...

[@cowanthegreat8966]

I have a CR2020, bought it new. Haven't seen it in 15 years, been sitting in a locker (which I've been paying $55 a month) 3500kms away. I'm nuts.

[@jeffbrooke4892]

Another great video, thanks! Have you ever considered doing something on graphic equalizers? GEs were very popular upgrades when these receivers were being made, albeit they may have came more into their own in the late 70s-mid 80s. And in a sense, graphic equalizers kind of made tone controls a bit of a secondary consideration when these receivers were on the market. Nice gear and I look forward to your next installment.

[@AUTISTICLYCAN]

The graphic equalizer I hope he includes is an AKAI EA-A7 because they are built like tanks and are beautiful. I own 4 of them and love them to death. They are crazy expensive on EBay now. I got mine when they sold for $145.00 or so. Today an AKAI EA-A7 will set you back $399 on a good day and $500 on a bad day. Only thing about collecting now is EVERYTHING 70's era and silver faced has gone sky high in price. I'm lucky I just finished my vintage audio collection at 9 complete setups. I must admit this channel makes absolutely great recommendations for gear that is great quality at a good price. Also this guy focuses on tech friendly units making repairs affordable. The 2 insights given together are priceless!

[@dan-sc7fm]

I still have and use my teac eqa10 graphic equalizer which I got sometime in the early 80s. Everything else has burned out or been thrown out, but this thing still allows me to dial in incrementally my mid highs and lows even on my newly purchased NAD c388 (which replaced my old Harmon Kardon hk870 amp that finally bit the dust).

[@AUTISTICLYCAN]

@@dan-sc7fm Harmon Kardon's like boats are money pits. My brother had a Harmon Kardon. It stayed in the shop broke more than it was at home and in use. My brother loves it because 1970's, me gave it to him as a birthday present. (Stupid Me!) Back then I believed Harmon Kardon built the best receiver. So to make things right, I stole it from his house and had every last component replaced with new, better equipment, even the transformer. His newly beefed up Harmon Kardon Receiver has been working now for 18 months without issue. Longest continuous time his Harmon Kardon had worked before was barely 6 months. Harmon Kardon's sound great (*When they are working!*) P.S. He's an old Marine. He knew I took it.

[@j.patrickmoore9137]

​@@AUTISTICLYCAN I've owned my HK 930 since 1973 and the only time it's been serviced was for panel light replacement. The FM does drift a bit but nothing that occasionally recentering the tuning meter doesn't correct.

[@AUTISTICLYCAN]

@@j.patrickmoore9137 When it comes to vintage audio there really is no right or wrong. For you Harmon Kardon is awesome and I love that for you. Just to share an example most Audiophiles say Fisher Speakers are pure garbage. I have some HUGE Fisher speakers and I think they are the best absolute bare none sounding speakers ever in a budget to mid-price-speaker. My old cheap Fisher makes music come alive. The bass can rattle my windows. I hear everything as if it is in surround sound, sharp and clear. I don't doubt that to trained ears my Fishers are likely garbage but I love the sound they make. Sweet Sweet vintage 70's sound. I'm in love! Most Vintage audio people hate my Hitachi SR-2004 but I love it as much as any of my Pioneers. The Hitachi SR-2004 has been a bit of a money pit but I love it more than words can say. At night with the lights off the bright silver illuminated by daylight LED's is just breath taking. I've been told by audiophiles my Hitachi SR-2004 is only good for the dust bin. The Hitachi SR-2004 is rare, powerful and I love it.

[@hugobloemers4425]

That is a great list and the choices have been well justified. The positive opinion about the Kenwood KR9600 surprised me. I thought Kenwood was a bottom tier brand according to Skylabs. It is nice to see Kenwood has done something right.

[@skylabsaudio]

Not at all, I just think you have to do a little homework and be selective with Kenwood. Every manufacturer made duds, some more than others.

[@joerosen5464]

​@@skylabsaudio One might do well to consider that Kenwood is only one of the Parent Company's 3 brands. That's why the Parent Company's name is: TRIO. Which is the name some of the oldsters like me remember when they first came to North America. As for the other 2 brands in Trio's portfolio, there's some obscure (in North America anyway...) kits they offered under their "Kencraft" monicker. But the pièce de resistance, the jewel in the crown, was their ACCUPHASE line that they brought out in 1973. And if you have seen, used, or heard even their first efforts: the C-200 preamp & P-300 amplifier, then you quickly realize what a piece of crap the Fry-An-Ear stuff is by comparison! Yeah, I know. There's no Accuphase receiver. So, technically they're off of today's menu. But a pair of these VASTLY superior pieces, in EVERY way to every brand on the top 5 list (the Yamaha CR-2020 SMOKES all the other receivers on your list; good job giving it an "Honourable Mention" shout-out, Kevin!😉). Which is to say: Build quality, parts quality, & sound (although the CR-2020 sounds a bit better to these ears...). No, don't diss Trio/Kenwood. Better than you think!🧐

[@TPOrchestra]

I own a 70's Marantz 4400 quad receiver and it's still going strong, though I almost destroyed it by having a four ohm load on the front channels. I remember I paid a small fortune in repair costs, but the sound is extraordinary, so it was worth it. My dream was always to own a McIntosh, but could never see paying THAT much.

[@fabieneldridge3414]

I’m glad I bought my 2325 Marantz when I did. For thirty years I’ve been using a pair of Klipsch K-Horns up front on A, B channel runs a pair of Klipsch Belle’s in back. My room is double insulated and 28’x24’. The old Marantz gets blown out every few years with my air compressor. Quality products, something you don’t find today. I’ve been thinking hard about recapping my Receiver after 40 plus years it’s probably in need. It still rocks !

[@joerosen5464]

Uhhh...yeah Fabien! Get that beauty recapped YESTERDAY. You really don't want to let the smoke out & end up paying some tech $500-1000 to scour the internet scrounging for parts & putting them back in yours after it's TOO LATE!💥💨😫

[@fabieneldridge3414]

@@joerosen5464 I know you’re right. It’s been great years and years of quality sound. It rocks my Klipsch speakers. More than enough to run you out. It still can make the hair on my arms stand up !

[@mrrpepsi24]

I came across your channel today, Im glad I did. I have a Technics 5760 receiver, I believe its rated at 160 Watts, Its pretty nice. So I guess I was wondering what your take on Technics is, Thanks

[@tomvanbreukelen2909]

I used to own a Yamaha CR-2040 and I loved it. It was 2nd hand and I bought it straight from the Dutch importer for a fraction of its original price. 120 Watts per channel and excellent sound.

[@frank-lt3tp]

Great list. Thank you. Might consider Rotel RX-1603 too.

[@JamesinCanada]

I had one of those back in the day.

[@WilliamVezina-zs5us]

Now I have a Pioneer txh94 blk gloss, beautiful! 08 new, 140 x 9 ht, now using it as a 2 channel with Elac ref. 2.0 ub52. Great little Speakers, so detailed, sound stage, imaging, tight bass, Andrew Jones is a really good creative designer. Sure you heard of him. Elacs I believe was 2020 or 2021. Great combo!

[@b.powell3480]

Great video!!, I had this same unit for about 15 years before a power surge knocked out the main amp modules!!, I couldn't find replacements because the modules were no longer made and unavailable!!, a shop tried to fix it but it disappeared when the shop went out of business!!

[@skylabsaudio]

That's too bad, never like hearing stories like that. Bummer

[@michaelvaladez6570]

Love your review..Pioneer was awesome back in the day.Also Marantz...

[@spacehopper77]

Great video. My main living room receiver is an SX-1250, everyone comments in it. Sounds amazing, very fast, dynamic and musicale. As for your negatives, I have added an external stereo VU meter box plus an external moving coil phono amp. Only negative for me is the 64lbs weight but it’s a monster.

[@skylabsaudio]

💯

[@dynodon9182]

Wow! What memories. I was a clueless 19 year old selling stereos in 1976. I sold the Kenwood, Marantz and Pioneer. I remember the big deal when the Pioneer SX-1010 was introduced. I wish I was aware of the quality differences. I preferred the Kenwood. I wasn't that fond of the Sansui 9090DB either. What did I know? Always assumed the receiver race would continue so didn't stash away any. Any SoCal old timers remember Equasound loudspeakers?

[@tcrutch65]

Yamaha made some quality equipment in that era

[@johnreis8520]

Hi. As an SX950 owner Im curious about the build differences between the 950 and 1250. IS it mostly watts? Next year Id like to recap my 950...but a part of me wonders if I should just sell the 950, screw the recap and try an upgrade to the 1250.

[@lalkhan6836]

you didn't mention technics here in uk at that time i only saw pioneer and sony i at that time was about 16 so i couldn't afford any but i regularly went down town just to look and listen them playing in the store

[@mek90703]

Good call with the SX-1250. It was the first serious receiver I bought with my own money. I only had it for a while as I really wanted an SX-1980. I wish I had just kept the 1250, the guy I sold it to still has it while my 1980 has been repaired 3 times and it's sitting in a plastic bin waiting until my youngest gets out of college so I can send it off to be repaired again. I think I might go with an after-market power supply this time rather than an original rebuilt one. Great list!

[@mxbishop]

That is a fine list. You did a great job. I did not know your top fav would be the Pioneer SX-1250. 25 years ago, I bought 2 of them used. One was cosmetically perfect, and one was electronically solid. I used various parts from the nice cosmetic unit, to create a cherry SX-1250, which I still have, and which still works perfectly, with the only exception being the FM muting circuit, which no longer mutes. I suspect the Reed relay that controls the FM muting function is no longer working. A few years ago, I changed out the panel and indicator lights to LEDs, and I've also cleaned the speaker protection relay a few times, but other than that, and the FM muting problem, I've had no issues. It is a marvelous receiver - and the FM reception and sound is quite amazing. I'd like to fix the FM muting issue, but I'm not sure exactly what to do, and I don't want to risk working on it and possibly breaking something else (i.e., letting the smoke out.) Carry on!

[@bigcity2085]

Question : I live too far from the city to get real good FM reception, so I don't bother. Plus all the radio stations i want to hear , stream. And I have an eq in my laptop. Does live broadcast FM (which I haven't heard in a thousand years) sound better than live stream ? I wouldn't know . Thx.

[@mxbishop]

@@bigcity2085 I think under the best of conditions, live FM broadcasts can sound as good as streaming. But most often, FM suffers from various artifacts that degrade the sound. Some of these artifacts include signal multi-path, interference from other broadcasts, attenuation of signal due to buildings and other obstacles, solar activity and weather conditions such as lightning, a less than optimal FM antenna at the receiving end, etc., etc. The SX-1250 is probably one of the best FM receivers out there - but the inherent nature of broadcast radio will always present reception challenges.

[@lotusmanb3832]

I was wondering how you feel about the Realistic STA2100 ? I purchased one that was recently serviced and it's a beast of a receiver. 120W/ch. Lots of features that you talk about alot. I would value your opinion

[@dustydawson8977]

I owned this receiver also, it is truly a monster. Not sure if your aware, but it was basically a Pioneer amp, so much so Pioneer sued Radio Shack over copyright infringement, that should tell you something.

[@waltermartinezthomaz921]

Hi, I love this channel and those receivers presented... I have a Sansui G4700 and I'm very happy with it, but G9000 is a dream for me. I agree with your opnion/analysis and thank you for sharing your information. Have a nice week and a New Year. Santos-SP Brazil.

[@danhawkins-g1x]

good advice. these are monsters, i had the pioneer sx 1980 and the 1250. however when i was in the military i got two sr 9000 g by marantz. i compare them to any monster reciever. i love your channel.

[@skylabsaudio]

Thanks, Dan!

[@DarthChainsaw]

I picked up a very nice 2325 with an original wc-43 case a few years ago for around $1k. It sounds perfect and gets used daily

[@-elijahriggs-]

I really love these kinds of videos from you guys.

[@jayyoung5423]

Happy to see that Kenwood made the list even though I know you're no a huge fan. Been shopping 1250s for awhile...this video seals the deal, thanks K.

[@skylabsaudio]

I just think you have to be more selective with Kenwood. They are not all bad, some are awesome

[@jayyoung5423]

@@skylabsaudio I agree, thanks K.

[@joerosen5464]

The best Kenwood's are Accuphase!😉

[@rxonmymind8362]

A lot of great receivers on this list. I bought a Marantz 2500 and had it restored by an engineer (and your correct my good friend doesn't like working on them) but that's one receiver I'll never get rid of. Actually had two at the same time by luck. If you ever get a chance to buy one cheap do so. I walked away from a Pioneer 1980 having looked at it and decided it wasn't for me. It was bigger in person than I imagined! I thought my 2500 was big. Not compared to the 1980. That thign was a Hulk. Honorable mentions. Finally jumped into the Yamaha family with a nice little score on the CR-1020. That thing holds it's own and punches well above it's class although no monsters receiver. It's going toe to toe with my Marantz 2370 and that one was fully restored. Crazy. Fun hobby and looking forward to many more years of it.

[@dougb3699]

I enjoy the black lettering on a silver colored panel. it makes it easier to operate.

[@kevinomura5251]

Enjoyed the video, and especially the perspective of a technician who works on these units! I would agree that the Marantz 2325 is one of the nicest looking in the Marantz lineup. I agonized over buying the 2325 vs the 2330b when they were still being sold as new. I ruled out the 2385 mainly because I couldn't lift it! I liked the looks of the 2325 better but went with the 2330b mainly due to the 'dual' power supply which in hindsight might have been a mistake due to the scarcity of the filter caps they used. And yup VU meters are hypnotic!

[@skylabsaudio]

Appreciate the comment and perspective. Thanks!

[@joerosen5464]

Yep, the 2385 was one PIG of a receiver to lug around! I remember just before Kung Flu hit a customer brought us one that was thoroughly blown up AND looked like it had been tied to the back bumper of a pickup truck & taken for a scrape 'round the back 40.😬😬😬 My boss is over 70yrs. old, he didn't even try to budge it. I got stuck with hoisting this thing around, ≈60lbs. of sharp corners everywhere that were determined to cut through your hands no matter how you tried to carry it. We took it to our outside shop & they wanted $600CDN (about $2.49USD🤣🤣🤣) to put the poor old trainwreck back together. And I actually thought the guy was NUTZ for wanting to waste that kind of money on this boat anchor! Whose laughing (his way to the bank!) now?🤯😵‍💫

[@83pantera]

I still use my SONY STR-V5 (bought 1980) on a daily basis with a pair of 70's Pioneer CS-63 DX speakers as "soundbar" for a TV and my old vinyl's. What an excelent pairing 😍

[@russellcardwell6502]

I have a Sony str v5 and love it , it’s a nice receiver and perfect for my mint and completely restored AR4X speakers

[@mistert7958]

CS-63 DX !!!

[@jimcaldwell2354]

All Hail The SX1250! Bought mine in '78, on closeout from Custom HiFi, along with a PL-540 TT and a pair of Cerwin Vega 12 TR speakers. One of the speakers was lost to a fire in the '90s, got the 1250 re-capped a couple years ago and did a partial re-cap on the 540 myself when the strobe stopped strobing.

[@triples4good]

I totally agree with you on the top 5. Have you ever thought of doing a top 5 of vintage amplifiers and preamps? Might me interesting. I used to be a receiver guy buy anymore it’s separates for me or at least integrated amps and separate tuners ( just for ascetics and to calm my OCD). I did see your video on separates, great stuff btw.

[@skylabsaudio]

Thanks, Steve! It's on the list :)

[@triples4good]

@@skylabsaudio can’t wait. Currently I’ve got an Adcom GFA5400 as my main amp and a GFT535 as a preamp. Maybe not true vintage but great value point. I would love to find more vintage pieces especially tube gear. Also would love to find matching Sansui separates. Seem to rare around here though.

[@peterheinen6110]

Wow, Pioneer on 1! My first stereo tower was Pioneer, around 1979. I was a kid, and had to work in weekends to get it. The set lasted until 2010 - ehen i blew the speakers. There was no receiver: all separate components. Tuner, turntable and cassette deck died on me at earlier stages. But what a machine!

[@jeffm1896]

I would have liked to see you include the Luxman R-1120. It met all your entrance requirements. Love your channel!

[@kyleseifert3892]

He has indicated they don't see a lot of Luxman products at his shop. I've had the R-1050 same series great looks and sound!

[@jeffm1896]

​@Kyle Seifert Yep, I've talked to Kevin about this and he agreed to take a look at my R-1120. I just need to get it up there to him. He estimated they'd have it for three months with all the work they have in the que. I have three R-1120's (picked them up back in the 1980's when Japan was in their financial recession and Luxman pulled out of the US market), so if it works out and he doessn't have a bad experience with the first one I hope to eventually have him go through all three. Luxman is now back in the US market, but they've changed hands several times (Alpine owned them for a while) like many of the Japanese electronic firms. The newest iteration is back to their original business model of turning out only hgh end top of the line products. But I'm sure they don't support their 40+ year old equipment like Marantz or possibly McIntosh. My plan is to get the first one gone through and use my Sansui G-6000 while the Luxman is up on the rack, then have him go through the G-6000 and then have him go through the other two R-1120's. All it takes is time and money.

[@joerosen5464]

At least deserving of an honourable mention! Ditto the better-sounding RX-103 & LX-104 of the subsequent generation. BUT! Once build quality is taken into account, you unfortunately HAVE TO disqualify Luxman. They're far from durable, the "Suckfaces" ALWAYS quit on the RX series (I've seen 8 of 'em so far, & precisely NONE worked!🙄), the RCA jacks are so cheap that a tight-fitting plug pulls the ground shells off when you unplug it (thus rendering the entire jack bay GARBAGE, even if it was that to begin with!🤦). The knobs all wobble, even though the control shaft sleeves are firmly tightened to the front panel.🤨 I've got an LX-104 here for (more!) service, the glitzy clear lucite central pushbutton deck firmly jammed itself up & now nothing can be selected(😵‍💫💩). And waddabout those STUPID twist-lock speaker connectors? Can't take speaker wire thicker than a human hair without jamming inside & not connecting! Maximum wire guage is 16ga, thinner than 15A household electrical appliance wire, & if you don't tin it PERFECTLY (no bumps or lumps, even the tiniest!), & tin no less than 1" of bare wire & it has to be DEAD STRAIGHT, or it doesn't go! On receivers that cost well north of $1000 new, this level of INCREDIBLY BAD design & build takes incredible nerve on the part of the compleat & cheap EEEEEEEEEEEEEDIOTS at Lux who thought this JUNK was all OK!🤬 Too bad. Because sonically, they were FANTASTIC! Whilst the 1120 is only one in its series that I can unequivocally rave about, the 1050 doesn't quite cut it & the 1030 was a little piece of 💩. OTOH, the ENTIRE RX series & LX-104 not only have fantastic ampliers & line stages, the same goes for the phono stages (haven't tried the MC stage on the 104, the RX's are MM only) & the digital tuners. And for sheer sexiness reeking of class, Lux's styling made every other Japanese receiver looks like a gorilla in a tutu!☺️

[@jeffm1896]

​@@joerosen5464 you're talking about a series that was made between 1982 - 1984 when the Japanese economy was tanking and entering a major recession which lasted for almost a decade. All the japanese electronic companies were struggling due to the public changing their preferences toward cheap components. All manufacturers were slashing quality and/or closing or selling out. Luxman had been in business since 1925 and had been a pioneer in the electronics industry, but in 1984 they sold to Alpine and like many of their competitors their quality continued to decline in the 1980's. If you'll notice all the models Kevin is listing are from the 1970's as is the Luxman R-1120 I referenced. I seriously doubt you'll find Kevin comparing any brand of reciever from the 1980's to the recievers from the 1970's.

[@JG.6768]

I love the list you created, Kevin. Also, I have a request, If you ever get a 1983 Yamaha R8 or R9 Receiver in the store, could you do a video review on what you think of them? I love the content on your channel and respect your opinions. Keep the content coming!!

[@chriselectric1116]

Kevin, I love your channel here, I always look forward to your videos,..THANK YOU

[@elroyjetson2466]

In the honorable mention you might have included the Yamaha CR-2040 which was an absolutely amazing receiver and it was in fact the flagship for the CR-20 series. I still have mine and still works fine except for those selector switches that always seem to get loose. I don’t play it because I have other stuff now. This video makes me want to hook it up again. Cheers!

[@carbonunit57]

I have a Marantz 2325 I bought in 76 from a Navy Exchange. There were options for Sansui and Pioneer but the look of the 2325 just screamed quality.

[@santiagosantarge819]

I saw a sansui 33000 or 22000 back in 2006 , it was two piece with the fan in back. Some vendor next to it bought it for 35 bucks .

[@jamester1ful]

A lot of people will say anything >100 wpc is considered a "monster", so with that in mind I nominate the venerable Sherwood S-110 CP receiver at 100 wpc. Awesome gear.

[@roguesquatch1]

I started my Sherwood obsession by randomly acquiring a Sherwood S-8910 and discovering that it sounded better than almost ever other piece of gear I own. That led me to search for the rare S-9910, which i found last summer. Now I found that there is an even rarer integrated amp, the HP-2000. I'm doomed!

[@jamester1ful]

@@roguesquatch1 Yes it can be a rabbit hole, I currently have 6 Sherwoods.. the S-110CP is almost identical to the S-9910.