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

Don't be afraid! The only thing some of these monsters will hurt is your wallet.
Let us know what you think in the comments!
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#Sansui #Pioneer #Marantz

[@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?😊

[@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.

[@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.”

[@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.

[@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.

[@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.

[@johnsonrobinsonjr1272]

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!

[@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?

[@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!!!!

[@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 .

[@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

[@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

[@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 .

[@sandraslutz9489]

So back in the late 70s I got turned on to stereos while going to college. When I decided to buy a stereo receiver they A/Bed a Harman-Kardon vs. a Pioneer with the same speakers, same turntable, and cartridge. The Pioneer sounded like it was inside a cardboard box. The Harman-Kardon sounded like it was out in the middle of a wide open forest. I bought the H-K. I absolutely do not understand why people fawn over the Pioneers from the late 70s. They sounded horrible. It was explained to me that the openess of the H-K was due to it using only discreet components. No ICs like the Pioneer. I now have an HK 730 and a 930 which I rehabbed by replacing all of the electrolytic caps, including the really big ones. They sound fantastic.

[@skylabsaudio]

No ICs in the amplifier of an 1250 I know of. I love HK too, they are usually at the top of my lists, but I would never say they sound soo much better than Sansui Marantz pioneer or Yamaha. They sound great yes, but the difference is very minimal. I've also heard of sales staff doing shady things to push a product that maybe they received a higher commission from. Sorry, not buying it.

[@wymotome]

@@skylabsaudio Audio sales people are still up to their tricks. On a couple of occasions when I've went to demo some speakers a sub will be on that they'll forget to mention. I don't mind a hand-picked record or CD, but running a sub and not telling the customer is certainly shady.

[@skylabsaudio]

Agree. Very shady

[@joerosen5464]

The HK 930 may be the best sounding transistor receiver ever made. I think it was made from the Citation 12 amp, 11 pre, & maybe the 14 tuner? All in one box, with the inevitable power supply compromises. But still... AWESOME!

[@dougb3699]

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

[@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.

[@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!

[@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.

[@wildflower1542]

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

[@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.

[@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.

[@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.

[@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!

[@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.

[@jessielubay8229]

Scary, is not what im looking for sound, it's the quality of sound is what im up to 😂😂😂

[@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!

[@varsitycamplife]

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

[@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..

[@hayest9872]

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

[@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. 👍

[@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.

[@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!

[@cheapaudioman]

Great video, brother. I really enjoyed this one.

[@skylabsaudio]

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

[@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

[@ceylonmooney]

i purchased a used and rebuilt 2325 a good while back…seems like moments before the prices shot thru the roof. ho lee smoke am i grateful.

[@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.

[@Darrylizer1]

Pioneer SX 1980 is gonna be on this list! Edit: I was almost right! I have an Pioneer SX 850 and I love it.

[@allsorts9909]

Used to sell quite a lot of these when I worked at an American px in London in the early 80s. Sansui and fisher were the biggest sellers,though I was more of a pioneer fan

[@user-ji5jy1ll9j]

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!

[@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 !

[@SuperMcgenius]

I sold hifi back in the 70’s after 60 watts I found separates always sounded better than the monster receivers.

[@kgu9870]

Yep still do.

[@joerosen5464]

But it still isn't *always* true. I for one could name dozens, if not hundreds, of exceptions to the rule.🧐

[@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.

[@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.

[@andregoulet3446]

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

[@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!

[@TreDeuce-qw3kv]

I had an uncle who was audiophile who was always adding premium equipment to his sound system from the Hi-Fi days to Stereo and quad era. My step-grandfather was a electronics engineer and built all of his equipment including speakers. It was all mounted on a big steel framed shelf above the stairs to the basement with ventilation and fans. Mom dropped me off to do some yard work for them and he called me into the house to show me his newest setup. Then he turned it on and played 'The Charge of the Light Brigade' and the cannon fire shook the house to the foundation. I went outside to hear it and all around the neighbors came out to see what was happening. I swear the walls of the house were moving in and out. Something you never forget and never heard anything like again in 60-years since. Would like to have some of the classic equipment from back in my and my uncle's day, but the prices just leave me dreaming. I would have to luck into something so still on the hunt. Thanks for all the effort educating us on the old equipment...Appreciated.

[@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.

[@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

[@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!

[@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!

[@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?

[@j.t.cooper2963]

I have a monster from 1983, a Technics SA-1010 and it was affordable. Their lowest distortion receiver or amplifier ever made (0.003%) 125 WPC and It's a silver face to boot. I was 19 when it first came out and it cost $850 new back in 1983. I'm 58 and I think it's going to outlast me.

[@carlosoliveira-rc2xt]

A monster receiver can't be only 32 lbs though. It was rated at 120 wpc. All the monster receivers came out in the late 70s.

[@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.

[@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.

[@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

[@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.

[@ethimself5064]

The most powerful list - Not long ago I was in a local high end audio retailer and they had a huge Pioneer receiver rated at 320 watts, unless they made a mistake. Next time I popped in it was sold. Can't remember what year or series it was. One thing for sure, it was huge. 🤣

[@johnstump2433]

Pioneer’s SX-1980 was the flagship receiver in 1978 at 270 WPC

[@jpaleas]

Messing with tone controls is for audiophiles what dropping ice cubes into expensive wine for wine connoisseurs, Yea, I do both 🤣🤣🤣🤣 and yes everyone loves VU meters or there’s something seriously wrong with them! Great monster receiver picks... oh I’d be so happy if one of them showed up my way LOL ! I loved the video , I’m learning so much while been entertained! Another great one !!!! Thank you!

[@skylabsaudio]

Thank you, appreciate the feedback!

[@joerosen5464]

Tone controls don't fix what's wrong with badly-designed awful sounding Japanese vintage mid-fi. If it has foofy or boom-boom boomy bass, turning the bass control down doesn't magically tighten up your bass. There's just less of it, and it STILL SUCKS. Ditto the treble control. If your highs sound strident, thin, or piercing; turning the treble control down won't "magically" eliminate the grain & glare. You'll just have dull highs & grain & glare instead.😵‍💫 As for a midrange control...why doncha buy some speakers that don't sound like 💩 in the first place??? Serves you right for buying those Cerwin-Vega HED's, Altec Voice of the Train Station, or JBL L-100/112's!😝😝😬

[@DanielHog13]

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

[@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

[@troyvan6952]

'Another family member wouldn't want this as a center piece in the living room '... LoL, can't imagine why she would feel that way. Perfectly acceptable in the living room IMO. Definitely don't show her the bill for the new output packs.

[@SurnaturalM]

I've did a rebuild job on a G-9000 and they are monster. The size is ludicrous, and because of the weight, they're not easy to work on. I agree with you, the SX-1250 is a very good quality receiver, and easy to work on. I also love the SX-1010. The look is very good and it's excellent, sound wise. It's also very easy to work on.

[@MinuteBurn]

We have used a yamaha 202 for many years and it still sounds great.

[@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...

[@rcowens7]

Cool video. Love the Marantz 2325! 🎸

[@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.

[@tombeasley1943]

I bought my Pioneer SX1250 receiver used from a stereo store in Bloomington, Indiana, December 1983 for $250 which was my entire paycheck that week. I still have it and use it daily. You just can't go wrong with vintage Pioneer SX.

[@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!

[@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 .

[@TheAgeOfAnalog]

Someone close to me recently had a minty Yamaha CR-3020 for sale for just $4000. I considered selling a kidney, but thought I might need it someday and decided against it. I'll just have to settle for my CR-1020 for now.

[@swheeler6848]

My heart bleeds for ya…got a Yamaha R 600

[@danwheetman6914]

Love my 1250, so much power and I think it’s beautiful!

[@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.

[@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!

[@jameshealan3540]

I bought a super system in 73. Loved the sound and looks. Thought I was badass. Now I sit here with a 150 dollar cell phone and small JBL speaker. Sounds excellent to me.

[@joerosen5464]

Think of the money you're saving!😊

[@insolentstickleback3266]

All of these units would be a pleasure to have, given the choice I would go for the Pioneer 1250, I would listen to it naked, the receiver not me, get your mind out of the gutter, and just stare at all that beauty creating the sound.

[@michaelvaladez6570]

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

[@robertiannucci1667]

I have the Marantz 2325 great receiver I bought in 2019 partial recapped, for 1300 then wood cabinet for 300. Have Rotel separates also like the 2325 with my satellite radio connected, Definitive Technology BP 7002 speakers.

[@-elijahriggs-]

I really love these kinds of videos from you guys.

[@pietromanno8916]

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

[@stevem2142]

I really liked your top 5 monster receivers. I think Pacific Stereo’s flagship Concept 16.5 should have been in there. Well built, heavy, 165 watts per channel, just awesome.

[@skylabsaudio]

With only 1500 made, they are incredibly rare. Never seen one in-person.

[@dan-sc7fm]

Hilarious to here Pacific Stereo mentioned. As a teenager in the 70s I would love to go to Pacific stereo. And I remember the salesman trying to sell me their brand reciever, but instead chose the pioneer components. Saved all my after-school work dollars to get my first real hi fi. Those were the days.

[@flackanator1]

I currently own 3 of the 16.5 units and several 11.0 I personally find the 11.0 to be more dynamic, but all concepts have a great sound in my opinion, I will be selling most of my concept collection soon including a variety of smaller units and a couple concept turntables.

[@kurtburkhardt5862]

@@dan-sc7fm Pacific Stereo is where I bought my 8010 Kenwood, I bought the 3 year unlimited warranty with it...Glad I did, I used it as a DJ amp as it had 2 turntable, 2 tape deck and a front mounted Mic input. Blew it up 3 times until they put larger transistors and caps in it. Never blew up again...Used to get my 200 watt peak lights full on when at gigs. Wish I still had it, used it over 25 years (was starting to have issues). Made me a lot of money!

[@joerosen5464]

You might as well mention Jack Setton's 120WPC receiver! How many did they make of those? Only ever saw their ads in FrAudio and/or Stereos Unreviewed ragazines. Don't even think we ever even had a dealer in our french-speaking city of what was then over 2 million people...🤔

[@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!🧐

[@flyone8350]

Before I watch this video I'm going to mention some things I like in a receiver, or amp. 1) a power flip switch.. Not a power press button, not a on off knob, a actual switch to flip up or down with my finger. Seems like a small thing but to me it's a big deal. . . . . 2) wattage meters, right and left . . . . 3) no more than 4 channels, 4 total outputs for speakers, not that 6 channel monstrosity in fact, a two channel would be even better for how I use it. Keep it simple. 4) a large volume knob, preferably in the center of the unit. No push button or slide volume, round and big, like the size of my hand. Ideally..

[@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

[@bobe3250]

Nice receivers! I'll take any of them. In perfect running condition I'll take the Marantz. I like the way they look and own more Marantz components than I do any of the others. The reason for me is that all of them will rock your socks off and play all types of music beautifully. I own receivers from all the mfg's you name here. I have a Kenwood Model 11 II that is so fun to play with when I have it hooked up. Also my Phase Linear amp, preamp and speakers really rocks the house. I agree with your thinking that repairing these beasts and keeping them in working condition is the name of the game. Not always easy or cheap. I know my Mark Levinson 90's stuff isn't included in these 70's roundups but I spend just as much money and more keeping the amps in top shape.

[@dtracy03ss]

Awesome Vid and loved the Comment about the Sound Controls, I would go one-step farther though, I Love Equalizers and I Don't Care what the Flat Line Audiophile says!

[@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

[@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.

[@RedSinter]

The Sx-5590 is a Monster and Looks like one too. To bad only sold in Europe. And yeah, the Kenwood the Kr-9600 is excellent. I've seen G-9000 asking insanely $7k. And yes, the 1250 is an excellent unit.

[@billh.1940]

The real wow factor is does it blow the paint off the walls. Theyvall did have their own sound. The Marantz had it own sound. They even marketed the as Marantz sound.

[@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]

💯

[@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?🤯😵‍💫

[@chrislj2890]

Great video, I want one of each. Got my new Skylabs logo t-shirt the other day and it's a well made beauty!

[@skylabsaudio]

Appreciate it! Thank you

[@chrislj2890]

@@skylabsaudio You're welcome buddy!

[@user-qb7vp4hs9f]

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!

[@jeffcandy2479]

In my opinion, your emphasis on build-quality is very well justified. I also don't completely understand the present-day obsession with Marantz.

[@wymotome]

Most folks tend to think they sound a bit better than the rest (I'm in that camp as I own several brands and the Marantz receivers are my favorites to listen to). So couple that with the looks and build and it adds up to a more valuable receiver.

[@joerosen5464]

And I don't think Japanese Marantz soiled-scrape deceivers sound any better or worse than most of the other truly mediocre sounding Japanese electronics from that era of DREADFUL sound. Which means: almost ALL OF IT. That's how you can put 5 random receivers in a video like this & not have to play favourites. Although I think Kevin did, by giving the VASTLY superior sounding Yamaha CR-2020 an "Honourable Mention". Honourable, indeed! Maybe it's that EVERYBODY back then wanted to own an SX-1250, but few could afford or justify the purchase. Not that Fry-An-Ear was any better or even very good, but they spent far more money on advertising than any other HiFi company (save maybe Bose). And the SX-1250 was THE Fry-An-Ear "halo" product & brand ambassador at a time when Pioneer was at its very peak of popularity. Ask any brain-dead 15 year-old in my High-school who made the best stereo equipment, and they'd all say: "Pioneer!". Was it because Pioneer WAS better?🤔 Hell no! It was because Pioneer was the only HiFi brand they knew of!!! Even Sony didn't register (they made good radios, didn't they?🤔), nor Technics (which got lost in the Panasonic advertising. But Panasonic made good TV's, didn't they?). How little things change...those 15yr olds are now 60yr. olds & Pioneer is STILL the only brand they seem to know!🙄 And maybe Marantz was the second choice of receivers that the even-poorer aspiring faceplate & specs-chasing Racoons were willing to settle for but STILL couldn't afford back then!🤔🤷 ...and now they can! (If not for long...😂) Is it the wonky sideways tuning wheel that makes them sound so good?🤔 Or is it the spiffy blue blackout dial on the shiny silver faceplate? Or the sonic superiority that naturally comes when you have a high ratio of pushbuttons to dials? Or is it a big round tuning knob that wrecks the sound?🙄 Nah! I don't get it either! And I have a very large vintage collection myself. I've heard LOTS of Marantz deceivers, from the 2500, the 2385, 2252, 2245, 2230, 2216... Every one as forgettably mediocre-sounding as the other.😑 And those are just the ones I can remember! I was at a Collector/Racoon Buddy's home just last week listening to his fooly-restored & newly LEDed 2245 & 2252. Can't hear 💩 of a difference between them. Not that they actually sound 100% identical, it's just that when my jaded ear hears a piece of mediocrity my brain just files it away💩💨🕳️ with every other piece of mediocrity that I've listened to for the 40 years I've enjoyed Stereo sound. My takeaway from all these years of listening, & to some truly fantastic stuff like ionic tweeters, electrostatic speakers & headphones, Triode Valve Amps (including various OTL types), the occasional $50,000 turntable (Kronos, Vertere, Transrotor, Triangle Art), hundreds of different phono cartridges from an Audio-Technica AT-3600L to a Clearaudio Insider MC), etc. etc. I've heard some really fantastic sounding stuff, & 70's Japanese mid-fi amplification, no matter how big or heavy or laden with more buttons & knobs than your local Nuclear Power Station, don't make my list of the truly great components ever built. A shiny faceplate does not automatically a beautiful sound make. And no, I'm not quoting Yoda I am... The Valve gear made in America before this Japanese dross swarmed the market was infinitely better sounding...WHEN RESTORED & WITH NOS VALVES FITTED. Heck, most of it LOOKS way better, too! McIntosh had more class & wasn't as gaudy, Sherwood actually looked quite beautiful instead of the el-cheapo look all the soiled-scrape 💩 does, Fisher wasn't cheap & nasty rebadged Sanyo RUBBISH, & Marantz made McIntosh l👀k cheaply & poorly made by comparison, whereas it went 330° degrees around once the tranny-trash came out. Heck, I think a lowly Griefkit AA-100 looks way better than every receiver in this video!🤨 Good thing I started collecting 40 years ago; I can barely afford a sextet of NOS Mullard (as in: the REAL, British-made ones, not the relabeled Slobtek 💩 that's a total insult to the original by being so breathtakingly AWFUL) 12AX7's for my Harman-Kardon Citation IV these days! The only valve gear that was expensive was McIntosh, & Marantz was off the radar in Canada where I live. Even QUAD II's & Leak TL-series amps were pretty cheap. Now even Griefkits go for more money now than McIntosh did then!🤯😬 Took the wealthy Chinese immigrants from Hong Kong who moved to Toronto & Vancouver back in 1997 when the Commies took over to introduce me to what I think is the ultimate. REAL Marantz. Not this Japanese Sony/Superscope Tuschinsky Bros. rubbish!😝 How about a new Marantz vintage receiver slogan: "Marantz. Making your MP3's sound great again". Oh well. Vive la difference, hunh?😐

[@wymotome]

@@joerosen5464 That's a huge wall of text for an opinion that's borderline rubbish, mostly incomprehensible and has pretty much nothing to do with the video here. Glad you took the hour to type all that out so that we could all get a good chuckle out of an opinion that's filled with emojis that only a teenager would appreciate.

[@JAFO.]

@joerosen5464 - Yep, I agree with only about 99.98% of your Doctoral thesis 😁 Sounds like you also lived at Pacific Stereo on Greenback Ln - lol You've got me curious, have you an opinion of the Concept series of receivers? No receiver will rival true quality separates but have you auditioned any in the Concept line and do you think they stand out? Appreciate your candor & perspicuity

[@kevinfestner6126]

I agree with your choices. I hate to sound like a broken record, but the Lafayette dB120, 120 watts per channel is the Luxman 120 wpc receiver with a different front plate.

[@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!🙄

[@SuperMcgenius]

You know you stuff, unlike some others which I will not name. 😊

[@lbowsk]

I just had my Marantz 2240 and my Pioneer SX 980 recapped n refurbished by the local guru. 450 for the Marantz and 400 for the Pioneer. They're both mint. Paid 40 bucks for the M and 300 for the P. Think I made a pretty decent investment. HOWEVER.....My old Sansui G5700 is utterly amazing in sound quality. How is that? I have no idea but man I love it. Paid 35 bucks for that. Of course, I bought them all before "stereo-mania" kicked in. I love these monster receivers but at this point, I'll likely never own one.

[@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.