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!
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.
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.
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.
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.
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
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.
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.”
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!
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!!!!
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.
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 .
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
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.
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 .
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.
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 👍🏾
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!
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.
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.
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.
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.
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!
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.
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..
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!
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.
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...
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!
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.
👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻 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!!
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.😊
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.
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!
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!
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.
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
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!
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!
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..
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.
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.
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!!!
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
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
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.
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.
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..
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.
@@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 …
@@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.
I've always wanted an SX-1980. Watching this, I think I might start holding pennies back for a 1250. Good recommendation. There are like two 1980s for sale I can find right now and the cheaper one is $8k. That'll be a hard pass if I want to stay married.
You are so correct with respect to the 2325. I have restored two and also worked on 2500 receivers and the 2325 is a LOT easier to work on and a lot better built. Also sounds better. But, the 2270 sounds better then the 2325. Still, if I were to come across a 2325 at a garage sale I'd certainly buy it in a second. I have listened to Sony and other brands of receivers and to my ears, the Marantz receivers like the 2270, 2245 and 2325 just sound better. The only amps I hear that I would say sound better are McIntosh. I did warranty work for McIntosh and their build quality is second to none and their sound is probably the best there is.
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 !
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!💥💨😫
@@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 !
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!
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.
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.
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 😍
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
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
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
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?
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.
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!
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...
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!
Great info as always Kevin👍 I have a chance to pick up a Nikko NR 1415. Not a lot of them I see online and wondered if you had any experience/thoughts?
What about the Phase Linear monter receivers from that periode? I was at an HiFi exchebicion in the around 1980, and those PL receivers were monterous. And was they not made in the US?
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!
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.
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 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!🧐
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.
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...🤪🤨
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!🙄
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.
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!
@CharlesSheen-x6h Seriously, How about 90% of the Time when posts are made with Equalizers in the Mix ? OK maybe 70% and I'm not talking about Normal Stereo System Collectors or Lovers, but the Hardcore Audiophile you know the ones With the Best of the Best, Those are the ones that ridicule Equalizers with " your introducing Noise " " you're not listening to the Music as Intended" "Flat is the Only way" blah blah ! Some People love the looks and there are Recordings out that Definitely don't appeal to me without some Adjustments, Others are Awesome! Also Everyone's Hearing is not the Same and Equalizers can make up for Weak Equipment. This is not meant to start an argument - if Someone likes an Equalizer in Their System that's Awesome!
@@dtracy03ss okay well that seems like a strange idea to me I love equalizers and being able to adjust from a news station to music or some other thing it’s definitely needed
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!!
I bought a Pioneer SX-1980 back in 1979 and loved it, thru the 70s-90s I did a lot of trading with hi-fi gear..thats part of the hobby, in the past 50 yrs I've owned a lot of different power amps, preamps, integrated amps, a few receivers, etc....along with turntables, speakers, cassette decks, you name it. But the one piece of vintage equipment out of all the vintage pieces I owned back then, the SX-1980 is that one piece I'd give anything to have not sold in 1983. I paid a lot of money for ot in 79 but that receiver was a true beast in every since of the word. I'd be willing to bet it pushed more that 290 watts/ch, I'm thinking probably closer to 300/ch, I'd always heard others back then thinking Pioneer was understating the actual power. I had a pair of Technics SB-700A speakers and it would make them sing, it actually controlled the big 15" woofer in those speakers as well as modern day high powered solid state amps do. Now these SX-1980s in restored condition are bringing between $9,000-$13,000. I've seen two sell for between 12k and 13k. The cheapest 1980 I've found was one in rough shape physically and hadn't been recapped or anything and they wanted $5800 for it. I regret not keeping my 1980, not because of what crazy money they are bringing, but because it sounded great, looked great and had plenty of power.....it was massive in size and anyone who saw it marveled at it. They are a piece of vintage Hi-fi from in my mind, the glory years of audio equipment. No plastic pieces, just beautiful metal, toggles, buttons and knobs. You young folk truly don't know what you missed from those days
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
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
Bought a technics sa 700 in 1978 at age 13 with paper route money. 100wpc super low thd. Midrange control. Pre out/ main in with super cool led power meters. Just sold it last year. Can't believe the money these old receivers are fetching!
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.
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.
I picked up a Project One, "Mark IV" Receiver from Playback before they went out of business. BRAND NEW, in the box. When I threw the switch I was amazed at the power draw, the lights dimmed slightly. I still have this unit, where does it rate on the Richter scale. Is it a Cult Receiver?. My BIC Venturi's handle the sound well, but I have to replace some mid- ranges.
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!
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!
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!😝😝😬
![Blox Fruits Dragon Rework Update [Full Stream]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/EqDAp8udhm0/mqdefault.jpg)
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!
Glad you still have it! Definitely a great receiver to share as a bond with your Dad.
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.
I bought a SX-850 back in 1977. Still sounds and looks excellent.
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.
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.
Relax! Its just Audio, that was a awesome line. I wholeheartedly agree with that, breathe folks,lol.
Lol
And if it wasn't... would we be here watching?😊
Great video, brother. I really enjoyed this one.
Thank you, Randy! Hope you get to feeling better!
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.
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
Me too!
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.
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.”
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!
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!!!!
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.
Use them damn things! I do!
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.
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.
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 .
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
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.
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.
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 .
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.
LOVE ALL OF THEM!!!!!!!!! NOT JUST THE LOOKS!!!!! BUT THE SOUND !!!!!!
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 👍🏾
I owned the CR 3020 back in '79 when I was 18 years old.
What is your conclusion of the sonic comparison?
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!
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.
What a good review about the receivers during the '70s & '80's era ..Thanks for sharing ...👏💓
Another great video :)
In my perception of a monster receiver
The first that comes to mind is the Harman kardon Citation receiver :)
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.
I have a good friend who's selling me a 2330. I'd already have it but he's very reluctant to ship it.
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.
Bless you brother I wish I still had mine
@@tmdillon1969 Did you ever receive it?
Just saw a Sansui G-22000 up close and personal last week. I was in awe.
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.
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. 👍
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!
I'd be happy with a 2235b all day long! The receivers in this list are 50% bragging rights.
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.
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..
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!
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.
Sansui G 22000, completely restored by expert, 2000 euro, sold in three days, here in Croatia
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...
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!
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.
👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻 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!!
GREAT vid. Love the necessary caveats. Love the pics. 💪
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...
Still have mine!
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.😊
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.
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!
Yamaha made some quality equipment in that era
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!
Good idea, thanks!
You just answered my 2 questions I posted in your other video on the 9600vs9050 and the powerpack retrofit kits.
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.
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
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!
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!
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..
Not sure why really, but toggle ( or flip ) switches are personal preference for me on audio gear. For me the more, the better 😃.
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.
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.
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!!!
I remember the 1250 Pioneer having a lot of power. I had Phase Linear. (Carver) power.
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
Great list. Thank you. Might consider Rotel RX-1603 too.
I had one of those back in the day.
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
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.
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.
I enjoy the black lettering on a silver colored panel. it makes it easier to operate.
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..
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.
@@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 …
@@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.
I've always wanted an SX-1980. Watching this, I think I might start holding pennies back for a 1250. Good recommendation. There are like two 1980s for sale I can find right now and the cheaper one is $8k. That'll be a hard pass if I want to stay married.
You are so correct with respect to the 2325. I have restored two and also worked on
2500 receivers and the 2325 is a LOT easier to work on and a lot better
built. Also sounds better. But, the 2270 sounds better then the 2325.
Still, if I were to come across a 2325 at a garage sale I'd certainly buy
it in a second. I have listened to Sony and other brands of receivers and
to my ears, the Marantz receivers like the 2270, 2245 and 2325 just
sound better. The only amps I hear that I would say sound better are
McIntosh. I did warranty work for McIntosh and their build quality
is second to none and their sound is probably the best there is.
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 !
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!💥💨😫
@@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 !
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!
I have a lot too. Including spec series
Cool video. Love the Marantz 2325! 🎸
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 .
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 😍
I have a Sony str v5 and love it , it’s a nice receiver and perfect for my mint and completely restored AR4X speakers
CS-63 DX !!!
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
I really love these kinds of videos from you guys.
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
We have used a yamaha 202 for many years and it still sounds great.
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
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.
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?
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.
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!
@@roguesquatch1 Yes it can be a rabbit hole, I currently have 6 Sherwoods.. the S-110CP is almost identical to the S-9910.
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...
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!
Love your review..Pioneer was awesome back in the day.Also Marantz...
Not sure if it's been commented, but what about the Sansui G-33000?
What do you think about a Harmon Kardon 930 driving a pair of Crown 300s?
Great info as always Kevin👍 I have a chance to pick up a Nikko NR 1415. Not a lot of them I see online and wondered if you had any experience/thoughts?
What about the Phase Linear monter receivers from that periode? I was at an HiFi exchebicion in the around 1980, and those PL receivers were monterous. And was they not made in the US?
What do you think of the sansui g 8000
Have you done integrated amps yet?
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!
Am I missing something here, a video about audio gear without audio ? Thanks
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.
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.
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.
@@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!🧐
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.
Appreciate it, Mike. Thank you!
The Sony str 7800 is rated at 125wpc but is somewhat lightweight at 50lbs for a flagship.
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...🤪🤨
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!🙄
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.
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!
I never heard them say anything
@CharlesSheen-x6h Seriously, How about 90% of the Time when posts are made with Equalizers in the Mix ?
OK maybe 70% and I'm not talking about Normal Stereo System Collectors or Lovers, but the Hardcore Audiophile you know the ones With the Best of the Best, Those are the ones that ridicule Equalizers with " your introducing Noise " " you're not listening to the Music as Intended" "Flat is the Only way" blah blah !
Some People love the looks and there are Recordings out that Definitely don't appeal to me without some Adjustments, Others are Awesome! Also Everyone's Hearing is not the Same and Equalizers can make up for Weak Equipment. This is not meant to start an argument - if Someone likes an Equalizer in Their System that's Awesome!
@@dtracy03ss okay well that seems like a strange idea to me I love equalizers and being able to adjust from a news station to music or some other thing it’s definitely needed
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!!
That's too bad, never like hearing stories like that. Bummer
I bought a Pioneer SX-1980 back in 1979 and loved it, thru the 70s-90s I did a lot of trading with hi-fi gear..thats part of the hobby, in the past 50 yrs I've owned a lot of different power amps, preamps, integrated amps, a few receivers, etc....along with turntables, speakers, cassette decks, you name it. But the one piece of vintage equipment out of all the vintage pieces I owned back then, the SX-1980 is that one piece I'd give anything to have not sold in 1983. I paid a lot of money for ot in 79 but that receiver was a true beast in every since of the word. I'd be willing to bet it pushed more that 290 watts/ch, I'm thinking probably closer to 300/ch, I'd always heard others back then thinking Pioneer was understating the actual power. I had a pair of Technics SB-700A speakers and it would make them sing, it actually controlled the big 15" woofer in those speakers as well as modern day high powered solid state amps do. Now these SX-1980s in restored condition are bringing between $9,000-$13,000. I've seen two sell for between 12k and 13k. The cheapest 1980 I've found was one in rough shape physically and hadn't been recapped or anything and they wanted $5800 for it.
I regret not keeping my 1980, not because of what crazy money they are bringing, but because it sounded great, looked great and had plenty of power.....it was massive in size and anyone who saw it marveled at it. They are a piece of vintage Hi-fi from in my mind, the glory years of audio equipment. No plastic pieces, just beautiful metal, toggles, buttons and knobs.
You young folk truly don't know what you missed from those days
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
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
Bought a technics sa 700 in 1978 at age 13 with paper route money. 100wpc super low thd. Midrange control. Pre out/ main in with super cool led power meters. Just sold it last year. Can't believe the money these old receivers are fetching!
Give it 5 years, unless the whole market crashes, I think they will follow classic muscle cars and vintage guitars.
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.
aesthetically 😉
@@carlosoliveira-rc2xt 👍 fixed thanks
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.
I picked up a Project One, "Mark IV" Receiver from Playback before they went out of business. BRAND NEW, in the box. When I threw the switch I was amazed at the power draw, the lights dimmed slightly. I still have this unit, where does it rate on the Richter scale. Is it a Cult Receiver?. My BIC Venturi's handle the sound well, but I have to replace some mid- ranges.
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!
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!
Thank you, appreciate the feedback!
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!😝😝😬