It is so great to see someone review these smaller lower powered receivers. I remember listening to these at our local Lafayette and another locally owned hifi store and used to drool over these receivers. People today seem to think that if a receiver doesn't put out 150 watts a channel or more it isn't worth looking at. But these vintage receivers are a good example of quality verses quantity with respect to power. Also, the old Marantz receivers sounded a lot more powerful then their specifications would lead one to believe. Back in the 70's we used to say that there are watts and then there are Marantz watts. Marantz rated their amps and receivers at 8 ohms and with a full audio bandwidth of 20 - 20 Khz where as most others rated their power at 4 ohms and 1Khz. All I know is that the 15 watts a channel from my 4415 Marantz quad receiver sounds as powerful as many so called 50 watts a channel modern surround receivers. As for turntables, I have a Marantz 6300 I really like. It is well made and very easy to use. I would have to say that it is my favourite automatic turntable.
I have a Sherwood 7050 that I bought off ebay in mint condition. It is certainly warm or tubey sounding but the bass was just too ridiculous. I talked to a friend that look at the schematic and found out it has a constant loudness built in. He told me to cut two wires going into the volume switch and that removes the loudness feature. Now the thing sounds like a proper receiver. For its low wattage it really drives my Kef Q150 speakers very well. I have several high dollar amps and receivers and I keep coming back to this one. There is something about the early solid state low watt receivers and amps from back in the 70's.
I am still to this day enjoying my Realistic STA-42 that I purchased brand new back in 1977 for $149. It is starting to develop a slight hum, but it still has the original filter capacitors, and has never been serviced, other than to replace the lamps. The sound, and the tuner are great.
Hi Guys! From South Africa , I so wish we had you guys in SA. Yours is truly a labor of love.Every time you fix a vintage unit you preserve TIME,HISTORY,INNOVATION,MEMORIES and Beauty that is so hard to find today. I hope you never stop fixing these time pieces.Thank you
Thanks for your interview of Fix My Dual. I've sent them my 1219 for a tuneup. Using a Shure V15 cartridge with original elliptical stylus. Also, thanks for leaving out the highfalutin audiophile jargon. Skylabs does tremendous service for all honest retailers of vintage electronics.🎉
I have a Technics SL 1300 fully automatic turntable. It has been in my family since 1974 when it was sold new. I bought it in 1979 and still have it. I LOVE IT! Built like a tank and works perfectly. I have an Audio-Technica ATS-14 ATS14 needle stylus for the Audio-Technica AT-14S AT14S phono cartridge featuring a Shibata diamond.
My favorite automatic turntable is the Technics SL-1300. I purchased this new for my wife in the 70's as she could just not deal with my fully manual turntables. Exceptional build quality and it just keeps going. Had a problem holding speed last year, had it serviced and cleaned and now going strong again.
I'm partial to the Kenwood KR-2400. It was my first real receiver. It has 16 watts rms, that beautiful Kenwood look and an excellent tuner. I bought mine new in 1974 and thoroughly enjoyed it's warm sound. My favorite automatic TT is the Technics SL-QD3. I grabbed one new in 1985 and still use it to this day. It's never given me a days trouble. These two pieces set the tone for the journey that I'm still enjoying!
I agree. I also have a Kenwood KR-2300. It sounds great and packs an impressive punch for such a low wattage receiver. I use it in my office and when I service my Marantz 2216 and/or Model 27. The 2216 is my favorite. In my humble (and limited) expertise, the best turntable is the Philips 212 Electronic.
Bought my 2015 in 1975, gave it away 40 some years later and the damn thing still worked without ever having it serviced. I still have my Technics SL 20 manual turntable that I bought at around the same time with only one belt replacement.
I like the Sherwood S-7100A. Sounds good and was pretty easy to recap. Yes, the power switch is a problem. Mine still works and I use a power strip to turn it on just to be safe.
I own a Marantz MR 220 at 21 watts 1978 model , an it’s power sounds way more than 21 watts per channel , it pushes my twin pioneer 8” woofers an one tweeter speakers , it’s clean an beautiful, an sounds great lows to highs , I love it an got it at a steal , for 100 bucks , cabinet an face are flawless , im in love ❤
Re turntable, DUAL 504 semi auto belt drive, 53 yrs ago, not exactly what you requested! Recently stumbled upon yr channel on account of acquiring a JVC Ex1A which is now undergoing repairs. Clear, easy to understand hifi talk for enthusiast, tqvm.
You should do a program on watts alone and how they really relate to "average/normal everyday listening habits." I always thought big watt amps had more to do with marketing than it had to do with building a superior sounding product. Most of these amps and receivers went into the apartments and dorm rooms of guys in their 20s and selling big bore stereos back in the 70s pretty much was akin to selling big bore cars. Another great video and thanks!
My first vintage receiver was a Pioneer SX-636, closely related to the 535. It sounds great, is a breeze to work on, and parts availability is fantastic! I bought mine with some more serious issues - a dead channel that ended up being blown output transistors - but it didn’t matter much since I was able to replace all transistors with brand new substitutions that are still readily available from Digikey/Mouser. And the knob arrangement on the front with the blackout dial is pure class. Can’t go wrong with a SX-535/636!
One of my three receivers is my dads SX-626. Has 2 Phono inputs, 2 tape in and out inputs on both, Aux, and 3 speaker inputs. It did have issues. I had it serviced by 2 different people in my town. They could not fix it. Finally a friend took it 3 hours south of me. He recapped it and went through it. I love this receiver. I have a Dual 1229 and 1215S hooked to it. Cartridges Gado Silver on 1229 and Grado F-1 on the 1215S. The F-1 is the original cartridge on my Dads 1215S. I found a new old stock stylus 2 years ago. Speakers were made in my home town. I did upgrade the guts to Pyle 10"and 3". It could be entry, but it has enough power to not go above half volume and will move furniture.
Great point! In your opinion, what is 20 RMS watts equivalent to in today's rated "watts per channel" ? My Sansui 5050 is rated at 30 WPC RMS - if you push the volume control beyond level 3 (9 o'clock), connected my Klipsch Heresy III's, you're on the verge of eardrum splitting volume, without exaggeration! I would have no need or use for a more powerful receiver at this point!
@ET Himself In the mid 80's, I bought a Mitsubishi rack system that was rated at "100 watts pet channel" , thinking it had awesome power - when I slid the volume level up maybe 1/3rd, it would clip and distort very bad - So much for that rating!
Into this category i might throw in the Technics SA-200 series…25 watts/channel…readily available…$200-$300 range depending on condition…(Personally i like the sound, and have found then reasonably easy to work on when needed).
When talking about my favorite Automatic Turntable, I know what I am going to post could be met with some disdain, but it is the only automatic turntable I have ever owned. I bought it back in 1978 and still have it. It is the Garrard 42M turntable with the Shure Cartridge M93E. I know it is considered entry level, but it has worked wonderfully and only needed servicing twice in the over forty years of ownership, and I love the sound of it. The problem of course is finding someone to work on it now as it is an idler wheel drive (referral’s appreciated). Early on I thought of upgrading to a direct drive, but back in the early 80's my friends were complaining of motor noise of their direct drives.
I only have (ever) one automatic turntable, but I do love it. We use it almost daily, and to us, it sounds great. It came in the 1965 Magnavox Astro-sonic console we bought at a thrift store. It's called Micromatic, made in England. It uses a ceramic cartridge with a flip stylus that lets us play 78's (we've a lot of them). I know there are moving coils, and moving magnets that are on another level, Julie and I remain blissfully unaware.
Favorite fully-automatic turntable: Technics SL-1301. Classic looks of the SL-1300 but with quartz lock, and dirt simple to repair with a tube of grease when the automatic feature stops working.
Great video. My favorite fully automatic turntable of all time is the Technics SL-1300. The original. I've had one for decades and it's like a tank. Indestructible, sounds amazing.
Thank you for another great video. My favourite automatic turntable is the Pioneer PL 505 direct drive which I bought new in 1985. It is still working fine. About receivers I love the entry level Tandberg Sølvsuper reciever from the early 70’s with 15 watts into 8 ohm. They are easy to work on with good built quality and have quite small footprint and fits easily into a narrow bookshelf. Have a nice day everyone.
The two fully automatic turntables I own I think are the best! A Yamaha PX-3 and a Technics SL 1600MKII Both have amazing features as well as great build-quality! Also both have incredible specs!
@@srl1215 I am using. Grado Prestige Red and have about 100 hours in and starting to really sound great! I switched headshells with a friend who had an Ortiphon Blue and it sounded spectacular! I’ll probably be switching! Guess it matters what kind of music you listen to! If it’s rock, the one I have right now is great! But I listen to mainly progressive jazz, and the detail of the Ortafon blue is definitely better
Read the comments about low wattage. In 1986, I gave Paul Klipsch a tour of NMSU EE dept, he's alumni, and asked him about wattage. He designed the original Klipschorns to be super efficient because tube amps then were very small. 1946 specs - 105dB at 1W. Wattage is meaningless until you connect an amp to speakers. My favorite automatic turntable is the Technics SL-10, bought one college. Linear tracker, same size as an album, plays in any orientation, even upside down. Last year, my wife bought one off reverb as a birthday present to relive my long hair years. Rock on my brothern, rock on! 🤘🎸💯
Fun stuff. My favourite is the H-K 330B, only because one fell into my lap. Talk about serviceable and build quality, wow. No complaints about lack of power. Separate L&R tone controls!
Hi Kevin, sorry for commenting on an old post but thought you might find this interesting. I just did a repair on a Marantz 2015 and it is different then the two you mentioned. This is also a five button receiver but instead of the far left button being a Tape Monitor button it is for Dolby FM, followed by Tape 1, Mono, Loudness, and Muting. The other oddity was that instead of a fuse holder being mounted to the rear of the unit it had a spot marked for it but not punched out. Instead it had three glass fuses soldiered via pigtails to a daughter board underneath the main filter capacitors. 1 2A 250V, 1 3A, and 1 1A and an unused position for a fourth. The only other oddity was that the previous owner had dismantled the unit, taken out the tuning marker glass and removed all the fuse bulbs! In the process destroying the needle on the tuning dial. McGivered in the tine from a Wendy's plastic fork (aka tuning fork) until I can either source a part of get one 3D printed. Once cleaned up it does indeed have a very nice pleasant sound through my old PSB speakers.
I am a huge fan of the Harman/Kardon 330 series. I have the Nocturne, 330B and 330C. They all punch above their weight class. They can also handle 4 ohm speakers around 250 watts. Also, in reference to the limited outputs on the entry level receivers, there is a way to go around that. What I did was use the audio source selector or AV source selector. I use that when I want to add on things like streamers or CD players.
i was hoping for a little explanation why the 330C specifically (as opposed to the 330A, 330B etc.). i have a rotel rx-400a, which is essentially an HK330A under the hood, and i adore it. but this is definitely not the first time i've seen a stated preference for the C variant and i'm curious as to why.
I don't know whether this is "entry level", but my recently restored Sansui 3000A is an awesome receiver. Restoration included: a complete recap (all electrolytic and film caps), 14 new transistors (outputs, drivers, phono preamp, and several others of questionable reliability), and the incorporation of the recommended capacitor coupled output to prevent woofer frying from the DC coupled output. I'm not a professional technician, just a hobbyist. This took weeks of patient soldering. Still to come: alignment. I have the right equipment, but still worry about messing up.
While I have known what is referred to as "The Marantz Tax", I never heard of that term until I came here. While Marantz had never been a favorite of mine (outside of their tube gear), I found it quite interesting when you mentioned that the lower powered units sound better than the higher powered ones. In past listening tests, I had found the Marantz had good mids and highs, but I wasn't impressed with the low end performance, which had Pioneer and Sansui easily edging them out of contention. Now, the one thing I have not heard yet, is a Harmon Kardon. It is a problem that I should rectify. In a nutshell though, these "entry level" receivers just lack meters, features and they generally look bland with the exception of the Marantz (and normally I am not fond of the Marantz look). Since I really do not listen to the radio anymore, I would be curious as to what "entry level" integrated amplifiers you could put together. I know you have a list of higher end units and that was interesting. I have to put a comment there on that. BTW, I only recently found this page and I have to admit, I am having a ball here! I too was an audio technician (late 80's and into the 90's), but for commercial sound equipment (Crown, QSC, EV, Altec Lansing, Shure, Tascam, Peavey, etc), so there are many parallels that I can relate to.
I have my harmon kardon 330b still that i bought in 1975. It still rocks really well. I used it in 76' for a school dance in the cafeteria and really performed well. Everyone enjoyed its sound.👍
Respectable entry-level list Kevin! My favorite fully automatic turntable is the Realistic Elac Miracord 46. Never had a day I had problems with it. When set up, right, it sounded great! With a Shure Cartridge and stylist installed, instead of the realistic that came with it.
The best automatic turntable was DUAL CS 721. I have one since new, and I haven’t had any issue. Works like new, and never have had to adjust anything. The finest ever.
I am very old school here,,running a pioneer sx-990 receiver with a sansui ra-500 reverb unit and a dual 1219 turntable a teac 4010s reel to reel and fisher xp9c speakers,,,,not sure where all this lines up but I have been happy with the setup for over 50 yrs
Thanks for the video.The Marantz tax IMO is well worth it. The enjoyment one gets just looking at them makes the added dollars you pay justified. I believe Marantz made the best looking receivers back then. And if you decide to sell you will get that extra money back. To me it’s a no brainer.
Yeah,i agree.I have a Sansui 551,661,5050 and a G-2000.These i believe are or were all considered "entry level."I love every one of them but that little 551 just sings...
The *DUAL 1229!* It has not only top-tier performance but also *style* in spades. My ol' best friend had one & it was a truly beautiful beast despite having to work around its aging mechanics (fixmydual didn't even exist bsck then & he never had enough time to find a service manual.)
Dual 1019 with M44 cartridge (with elliptical stylus, which technically makes it an M55) for the build quality, the mean looks and the charismatic sound. Hook it up to a Sansui 331 receiver and you are rocking.
Again, you've put together a great list that I am all aboard with. I started to get into vintage audio about six years ago and the Pioneer SX-636 was my gateway drug. I absolutely love it and it will be one of the last receivers to leave if I ever decide to start letting go of my collection. Cheers from Roswell!👽
I was 14 years old in 1979 when a sister moved to New York City, and she left me her Pioneer SX-434, turntable, and speakers. It needs work now but I still have it all and loved it all these years. I guess at this point it's just nostalgic.
A long time ago, I got an SX-737 off of shopgoodwill, before it was discovered and the prices became ridiculous. I paid about $100 for it and intended to use it in my workshop. What a great sounding unit. I have other, more powerful receivers, but it may be the best sounding one I have. For full auto turntables, the Dual 701 and Sony PS-X600 are favs. That said, I also have a Kenwood KP-990 and Pioneer PL-50L II both of which have auto stop and lift (but not return). I think they're the way to go for reliability.
Another great show ! Some of these 'entry level' receivers have beautiful sound, and pack as much power as one will want. I spent a few years buying and listening to every vintage receiver that I could find, and the vast majority of entry level receivers forfeit very little. Btw, fell in love with and use the CR-620. I had a 1020 previously, and have nothing but praise for it as well. Enjoy your vintage adventure, mine was unbelievably cool !!
I just got it. I think my Dual CS 630 Q Direct Drive Full Automatic Quartz Turntable is the best. Easy to use and a respectable sound. I'm no audiophile so my assessment of sound quality should be highly suspect. That said this Dual CS 630 Q turntable is the bee's knees sound wise to me. Of the late model Dual's I think the Dual CS 630 Q is the better if not the best of the lot. Select older Dual's definitely have this based on build quality BUT for what it is and the time it was built I like it. The Dual CS 630 Q is a good entry turntable for someone not interested in fussing with knobs, settings and the like. This is a set speed. Push start and begin listening turntable. The best small receiver was a Sanyo 2033 at 33 watts per channel. Sanyo 2033 was my first receiver.
I still have the Sansui 350A playing music at my cottage. My father bought it new in 1972, and he gave it to me in 1980 after buying Marantz 2285B. That Marantz is also working nicely.
I am a Marantz fan, I've had my 1515 since it came out in '79. Love the sound and I've never had a problem, I clean it regularly. I've bought another 1515 for my youngest and a 1530 for my middle child and they have had them for 12 and 10 years each. To me the "tax" is because of the quality and consistent sound.
Nice list of some more affordable choices! My first receiver back in the early to mid 1980's was a Yamaha R-500 Natural Sound Receiver. It was a very sweet sounding unit as long as you didn't push it too hard. I wish I still had it, but it was lacking in power and would fall apart with the dynamic stuff. At the time I was getting into hard rock and symphonic classical music, which coincided with the new higher output CD format becoming widely available, all of which lead me to realize that the meager 40 watts of the Yamaha was not up to handling this more demanding content. I sold it to a neighbor (who loved it), and moved on up to The Carver receiver which had a hefty 140 watts on tap. I say this to illustrate that at this time I fully believed that power was the only answer that mattered, and the Carver seemed to bear that out as it had no trouble driving my speakers (Dahlquist DQM-9's) cleanly, and to ridiculous levels! Some years later, a friend of mine pulled an old Harmon/Kardon 20 WPC receiver at a yard sale for $10 bucks! It may have been the exact model you showcase in this video, but I'm not sure as it was back in the early 90's. He brought it over to test it out on my Dahlquist speakers, and I was not optimistic at all about what the results would be. I was fully expecting the DQM-9's to sound like low rez mud when we hooked up this little 20 watt job from the 70's. Oh boy, was I wrong!!! Now the DQM-9's are fairly efficient for a 3 way design, so they are not that hard to drive, but still, they sang out loud and clear, and clean, with the HK receiver connected. Much warmer sounding than my Carver, but they were not lacking for juice in any way. That day I learned that amps are more important than watts, and that a power number isn't everything. It's about how that power is implemented through the individual design of the piece. You just have to give it a listen to see if it works for you. My favorite automatic turntable is the only one I've ever owned, and therefore the only one I have useful experience with. It's a Technics SL-QD35, also from the mid 80's. It's not high end, it has the limitations of a P-mount system, but it's never failed me in it's mechanical operation, or it's sound quality. Thanks for these great videos Kevin!
Favorite fully automatic turntable is the Pioneer PL-707. Bought mine in 1985 and I'm still using it. Had the motor cleaned 5 years ago, I love this turntable.
I helped a friend select her first system. HK 330 - I think it was the A version, coupled with some Smaller Advents. It was a sweet and satisfying system.
I still have my Marantz 2015 (5-button) that I purchased for $50 on eBay in Spring 2000. Have never had the need for a replacement. I absolutely love my Baby Marantz.
Pioneer PL300X direct drive turntable. I still have mine - bought in 1980. I have the box and the perspex cover is perfect. It has been covered with a soft cotton cloth since I bought it. I just love it. My dad had a Bang and Olufsen turntable built in 1963. It was great - wooden case, 4 speeds 16, 33, 45 and 78 - you had to change the stylus for 78s. It had a futuristic looking tone arm that was raised and lowered with a lever. It did not come with a cover and the platen was covered with a pale blue/grey rubber moulding. The pressed metal beneath the platen was painted a pale blue/grey to match the platen. It was primitive by modern standards but paired with a Rogers valve amplifier and Celestion speakers it sounded great. It's long gone. I wish I could find it. The stylus would be almost impossible to get hold of.
The Pioneer SX650 is a sweet receiver, she looks good in a low-lit room but is High on good sound, 2 tape deck loops and cd drive work great as does a turntable. 35 watts drives a pair of SL-12's very nicely
I really like your show as it is informative and I do not know much about stereo systems or parts. My daughter loves music age 11 and We got her a new all in one stereo. No turntable. I pulled out my 1980's mitsubishi system or what was left of it. Picked up a awesome sounding Pioneer sx-525 and hooked it all up. Turntable Mitsubishi DP-39 still works and sounds great. Pioneer DV-525 the number is just a coincidence, and Klipsch R-41m which is the only new peice. I have the Mitsubishi Amp DA-U154 which i did not hook up as I don't think it is needed. Very low budget since I had everything but the receiver and speakers. All sounds great to me.
First receiver I restored was a Pioneer Sx-440. I loved learning on this unit, I am now onto an Sx-780 and thankfully the Stk paks are good! My heart is with Sansui, it is very special equipment. I'd recommend a G-2000 or G-3000 as a good entry level receiver as well.
I've had a SX-780 since '79 and those packs are the weak link in a beautiful unit.Mine have gone twice.I agree with you on the Sansui G-2000.What a badass little unit and so pretty to look at.I'd never part with mine.
Awesome video per usual. I picked up an sx-650 for $23 recently at a thrift store so I can’t say I could recommend a better entry level receiver than that! As for automatic TT’s, I haven’t used many automatic turntables but I do enjoy my Revox B795 quite a bit. My technics Sl-l2 is also a feature packed DD Auto that I bought for only $50
I've always listened to vinyl records dating back to my father who had a big collection. He passed away in the the early 80's and I continued the collection through the 90s, when I could! More CDs back then. I'm just now getting into vintage stereo equipment. I just bought a Marantz 2220B. And i love it! sounds amazing, However sometimes the speakers cut out intermittently. Not sure what it is, I have an audio repair guy next to my office that is looking at it now, but can't seem to get it to act up! Anyway love the videos! keep them coming!
Thanks so much for the fun and informative videos..I have a marantz 2220B that I picked up at a repair shop with a pair of ads 570 speakers and really enjoy the nice sound of my vinyl..!
You know Realistic made some fine receivers and speakers in the 70s. I'm surprised you never mentioned them. At least in your videos I've watched. I have 2 receivers and 4 pairs of speakers. They still function great. Don't underestimate them. ✌️
Excellent Videos. My Wife & I have enjoyed your videos . She gets really riled up when you talk about the crazy customers. We get them in our store too !
Definitely interesting. I have three SX 535s. I think I’ve stated that before. I think one has the transistor issue. My go to turntable without a doubt… Technics SL-D20.
Pioneer PL-560. Still have it and works great with Shure V15 type IV cartridge. My setup has Lafayette LR5555A receiver and Ohm L speakers. It’s what I could afford at the time and still love my first 2 channel system.
My first receiver was a moderately powered Realistic QTA-752 four channel unit in 1977 that I bought used. 30 watts RMS stereo or 15w per in four channel mode. it came with four 2-way speakers with 8" woofers. Not the most impressive system but clean enough to enjoy, and I will never forget listening to the 4-channel version of DARK SIDE OF THE MOON in "SQ4" mode. It was remixed for 4 channels by Alan Parsons himself. Wish I still had that LP. Not long after I replaced the Radio Shack receiver with a JVC AX-4 amp and TX-6 tuner from Alco Stereo & TV.
Fully automatic turntable favs. Mid level ones Onkyo CP-1150, Yamaha P-550 - P750. I like search cueing on the Onkyo and all controls are outside of the dust cover.
I have to agree with you on the Harmon Kardon 330c. What a sweet sounding box she was. I had her mated up with some nice Sansui speakers with the nice wood grills. I still have her and would be willing to sell for parts. As I recall the volume control got a bunch of distortion when the knob is turned so I put her in storage and bought a Sansui AUX-1 which is also in storage. It has a nasty hum. I really enjoy your channel. Keep up the good work.
Hi, in the recording business a high pass filter lets the highs pass through. Meaning it’s actually a low roll off. Maybe it’s a high cut and you just called it a high pass filter. Great videos, keep up the good work.
My first receiver was a Sony STR 6036 hooked up to a pair of ElectroVoice 2 way bookshelf speakers. It sounded great! The turntable I was using was a Dual 1218 with a Shure V15 type IV, the best turntable I have owned.
I own three fully auto Turntables, the one I use almost daily would be my Kenwood KD-5070. I also have a Yamaha PX-3 linear tracking and a vintage Dual 1019. The Kenwood and the Yamaha I purchased new when they first came out.
Denon dp-47f. What a cool machine. Designed at the end of the era where turntable's were the standard. I could be wrong but I think they kept selling that model for 15 years or so! 1985-1999 I think. I always wanted one and finally bought one so I guess I'm a bit biased. Currently running a Ortofon 3m blue and Sounds really nice but I have been thinking about upgrading to a Denon Dl-301.
The only automatic turntable I personally know was my parents' Dual 1239A. It broke down some 20 Years ago, so I can't really recommend it, lot of plastics inside. It sat in a rack above a Marantz 2216B, The speakers were a pair of british Wharfedale E70 3-way floorstanders. rated at 94dB/1W and 8 Ohms. We really appreciated the big, warm punch and great dynamics. My mom still uses the E70s, but the 2216B at some point was replaced by an amp with remote control. I still keep the 2216B, but it needs some repair work. Inside two plastic-pushers are broken. It has this warm sound, and the phono-pre seems to be really good. Fun-fact: At some point during the Eighties my parents intended to switch from Marantz/Wharfedale to newer gear, They took it to a dealership and brougt it back home. It had blown anything the dealer could offer them right out off the shelve... 🙂
I just went down the vintage gear rabbit hole with a Pioneer sx 626 and a rebuilt sx 636. I like that the 626 has two phono inputs and three speaker inputs.
What a great video. I've been doing loads of research recently and three of the models I had shortlisted were actually in this list! (Sony, Pioneer, Marantz) Thanks for the reassurance.
It is so great to see someone review these smaller lower powered receivers.
I remember listening to these at our local Lafayette and another locally owned hifi store
and used to drool over these receivers. People today seem to think that if a receiver
doesn't put out 150 watts a channel or more it isn't worth looking at. But these
vintage receivers are a good example of quality verses quantity with respect to
power. Also, the old Marantz receivers sounded a lot more powerful then
their specifications would lead one to believe. Back in the 70's we
used to say that there are watts and then there are Marantz watts.
Marantz rated their amps and receivers at 8 ohms and with a full
audio bandwidth of 20 - 20 Khz where as most others rated their
power at 4 ohms and 1Khz. All I know is that the 15 watts a channel
from my 4415 Marantz quad receiver sounds as powerful as many
so called 50 watts a channel modern surround receivers.
As for turntables, I have a Marantz 6300 I really like. It is well made
and very easy to use. I would have to say that it is my favourite automatic
turntable.
I have a Sherwood 7050 that I bought off ebay in mint condition. It is certainly warm or tubey sounding but the bass was just too ridiculous. I talked to a friend that look at the schematic and found out it has a constant loudness built in. He told me to cut two wires going into the volume switch and that removes the loudness feature. Now the thing sounds like a proper receiver. For its low wattage it really drives my Kef Q150 speakers very well. I have several high dollar amps and receivers and I keep coming back to this one. There is something about the early solid state low watt receivers and amps from back in the 70's.
I am still to this day enjoying my Realistic STA-42 that I purchased brand new back in 1977 for $149. It is starting to develop a slight hum, but it still has the original filter capacitors, and has never been serviced, other than to replace the lamps. The sound, and the tuner are great.
My first Radio Shack Realistic AM/FM Stereo Receiver was the STA-47.
Hi Guys! From South Africa , I so wish we had you guys in SA. Yours is truly a labor of love.Every time you fix a vintage unit you preserve TIME,HISTORY,INNOVATION,MEMORIES and Beauty that is so hard to find today. I hope you never stop fixing these time pieces.Thank you
Thanks for your interview of Fix My Dual. I've sent them my 1219 for a tuneup. Using a Shure V15 cartridge with original elliptical stylus.
Also, thanks for leaving out the highfalutin audiophile jargon.
Skylabs does tremendous service for all honest retailers of vintage electronics.🎉
Thank you, Kristofer!
While my garage sale Pioneer turntable was truly my first vintage item, my curb find Marantz 2248B is truly what launched me into a love for vintage.
I have a Technics SL 1300 fully automatic turntable. It has been in my family since 1974 when it was sold new. I bought it in 1979 and still have it. I LOVE IT! Built like a tank and works perfectly. I have an Audio-Technica ATS-14 ATS14 needle stylus for the Audio-Technica AT-14S AT14S phono cartridge featuring a Shibata diamond.
My favorite automatic turntable is the Technics SL-1300. I purchased this new for my wife in the 70's as she could just not deal with my fully manual turntables. Exceptional build quality and it just keeps going. Had a problem holding speed last year, had it serviced and cleaned and now going strong again.
I'm partial to the Kenwood KR-2400. It was my first real receiver. It has 16 watts rms, that beautiful Kenwood look and an excellent tuner. I bought mine new in 1974 and thoroughly enjoyed it's warm sound. My favorite automatic TT is the Technics SL-QD3. I grabbed one new in 1985 and still use it to this day. It's never given me a days trouble. These two pieces set the tone for the journey that I'm still enjoying!
I agree. I also have a Kenwood KR-2300. It sounds great and packs an impressive punch for such a low wattage receiver. I use it in my office and when I service my Marantz 2216 and/or Model 27. The 2216 is my favorite. In my humble (and limited) expertise, the best turntable is the Philips 212 Electronic.
Bought my 2015 in 1975, gave it away 40 some years later and the damn thing still worked without ever having it serviced. I still have my Technics SL 20 manual turntable that I bought at around the same time with only one belt replacement.
I like the Sherwood S-7100A. Sounds good and was pretty easy to recap. Yes, the power switch is a problem. Mine still works and I use a power strip to turn it on just to be safe.
I do the same with my S 7200.
DUAL 1229, one of the great automatic turntables. Loved mine for years.
I had an SX-780 back in the early 80's and hope to get another one someday. Loved that receiver!
I own a Marantz MR 220 at 21 watts 1978 model , an it’s power sounds way more than 21 watts per channel , it pushes my twin pioneer 8” woofers an one tweeter speakers , it’s clean an beautiful, an sounds great lows to highs , I love it an got it at a steal , for 100 bucks , cabinet an face are flawless , im in love ❤
Re turntable, DUAL 504 semi auto belt drive, 53 yrs ago, not exactly what you requested!
Recently stumbled upon yr channel on account of acquiring a JVC Ex1A which is now undergoing repairs.
Clear, easy to understand hifi talk for enthusiast, tqvm.
You should do a program on watts alone and how they really relate to "average/normal everyday listening habits." I always thought big watt amps had more to do with marketing than it had to do with building a superior sounding product. Most of these amps and receivers went into the apartments and dorm rooms of guys in their 20s and selling big bore stereos back in the 70s pretty much was akin to selling big bore cars. Another great video and thanks!
Modern wattage's are rarely RMS rated, unless on the more expensive side. Great question👍
My first vintage receiver was a Pioneer SX-636, closely related to the 535. It sounds great, is a breeze to work on, and parts availability is fantastic! I bought mine with some more serious issues - a dead channel that ended up being blown output transistors - but it didn’t matter much since I was able to replace all transistors with brand new substitutions that are still readily available from Digikey/Mouser. And the knob arrangement on the front with the blackout dial is pure class. Can’t go wrong with a SX-535/636!
My daily driver is an SX-626. I’ve always been happy with it.
The whole X3X line is great, IMO
One of my three receivers is my dads SX-626. Has 2 Phono inputs, 2 tape in and out inputs on both, Aux, and 3 speaker inputs. It did have issues. I had it serviced by 2 different people in my town. They could not fix it. Finally a friend took it 3 hours south of me. He recapped it and went through it. I love this receiver. I have a Dual 1229 and 1215S hooked to it. Cartridges Gado Silver on 1229 and Grado F-1 on the 1215S. The F-1 is the original cartridge on my Dads 1215S. I found a new old stock stylus 2 years ago. Speakers were made in my home town. I did upgrade the guts to Pyle 10"and 3". It could be entry, but it has enough power to not go above half volume and will move furniture.
One would be surprised at what 20 watts of RMS power can actually do. Or for that matter 10 watts RMS
Great point! In your opinion, what is 20 RMS watts equivalent to in today's rated "watts per channel" ? My Sansui 5050 is rated at 30 WPC RMS - if you push the volume control beyond level 3 (9 o'clock), connected my Klipsch Heresy III's, you're on the verge of eardrum splitting volume, without exaggeration! I would have no need or use for a more powerful receiver at this point!
@@arnoldschloss9634 Depends on the type of rating - discrete power etc. The newer power rating terms like this are about 15% of RMS
@ET Himself In the mid 80's, I bought a Mitsubishi rack system that was rated at "100 watts pet channel" , thinking it had awesome power - when I slid the volume level up maybe 1/3rd, it would clip and distort very bad - So much for that rating!
@@arnoldschloss9634 Mitsubishi was never a quality audio manufacture and never came even close to being mainstream in the audio field. Just saying.
@@ethimself5064 Correct! I threw the whole system out in a dumpster several years ago!
Into this category i might throw in the Technics SA-200 series…25 watts/channel…readily available…$200-$300 range depending on condition…(Personally i like the sound, and have found then reasonably easy to work on when needed).
When talking about my favorite Automatic Turntable, I know what I am going to post could be met with some disdain, but it is the only automatic turntable I have ever owned. I bought it back in 1978 and still have it. It is the Garrard 42M turntable with the Shure Cartridge M93E. I know it is considered entry level, but it has worked wonderfully and only needed servicing twice in the over forty years of ownership, and I love the sound of it. The problem of course is finding someone to work on it now as it is an idler wheel drive (referral’s appreciated). Early on I thought of upgrading to a direct drive, but back in the early 80's my friends were complaining of motor noise of their direct drives.
Thanks for your comment. Glad you found a lifelong table!
I only have (ever) one automatic turntable, but I do love it. We use it almost daily, and to us, it sounds great.
It came in the 1965 Magnavox Astro-sonic console we bought at a thrift store. It's called Micromatic, made in England. It uses a ceramic cartridge with a flip stylus that lets us play 78's (we've a lot of them). I know there are moving coils, and moving magnets that are on another level, Julie and I remain blissfully unaware.
Favorite fully-automatic turntable: Technics SL-1301. Classic looks of the SL-1300 but with quartz lock, and dirt simple to repair with a tube of grease when the automatic feature stops working.
Great video. My favorite fully automatic turntable of all time is the Technics SL-1300. The original. I've had one for decades and it's like a tank. Indestructible, sounds amazing.
Thank you for another great video. My favourite automatic turntable is the Pioneer PL 505 direct drive which I bought new in 1985. It is still working fine. About receivers I love the entry level Tandberg Sølvsuper reciever from the early 70’s with 15 watts into 8 ohm. They are easy to work on with good built quality and have quite small footprint and fits easily into a narrow bookshelf. Have a nice day everyone.
You too!
I'm not looking for any audio equipment right now but every time I watch Kevin I want to get a new piece of vintage equipment.
Sorry! :)
The two fully automatic turntables I own I think are the best! A Yamaha PX-3 and a Technics SL 1600MKII Both have amazing features as well as great build-quality! Also both have incredible specs!
What are you running for cartriges? I have a SL-1600MKII in great shape but a ATK100n cartridge and I'm thinking to go more upscale.
@@srl1215 I am using. Grado Prestige Red and have about 100 hours in and starting to really sound great! I switched headshells with a friend who had an Ortiphon Blue and it sounded spectacular! I’ll probably be switching! Guess it matters what kind of music you listen to! If it’s rock, the one I have right now is great! But I listen to mainly progressive jazz, and the detail of the Ortafon blue is definitely better
@@primeanalogrecords for the suggestions.
Dual 1257, with the original ulm Cartridge. Still works well 45 years later.
Read the comments about low wattage. In 1986, I gave Paul Klipsch a tour of NMSU EE dept, he's alumni, and asked him about wattage. He designed the original Klipschorns to be super efficient because tube amps then were very small. 1946 specs - 105dB at 1W. Wattage is meaningless until you connect an amp to speakers.
My favorite automatic turntable is the Technics SL-10, bought one college. Linear tracker, same size as an album, plays in any orientation, even upside down. Last year, my wife bought one off reverb as a birthday present to relive my long hair years. Rock on my brothern, rock on! 🤘🎸💯
Fun stuff. My favourite is the H-K 330B, only because one fell into my lap. Talk about serviceable and build quality, wow. No complaints about lack of power. Separate L&R tone controls!
Hi Kevin, sorry for commenting on an old post but thought you might find this interesting. I just did a repair on a Marantz 2015 and it is different then the two you mentioned. This is also a five button receiver but instead of the far left button being a Tape Monitor button it is for Dolby FM, followed by Tape 1, Mono, Loudness, and Muting. The other oddity was that instead of a fuse holder being mounted to the rear of the unit it had a spot marked for it but not punched out. Instead it had three glass fuses soldiered via pigtails to a daughter board underneath the main filter capacitors. 1 2A 250V, 1 3A, and 1 1A and an unused position for a fourth. The only other oddity was that the previous owner had dismantled the unit, taken out the tuning marker glass and removed all the fuse bulbs! In the process destroying the needle on the tuning dial. McGivered in the tine from a Wendy's plastic fork (aka tuning fork) until I can either source a part of get one 3D printed. Once cleaned up it does indeed have a very nice pleasant sound through my old PSB speakers.
I am a huge fan of the Harman/Kardon 330 series. I have the Nocturne, 330B and 330C. They all punch above their weight class. They can also handle 4 ohm speakers around 250 watts.
Also, in reference to the limited outputs on the entry level receivers, there is a way to go around that. What I did was use the audio source selector or AV source selector. I use that when I want to add on things like streamers or CD players.
i was hoping for a little explanation why the 330C specifically (as opposed to the 330A, 330B etc.). i have a rotel rx-400a, which is essentially an HK330A under the hood, and i adore it. but this is definitely not the first time i've seen a stated preference for the C variant and i'm curious as to why.
I also like these receiver, older HK stuff is usually very high quality.
I don't know whether this is "entry level", but my recently restored Sansui 3000A is an awesome receiver. Restoration included: a complete recap (all electrolytic and film caps), 14 new transistors (outputs, drivers, phono preamp, and several others of questionable reliability), and the incorporation of the recommended capacitor coupled output to prevent woofer frying from the DC coupled output. I'm not a professional technician, just a hobbyist. This took weeks of patient soldering. Still to come: alignment. I have the right equipment, but still worry about messing up.
While I have known what is referred to as "The Marantz Tax", I never heard of that term until I came here. While Marantz had never been a favorite of mine (outside of their tube gear), I found it quite interesting when you mentioned that the lower powered units sound better than the higher powered ones. In past listening tests, I had found the Marantz had good mids and highs, but I wasn't impressed with the low end performance, which had Pioneer and Sansui easily edging them out of contention. Now, the one thing I have not heard yet, is a Harmon Kardon. It is a problem that I should rectify. In a nutshell though, these "entry level" receivers just lack meters, features and they generally look bland with the exception of the Marantz (and normally I am not fond of the Marantz look). Since I really do not listen to the radio anymore, I would be curious as to what "entry level" integrated amplifiers you could put together. I know you have a list of higher end units and that was interesting. I have to put a comment there on that. BTW, I only recently found this page and I have to admit, I am having a ball here! I too was an audio technician (late 80's and into the 90's), but for commercial sound equipment (Crown, QSC, EV, Altec Lansing, Shure, Tascam, Peavey, etc), so there are many parallels that I can relate to.
My favorite turntable is a Pioneer PL-630, just love the look and feel of the unit.
I have my harmon kardon 330b still that i bought in 1975. It still rocks really well. I used it in 76' for a school dance in the cafeteria and really performed well. Everyone enjoyed its sound.👍
Respectable entry-level list Kevin!
My favorite fully automatic turntable is the Realistic Elac Miracord 46. Never had a day I had problems with it. When set up, right, it sounded great! With a Shure Cartridge and stylist installed, instead of the realistic that came with it.
My dad has a 730c and it is honestly one of the best sounding receivers I have heard
Excellent receiver
The best automatic turntable was DUAL CS 721. I have one since new, and I haven’t had any issue. Works like new, and never have had to adjust anything. The finest ever.
I have a Sansui 7 original to me. Still works great and never needed any repair. All the incandescent bulbs still good.
I am very old school here,,running a pioneer sx-990 receiver with a sansui ra-500 reverb unit and a dual 1219 turntable a teac 4010s reel to reel and fisher xp9c speakers,,,,not sure where all this lines up but I have been happy with the setup for over 50 yrs
The Dual 1219 has to be on the list for fully automatic turntables! Great build quality and has been my main turntable for years.
My Dual 119 is 52 years old and works great!!! Wouldn't change, ever.
Thanks for the video.The Marantz tax IMO is well worth it. The enjoyment one gets just looking at them makes the added dollars you pay justified. I believe Marantz made the best looking receivers back then. And if you decide to sell you will get that extra money back. To me it’s a no brainer.
I think the Pioneer SX-450 & SX-550 make terrific entry level receivers. Also the Sansui 221,331,441 are great little units as well.
Yeah,i agree.I have a Sansui 551,661,5050 and a G-2000.These i believe are or were all considered "entry level."I love every one of them but that little 551 just sings...
I have an SX-780, love it.
@@jmad627 Yep,i've had my 780 since high school '79.Still kicking ass...
The sansui 5050 is also a good one.
Technics SL-1600MK2 is best Automatic TT. Technics really hit home runs with their TT lineup. No brainer
Hi pass is used to CUT low freqs, that is why it it is called that and passes high freqs. Mostly used to reduce turntable rumble.
The *DUAL 1229!*
It has not only top-tier performance but also *style* in spades. My ol' best friend had one & it was a truly beautiful beast despite having to work around its aging mechanics (fixmydual didn't even exist bsck then & he never had enough time to find a service manual.)
Dual 1019 with M44 cartridge (with elliptical stylus, which technically makes it an M55) for the build quality, the mean looks and the charismatic sound. Hook it up to a Sansui 331 receiver and you are rocking.
Good pick... I love my Dual 1225 .... I even stack old Christmas records at Christmas time! Dual are tough!
Again, you've put together a great list that I am all aboard with. I started to get into vintage audio about six years ago and the Pioneer SX-636 was my gateway drug. I absolutely love it and it will be one of the last receivers to leave if I ever decide to start letting go of my collection. Cheers from Roswell!👽
Thanks, Michelle!
I was 14 years old in 1979 when a sister moved to New York City, and she left me her Pioneer SX-434, turntable, and speakers. It needs work now but I still have it all and loved it all these years. I guess at this point it's just nostalgic.
Best fully auto turntable has got to be the pl-570. Beautiful and has great quality.
There's a reason I have 2 of these. Technics SL-1600MK2
A long time ago, I got an SX-737 off of shopgoodwill, before it was discovered and the prices became ridiculous. I paid about $100 for it and intended to use it in my workshop. What a great sounding unit. I have other, more powerful receivers, but it may be the best sounding one I have.
For full auto turntables, the Dual 701 and Sony PS-X600 are favs. That said, I also have a Kenwood KP-990 and Pioneer PL-50L II both of which have auto stop and lift (but not return). I think they're the way to go for reliability.
Thank you!
Favorite auto turntable: Marantz 6200. It's been my primary turntable for years, and when I switch it out, I always end up coming back.
Thanks!
The Marantz 6100 is really good ( belt / simple )
Another great show !
Some of these 'entry level' receivers have beautiful sound, and pack as much power as one will want.
I spent a few years buying and listening to every vintage receiver that I could find, and the vast majority of entry level receivers forfeit very little.
Btw, fell in love with and use the CR-620.
I had a 1020 previously, and have nothing but praise for it as well.
Enjoy your vintage adventure, mine was unbelievably cool !!
I just got it. I think my Dual CS 630 Q Direct Drive Full Automatic Quartz Turntable is the best. Easy to use and a respectable sound. I'm no audiophile so my assessment of sound quality should be highly suspect. That said this Dual CS 630 Q turntable is the bee's knees sound wise to me. Of the late model Dual's I think the Dual CS 630 Q is the better if not the best of the lot. Select older Dual's definitely have this based on build quality BUT for what it is and the time it was built I like it. The Dual CS 630 Q is a good entry turntable for someone not interested in fussing with knobs, settings and the like. This is a set speed. Push start and begin listening turntable. The best small receiver was a Sanyo 2033 at 33 watts per channel. Sanyo 2033 was my first receiver.
Technics SL D3. Bought it in 1980 and its still rockin with no real problems.
I still have the Sansui 350A playing music at my cottage. My father bought it new in 1972, and he gave it to me in 1980 after buying Marantz 2285B. That Marantz is also working nicely.
I am a Marantz fan, I've had my 1515 since it came out in '79. Love the sound and I've never had a problem, I clean it regularly. I've bought another 1515 for my youngest and a 1530 for my middle child and they have had them for 12 and 10 years each. To me the "tax" is because of the quality and consistent sound.
I never had a fully automatic TT...
Thank you for making this video!
Favorite fully automatic turntable is the Realistic LAB-400. Rock steady for over 40 years. Still have it and still use it.
Nice list of some more affordable choices! My first receiver back in the early to mid 1980's was a Yamaha R-500 Natural Sound Receiver. It was a very sweet sounding unit as long as you didn't push it too hard. I wish I still had it, but it was lacking in power and would fall apart with the dynamic stuff. At the time I was getting into hard rock and symphonic classical music, which coincided with the new higher output CD format becoming widely available, all of which lead me to realize that the meager 40 watts of the Yamaha was not up to handling this more demanding content.
I sold it to a neighbor (who loved it), and moved on up to The Carver receiver which had a hefty 140 watts on tap. I say this to illustrate that at this time I fully believed that power was the only answer that mattered, and the Carver seemed to bear that out as it had no trouble driving my speakers (Dahlquist DQM-9's) cleanly, and to ridiculous levels!
Some years later, a friend of mine pulled an old Harmon/Kardon 20 WPC receiver at a yard sale for $10 bucks! It may have been the exact model you showcase in this video, but I'm not sure as it was back in the early 90's. He brought it over to test it out on my Dahlquist speakers, and I was not optimistic at all about what the results would be. I was fully expecting the DQM-9's to sound like low rez mud when we hooked up this little 20 watt job from the 70's.
Oh boy, was I wrong!!! Now the DQM-9's are fairly efficient for a 3 way design, so they are not that hard to drive, but still, they sang out loud and clear, and clean, with the HK receiver connected. Much warmer sounding than my Carver, but they were not lacking for juice in any way. That day I learned that amps are more important than watts, and that a power number isn't everything. It's about how that power is implemented through the individual design of the piece. You just have to give it a listen to see if it works for you.
My favorite automatic turntable is the only one I've ever owned, and therefore the only one I have useful experience with. It's a Technics SL-QD35, also from the mid 80's. It's not high end, it has the limitations of a P-mount system, but it's never failed me in it's mechanical operation, or it's sound quality.
Thanks for these great videos Kevin!
Favorite fully automatic turntable is the Pioneer PL-707. Bought mine in 1985 and I'm still using it. Had the motor cleaned 5 years ago, I love this turntable.
I helped a friend select her first system. HK 330 - I think it was the A version, coupled with some Smaller Advents. It was a sweet and satisfying system.
I still have my Marantz 2015 (5-button) that I purchased for $50 on eBay in Spring 2000. Have never had the need for a replacement. I absolutely love my Baby Marantz.
Pioneer PL300X direct drive turntable. I still have mine - bought in 1980. I have the box and the perspex cover is perfect. It has been covered with a soft cotton cloth since I bought it.
I just love it.
My dad had a Bang and Olufsen turntable built in 1963. It was great - wooden case, 4 speeds 16, 33, 45 and 78 - you had to change the stylus for 78s. It had a futuristic looking tone arm that was raised and lowered with a lever. It did not come with a cover and the platen was covered with a pale blue/grey rubber moulding. The pressed metal beneath the platen was painted a pale blue/grey to match the platen.
It was primitive by modern standards but paired with a Rogers valve amplifier and Celestion speakers it sounded great.
It's long gone. I wish I could find it. The stylus would be almost impossible to get hold of.
The Pioneer SX650 is a sweet receiver, she looks good in a low-lit room but is High on good
sound, 2 tape deck loops and cd drive work great as does a turntable. 35 watts drives a
pair of SL-12's very nicely
I really like your show as it is informative and I do not know much about stereo systems or parts. My daughter loves music age 11 and We got her a new all in one stereo. No turntable. I pulled out my 1980's mitsubishi system or what was left of it. Picked up a awesome sounding Pioneer sx-525 and hooked it all up. Turntable Mitsubishi DP-39 still works and sounds great. Pioneer DV-525 the number is just a coincidence, and Klipsch R-41m which is the only new peice. I have the Mitsubishi Amp DA-U154 which i did not hook up as I don't think it is needed. Very low budget since I had everything but the receiver and speakers. All sounds great to me.
First receiver I restored was a Pioneer Sx-440. I loved learning on this unit, I am now onto an Sx-780 and thankfully the Stk paks are good!
My heart is with Sansui, it is very special equipment. I'd recommend a G-2000 or G-3000 as a good entry level receiver as well.
I've had a SX-780 since '79 and those packs are the weak link in a beautiful unit.Mine have gone twice.I agree with you on the Sansui G-2000.What a badass little unit and so pretty to look at.I'd never part with mine.
Awesome video per usual. I picked up an sx-650 for $23 recently at a thrift store so I can’t say I could recommend a better entry level receiver than that! As for automatic TT’s, I haven’t used many automatic turntables but I do enjoy my Revox B795 quite a bit. My technics Sl-l2 is also a feature packed DD Auto that I bought for only $50
I'll vote Mitsubishi LT-10v that I am researching getting back working. Thank you for the videos and the prior discussion on recaps.
I've always listened to vinyl records dating back to my father who had a big collection. He passed away in the the early 80's and I continued the collection through the 90s, when I could! More CDs back then. I'm just now getting into vintage stereo equipment. I just bought a Marantz 2220B. And i love it! sounds amazing, However sometimes the speakers cut out intermittently. Not sure what it is, I have an audio repair guy next to my office that is looking at it now, but can't seem to get it to act up! Anyway love the videos! keep them coming!
Thanks so much for the fun and informative videos..I have a marantz 2220B that I picked up at a repair shop with a pair of ads 570 speakers and really enjoy the nice sound of my vinyl..!
Mitsubishi LT-5V. I owned one with an Ortofon OM20 for 10 years and it worked lawlessly , not to mention looking amazing.
You know Realistic made some fine receivers and speakers in the 70s. I'm surprised you never mentioned them. At least in your videos I've watched. I have 2 receivers and 4 pairs of speakers. They still function great. Don't underestimate them. ✌️
My Turntable is a Kenwood KD 5070 still works Great
Excellent Videos. My Wife & I have enjoyed your videos . She gets really riled up when you talk about the crazy customers. We get them in our store too !
Definitely interesting. I have three SX 535s. I think I’ve stated that before. I think one has the transistor issue. My go to turntable without a doubt… Technics SL-D20.
I’m currently using a Noresco NRQ-235 (re shelled Rotel RX-154A) that was given to me and it is amazing how great it sounds!
I love the sound of my Nakamichi TA-1A. Low watts and super clean sound.
I bought a Pioneer SX-550 based on your general praise of Pioneer as a brand and I love it. I do baby that power knob, though.
I would use a power strip to power it off and on. Great receiver.
@@skylabsaudio Also got some Baby Advents on your recommendation and they’re perfect for my room.
Pioneer PL-560. Still have it and works great with Shure V15 type IV cartridge. My setup has Lafayette LR5555A receiver and Ohm L speakers. It’s what I could afford at the time and still love my first 2 channel system.
My first receiver was a moderately powered Realistic QTA-752 four channel unit in 1977 that I bought used. 30 watts RMS stereo or 15w per in four channel mode. it came with four 2-way speakers with 8" woofers.
Not the most impressive system but clean enough to enjoy, and I will never forget listening to the 4-channel version of DARK SIDE OF THE MOON in "SQ4" mode. It was remixed for 4 channels by Alan Parsons himself. Wish I still had that LP.
Not long after I replaced the Radio Shack receiver with a JVC AX-4 amp and TX-6 tuner from Alco Stereo & TV.
Fully automatic turntable favs. Mid level ones Onkyo CP-1150, Yamaha P-550 - P750. I like search cueing on the Onkyo and all controls are outside of the dust cover.
I picked up a Marantz 2226B for $500. I connected a pair of Infinity SM-82. the system rocks, plenty loud at 1/4 to 1/3 volume
Currently rolling with an HK560 from 1979. Love it.
My favorite fully automatic turntable has to be the Dual CS 721. Huge fan of Dual and I've always seen this table as the pinnacle for them
Thanks for the awesome post.
I was really lucky to find a Marantz 2015 at a bargain price. It's a wonderful; machine.
Dual 1229Q is my fav full auto table. Amazing looks and performance.
I have to agree with you on the Harmon Kardon 330c. What a sweet sounding box she was. I had her mated up with some nice Sansui speakers with the nice wood grills. I still have her and would be willing to sell for parts. As I recall the volume control got a bunch of distortion when the knob is turned so I put her in storage and bought a Sansui AUX-1 which is also in storage. It has a nasty hum. I really enjoy your channel. Keep up the good work.
Hi, in the recording business a high pass filter lets the highs pass through. Meaning it’s actually a low roll off. Maybe it’s a high cut and you just called it a high pass filter. Great videos, keep up the good work.
Yeah, 2 worlds I spent a lot of time in. I misspoke, the Marantz is a High Filter.
Technics SL-J3 linear tracking turntable. Love your videos , thank you! 👏🇨🇦
My first receiver was a Sony STR 6036 hooked up to a pair of ElectroVoice 2 way bookshelf speakers. It sounded great! The turntable I was using was a Dual 1218 with a Shure V15 type IV, the best turntable I have owned.
I own three fully auto Turntables, the one I use almost daily would be my Kenwood KD-5070. I also have a Yamaha PX-3 linear tracking and a vintage Dual 1019. The Kenwood and the Yamaha I purchased new when they first came out.
Nice! I still have my Sherwood S-7050 10 wpc from high school, plus the speakers. And I have a Skylab Marantz tee shirt!
Denon dp-47f. What a cool machine. Designed at the end of the era where turntable's were the standard. I could be wrong but I think they kept selling that model for 15 years or so! 1985-1999 I think. I always wanted one and finally bought one so I guess I'm a bit biased. Currently running a Ortofon 3m blue and Sounds really nice but I have been thinking about upgrading to a Denon Dl-301.
This list should be the certified official go to for entry level hi fi
Thank you. appreciate that!
The only automatic turntable I personally know was my parents' Dual 1239A. It broke down some 20 Years ago, so I can't really recommend it, lot of plastics inside.
It sat in a rack above a Marantz 2216B,
The speakers were a pair of british Wharfedale E70
3-way floorstanders. rated at 94dB/1W and 8 Ohms. We really appreciated the big, warm punch and great dynamics.
My mom still uses the E70s, but the 2216B at some point was replaced by an amp with remote control.
I still keep the 2216B, but it needs some repair work. Inside two plastic-pushers are broken.
It has this warm sound, and the phono-pre seems to be really good.
Fun-fact: At some point during the Eighties my parents intended to switch from Marantz/Wharfedale to newer gear, They took it to a dealership and brougt it back home. It had blown anything the dealer could offer them right out off the shelve... 🙂
I just went down the vintage gear rabbit hole with a Pioneer sx 626 and a rebuilt sx 636.
I like that the 626 has two phono inputs and three speaker inputs.
What a great video. I've been doing loads of research recently and three of the models I had shortlisted were actually in this list!
(Sony, Pioneer, Marantz)
Thanks for the reassurance.