Kenwood KA-500 (1980 - 1982)
A substantial integrated amplifier defined by its weight, silver face, and wide frequency response.
Overview
At 7.6kg, the Kenwood KA-500 was not a component meant to be tucked away in a corner. Reportedly manufactured around 1980 to 1982, this stereo integrated amplifier carries a legacy of the era's engineering priorities, where power consumption and frequency range took precedence over compact packaging. The unit features a sleek silver face,
During its production run, the amplifier drew approximately 300 watts of power consumption. This figure suggests a robust power supply capable of driving the speakers with significant reserve, even if the rated output remains lower. The frequency characteristic spans from 10Hz to 80kHz, a wide band that was standard for high-fidelity equipment of the period, ensuring bass extension and extended highs without the limitations of earlier tube architectures. The dimensions are precise at 440 x 133 x 281 mm, indicating a chassis designed to fit standard rack or shelf spaces while maintaining internal room for cooling and transformer isolation.
The original retail price was reportedly approximately 500 DM. Today, the model is recognized for its build quality and straightforward operation, though documentation regarding specific input types or damping factors remains sparse in public archives. The unit is frequently referenced by source sites like hifi-wiki.com and theturntablestore.com, confirming its presence in the vintage audio community.
Specifications
| Manufacturer | Kenwood |
| Frequency Response | 10Hz to 80kHz |
| Power Consumption | 300 watts |
| Dimensions | 440 x 133 x 281 mm (WxHxD) |
| Weight | 7.6kg |
| Original Price Approx. | 500 DM |
Collectibility & Value
Current market prices for the Kenwood KA-500 hover around a regular price of $150.00 USD, though auction listings vary based on condition. The availability of a service manual and schematic is a significant advantage for owners, as it allows for potential repairs without needing to reverse-engineer the internal circuitry.
While the power output of 43 watts per channel into 8Ω is modest by modern standards, the power consumption of 300 watts indicates a substantial internal power supply that can maintain low impedance loads effectively.
Service manuals are available for download, which is a critical factor for long-term ownership. The original price in 500 DM reflects a time when Japanese manufacturing standards were high, and the unit remains a representative piece of that era's audio landscape.
eBay Listings
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