Kenwood L-01T (1980)
An FM stereo tuner built with non-magnetic materials and advanced detection circuitry for high-fidelity reception.
Overview
The Kenwood L-01T is an FM stereo tuner produced in 1980, designed for high-performance audio systems. It features a direct conversion system that bypasses the RF amplifier stage, delivering excellent two-signal handling and wide dynamic range. The unit uses a pulse count detection method with improved waveform shaping and drift protection, combined with a double conversion process—first to 10.7 MHz and then to 1.96 MHz—to optimize signal clarity. It includes a synchronized touch tuning system and a sample-and-hold MPX circuit derived from the KT-9900, enhancing stereo separation. The L-01T is noted for its use of non-magnetic construction materials, including reinforced nylon panels, aluminum side frames, a wooden bottom plate, and a smoked acrylic front panel.
Specifications
| Receiving frequency range | 76 MHz to 90 MHz |
| Antenna impedance | 75 Ω unbalance |
| Sensitivity (75 Ω) Normal | 10.3 dBf (new IHF) / 0.9 μV (IHF) |
| Sensitivity (75 Ω) Direct | 20.7 dBf (new IHF) / 3 μV (IHF) |
| SN ratio 50 dB sensitivity: normal mono | 15.8 dBf (New IHF) / 1.7 μV (IHF) |
| SN ratio 50 dB sensitivity: stereo | 37.2 dBf (new IHF) / 20 μV (IHF) |
| SN ratio 50 dB sensitivity: direct mono | 26.7 dBf (New IHF) / 6 μV (IHF) |
| SN ratio 50 dB sensitivity: direct stereo | 48.1 dBf (new IHF) / 70 μV (IHF) |
| Harmonic distortion factor: wide mono | 100Hz: 0.02%, 1kHz: 0.02%, 6kHz: 0.04%, 15kHz: 0.04%, 50 Hz to 10 kHz: 0.04% |
| Harmonic distortion factor: wide stereo | 100Hz: 0.03%, 1kHz: 0.03%, 6kHz: 0.05%, 15kHz: 0.18%, 50 Hz to 10 kHz: 0.08% |
| Harmonic distortion factor: narrow mono | 100Hz: 0.04%, 1kHz: 0.15%, 6kHz: 0.2%, 15kHz: 0.05%, 50 Hz to 10 kHz: 0.3% |
| Harmonic distortion factor: narrow stereo | 100Hz: 0.3%, 1kHz: 0.2%, 6kHz: 0.3%, 15kHz: 1.3%, 50 Hz to 10 kHz: 0.4% |
| SN ratio (100% modulation): mono | 86dB |
| SN ratio (100% modulation): stereo | 80dB |
| Image interference ratio | 120dB |
| Selectivity (IHF): wide | 45dB |
| Selectivity (IHF): narrow | 65dB (300kHz) |
| IF interference ratio | 120dB |
| Spurious interference ratio | 120dB |
| AM suppression ratio | 65dB |
| Capture ratio: wide | 0.9dB |
| Capture ratio: narrow | 2.5dB |
| Subcarrier suppression ratio | 70dB |
| Stereo separation: wide | 1kHz: 60dB, 100 Hz to 10 kHz: 48dB, 15kHz: 45dB |
| Stereo separation: narrow | 1kHz: 47dB, 100 Hz to 10 kHz: 35dB |
| Frequency characteristic | 15 Hz to 15 kHz ± 0.5 dB |
| Output Level / Impedance: FM (1 kHz, 100% modulation) Variable | 0 ~ 1.5V/150 Ω |
| Output Level / Impedance: FM (1 kHz, 100% modulation) Fixed | 0.75V/150 Ω |
| Output Level / Impedance: Multipath output (1 kHz, 30% modulation) Vertical | 0.1V/1k Ω |
| Output Level / Impedance: Multipath output (1 kHz, 30% modulation) Horizontal | 0.3V/10k Ω |
| Power supply voltage | 100 VAC, 50Hz/60Hz |
| Rated power consumption | 50W (Electrical Appliance and Material Control Law) |
| Maximum external dimensions | Width 440 x Height 136 x Depth 452 mm |
| Weight | 9.1kg |
Design
The L-01T is the first tuner to use a non-magnetic housing, with sub and back panels made of reinforced nylon, side frames of aluminum, and a wooden bottom plate. The front panel is crafted from smoked acrylic. It uses 99.96% pure oxygen-free copper for structural and bus-earth components. An independent power source oscillator prevents power-related sound degradation. The tuner employs a direct conversion system, feeding the input signal directly to the mixer stage without an RF amplifier. It features a double conversion method, first to 10.7 MHz and then to 1.96 MHz. The MPX section includes a sample-and-hold circuit from the KT-9900, a clean subcarrier system, and a pilot canceler. The low-output impedance design draws from Trio’s direct drive amplifier expertise. The power supply provides 20 VA for the local oscillator and 24 VA for RF, detection, and MPX circuits, with regulated voltages of +14V, ±16V, and +12V, supported by large electrolytic capacitors.
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