Mike,
no offense but, yes, slightly snobbish
Same here. In fact the Trio - Kenwood LO-7D is one of the greatest pieces of engineering in hi-Fi equipment. I speak from experience. In 1982 /3, while working in Saudi Arabia, I had the chance to listen to one on several occasions. It consistently trounced the Linn LP12 I ended up buying. Sadly, even then, the LO-7D was considerably more expensive than a full-fledged LP12, Ittok, Asak.
As to the technical capability of the japanese mass producers for making the best equipment when they put their hands to the task, you just have to look at the present day TAD ( Pioneeer ) loudspeaker drivers, horns and speakers. Absolutely outstanding.
Jorge