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Best Sounding Vintage Kenwood Integrated?

Semanon said:
The L series is usually discussed with regard to separates like the L-07M and L-07C. I have not heard the L series integrated, so can;t comment.

As you know, the 80s was a time of great change in this industry, and one has to do a lot of research into devices to determine if something is a fine unit or is BPC. For me, the black anodized is less attractive, partly due to silver face nostalgia and partly because it's hard to differentiate when the metal stops and the plastic starts. I do own some 80's Yamaha gear and it is fine stuff, and the L-03A looks like it's worth following.



I don't know the 8006 well, but I can mention a few things:
  • The 8006 for not have any 2SC458's. These are noisy buggers and need to be replaced. If the 8004 has not been reconditioned and you can't audition before you buy, expect to need some transistors replaced.
  • The 8006 does have 2SC1345 and 2SC1451 transistors. These are included in the worst transistors sticky on the Solid State Forum.
  • The 8006 has a 4-channel in/out in place of the 8004's Pre-out/Main-in
  • Topology is very similar with discrete boards for each channel and circuit, some removable, some not. A nice idea, but I still find the boards that are not removable to be difficult to work on.
  • Both have rotary switches for tone control, which I love. They are not trouble-free, though and when they need cleaning, they are more time consuming than potentiometers
I would think that the 8004 and the 8006 are going to sound similar, but I like the styling on the 8006. For me, Pre-out/Amp-in is a must. I would rewire the 8006 to get rid of the 4 channel function and turn it into a Pre-out/Amp-in. This, however, makes the 8006 a project and far from plug and play.

I think you are going to be happy with either, as long as you know their limitations.
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Very helpful information, thank you! Though it sounds like both amplifiers have their servicing challenges.
 
Grenadeslio said:
Ok, OK, I'll put in my $.02 and that's being generous on its value. I've had/have a number of Kenwood integrated amps with my first being a KA-7100 new in 1978, my older brother purchased a KA-3500 at the same time.

Both great amps but neither would I call warm, and certainly not sterile or clinical but neutral to the source.

An outstanding value in Kenwood integrated amps the KA-7300 with the clean architectural layout of its true dual mono design paying obvious homage to the Legendary Supreme 600.

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Another very schveet integrated amp but again not what I would describe as warm.


If looking for a more laid back presentation then the line of Kenwood integrated amps that preceded these outstanding models I've already mentioned should be just what you're looking for.

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Purchased my first KA-4006 for my brother in laws bday around 2013, liked it so much I purchased two more for myself. When John passed the other amp came back to me so now I have three of them. I found they worked outstandingly well with my series one Klipsch Heresys.

The KA-8006 was Kenwoods TOTL model at the time, I've never heard one but I'm thinking it would have a similar SQ being from the same line of amps if you need the extra power.
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At your suggestion, I'm looking into the 7300 model. I also took a look at 9100's, but they are pricey. Non working ones are going for $5-600, ones that are working going for about $900-$1000.00, and restored ones for ridiculous sums (up to $5k)

What about the KA-405? Where does that model fit in? I've read some comments by owners raving about the sound.

I have located a Supreme Model 500 but, original, never serviced in any way, but they are asking $1000.00 and I suspect this could be a costly one to service/refurb?
 
Slapshot said:
At your suggestion, I'm looking into the 7300 model. I also took a look at 9100's, but they are pricey. Non working ones are going for $5-600, ones that are working going for about $900-$1000.00, and restored ones for ridiculous sums (up to $5k)

What about the KA-405? Where does that model fit in? I've read some comments by owners raving about the sound.

I have located a Supreme Model 500 but, original, never serviced in any way, but they are asking $1000.00 and I suspect this could be a costly one to service/refurb?
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Have a look and listen to a KA-8100. I have one and had a 9100 and 9150 at the same time. The 8100 has more usable features and I preferred its overall sound and better/quieter phono section.

I have a restored KA-8006, nice amp but not quite the detail the 8100 presents.

Here's a couple on the bay
https://www.ebay.com/itm/363851290983
https://www.ebay.com/itm/314016016304
 
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I have a KA1100SD and it’s outstanding. Sounds phenomenal paired with a nice DAC and TT. Has very good phono stage and tons of power.
 
A properly upgraded KA-6000 is quite magical.

The KA-7002 is very nice.

The Supreme 500 is sweet.

Haven’t had others to really vote.
 
I have restored several L-02a amps and have one that will never leave my collection. Extremely capable amp by all measures.
 
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