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Considering buying a Kenwood KA-1000 integrated amp

BilboBaggins

BilboBaggins

Addicted Member
Someone contacted me about a Kenwood KA-1000 amplifier they have. So I’ve been researching it. I’m on the fence right now. It seems I would have to make a set of cables for the Sigma drive, which isn’t any real problem. However the build quality and the problem of getting it fixed if there are problems has me on the fence.

Should I be concerned, or am I worrying about nothing?

Also I can’t find much information on value in North America. It powers up, but that’s all I know. The condition seems to be good based on pictures. What should I offer considering I won’t be able to verify anything other than that it powers up?

My options are, pass, or make an offer, and go from there. If I do buy it, I would be comparing it to my other gear. It wouldn’t stay if it can’t replace one of my keeper amps. My keeper amps are McIntosh MA-6200 and a Sansui AU-9900.

Help me to decide?
 
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Thanks Danddd! I read that thread again this evening. I’m going to check out the amp tomorrow. We’ll see what happens. I’m expecting she is going to ask more than I’m willing to pay, and then it will be up to me to convince her to let it go for less. It’s one reason I’m not going to bring small speakers or headphones with me. I’ll be taking a calculated risk, but that is also part of the fun. :)
 
This time, I took pictures before cleaning up the unit. I normally jump right in and then take pictures after the cleanup. This unit is in good shape, with lots of dust inside, and a few minor scratches and lots of tobacco stains. I think it should clean up very nicely! I am playing Mary J Blige through Cerwin Vega D7E speakers, using Sigma cables along with the speaker cables. So far I only smell warming up dust, but that will be gone soon. Sounds good so far!

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When I was reading up on this amp I was very impressed. My first integrateds in the '70's were Kenwood models. One was a KA 6004. I'd be curious to what a KA 1000 goes for.
 
I got it based on calculated risk. The unit powers on, has some cosmetic issues, don’t know if it works. Only unit for sale in North America is listed at $750 or best offer. It has been up since last year. I got this one for $150. If I were going to sell it, which I’m not planning to, I would probably list it for $250 as is. I’m planning on giving it to my son. Come check out the new thread I posted in the Kenwood forum for new updates.

I have never had a KA-6004, but have had many others in the past. Currently have a KA-8006 to play with.

https://audiokarma.org/forums/index.php?threads/kenwood-ka-1000-in-the-house.880870/
 
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