Sony 55es or Kenwood M1

[bushwood4568]

Someone on craigslist has a Sony 55es and a Kenwood M1. I am wondering what everyone here thinks of them, and which one is better (build quality, longevity, and sound quality). I will test both if I make the 3 hour drive to get them and choose which one I like best. He also has a lot of preamps I'm going to try out with both. Thanks in advance!

 

[Daunia 70]

For SQ and build,I'd go for the Sony 55es.

 

[bushwood4568]

For SQ and build,I'd go for the Sony 55es.

Okay, it certainly looks more solid than the Kenwood.

 

[sinewaver]

I'll cast a vote for the Kenwood. I've had an M1 since new. Rock solid, never an issue. No strong points, just as much of a straight wire with gain. Neutral in every aspect. Just sits there and works.

 

[SVI2004A]

The 55ES is ab and the M1 is class G... Both sport Sanken MT200 outputs

 

[xero-D-hero]

I'd take the M1 but mostly just because I already have a C1 preamp to go with it and as such I'd have a nice start for my Kenwood basic "set".

Also the kenwood has better THD & damping factor specs...

JM2¢

Bret P.

 

[bushwood4568]

I'd take the M1 but mostly just because I already have a C1 preamp to go with it and as such I'd have a nice start for my Kenwood basic "set".

Also the kenwood has better THD & damping factor specs...

JM2¢

Bret P.

I didn't know the kenwood had better specs. I'd like to hear both but my parents don't want to drive me to get them, which is 2+ hours there and back so it would take a lot of time, so it is understandable. He has the matching Sony preamp, so I'd get the set if I got sony. Knowing my luck however, when I can go to get them the speakers I'm looking at up that way and amp will be sold.

 

[3kitty]

Someone on craigslist has a Sony 55es and a Kenwood M1. I am wondering what everyone here thinks of them, and which one is better (build quality, longevity, and sound quality). I will test both if I make the 3 hour drive to get them and choose which one I like best. He also has a lot of preamps I'm going to try out with both. Thanks in advance!

Don't know the Sony personally but owned an M1 from new....performed beautifully for over 30 years without issue....sold it to a friend a bit ago and it continues to perform without fault.

Good luck!