At 55 watts per channel, it delivers clean power with a sparkle that’s more than just skin deep.
Overview
The Allied Solid State AM-FM Stereophonic Receiver Model 395 isn’t a forgotten oddity—it’s a rebadged legend. Built for Allied Radio Corp. of Chicago, IL, this bookshelf-sized stereo receiver was manufactured in Japan by Pioneer, widely reported to be a direct counterpart to the Pioneer SX-1000TW. The primary difference? A cosmetic one: the Allied 395 features a silver sparkle faceplate, giving it a distinct presence on the shelf. Functionally, it’s the same high-performance solid-state receiver that helped define the early 1970s stereo market. Marketed through Allied Radio, a company deeply rooted in hobbyist culture and DIY electronics, the 395 carried the brand’s legacy of accessibility and technical ambition. After Tandy Corporation acquired Allied Radio in 1970 and merged it into Radio Shack, the Allied line—including models like the 395—became available through Radio Shack stores, bridging the gap between serious audio gear and mainstream retail.
Specifications
| Manufacturer | Allied Radio Corp. (built by Pioneer) |
| Product Type | Solid State Stereophonic Receiver |
| Power Output | 55 watts per channel RMS |
| Frequency Response | 20–70 kHz ±1 dB |
| Bandwidth | 15–70 kHz |
| Harmonic Distortion | 0.5 percent |
Key Features
Silver Sparkle Faceplate Variant of Pioneer SX-1000TW
Owners report the Allied 395 is functionally identical to the Pioneer SX-1000TW, a highly regarded receiver of its era. The most notable distinction is the silver sparkle front panel, which gives the unit a more decorative, almost space-age aesthetic compared to the standard black or brushed aluminum finishes of its Pioneer sibling. This cosmetic tweak didn’t affect performance but made the Allied version stand out in catalogs and living rooms alike.
Solid-State High-Fidelity Design
As a fully solid-state stereophonic receiver, the 395 represented a shift from tube-based designs to more reliable, cooler-running transistorized circuitry. Its construction reflects Pioneer’s engineering standards of the time, with attention to power delivery and signal clarity. The use of solid-state components allowed for tighter bass control and reduced maintenance, appealing to both audiophiles and casual listeners.
High Bandwidth and Low Distortion
With a bandwidth extending from 15 Hz to 70 kHz and frequency response rated at 20–70 kHz ±1 dB, the 395 offered extended high-frequency performance well beyond the audible range. Combined with a harmonic distortion figure of just 0.5 percent, this suggests a clean, detailed sound signature. According to available documentation, these specs were competitive with higher-end receivers of the early 1970s, supporting the claim that “quality watts surpasses quantity.”
Historical Context
Allied Radio Corp., founded in 1928 by Simon "Sy" Wexler in Chicago, Illinois, built its reputation on selling radio parts and electronic kits through mail-order catalogs—a pioneering model in the electronics retail space. The company became a staple for hobbyists and experimenters, later expanding into complete audio equipment under house brands like Allied, Knight, and Knight-Kit. The Allied 498 receiver, like the 395, was marketed as part of this DIY-friendly ecosystem, appearing in catalogs aimed at electronics enthusiasts. After Allied’s acquisition by Tandy Corporation in 1970, its products were distributed through Radio Shack, bringing gear like the 395 into mainstream retail channels and making high-fidelity audio more accessible to the average consumer.
Collectibility & Value
Current listings show the Allied 395 priced as high as $179.00, though collectors note that a fair price for a working unit might be closer to $40, depending on condition. Enthusiasts describe it as “a nice piece of work” and “a truly beautiful piece” when found in excellent cosmetic and functional shape. While not considered a top-tier collector’s item like some Japanese flagships, it holds niche appeal for those interested in rebadged classics or the history of electronics retail. No detailed information on common failures or maintenance requirements is available, but given its Pioneer lineage, it likely shares the same robust build and serviceability as the SX-1000TW.
eBay Listings
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