Kenwood KA-57 (1988–1989)
The KA-57 is a compact integrated amplifier, 6.1 kg and 50 watts per channel, built to anchor a full Kenwood system in the late analog era.
Overview
It puts out 50 watts per channel into 8 ohms. That is enough for efficient floorstanding or bookshelf speakers, so it was a plausible pick for an entry-level or secondary system of its time. The 6.1 kg weight points to a modest power supply and transformer, which fits its class. The 420 mm wide chassis fits standard rack layouts without trouble. It was described as a "4 channel" amplifier, which indicates multiple line inputs. It also has a dedicated phono input for a turntable - vinyl listeners didn't need an external preamp. The front-panel labeling and layout aren't detailed in available documentation, but they would have followed Kenwood's late-1980s design language: functional, legible and plain.
Specifications
| Manufacturer | Kenwood |
| Product Type | Stereo Integrated Amplifier |
| Power Output | 50 watts per channel into 8Ω (stereo) |
| Dimensions | 420 x 110 x 277 mm (WxHxD) |
| Weight | 6.1 kg |
| Power Consumption | 200 W max |
| Inputs/Outputs | Phono input for gramophones; 4-channel input selector |
| Original Price | Approximately 298 DM (RRP) |
Historical Context
The KA-57 belonged to the Kenwood KA series of integrated amplifiers and was designed to work in a matched-component system. It paired with the Kenwood KT-57 L tuner, the Kenwood KX-57 CW tape deck and the Kenwood KD-37 R record player. An optional Kenwood DP-47 CD player could be added. That reflects the period, when digital media was gaining ground but analog sources still came first. Japanese manufacturers commonly sold systems this way in the 1980s, with uniform looks and compatibility across the stack.
Collectibility & Value
The KA-57 has a modest presence in today's secondhand market, and recent listings vary by region. It sold for A$205 in excellent used condition on Reverb Australia. A Kenyan seller listed it at KSH 16,500. A European listing noted EUR 139.90, so it remains affordable. Service and instruction manuals are available through various online archives and vendors, which helps with maintenance and restoration. It is not a sought-after classic, but its place in a complete Kenwood system gives it some appeal for collectors rebuilding period-accurate setups.
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