Kenwood KA 5700 (1977-1979)

Market Value: $250-$500 depending on condition and cosmetic appearance
Collectibility Rating: 7/10

Name: Kenwood KA 5700
Brand: Kenwood

Specifications

Feature	Specification
Year of Production	1977-1979
Power Specifications	45W per channel (8Ω, 20Hz-20kHz, 0.08% THD)
Impedance	4-16Ω
Sensitivity	150mV (MM phono), 2.5mV (MC phono)
Key Features	Dual power supply, DC amplifier design, phono equalizer with MC/MM support, loudness control, tape monitor, tone defeat switch, walnut side panels

Historical Significance

Born in the golden era of Japanese hi-fi, the Kenwood KA 5700 stood tall as a flagship of the revered 'Supreme' series. From 1977 to 1979, it embodied Kenwood’s engineering ambition—packing DC amplification and a dual power supply into a single, elegant chassis. This wasn’t just an amplifier; it was a statement of precision, built for audiophiles who demanded the best.

Sound Signature

Neutral, transparent, and startlingly detailed—the KA 5700 doesn’t shout, it reveals. Its DC-coupled circuitry delivers a taut, controlled bass response and crisp transients, while the wide frequency range ensures every note lands with accuracy. Coloration? Almost none. If you want your vinyl to sound like the studio floor, this amp gets you close.

Maintenance and Restoration Tips

After decades of service, these units often need some TLC. Electrolytic capacitors tend to dry out—replacing them is usually step one. Pots and switches benefit from a thorough cleaning to eliminate crackles. Watch for DC offset drift, which can stress speakers if unchecked. Relays occasionally stick, and the front-panel bulbs may need replacing, but most issues are well-documented and repairable with common tools.