Kenwood KA 701 (1979-1981)
Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
| Year of Production | 1979-1981 |
| Power Specifications | 80W per channel (8Ω, 20Hz-20kHz, 0.02% THD), 100W per channel (4Ω) |
| Impedance | 4-16Ω |
| Sensitivity | 150mV (MM phono), 2.5mV (MC phono), 150mV (line) |
| Key Features | Dual power supply, DC amplifier design, FET phono stage, MC/MM phono inputs, low negative feedback, direct coupling, dual power meters, tone defeat switch, pre-out/main-in jacks |
Historical Significance
The Kenwood KA 701 is the flagship of Kenwood's 'Supreme' series, and it arrived in 1979. It is built like a tank. It was engineered to compete with far more expensive European rivals, and the construction and the approach to signal purity show it. Every circuit and every component was chosen for performance.
Sound Signature
The KA 701 has a neutral tonal balance and low distortion. Dynamics snap, bass stays tight and articulate, and the highs stay smooth without glare. Many vintage amps lean warm. The 701 goes for accuracy instead, crisp, detailed and true to source. It stays composed whether it drives demanding speakers or delicate vintage monitors.
Maintenance and Restoration Tips
After four decades, the usual suspects show up. Capacitors dry out, potentiometers collect dust, and meter bulbs dim or fail. The dual power meters are fragile and often need new bulbs. Output transistors rely on thermal paste that degrades over time, so re-pasting is wise during servicing. Relays can stick, and switch contacts get noisy. A full recapping and a thorough cleaning bring the KA 701 back to original condition.
Collectibility and Market Value
- Market Value: $400-$800 depending on condition and cosmetic appearance
- Collectibility Rating: 8/10
Similar items on eBay
No exact Kenwood KA 701 listings are live right now — these searches show current Kenwood and similar vintage audio gear on eBay:
As an eBay Partner, we earn from qualifying purchases. This helps support our independent vintage technology research.
Related Models
- Kenwood BASIC M1 (1987-1989)
- Kenwood CM-5ES
- Kenwood CM-7ES
- Kenwood CM-9
- Kenwood JL-6100
- Braun AUDIO-1 (1965)
- Braun AUDIO-250 (1965)
- Magnavox Component Systems (1972)
- Acoustic Research AR (1967-1976)
- Acoustic Research 11