Kenwood KAC-501

A vintage 2-channel amplifier made in Japan, later associated with a high-power monoblock car audio amplifier

Overview

The Kenwood KAC-501 appears in listings and forums as both a vintage 2-channel amplifier and a high-power Class D digital monoblock MOSFET amplifier, suggesting possible model name reuse across different eras or product lines. One version was marketed as a 2-channel amplifier with 15 watts per channel and an original retail price of $95 in 1985. A later or alternate version is described as a 1000-watt peak power monoblock amplifier with 500W RMS at 2 ohms and 300W RMS at 4 ohms, featuring a low-pass filter and Class D digital technology. The unit was manufactured in Japan and has been restored and tested in at least one known vintage example.

Specifications

Product type	2 channel amplifier
Product type	Car Stereo Power Amp Amplifier
Product type	Class D Digital Monoblock MOSFET Amplifier
Country of Origin	Japan
Power output	15 watts per channel
Power output RMS	500W RMS x 1 @ 2
Power output RMS	300W RMS x 1 @ 4
Power output	1000W MAX monoblock
Frequency Response	20Hz - 200Hz (+0, -3dB)
Features	Low-Pass Filter
Class	Class D
Type	Monoblock
Original price	$95

Design

The amplifier is described as a Class D digital monoblock MOSFET design, indicating use of efficient switching technology and MOSFET output devices. It includes a 90-ampere power supply, supporting high current delivery for driving subwoofers.

Market

One restored unit was listed as "vintage Old School SQ OG RESTORED TESTED," indicating collector interest. A Facebook listing from Kenya priced a KAC-501 with accessories at 13,000 Kenyan shillings, suggesting ongoing use in car audio markets. A Best Buy Q&A notes a user running two 12” Kenwood subwoofers on the amplifier, stating it “hits pretty well.”