Kenwood KP-2022A (1973–1976)
The Kenwood KP-2022A is a belt-drive turntable from the early 1970s, built between 1973 and 1976. It's a model that collectors describe as "full of interesting differences" compared to its contemporaries — most notably its tonearm, which uses a tapered aluminium alloy casting instead of the usual chromed pipe found on most turntables of the era. It also features a subchassis design, which was somewhat unusual for a belt-drive deck in this class.
Under the platter sits a 4-pole semi-synchronous motor turning a 12-inch solid die-cast aluminum platter at 33 or 45 rpm. Wow and flutter is rated at less than 0.08%, and signal-to-noise is better than 45dB. It's semi-automatic, so the tonearm lifts and returns at the end of a record. The unit originally shipped with a Kenwood V-39 phono cartridge and N-39 stylus, a conical diamond chosen for longevity and clear vocal reproduction. The Turntable Guy, a New Zealand-based vintage audio specialist, has noted the model's durability and solid sound, and calls it a good fit for both newcomers and experienced vinyl listeners.
The KP-2022A has a loyal following, but hard documentation is thin. No original price, dimensions or weight have surfaced in period sources. Detailed tonearm specifications (tracking force range, anti-skate, effective mass) remain unrecorded. The model was sold under both the Kenwood and Trio names. Audio (March 1974, p.58) noted that the unusual tonearm design contributed to stable tracking, and that the semi-automatic operation made it a practical choice for everyday listening.
Spare parts are still available from specialist dealers. Replacement belts, styluses and tonearm parts can be sourced, and aftermarket elliptical styli for the V-39 cartridge run roughly €18 to €34. Common issues are mostly age-related: cracked dust covers and worn belts are the usual culprits. Some units turn up on the secondhand market as parts/repair projects.
- Drive: Belt drive with subchassis
- Motor: 4-pole semi-synchronous
- Platter: 12" solid die-cast aluminium alloy
- Speeds: 33 and 45 rpm
- Wow and flutter: <0.08%
- S/N ratio: >45dB
- Tonearm: Tapered aluminium alloy casting, semi-automatic return
- Original cartridge: Kenwood V-39 with N-39 conical stylus
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