Kenwood KR-3200 (1972–1974)
It weighs 8.5kg and is just over 42cm wide. Solid, no-nonsense, and built for evenings of listening to analog gear.
Overview
The Kenwood KR-3200 is a stereo receiver from the early 1970s, made in Japan. It was sold as a receiver with audiophile sophistication at a moderate price, for listeners who wanted more than the basics without paying high-end money. It has a phono input, tape monitoring, and switchable speaker outputs, which makes it a functional hub for a modest stereo system of its era.
The power figures vary depending on where you look. Official documentation lists 20 watts per channel into 8Ω (stereo), while another source reports 13.5 watts per channel under the same conditions. The test conditions aren't clear. Frequency response is rated from 20Hz to 40kHz, though one measurement of high-level input response specifies 25Hz - 35kHz (±2dB), which suggests a more conservative effective bandwidth. Total harmonic distortion is documented at 0.8%, a reasonable figure for its class. Signal-to-noise ratio ranges from 65dB (MM) to 80dB (line), with one alternate report listing 63dB overall. Input sensitivity is specified at 3mV for MM phono and 180mV for line-level sources.
The KR-3200 covers FM (87.5-108 MHz) and MW (medium wave) bands, the standard broadcast ranges of the time. The tone controls give ±10dB of adjustment in 2dB increments. Outputs include tape record (via cinch and DIN connectors), a 6.3mm headphone jack, and provisions for two pairs of speakers. Speaker load impedance is rated from 4Ω to 16Ω, so it works with a range of common cabinets. Dimensions are 420mm (W) × 140mm (H) × 310mm (D), and the unit weighs 8.5kg.
Specifications
| Manufacturer | Kenwood (Trio-Kenwood) |
| Model | KR-3200 |
| Type | AM/FM Stereo Receiver |
| Production Years | 1972–1974 |
| Manufactured In | Japan |
| Power Output | 20 watts per channel into 8Ω (stereo) (some sources cite 13.5 watts) |
| Frequency Response | 20 Hz to 40 kHz (high-level input measured at 25 Hz–35 kHz ±2 dB) |
| Total Harmonic Distortion | 0.8% |
| Signal to Noise Ratio | 65 dB (MM), 80 dB (Line) (some sources cite 63 dB) |
| Input Sensitivity | 3 mV (MM), 180 mV (Line) |
| Speaker Impedance | 4–16 Ω |
| Tuning Bands | FM, MW |
| FM Frequency Range | 87.5 – 108 MHz |
| Tone Control Range | ±10 dB in 2 dB increments |
| Outputs | Tape Rec (Cinch: 150 mV, 100 Ω; DIN: 30 mV, 80 kΩ), Headphone (6.3 mm), 2 Speaker Pairs |
| Dimensions (W × H × D) | 420 × 140 × 310 mm |
| Weight | 8.5 kg |
Historical Context
The Kenwood KR-3200 sat near the lower end of Kenwood's receiver lineup during the early 1970s, alongside models like the KR-2200. Integrated receivers were becoming the centerpiece of home audio then, putting tuner, preamp, and power amp into a single chassis. The KR-3200 added a phono input, tape monitoring, and dual speaker switching for stereo enthusiasts who wanted flexibility without complexity.
Collectibility & Value
The KR-3200 originally priced at $229.95, an accessible but serious audio component. Current market prices vary a lot. Used units in very good condition have sold for as much as C$616.42, though typical listings suggest a more modest range. A known failure point is the A, B, A+B speaker selector rotary switch (part number S04-1024-05), which owners report can degrade over time and may need replacement.
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Related Models
- Kenwood KR 3400 (1977-1979)
- Kenwood KR 4070 (1977-1979)
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- Marantz 1515 (1976-1978)
- Marantz 4220 (1974-1976)
- Marantz 4230 (1974-1976)
- Marantz HD 440 (1976-1977)
- Pioneer SX 300 (1971-1972)