Realistic STA-95 (1979–1980)
A stereo AM/FM receiver from Radio Shack's STA series, offering accessible hi-fi performance for casual listeners.
Overview
The Realistic STA-95 is a stereo AM/FM receiver made by Realistic, the audio brand of Radio Shack/Tandy Corporation. It was produced from 1979 to 1980, in the late 1970s, as part of the STA series, which was meant to bring hi-fi to budget-conscious buyers. Radio Shack's national retail network sold these receivers widely, so they were an entry point to stereo sound for millions of American households. The STA-95 sounds straightforward, clean and balanced, with enough power to fill a living room. Its FM tuner is fine for casual listening, and its phono stage supports the turntables commonly paired with it. It lacks the fine detail retrieval of higher-end contemporaries like Sansui or Pioneer. Some collectors still appreciate it as a solid performer and great value.
Specifications
| Product type | AM/FM Stereo receiver |
| Power output | 45 watts per channel into 8Ω (stereo) |
| Tuning range | LW/MW/FM |
| Production years | 1979–1980 |
| Original price | $599.99 |
Context
The STA-95 was part of the broader STA series of receivers, an accessible way into stereo audio for mainstream consumers. Realistic products were sold through Radio Shack's extensive retail presence and reached customers in both small towns and major cities. The STA series was positioned as a budget-friendly alternative to more premium brands, and it carried a reputation for average performance compared to high-end Japanese models. The STA-2100D was the flagship of the STA line, which suggests the STA-95 sat in the mid-tier of the family.
Market
The Realistic STA-95 had an original retail price of $599.99 in 1980, though it was sometimes put on sale for as low as $199. Today, units show up on the used market with asking prices around $350, and some have been picked up for as little as $10. Units occasionally need repair, which points to some ongoing maintenance trouble. Collectors still show interest, valuing its performance and nostalgic appeal.
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Related Models
- Realistic STA-47 (1975–1976)
- Realistic DX-160
- Realistic STA-2290 (1977)
- Realistic SX-1250
- Realistic TR-169 (1975)
- Marantz 2226 (1974-1976)
- Marantz 2226B (1979-1980)
- Marantz 2235 (1974-1977)
- Marantz 2238B (1978-1980)
- Marantz 2250B (1978-1980)