RADAR is a price search engine. We link to the original listing — we never sell direct. Transactions happen on the source site.
The Philips 785 is a classic vintage high-fidelity stereo receiver from the late 1970s golden era of audio equipment, featuring a distinct silver front panel (while the model Philips 7851 denotes the black-faced version).This Philips receiver has just been serviced. All pots and switches have been cleaned, FM stereo finely tuned, Fully checked, Bench tested. Sounds and looks fantastic. Usual age related scratches and scuffs.Key Technical SpecificationsPower Output: 30 watts per channel into 8Ω (stereo mode).Frequency Response: 20Hz to 20kHz.Total Harmonic Distortion (THD): 0.1%.Damping Factor: 30.Tuning Bands: FM and MW (AM) radio tuning capability.Controls: Front panel includes knobs for volume, balance, bass, treble, and loudness, alongside source selectors for Phono, Aux, and Tuner bands.
Compared with the usual used-market route at this money, this is priced well above the pack: the typical comparable listing sits at US$64, with US$29 at the low end of the common range and US$130 at the upper quartile, so US$399 is clearly ambitious. That said, a serviced vintage Philips receiver can justify a premium if the work was done properly and the unit is genuinely ready to enjoy rather than project-in-waiting.
The appeal here is the combo of classic Philips build quality, warm late-70s/early-80s receiver charm, and the convenience of a seller claiming service already completed. For a buyer who wants a clean, listen-now piece with some scarcity value, that matters. Still, at this price the service details need to be specific: what was replaced, whether it was recapped, and whether the tuner, lamps, controls, and outputs were fully tested.
Independent perspective — not a price guarantee. Always verify condition, accessories and provenance before purchase.
Founded in Eindhoven, Netherlands, in 1891 by Gerard Philips, an engineer, and his father Frederik, a banker, Philips began as a modest light bulb manufacturer, quickly evolving into a global electronics powerhouse through relentless innovation. The brothers' early focus on quality incandescent lamps laid the groundwork for expansion into radios, televisions, and audio milestones like the 1963 compact cassette and the 1982 Compact Disc co-developed with Sony. This heritage of pioneering formats that reshaped home entertainment cements Philips as a cornerstone of 20th-century audio history.
Philips has long excelled in consumer audio categories, from vintage turntables and cassette decks to amplifiers, speakers, and complete hi-fi systems, often blending cutting-edge tech with practical design. Iconic products like the first CD player (CD-100) and early wireless Streamium systems highlight their prowess in optical media, portable recording, and integrated sound solutions, while forays into headphones and even acquiring Marantz underscored a broad portfolio.
Today, Philips occupies a solid mid-tier position in the hi-fi market, prized by savvy buyers for reliable, value-driven performance rather than ultra-high-end exotica. No longer a full-spectrum electronics giant—having pivoted to health tech—its licensed audio branding delivers competent, innovation-rooted gear that's accessible yet evocative of golden-era nostalgia, appealing to both modern enthusiasts and vintage collectors.
See all Philips listings on RADAR.
