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I recieved this second hand so I'm not sure about it's history. It powers on and all switches work with lights.Slight dent in back corner.High end preamp from the mid 80s straight from Japan with original plug and USA adapter.
New, a serious preamp like this sat in the upper-fi tier; at US$600, this used ask lands a bit above the US$550 median but still inside the normal US$388–US$668 spread, so it reads as a fair-to-slightly-strong price rather than a bargain. It is not overpriced, but it is also not one to chase purely on price alone.
What makes it appealing is the classic Onkyo control section: solid phono performance, clean line-stage duties, and the kind of straightforward, no-nonsense build that suits a long-term stereo setup. If the unit is original, quiet, and includes the right knobs, feet, and remote if applicable, it can be a very satisfying buy; at this level, a clean, unmolested example is worth more than a cheaper but tired one.
Independent perspective — not a price guarantee. Always verify condition, accessories and provenance before purchase.
Onkyo traces its roots to postwar Japan, founded in 1946 in Osaka by Takeshi Goda, an engineer at Matsushita Electric who envisioned high-quality Japanese loudspeakers. Initially established as Osaka Denki Onkyo K.K., the company began production in 1948 with the acclaimed ED-100 speaker featuring a 25 cm driver, quickly building a reputation through LP concerts and innovative designs that resonated with audiophiles.
The brand excels in premium home audio, renowned for AV receivers, hi-fi amplifiers, and surround sound speakers that deliver exceptional clarity and power. Its portfolio spans turntables, DACs, headphones, and cables, bolstered by acquisitions like Pioneer's home electronics division in 2015, enabling cutting-edge integrations such as internet radio and high-resolution streaming.
Onkyo holds a solid mid-tier position in the hi-fi market, prized by discerning buyers for reliable performance and value rather than ultra-high-end exotica. Despite bankruptcy challenges in the late 2010s, its revival under new ownership preserves a legacy of technological innovation and pure sound enjoyment, appealing to both vintage enthusiasts and modern home cinema setups.
See all Onkyo listings on RADAR.
