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Are you looking for a powerful vintage integrated with a serious phono stage? At US$450, this is a strong deal: it sits below the recent comparable-listing 25th percentile of US$515, well under the US$581 median, and looks especially attractive against the US$699 upper quartile.
The KA-1100SD is a substantial 1980s Kenwood, valued for its high-current output, unusually capable MM/MC phono section, and flexible tone controls. Its roughly 150 watts per channel into 8 ohms makes it a strong match for demanding speakers, while the build and performance give it genuine enthusiast appeal. Because the listing says “unknown” for condition, confirm both channels, phono operation, protection relay behavior, and absence of hum before paying—but if it is working properly, US$450 is a worthwhile buying opportunity.
Independent perspective — not a price guarantee. Always verify condition, accessories and provenance before purchase.
Kenwood traces its origins to December 21, 1946, when it was founded as Kasuga Radio Co. Ltd. in Komagane City, Nagano Prefecture, Japan, by a group of entrepreneurs led by William "Bill" Kasuga. Emerging in the postwar era, the company initially produced electronic components and amateur radio gear, renaming to Trio Corporation in 1960 before adopting the Kenwood name in 1986 to appeal to Western markets—blending "Ken," a familiar name across Japan and America, with "Wood" evoking durability and Hollywood. This rebranding fueled rapid international growth, starting with a U.S. office in Los Angeles County in 1963.
The brand built its legacy on high-quality audio and communications equipment, excelling in home hi-fi amplifiers like the acclaimed 1970 Supreme 1 multichannel model, receivers, tuners, and speakers with innovations such as polypropylene cones. Kenwood also pioneered car audio systems, including the first audio/video amplifier for home theater in 1981 and anti-theft cassette decks, alongside professional two-way radios and amateur transceivers. While maintaining roots in consumer electronics, it expanded into automotive infotainment.
Today, as part of JVCKENWOOD since the 2008 merger with JVC, Kenwood holds a solid mid-tier position in car audio and professional communications, prized by enthusiasts for reliable performance and aftermarket upgrades. Its vintage home hi-fi gear from the 1970s and 1980s commands respect among collectors for robust build and warm sound, though it no longer dominates pure hi-fi markets.
See all Kenwood listings on RADAR.
