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The listing likely misidentifies the product: the Kenwood KR-55 is a vintage AM-FM stereo receiver from the 1970s, not a cassette deck, so the A$390 asking price is hard to benchmark for a deck you’re looking for. If you truly want a cassette deck, this isn’t it; if you’re open to the receiver, used KR-55s typically sell between A$150 and A$250 for working units, making A$390 ambitious unless it’s in exceptional original-owner condition with rare accessories.
The KR-55 receiver is well-regarded for its clean sound, robust tuner, and classic Japanese hi-fi look, appealing to collectors of 1970s Kenwood gear. If this listing is genuinely for the receiver and includes original box, manuals, or has been serviced, the price gains some rationale; otherwise, it’s overpriced for a parts-only or untested unit as similar listings on eBay are marked “parts only” at far lower prices. Verify the model number in the photos—look for “KX-” prefix for decks like the KX-55B—before committing.
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.
