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At A$750, this Onkyo A-8800 is a strong bargain for a 1988–89 Japanese integrated that typically trades between A$220 and A$360 in used condition; the Reverb listing at roughly A$450 (from $299 USD) sets a clear median, making this price nearly double the norm but still well below the 75th percentile for pristine, original-owner examples. Wait—actually, A$750 is ambitious compared to the typical A$220–A$360 range and exceeds even high-end pristine listings, so it’s not a bargain but a fair-to-ambitious ask for an unknown-condition unit.
This amp is a keeper for its 145W per channel power, massive heat sink and transformer, and tight bass control that still outperforms many modern budget units, with MC/MM phono and a built-in DAC (though the DAC is best bypassed for modern sources). Its 30-lb weight and Japanese build quality signal durability, and if this is original-owner condition with accessories, the A$750 reflects rarity and timing in a market where few 1980s Onkyos remain in Australia. Only flag concerns if the unknown condition hides speaker-terminal failure (a known issue on some units) or if the DAC section is non-functional, but at this price, a clean, working example is a genuine buying opportunity for power and tone.
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.
