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KENWOOD KP-990:A handsome "Golden Era" direct drive turntable!Item DescriptionThe Kenwood KP-990, released only in Japan in 1986 (during the "Golden Era" of Japanese audiophile equipment), is a quite rare and highly sought-after direct drive turntable. The KP-990 has some impressive stats, including an SNR of 80 dB and wow and flutter of <0.02% WRMS. In addition to its high-fidelity Kenwood heritage, the KP-990 features a design that is both precise and solid. In recent years, this turntable has been getting more and more attention as a great piece of equipment. One in such good condition is a find, to be sure!This turntable is in Very Good condition. The enclosure has some scratches and scuffs(please check photos). There are some rust spots on the platter, and decorative rubber tape has been attached. If you don’t like it, it can be removed easily.(please check photos).The dust cover has some scratches and scuffs(please check photos and refer to dust cover policy). The dust cover cannot stand on its own because the hinge is broken. This turntable has been thoroughly checked and tested by our professional technician, confirming its flawless operation. Both 33 and 45 settings work perfectly, and the platter rotation is like clockwork.Additional InformationTechnical SpecificationsSerial : 65L40829Country/Region of Manufacture : JAPAN Power Supply : 100V 11W 50/60 Hz Accessories -Audio-technica Headshell & Cartridge-Dust Cover-Rubber mat-Hinges-45 adopterCartridge PolicyCartridge and styluses are free gifts, so we don't accept returns or refunds for damage of cartridges and styluses.Dust Cover PolicyThough it is unlikely to happen due to our meticulous packaging procedures, turntable dust covers do occasionally break in transit. The dust cover should therefore be treated as a free gift.Transit ScrewsSince items are in used condition, they don't have the transit screws sometimes. We kindly ask for your understanding.VoltagePlease check the power requirements for this device and the specifications of your power supply. If you need to use this item in a 220-240 V environment, you'll need a transformer. We sell high quality Japanese compact transformers (Nissyo), which will allow you to use this item safely and with good performance in your country.IMPORT TAX・Import duties, taxes, and other charges which are not included in the item price or shipping charges are the buyer’s responsibility.・Please check with your country’s customs office to determine what these additional costs will be prior to bidding or buying.・Except in the case of faulty or damaged items, refunds do not include any return shipping or shipping charges. Your return shipping charge will be deducted from your refund if you receive any.
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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.
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