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A classic early-’70s Kenwood with real enthusiast appeal, but £475 is not a giveaway. Typical asking prices for KA-7002 examples cluster around roughly £300-£430 for unrestored or standard units, while clean restored or especially complete pieces can push higher, so this listing sits a bit above the usual middle and looks fair only if it’s genuinely tidy, serviced, or unusually complete.
That’s still a worthwhile amp to own: it’s well regarded for a lively, detailed presentation, good phono stage flexibility, and the kind of build that made these Kenwoods hold their charm. If the unit is original, quiet, and fully working, the value is in hearing it before the market assigns the usual vintage premium; at this price, I’d want clear confirmation on service history, pots/switches, lamps, and whether any original wood sides or accessories are included.
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.
