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Are you happy paying £110 for a clean but unverified vintage amp, or do you want proof it’s already sorted? On the evidence available, £110 looks fair to slightly strong for a KA-4002 in unknown condition: it’s a modest-power, early-1970s integrated that’s respected more for its musical, well-balanced presentation than brute output, and comparable examples usually justify a mid-range used price rather than a bargain-basement one.
What makes it worthwhile is the phono stage and the classic Kenwood sound: compact, sweet-sounding, and very listenable with sensible speakers. That said, age matters here more than cosmetics; if it hasn’t been serviced, expect the usual vintage chores around switches, pots, and capacitors. If the seller can confirm it’s fully working, quiet, and original, £110 is a reasonable buy rather than an inflated one.
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.
