Kenwood KC-X1 Stereo Preamp with Tuner – MM Phono, Remote
$295.00
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Other preamps we have in stock now
3 in stock · $245.00–$345.00 · all ship
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RA-Twin II, $39.00 →Kenwood KC-X1 Stereo Preamp with Tuner – MM Phono Stage, and Remote
The Kenwood KC-X1 is an excellent quality stereo preamplifier and AM/FM tuner that delivers transparent, musical performance for analog and radio listening. At its core, this is a serious stereo component: a dedicated preamp with a high-quality moving-magnet phono stage that connects directly to turntables, multiple line-level inputs for CD and tape playback, and an integrated AM/FM tuner with 30 preset memory. The unit excels in its primary role as the control and amplification center for a stereo-focused audio system, particularly for vinyl enthusiasts seeking clean, low-distortion gain staging without unnecessary digital processing.
The phono stage is the standout feature. Designed for moving-magnet cartridges with 2.55mV input sensitivity and proper 47kΩ impedance matching, it connects turntables directly without requiring additional preamp hardware. The phono section delivers 78dB signal-to-noise ratio and accepts standard MM output levels without overloading (46mV equivalent at 1kHz). The preamp’s transparent design minimizes coloration, with measured THD+N of only 0.0055% at 1.2V output and 100dB signal-to-noise ratio on line inputs. The front-panel tone controls (100Hz ±3.9dB and 10kHz ±7dB) provide useful adjustment range for vinyl playback without compromising the signal path when flat response is preferred.
Additional inputs include a dedicated CD input, two tape monitor loops (which can also accommodate a graphic equalizer or other outboard signal processors), and antenna connections for the integrated AM/FM tuner. The tuner section provides 30 FM presets plus 15 AM presets, solid frequency response (15Hz-15kHz on FM), and reliable reception characteristics. The unit outputs a full 9.2 volts at 1kHz clipping—more than adequate to drive a variety of power amplifier designs. All functions are controlled via the included system remote, and the unit ships with its comprehensive printed manual detailing signal flow, input/output specifications, and setup procedures.
The Kenwood KC-X1 also includes surround-sound decoding (Dolby Pro Logic) and THX certification from its 1993 design era—features of interest to vintage audio collectors and enthusiasts, though the unit is optimized and best suited for stereo operation with conventional audio sources.
At 10.5kg (23.1 lbs), this component reflects serious audio-first engineering and robust construction. The substantial weight is the result of multiple internal circuit boards on independent levels, a heavy-duty power supply, and quality transformers—all hallmarks of designs built to deliver decades of reliable performance.
Preamp Section:
Output at 1kHz clipping: 9.2 volts
Frequency Response (stereo mode): 20Hz-20kHz +0, -0.6dB
THD + N at 1.2V output: 0.0055%
Input Sensitivity (CD): 180mV, (Phono): 2.55mV MM
Signal-to-Noise Ratio (line): 100dB, (Phono): 78dB
Phono input impedance: 47kΩ || 200pF
Phono overload levels (1kHz equivalent): 46mV
Tone controls: 100Hz ±3.9dB, 10kHz ±7dB (defeatable)
Subsonic filter: 18Hz high-pass
Audio Connectivity:
Moving-magnet phono input with dedicated ground
CD input
Tape 1 and Tape 2 (full record/playback loops – can be used for graphic EQ or outboard processors)
6 independent RCA outputs (Left, Right front outputs; plus additional channels for surround use)
AM/FM tuner with 30 FM presets, 15 AM presets
3 switched AC outlets (940W combined capacity)
Remote control
Includes original remote control and printed manual
Dimensions: (Width x Height x Depth) 440 x 161.5 x 380 mm (17.3 x 6.4 x 15 inches)
Weight: 10.5 kg (23.1 lbs)
The Kenwood KC-X1 is ideally suited for analog-focused listeners and vinyl enthusiasts seeking a high-quality, all-in-one control center. The transparent preamp section, dedicated phono stage with proper impedance matching, and integrated tuner make this an excellent centerpiece for a stereo-first system. The build quality is evident throughout—multiple internal circuit boards, robust power supply, and serious audio-first engineering combine to create a component designed for decades of reliable performance.
Backed by Radique Audio’s 90-day warranty and our perpetual trade-back policy, you can purchase with confidence; asking $295.
| Weight | 25.1 lbs |
|---|---|
| Dimensions | 19 × 21.3 × 10.4 in |
Kenwood began in 1946 as Kasuga Radio in Nagano Prefecture, Japan. As Trio, it sold its products in America under the Kenwood name, and took that name worldwide in 1986. We carry Kenwood stereo receivers and AV receivers, power amplifiers, preamplifiers, tuners and CD players. We've had nearly 60 Kenwood listings so far, covering about 50 different models. Every used Kenwood here is inspected, tested and serviced as required, then photographed in-house and covered by our Bumper-to-Bumper Warranty and Perpetual Trade-Back Program. Don't see the model you want? Tell us on First Dibs and we'll email you when one arrives.
Kenwood models we've sold more than once include the KM-208 power amplifier and the KA-550D integrated amplifier.
The Kenwood story, 1946 to today
Kasuga Radio was founded in 1946 in Nagano Prefecture, Japan, making radio components, and opened a mass-production plant in Tokyo in 1955. It was renamed Trio around 1960.
Where the name came from. Kenwood was coined in America. Bill Kasuga and George Aratani set up Kenwood Electronics in the early 1960s to sell Trio products in the US, and Kasuga said he chose "Ken" because it works as both a Japanese and an American name. Trio later bought Kenwood Electronics, and in 1986 the whole company became Kenwood Corporation.
The hi-fi years. Trio-Kenwood built KR receivers through the 1970s, the KA-1000 integrated amplifier with heat-pipe cooling in 1980, and late-1980s amplifiers with Sigma Drive, which takes the feedback loop out to the speaker terminals. The KR-A receivers ran from the mid 1980s to the mid 1990s.
Today. Kenwood merged with JVC between 2008 and 2011, and JVCKENWOOD Corporation now owns the brand. In Canada, Kenwood today sells car audio, two-way radios and earbuds rather than home hi-fi.
Which Kenwood is which?
1970s KR receivers: such as the KR-2600 of 1976 to 1978, at 15 watts per channel.
KA integrated amps: the KA-1000 of 1980, and the late-1980s "D" models such as the KA-990D, KA-880D and KA-550D, with Sigma Drive.
Power amps and separates: such as the KM-208 power amp of 1987 to 1988, the high-end L-series, and the Basic M and C separates.
KR-A receivers (1984 to 1996) and later AV receivers such as the KRF-A 4020 of 1999.
Tuners and CD players: KT tuners and DP CD players and changers.
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✔️ Good condition, wear from stacking on the top cover
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✔️ Covered by Radique Warranty
✔️ Includes Perpetual Trade-Back Program eligibility
✔️ Expertly packed for safe shipping
