Vintage Pioneer SX 750 receiver

Here is another of Pioneer's classic receivers.

Pioneer SX-750

was a high-end receiver with the perfect complement of features and performance for someone who wants good performance while not breaking the bank. The SX-750 did just that, putting out 50 watts per channel with a total harmonic distortion of 0.1%. Produced during the heyday of silver case receivers, this particular model was launched in 1976 and produced until 1977. Its retail price was around $400.

One of the interesting features of the SX-750 is that the input/output terminals and circuitry for the preamp and tuner sections are arranged on one large PCB. According to Pioneer, this allowed the use of unshielded input cables and also resulted in better overall tonal quality. Interestingly, the performance of the SX-750 is not so different from the flagship Pioneer SX-1250, except for the power output. So not a bad price for $400 at the time.

The FM section uses a dual-gate MOS FET and a 4-fold variable capacitor for tuning. As you can see, the SX-750 has the standard styling of the time with a silver front panel, wooden chassis and amber lighting.

Here are some of its other features:

Phono input

2 tape inputs

2 tape outputs

Auxiliary/microphone inputs

Tuning meters

Signal meters

FM mute

Built-in antenna

Tone and filter switches

Separate bass and treble controls

The last two features deserve special attention. While not the direct equivalent of an equalizer, they do a great job of adjusting the overall sound. Analog filters are a big plus and provide a degree of warmth that digital gadgets are still trying to emulate these days.

The rear of the SX-750 is interesting because it has a protruding base on which the input and output connectors and speaker outputs are placed. The Pioneer SX-450, 550 and 650 also have this feature.

For those analog enthusiasts looking for an addition to their range of vintage audio products, the Pioneer SX-750 adds not only retro street style but also authentic audio value to their collection, which can result in longer listening pleasure and enjoyment. An AM/FM receiver with an audio spec that delivers high-quality sound that's a welcome alternative to the somewhat sterile 21st-century digital options, and connectivity that continues to work as long as you're using cables; it's a great amp to own.

Specifications

Amplifier section

Continuous output (both channels driven, 20-20,000 Hz)

50 watts per channel into 8 ohms

60 watts per channel into 4 ohms

Pioneer SX750

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