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The
SX-828 was introduced in 1972 and was offered again in 1973. It was a
higher power version of the SX-727, having 60 watts per channel, RMS.
It featured six toggle switches to control certain functions, instead of
the push buttons used on the SX-727. The SX-828 was Pioneer's top of
the line receiver in 1972 and 1973. Its performance specifications
were only slightly better than those of the SX-727. Pioneer believed
in using real walnut veneers and solid walnut trim, one of the pleasures
of owning a receiver like this. List price for the SX-828 in 1972
was $429.95, but jumped to $469.95 in '73. The hefty construction of
this receiver with extensive use of steel in its chassis resulted in a
shipping weight of 32 pounds.
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The
SX-838 was introduced in 1974 and manufactured through 1975, the last year
for the blackout tuning dial on the 800 series. It was basically a
subtle restyling of the 828 and a reshuffling of the receiver's
features. It was rated at 50 watts per channel RMS. It listed
for $499.95. and tipped the scales at nearly 36 pounds. Anyone who
had removed the walnut enclosure to a receiver like this was amazed at the
amount of heavy stamped steel was used in the construction of the chassis.
It is one reason why so many survive today, still providing music to their
owners. |
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SX-850
The
SX-850 marked the introduction of the silver on silver design that
typified Pioneer's receivers in the late 1970s. It was introduced in
1976 and built through 1977. It was a popular model, having
considerable power at 65 watts per channel RMS and a pricetag of $500.00,
list. The SX-850 weighed a considerable 42 pounds--it was built to
last and perform for years. One wonders if Pioneer engineers ever
pondered the fact their receivers from this period might still be enjoyed
well into the new millenium. That is certainly the case today as the
SX-850 is eagerly sought by collectors and listeners. We will never
see receivers built like this again.
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SX-880
The
SX-880 was the last of the 800 series receivers Pioneer built. It
was built from 1978 through 1979. The primary distinguishing feature
of the "80" models from the "50" models that preceded
them was the switch to black meter faces with white characters for better
legibility. The SX-880 was rated at 60 watts per channel RMS, and
had a list price of $425.00, considerably less than the SX-850 it
replaced. It also lost considerable weight. The SX-880
weighed, according to Pioneer's literature, 27 pounds.
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