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Pioneer SX-750 AM/FM Stereo Receiver Review

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Last Updated on December 31, 2022 by Norvan Martin

The Pioneer SX-750 is a classic or vintage AM/FM stereo Pioneer receiver. In its heyday (introduced in 1976 and made through 1977), it was an upper mid-range receiver that offered excellent features and performance to match. Moreover, it wasn’t and still isn’t expensive. In this article, we will be doing a review of the Pioneer SX-750 AM/FM Stereo Receiver.

Here is the user manual: Pioneer SX-750 User Manual

Here is a summary of the Pioneer SX-750:

The Pioneer SX-750 is a stereo vintage hi-fi receiver with an FM/AM tuner and an amplifier. The device is rated at a power output of 50 watts per channel into 8 ohms (60 watts per channel into 4 ohms). Pioneer SX-750

The device also comes with 300 ohm balanced and 75 ohm unbalanced connections for its FM antennae and a built-in ferrite loopstick AM antenna.

In terms of connections, it offers phono input sockets for its MM cartridge and Aux. It also includes phono input/output sockets for 2 tapes, DIN input/output socket for tape, a jack for a microphone, terminals for 2 pairs of loudspeakers, and a jack for headphones.

Specifications

Features

  • Two tape in/outputs
  • Duplicate switch
  • Phono input
  • Aux/mic inputs
  • Tone and high filter switches
  • FM muting
  • Tuning and signal meters
  • Two separate bass and treble controls
  • Dimensions – 19 x 6 x 14.5
  • Weight – 31.25 lbs

Design and Build Quality

The SX750 was manufactured during the heyday of silver-faced receivers. As such, they were designed with a silver faceplate, wood case, and amber lighting.

You can also get it straight silver metal or silver faceplate and wooden casing.

Here are both design choices:

SX-750 Pioneer Receiver Wood Metal

SX-750 Pioneer Receiver Wood Metal

SX-750 Pioneer Receiver Metal

SX-750 Pioneer Receiver Metal

Power and Impedance

The SX750 comes with an inbuilt pre-amplifier, power amplifier, and tuner sections. These allow the receiver the advantage of pushing additional power for your audio system. 

The receiver pushed out 50 watts per channel at 0.1% total harmonic distortion. This is the continuous power output of 50 watts per channel at a minimum.

In terms of impedance, the receiver is rated at 8 ohms, from 20 to 20,000 Hz with no more than 0,1% Total Harmonic Distortion.

Sound Quality

There are some unique characteristics of the SX-750 that makes it a cool-sounding receiver. 

Firstly, all the input/output terminals and circuits of the pre-amplifier/tuner sections are laid out on one large printed circuit board. This eliminates shielded input cords which enhance overall tonal quality.

In addition, the receiver offers extra sensitivity and selectivity by means of the dual-gate MOS type FET and a 4-gang variable capacitor.

Finally, the IF section uses up-to-the-minute circuits and differential amplifier ICs which ensures a high signal/noise ratio and low distortion.

Audio FM and AM Tuning

The receiver also offers FM and AM tuning capabilities. This is enabled by a dual gate MOS type FET and a 4 gang variable capacitor. 

Build Quality

The SX-750 has a sturdy build, which is characteristic of Pioneer receivers. The metal and/or wooden finish make it very durable as well as easy to clean and maintain.

Pioneer SX750 AM FM Stereo Receiver design and build quality

Price

When it was released in the 1970s, the receiver had a price tag of around $400. It’s still a fairly reasonably priced receiver and has the iconic name and look of a 1970s silver-faced receiver. Today, you can get it on eBay for anything from $200 to $600.

If it is restored, you are looking for at least $300. If you just want a working unit, you can even get one for around $150.

Pioneer SX-750 Restoration

You can easily find serviced and restored Pioneer SX-750 receivers online. You can get a serviced model for around $200. For a fully restored one, you are looking at at least $300.

Conclusion

The SX-750 is an innovative, attractive, value-packed, and efficient receiver. It’s a great option for persons looking for vintage stereo receivers at a reasonable price.

If you need Bluetooth with this device, you could get a Pioneer Bluetooth adapter or an alternative.

You can learn more by checking out our comparison of Marantz and other receivers:

Marantz vs Yamaha
Marantz vs Anthem
Marantz vs Denon
Marantz 2270 Receiver Review