Kenwood Model Eleven III 120WPC Receiver – Professionally Restored – 1-Year Warranty
Professionally Restored by HQaudios – Fully Tested – Backed by Our 1-Year Warranty.
Up for sale is the legendary Kenwood Model Eleven III, a massive vintage monster receiver introduced during the late 1970s, representing the peak of the highly coveted receiver wars.
This model is highly regarded for its immense physical footprint and incredible power output. Built heavily for military exchange (PX) markets, it features an oversized display, dual power meters, triple tone controls, a built-in Dolby NR system, and a 2-hour shut-off timer. Pushing an authoritative 120 watts per channel, the Eleven III effortlessly drives demanding speaker loads while delivering the classic, warm analog tone of the era.
This unit has been professionally restored, serviced, and tested by HQaudios while preserving the original engineering and authentic vintage character of the Kenwood Model Eleven III.
Key Highlights
- 120 Watts per channel into 8 Ohms, both channels driven
- Dual Power Meters, Triple Tone Controls, Dolby NR, and 2-Hour Shut-Off Timer
- Switchable 110–120V / 220–240V AC, 50/60Hz
- Professionally Restored, Serviced, and Fully Tested by HQaudios
- Backed by Our 1-Year HQaudios Warranty
Sound Character
The Kenwood Model Eleven III delivers an incredibly dynamic, punchy, and commanding sonic signature. With its massive power supply and high-current design, it produces a deeply anchored, authoritative low-end that brings rock, jazz, and classical orchestrations to life.
Unlike receivers with only basic bass and treble controls, the Eleven III provides separate Bass, Midrange, and Treble tone controls, allowing the listener to adjust tonal balance to suit the room, speakers, and listening preference.
The midrange remains smooth and forward, while the high frequencies are rendered with excellent clarity without becoming fatiguing, making it an ideal centerpiece for long vinyl listening sessions.
Cosmetic Condition
This unit is in Very Good vintage cosmetic condition, with normal signs of age and previous use consistent with a heavy receiver from the late 1970s.
Please review all photos carefully, as they are part of the description.
- Faceplate / Front Panel: The expansive brushed aluminum faceplate is clean with fully legible lettering and minor surface wear.
- Knobs / Controls / Switches: The knobs and switches are intact. Several knob faces and edges show visible surface scratches and wear, especially the tone-control knobs and tuning knob.
- Cabinet / Housing: The wood cabinet shows light scratches and surface marks. The rear and lower frame edges show more visible scuffs, small chips, and age-related wear; these are cosmetic only.
- Display / Dial Glass: The dial glass presents clearly, and the power meters are visible and operational.
- Rear Panel / Connections: Speaker terminals and RCA inputs are clean and securely mounted.
HQaudios Restoration & Testing Process
Before Restoration
The Kenwood Model Eleven III was carefully inspected upon arrival to evaluate its overall mechanical, electrical, operational, and cosmetic condition.
Particular attention was given to the power supply, main amplifier boards, tone-control circuitry, tuner section, potentiometers, switches, and display illumination.
The inspection results were used to determine the work required for this specific unit.
During Restoration
Based on the inspection results, this Kenwood Model Eleven III was restored according to HQaudios’ technical standards while preserving its original engineering and operating characteristics.
The internal amplifier circuitry and power supply were inspected and serviced based on the condition identified during evaluation. Operating adjustments and functional checks were performed to support stable performance. The tone controls, volume potentiometer, selector switches, and other front-panel controls were cleaned and treated with DeoxIT to support smooth, reliable operation. The dial lamps and meter illumination were serviced for a bright, consistent glow.
After Restoration
Once restoration was completed, this unit underwent comprehensive functional testing under real operating conditions.
Output power under load, channel balance, tuner reception, tone controls, phono stages, inputs, outputs, and meter responsiveness were tested. Finally, the receiver underwent an extended real-world listening test paired with large floorstanding speakers to evaluate thermal stability and sonic performance.
Only after completing HQaudios’ restoration and testing process was the unit approved and prepared for its next owner.
Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Brand | Kenwood |
| Model | Model Eleven III |
| Type | Stereo AM/FM Receiver |
| Power Output | 120 Watts per channel into 8 Ohms (Stereo) |
| Frequency Response | 10 Hz to 50 kHz (-1.0 dB) |
| Total Harmonic Distortion | 0.1% at rated power into 8 Ohms |
| Damping Factor | 60 at 8 Ohms |
| Speaker Load Impedance | 4–16 Ohms |
| Inputs | Phono 1, Phono 2, Aux, Tape 1, Tape 2, Mic |
| Speaker Outputs | A / B / C; 4–16 Ohm speaker load |
| Special Features | Triple Tone Controls, Dolby NR System, Dual Power Meters, 2-Hour Shut-Off Timer |
| Power Requirement | 110–120V / 220–240V AC, 50/60Hz, switchable |
| Power Consumption | 590 Watts at full power |
| Country of Manufacture | Japan |
| Dimensions | 22-19/32 W × 7-3/4 H × 14-3/4 D inches |
| Weight | 39.7 lbs |
| Condition | Restored / Serviced / Tested |
| Warranty | 1-Year HQaudios Warranty |
What Is Included
Kenwood Model Eleven III Stereo Receiver
Only the items clearly shown in the photos or specifically listed in the description are included. Any other equipment shown in the background is for display purposes only.
Video Test & Sound Demo
If you would like to see or hear the Kenwood Model Eleven III in operation before purchase, please contact us directly. We are happy to provide additional operational photos or video demonstrations upon request.
Suggested Pairing
The Kenwood Model Eleven III pairs exceptionally well with equipment that complements its massive power reserves, impedance handling, and punchy sonic characteristics.
Large Vintage Floorstanders
Speakers: JBL L100 Classic, Pioneer HPM-100, or Cerwin-Vega Series
Why it works: The receiver’s substantial power output and control make it a strong match for large vintage speaker systems that benefit from generous dynamic headroom.
Vintage Vinyl Setup
Turntable: Kenwood KD-500, Technics SL-1200, or Dual 1229
Why it works: The Eleven III includes two phono inputs, making it well suited to a classic vinyl-based vintage system.
For the best performance, ensure that all connected equipment is electrically and mechanically compatible with the receiver and properly configured before use.
Basic Use Guide
To help maintain the long-term performance of this massive receiver, we recommend the following:
- Ventilation is critical: The 120 WPC power section generates significant heat. Never stack other equipment on top of the ventilation grilles.
- Verify speaker impedance: When running multiple pairs of speakers simultaneously (A+B or A+C), ensure the combined impedance does not drop below safe operating levels for the amplifier.
- Use the tone controls responsibly: Excessive bass boost at high volume can increase stress on both the amplifier and connected speakers.
- Verify rear-panel voltage configuration before connecting the unit to a wall outlet.
- Please contact us directly if assistance with setup or speaker matching is needed.
Trade-In Program
Do you have vintage audio equipment you’d like to trade in?
HQaudios welcomes trade-ins on receivers, amplifiers, speakers, cassette decks, reel-to-reel decks, turntables, and other classic audio equipment.
Simply send us photos and basic information about your equipment. Our team will review the item and discuss available trade-in options.
Build Your Vintage System / Combo Discount
Looking to build a complete vintage audio system?
HQaudios can help match the Kenwood Model Eleven III with compatible vintage audio components.
Save $100 when purchasing this receiver together with a qualifying restored vintage audio component from HQaudios.
Please contact us directly before purchase so we can confirm availability and prepare a combined offer.
Shipping & Packaging
Vintage monster receivers are incredibly heavy and delicate. This unit will be carefully packed by HQaudios for safe delivery.
- Protective wrapping applied securely around the chassis and faceplate.
- Heavy-duty packing materials used to absorb impact.
- Extra dial glass, knob, corner, and rear connection protection.
- Tracking information provided immediately upon shipment.
- Signature may be required upon delivery.
1-Year HQaudios Warranty
This unit is backed by our 1-Year HQaudios Warranty, covering normal-use functionality related to the service work performed by HQaudios.
If an issue occurs, please contact us directly first. Our team will help evaluate the issue and work toward an appropriate solution.
The warranty does not cover misuse, improper setup, unauthorized repair, physical damage, cosmetic wear, amplifier clipping, excessive power, incorrect wiring, incompatible equipment, operation outside the manufacturer’s intended specifications, or shipping damage identified after delivery.
Customer Service
After delivery, customers may contact us directly for assistance with setup, connections, equipment matching, and model-specific settings.
Our team is happy to help customers use their vintage audio system correctly and confidently.
Important Note for Vintage Audio Buyers
This is vintage audio equipment, so minor signs of age may be present and are normal for equipment that has been in use for many years.
Vintage audio equipment must be connected and operated correctly. Always verify voltage configuration, speaker impedance, and other model-specific operating requirements before powering on the system.
HQaudios – Vintage Audio Restored with Care.
Backed by Our 1-Year Warranty.



















































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