Kyocera C-910
(1984 - 1986)

A preamp with the ability to balance the input/output levels for a more linear S/N ratio : the two big knobs at the left are for output level (not bass/treble) and the usual attenuator takes the shape of an input volume.

Built like all first generation Kyocera on a composite compound (CCR) that efficiently suppresses most of the vibrations.
It is, however, like all such compounds (Sony's SBMC, Technics' BMC and others) rather fragile when it comes to sudden precise shocks and easily breaks in pieces. It is nevertheless very efficient and quite immune to little scratches.
A prototype was shown slightly before the official launch - you can see it here on TVK.

At 210,000¥, Kyocera sadly didn't sell many but this still represents one of the few proper design slants ever applied to an entire lineup. I want one.

Click the ZN button below to read Zeljko's technical review of the Kyocera C-910 !!