Panasonic RX-7000

The RX-7000 is a beautiful Panasonic boombox with imitation wood sides and an upside-down control format. It came out in 1980 or 1981, typically priced at $500 or more. We have seen examples with both Panasonic and National badges. It's possible that a combination National-Panasonic badged version may even exist as we have seen other Panasonics labeled that way. But regardless of the brand, the model number itself remains RX-7000 and they are essentially all pretty much the same.

Specs:

• 560 x 333 x 176mm
• 16cm woofers (3 ohm), 5cm tweeters (4 ohm)
• 17.6 lbs (8 kg) without batteries
• Multi-voltage (100-110, 115-127, 200-220, 230-250)
• Ten D-cell batteries
• Tape frequency response 30Hz to 17kHz using metal tape
• Wow & flutter 0.05%
• Optional wired remote control with a 16-foot cable (RD-9840 or Technics RP-9645).

Output power is 2 x 7.5 watts according to the Japanaese service manual, based on the EIAJ/DC industry standard. Presumably that was measured on batteries, thus the "DC" designation. The American service manual has a higher figure: 2 x 11 watts. Perhaps they tested it using AC instead of DC. Or perhaps they allowed more distortion. Whatever the case, Panasonic says the RX-7000 has 50% more output than an RX-5150 or an RX-5500.

There was a similar model called the National RX-7200, sold only in Japan. I say "similar" only because its styling is somewhat similar. But it's actually a totally different model, with a larger case, a digital tuner, and more power. Click the link for more information.