This Pioneer SX-5590 is the European version of Pioneer’s SX-1250. It would definitely be considered a “Monster” receiver as it produces a whopping 160 watts per channel. It incorporates a huge toroidal power transformer. It has the usual dark faceplate as is common with most European versions. Given that many feel the SX-1250 was the best receiver Pioneer ever produced it stands to reason that the SX-5590 is in a similar position. It features:
- Tone on/off
- 30hz and 8khz filters
- Tape duplicate switch
- FM muting on/off
- FM multipath
- Adaptor on/off
- Mic left/right inputs
- 2 tape in/outputs
- 1 aux input
- 2 phono inputs
- Phono 2 switch for both mic and phono 2
- Stereo and mono modes
- Tuning and signal meters
- Dimensions 21 7/8 x 7 3/8 x 18 3/4
- Weight 64 lbs
The SX-1250 is an extremely popular receiver and has a huge following among collectors. It’s European version , the SX-5590, is probably even harder to find but at the same time is less well known. Still, the SX-5590 can sell for a good sum of money in good working condition – usually around $700-$800.
booming AMP I have the 5590. No other AMP outclass it
I have a 5590. run it through 2 sets of HPM 100s. Nothing out class it!
You must be keeping the power turned down because you will smoke the tweeters in the HPM 100s. I have a pair that I bought new in 1979 and I still have them and use them every day, Great speakers. I would take another pair if I could find some nice ones. I am searching hard for a SX-5590 at the moment. Very rare.I found a couple, probably going to have to bust off the cash, they are not cheep but worth it.
I have an SX 5590. 4 HPM 100s hooked up to it. Nothing out class it, and I have had some expensive amps! have a lot of vintage stereo equipment. Took my marantz turntable to have a belt installed and the tech told me to take the cover home, he didn’t want to brake it
Dear Sir:
I noticed on the back of the SX-5590 that it had 1200 watts of power! WOW, that’s more than any I’ve seen. How come so much power with only 160wpc? Is this the only difference between the SX-1250? Also, noted there was a hookup for 4 CH, could that be the reason, this receiver does 4 channel as well as the normal 2 for this receiver.
Thanks,
Glen
Hi, the 1200 is based on Euro. 220/240. VAC. The USA model SX-1250 would be approximately half for 120 VAC.
Absolutely no difference between the two other than trim out.
I have the European (Black) 5590, and it stop working, any ideas on who or how to repair it? E-mail etwin3e@aol.com. Thank you.
Hi, did you have it repaired? What were the symptoms?
There are a couple guys on Ebay that advertise restoration of the SX-5590, It basically the same as a SX-1250 so im told. Good luck
Just audio in Maryland does awesome work
After 45yrs of ownership, I just had mine gone over by Just Audio here in Maryland. Love my Pioneer SX-5590.
IM looking for a SX-5590 if anybody knows where I can find a nice one, Thanks
https://minneapolis.craigslist.org/dak/ele/d/inver-grove-heights-pioneer/7467821676.html
I have one from my father’s estate..
Just got mine back. FULL upgrade. The tech guru did a meticulous job. He had it hooked up when I picked it up and it sounded incredible. Can’t wait until my friend comes over to help me hook it up. It’s a heavy one. BTW, although rated at 160, it benches 198 Watts per channel.