Overview

Pioneer SX-838 stereo receiver w/ wood case β€” serviced, FM aligned, LED dial lighting, bias/DC offset set, fully tested/working. Classic mid-’70s Pioneer receiver rated at 50W + 50W RMS into 8Ξ© (both channels driven).
This unit has been cleaned, checked, and dialed-in with measured bias/DC offset readings (below). Fully tested and ready to enjoy.

Condition

  • Very nice vintage presentation overallβ€”please use photos as the primary cosmetic description.
  • Faceplate and knobs removed for cleaning; knobs ultrasonically cleaned and hand-polished.
  • Wood case included (see photos for grain and any age-appropriate wear).
  • All lighting is even and bright with LED dial lighting installed.

Service & Testing

  • Serviced/cleaned by technician
  • Controls cleaned/treated (smooth operation)
  • Boards cleaned with electronic cleaner
  • FM tuner aligned
  • LED dial lighting installed
  • Bias + DC offset set and recorded (measured):
    • DC Offset: L 0.42 mV / R 0.00 mV
    • Bias (Idle Current): L 15.22 mV / R 15.15 mV

Tested and verified:

  • Reliable power on / stable operation
  • Clean output on both channels
  • FM reception after alignment
  • Inputs/controls and speaker outputs function as expected (see demo)

Note: Not represented as a full recap/restoration unless explicitly stated and documented.

Rear Panel & Electrical (Photo-Verified)

(See rear-panel photos for exact labeling.)

  • AC: 120V / 60Hz
  • Pre Out / Main In: Jumpers installed (L/R)
  • Speaker outputs and source I/O present as labeled on the rear panel
  • Antenna terminals for FM/AM

Safety note: Specs are per rear-panel label/photos; buyer should confirm correct fuse type/value and appropriate speaker load before use.

Interior Condition

Interior photos are included for transparencyβ€”please review the inside shots for overall cleanliness and prior service evidence (if any).

Features

  • 50W/ch RMS into 8Ξ© (both channels driven), with low published THD.
  • Drives up to three pairs of speakers with flexible A/B/C selection.
  • Classic Pioneer mid-’70s design with strong tuner section and very usable control layout.

Sound

Big, punchy, classic Pioneer β€œsilver-face” presentationβ€”great bass grip, clear mids, and an easy, musical top end. Pairs beautifully with vintage JBL/ADS/Klipsch-style speakers.

Included

  • Pioneer SX-838 receiver
  • Wood case (as shown)
  • Pre Out/Main In jumpers installed (as shown)

Shipping & Packing

$225 insured Ground shipping (Ground only).
Shipping price includes carrier cost + packing materials + handling + Reverb insurance.

Packing method:

  • Knobs/faceplate protection
  • Foam blocking and reinforced corners
  • Double-boxed for safe transit

Local pickup available: Newton, MA.

Please Read

Please review all photos + the YouTube demo carefully and message with any questions before buying. Vintage gear is best enjoyed when expectations match the photos, video, and description.

SEO/Tags

Pioneer SX-838, Pioneer SX838, SX 838, SX-838 receiver, Pioneer vintage receiver, silver face receiver, 1970s receiver, 50 wpc, serviced Pioneer, FM aligned, LED dial, wood case, pre out main in, classic hi fi, two channel stereo

Model keyword variants: SX838, SX-838, SX 838, Pioneer SX838, Pioneer SX-838, Pioneer SX 838
Hashtags: #Pioneer #SX838 #VintageAudio #VintageReceiver #HiFi #SilverFace #TwoChannel #BashVintageAudio

This item is sold As-Described

This item is sold As-Described and cannot be returned unless it arrives in a condition different from how it was described or photographed. Items must be returned in original, as-shipped condition with all original packaging.Learn More.

Listed4 months ago
ConditionExcellent (Used)
Excellent items are almost entirely free from blemishes and other visual defects and have been played or used with the utmost care.Learn more
Brand
Model
  • SX-838 50-Watt Stereo Solid-State Receiver
Finish
  • Silver
Categories
Year
  • 1974 - 1976
Made In
  • Japan

Product safety information may be available here.

Bash Vintage Audio (BVA LLC)

AUBURNDALE, MA, United States
Joined Reverb:2023

Reverb Protection

Simple Returns, Secure Transactions, Human Support

Learn more

Secure Checkout

Promoted similar listings













Product reviews

Reverb Gives

Your purchases help youth music programs get the gear they need to make music.

Oops, looks like you forgot something. Please check the fields highlighted in red.