Physics hasn't changed in the last 30 years. You may have better gear than you can get new for a reasonable price.

If your amplifier is having problems it is most likely due to problems with its electrolytic capacitors. Caps don't last forever. Those can usually be replaced fairly easily.

Browse around [link|http://www.samswebsite.com/photofacts.html|here] and see if they have the schematics for your Kenwood box. It might be worth the $10 or so for the paperwork to see if a few parts will get you back in business.

You probably want to talk to Ashton too.

With all that said, if you just want to buy a new box, I've been happy with my Sony STR-DE515 from Crutchfield. It's several years old - I'm not sure what's comparable these days. I only use it as a tuner/amplifier/turntable interface/CD interface/controller. It's hooked up to the TV too but we don't use it with the TV. It's got lots of features we never use - e.g. concert hall/garage/bathroom/outdoor amphitheater acoustic tuning, etc. The remote is a little obtuse.

We recently purchased some $300 JBL large bookshelf speakers from B&H that sound pretty good but I can't compare them to what else is out there. My impression is that most reasonably price speakers these days are garbage (the magnets are too small).

HTH. Luck!

Cheers,
Scott.