2023-10-09
Images on these pages are sourced directly from the original advertising, except where noted.
I own a nice stack of AIWA’s Series 50 mini component equipment, originally released between 1979 and 1981. Long before AIWA’s sad decline, these served as a follow-up to their phenominal Series 22.
Sequels
Improving on the Series 22’s one-size-fits-all approach, AIWA released a set of follow-up Series to match different market segments:
- Series 10: The smallest models, designed for portability and cars, including a battery pack for mobility.
- Series 25: A derivative of the 30, similar in size but shallower, at least an integrated amplifier and tuner were available.
- Series 30: Deeper than the 25, but the same width(?), with a relatively full set of components including tape deck. Compatible with Series 22-size components. Generally considered to be re-packaged versions of the Series 22.
- Series 50/Series 60: The mid-range, physically both wider and deeper than the Series 30 with a full set of components. Series 50 and 60 packages were sold together as a single range.
These were followed by another round of updates a year later:
- Series 35: Also size compatible with Series 22 components, upgraded with some Series 80 technology.
- Series 80: The top of the line, this provided acoustic upgrades to the Series 50 in the same size packaging.
AIWA continued to produce many mini systems throughout the 80s, but focus quickly moved from audio quality to low cost, leading to their decline for HiFi customers.
Valuable Sources
Information
- 1980/81 Catalog (German)
- 1980/81 Mini Component Catalog (German)
- 1980 Catalog (German)
- 1982 Catalog (German)
- WEGA 1981 Catalog (German)
- AIWA Mini Component Systems
Discussions
East and West
While branded the Mini Component Series 50 in the west, in Japanese markets these were known as the my Pace7. As a result, model numbers differ.
Western models were released in 110v units (U), 240v units (K) and universal 120v/220/240v (H) units. Model numbers are postfixed with these letters to indicate which voltage capabilities they have. Some units are auto-switching while others require manual selection on the back of the unit.
Most units were made in Japan, but some UK market units are marked “Made in UK”.
In the West these were also released under the WEGA brand as the “Serie 400” or “Mini Modul 400”.
Lineup
AIWA’s Series 50 had an extensive lineup of equipment, featuring 12 distinctive components, 4 different speakers, and 13 different storage solutions. You can explore the full lineup below:
Components
Speakers
Mounting Solutions
Packaged Bundles
