The HG 88 made its first appearance in 1958 as an 8-watt per channel stereo integrated amplifier with ECL82 output valves. It was superceded by the Mk.II (pictured) in 1961 which used ECL86's in the output stage, giving an increased power output of 12 watts per channel. Other improvements included a separate on/off switch to replace the Mk 1's combined balance control & on/off switch and a ganged carbon potentiometer replacing the older model's clunky incrementally-stepped resistor volume control.

This was a terrific little amplifier with masses of facilities crammed into a small case, five-position input selector four-position function selector, ganged variable bass and treble controls, balance control, volume, on/ff switch and fitted click suppressors. It was brilliantly designed and constructed, but like most amplifiers of the day the pre-amplifier stages let it down, being somewhat noisy and over complicated. The front panel was finished in brushed brass and ivory control knobs with ground brass inserts.

The final variant of the HG 88 was the Mk.III, released in 1965, still with ECL86 output valves but an even higher output of 15 watts per channel. The styling was also updated to be more in line with Roger's Cadet III.

Prices when new:
HG 88 (1958-61) £40
HG 88 Mk.II (1961-64) £42
HG 88 Mk.II (1965-69) £46. 10s

Today's value approximately £150 - £250 for a good, clean working example, perhaps £300 for a mint one.

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