The S-5000 was an attractive amplifier, remarkably slim for its time and having some nice design features. Each pair of 7189 output valves produced 20 watts continuous power per channel with a distortion figure of 0.5%.

At the left side of the control panel was a vertical row of four pushbutton switches: these catered for phono level, scratch and rumble filters and "presence" (which gave a marked increase in the mid-range, tending to emphasize vocals and solo instruments). Two sliding switches at the bottom of the front panel permitted tape source/playback monitoring (quite unusual for the time) and loudness in/out (in conjunction with a variable loudness control). Input selection was via a rotary switch and tone controls were dual-concentric on friction-locked shafts. Four small lights at the right indicated various stereo mode settings (stereo. stereo-reverse, mono 1, 2 and 1+2).

The slim design of the Sherwood was made possible by mounting capacitors and valves at an angle. Output valves were wire meshed for mechanical stability and heat dissipation.

A particularly nice feature of the S-5000 was the "hum balance" adjustment control on the rear of the chassis.By pushing a black sliding switched to the "test" position and turning bass controls to maximum, the dual-concentric hum balance control could be adjusted for minimum "hum". Very practical for 'retuning' the amp after prolonged use or after replacing any valves.

Priced when new at $189.50 plus $5.00 for black or brown Flexitone case, these underrated classics can be acquired for as little as $75 (shabby, but complete working unit) and around $200 for an excellent working example.

The S-5000 was replaced in 1961 with the cosmetically upgraded and more powerful S-5000ii.

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