In Reply to: Modifying/upgrading vs. restoration of vintage... posted by Interstage Tranny on March 29, 2009 at 08:29:56:
I would start with a simple replacement of all the electrolytic caps. Providing the unit was in good working order and wasn't in need of some other repair work.
After that I would try simple upgrades. Like replacing mylar caps on the tone board with spraques, a better coupling cap if you have a film in that position.
After 30 years you really are NOT hearing the sound of that receiver. What you are hearing is aged caps that are out spec and maybe a drifted resistor or two.
NEVER feel bad about restoring a vintage piece. That is more a labor of love for the hobby and showing appreciation that the darn thing still rocks! Otherwise you would have chucked it in the trash! And as for upgrading a capacitor or two I'm sure the engineers of the time would have liked to use better parts. But remember they had to build these to a price point. But don't fall pry to the capacitor snake oil. Sometimes a ten cent capacitor IS the better one for that position. Especially on the preamp's amp board. Not the case for the tone board - upgrade away there.
charles
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Follow Ups
- RE: Modifying/upgrading vs. restoration of vintage... - airtime 10:43:33 03/29/09 (1)
- RE: Modifying/upgrading vs. restoration of vintage... - bob24 11:32:27 03/29/09 (0)