2. amps-preamps
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Aleph 3 safe to operate?

I've just found a Pass Aleph amplifier (6 of them actually) at an audio hoarder estate sale. It's a new in the box Aleph 3. Would it be safe to turn on without having to purchase a Variac first?

Also, I think I'd like to use it and another Aleph amp to power a pair of B&W 802 S2 with North Creek crossovers in a bi-wire configuration. If I use an Aleph 3 for the mids and highs what would the consensus be for the best amp to use for the bass drivers - I can choose from a pair of Aleph 0, an Aleph 0s, an Aleph 5 or another 3.

Also, I am currently using a Threshold Stasis 3 that was updated a number of years ago by Jon Soderberg and have been happily living with it and my North Creek Borealis' for a long time. Keep the Threshold or sub one of the aforementioned. I can't keep all of them per wife - DOH!

Thanks for your opinions

An Old Noob

 

 

lesbaxter

Showing 1 response by porchlight1

porchlight1's avatar
porchlight1
49 posts
 

From the owners manual of the Aleph 3, easily found on line:  “the turn-on AC draw will peak (half-cycle) at roughly 50 amps on a 120 volt system”.

Also: “The amp will draw 250 watts from the wall at all times”

And:  “In fifteen years the electrolytic capacitors will get old.”

In view of this advice from the owners manual, I would definitely recommend you take the amp to a good technician who has the proper tools to bring that amp to life safely upon its first power on.  Since the amp is NOS, you have a good chance that it is OK. But don’t chance a big electrolytic capacitors blowing in your home.

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