Amp repair cost — is this right?


I recently sent my Musical Fidelity a308cr power amp off to be recapped. This amp is somewhere around 16-18 years old and one of the power caps failed. I contacted Musical Fidelity and sent it to a repair shop they recommended. Today I received an estimate to replace 18 caps, 8 of which are large power caps, resolder the boards, and re-bias the transistors. Basically a full overhaul. The quote I received, including return shipping (prob around $100) Is over $1,300 which possibly exceeds the value of the amp. That doesn’t include the $115 it cost me to ship it out. Having never had an overhaul done on a power amp like this, I’m wondering if anyone with experience can tell me if this sounds right. I guess I was expecting something more like $600-$800 but I don’t know why since I really don’t have a frame of reference. Perhaps it was the assumption it might be 4 hours labor (say $400) plus max $200 for caps. Is $1,300+ on track? Either way I’m going to be out the shipping cost plus a $160 fee paid for the estimate.
jnehma1

Showing 5 responses by jafant

As above, good to read that Bill and Corey are alive and well doing Audio business.  I have only spoken to Bill via phone.  He is highly regarded in this community.
Happy Listening!
jnehma1
My pleasure to assist.  If you are located in the U.S., consult Bill Thalmann (former lead electronic tech w/ Conrad-Johnson) for  2nd opinion/quote.He is very accomplished and can work on just about every brand out there.He is Music Technology 703.764.7005 -Keep me posted on your repair or replace decison.
Happy Listening!
jnehma1
not a bad price for a complete over-haul of your a308CR amp.If you enjoy the presentation and sound from MF, go for it!
Happy Listening!