Disadvantages of buying old solid state.


I am looking to upgrade from a single ended amp to a balanced because of the purchase of a new balanced pre. Due to budgetary reasons I am forced to buy a used unit. I am interested in the Pass .5 series as what I've heard of the .8 I was not happy with. There are those who prefer the .5. sound as well. I was told however that buying such an old unit I might find that the bias has changed. Any experiences with buying old solid state and any negative consequences? I would very much like to hear anyone's views on the matter.

Thank you.

 

 

roxy1927

Showing 1 response by decooney

@roxy1927 I had to sell off a few beloved 20+ year old Class A/AB SS amps for scrap parts because the boards were deteriorating and no longer available. Gave up after 2-3 board repairs, traces going bad, cracks from heat.  Roll the dice.  Some of the top manufactures back their products after 10+ years, yet rare.  

Over 20yrs old, plan on buying a 2nd one for spare parts or pick a good one backed by someone like Bryston, ARC, Pass, who may actually help you when needed with some kind of guarantee it will last more than a few years more.  If not, simply consider it a throw-away, and this is an option some take.