Does anyone repair....


My significant other has a vintage Fisher 4404 Custom Electra IV (Model E44) that we loved to listen to old vinyl on. Classic sound through those original speakers, etc.

Anyway, it has reached the point where the hiss and buzz is way louder than the music. I suspect it needs some new tubes and/or other electronic repairs. I live in New Orleans. The closest (and truthfully only) place I found that might fix it is in another state aver 600 mi away. Shipping would seem to me to be expensive (that I am not worried about) but I fear for the ability to ship without damaging the console. Is there any suggestions or anyone closer to me who might be able to repair this?

Thanks for any help

 

dseltz

@kolfmaker 

Had a buzz for years, now it is much louder. Although I can wire a house from the weatherhead to the outlets, I am at a loss for electronics. So many great ideas and the more than generous offers. Pulling out the equipment is a good idea and I will start there. 

Ahh, the Netherlands. You do so many things right!!!!

@dseltz 

I hope the ideas will help you solve and enjoy again.
Please post again when you have an update.

Cheers from The Netherlands! 🇳🇱

Had a buzz for years, now it is much louder

The electrolytic capacitors dry out and lose capacitance over time. Not a matter of if, it is when, and yours is waaaay past when. As that happens the amp starts to buzz and hum

getting it restored is going to cost waaay more than it is worth. Using the cabinet and replacing the guts is your best bet

 

Would you pay $$$$ to have a photo of your parents restored so that you can put it in a place of prominence in YOUR home ?   Would you pay $$$$ to have a recording of your child's first words so that you can listen to it years later in YOUR home ?  Would you pay $$$$ to restore a cherished audio system so that you can listen to it with your beloved in YOUR home ?  If you answer "YES" to these questions, then it is a definite "YES" to spending $$$$ on anything that is so personal to your happiness as a vintage audio system.  There is no pricetag on happiness !