2. amps-preamps
  3. 1262886811

Fixing a Broken NAD C320BEE

I have the opportunity to buy a used NAD C320BEE that's cosmetically perfect but has "blown a few capacitors" according to the current owner. Does anybody have any opinions regarding whether fixing it is even worthwhile? I called a few local repair shops and they charge $75-100 just to look at it.

I was originally looking to buy a NAD C355BEE new, but wold greatly prefer paying less than the $800 it costs to get one new, if the sound/features are comparable.

In terms of what I'm looking for in a system, I'm trying to put together an entry-level system for listening to music – both CDs and a lot of radio – and occasionally watching movies. I'm open to any recommendations everyone might have. I'm trying to keep the budget around $1000. I'd prefer Stereo to 5.1 and my ideal Amp or receiver would have a Phono input. I'm in an apartment that doesn't need more than 50W/channel.

Thanks!
scatalogics

Showing 1 response by mcintech

mcintech
128 posts
 
In my experience, a "few blown capacitors" will be just the tip of the iceberg. Electrolytic capacitors blow for only a few reasons:

1. Installed backwards
2. Incorrect voltage rating for the circuit
3. Extreme age (10-20 years), they dry out then next time voltage applied; they bite the biggun.
4. They are taken out by a "fire" elsewhere in the circuit.

Doubt it's 1 or 2 (since Lenbrook took over NAD, quality has improved across the board) with the recent build of that amp, no way it's #3.

IF this "project" (how you must approach it; a learning experience) is selling for more than $40, walk away, if it is really smoked inside, it may get repaired, but future reliability is questionable.
More to discover