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Manley Chinook

In Dec 2015 I purchased a Manley Chinook SE from Upscale Audio.  The box I received and serial number stated a SE version but it was actually the standard version.  Kevin D. asked if I wanted to return for the SE model and we agreed that he would send me the Philips PCC88 tubes instead.  This weekend when I went to the room for a listening session once I powered up the Chinook a loud hum persisted.  I checked all connections and they were good.  Changed the tubes - still hummed.  Changed the ICs - still hummed.  Moved to another audio setup - still hummed.  But, after being on for about 30 minutes the hum lessened but a scratchy/crackly sound could be heard in the background.  Yesterday I sent it back to Manley for diagnosis.  I estimate there is less than 20 hrs use.  When I bought this unit I did my research and felt that this would be a workhorse with no problems.  Has anyone else experienced this type of phenomena with the Chinook.  I have hooked my VPI TT back up to my onboard phono stage on my McIntosh C2300; as good as the Mc is I miss the Chinook.
miner42

Showing 3 responses by sschmidt

sschmidt
19 posts
 
I set up a friend’s stereo in Dec 2015 that included a Chinook purchased directly from Manley. After a couple months it developed the same problem as you and Matt Miller described. Manley repaired it under warranty by installing a new board. The repair took about three months, but the wait could have been that it was one of the first in for the repair and they were diagnosing the problem. Works well now.

sschmidt
19 posts
 
@asp307, My friend was the person in contact with Manley. He was pleased with the service at Manley and loves his Chinook.


sschmidt
19 posts
 
Minor42, one more thought or story to leave with you. I am not in any way affiliated with Manley, nor do I have any Manley gear, but I want to pass along a personal experience with Manley.

A few years ago, I was designing a recording studio and spec’d Manley gear. Coincidently, a couple months later while attending a convention in Anaheim, I asked Eva Manley how the equipment build was going. When she heard I would be in the area, she invited my wife and I to take a tour of their manufacturing facility and take a look at the gear being assembled. We saw the amps in final assembly on the bench, processors being packed, and heard the microphones and mic preamps being tested. I talked with the builders and saw first-hand their design and manufacturing facility. Then Eva took us to lunch and back to their house/recording studio for a tour and a listen to master tapes. It was a day that my wife and I fondly remember.  Best with your Chinook.



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