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Mark Levinson Repairs

I own a Mark Levinson # 331 Power amp and recently the right output channel failed. I called ML service dept to get a quote for repairs and and was shocked when i was told they don't do repairs on this amp anymore and even if they did there are no parts available. They also told me that a 3rd party service center would not be able to help either because they will not have the schematics and they will not give it out to anyone. this was more shocking as based on this information the amp will never be fixed, i do blame myself for not doing research on this company policies prior to buying the amp if i did i would not be in this situation. I own several Mcintosh equi[tment that cost the same or less and older than the ML 331 and i have had them repaired at Mcintosh or my local tech shop i even bought the service manual for one of the amps. 

Does anyone here has the same issue and if so how did you get your amp repaired, any suggestions will be appreciated FYI when the amp was working it was excellent quality sound so the equipment is good just the service sucks !

Thanks for reading.   

raggah
dtc's avatar
dtc
1,047 posts
 

The filter caps for the 331 were made by Philips. Some people have used replacement caps from CORNELL DUBILIER that some say are as good if not better than the original Philips ones. I am not sure if these are still available. But, from what I know, it is a major job to dissemble the unit enough to replace the caps. If you find someone to repair a 331 make sure to have a discussion about what caps are being used. It does matter.

hgeifman
2,187 posts
 

I said this before and I am going to say it again.  I do not know if it is worth repairing a 25-year old amplifier. Obviously, you have to get an estimate to repair your current Levinson 331 amp. Are the needed parts available and will the Tech be able to ensure that all the other parts are working correctly to ensure it continues to sound great?  

The availability of the original caps are a concern and, if not, what is the impact on the sound quality if other caps are used.  Some of the posts above said the Techs are available but are they skilled enough to repair a 25-year old power amp?   I do not know.

Your Mark Levinson 331 power amp is 25-years old and maybe it is time to replace it. I suggest you review this repair with the above repair shops and ask for their opinion and the cost to repair including a complete check of the entire amplifier. After this, you should be able to make a decision.  please keep us posted.  Thanks. 

renjy651
74 posts
 

THE ML-331 REPAIR IS NOT COMPLICATED. THE ORGINAL PHILIPS 44000uF 75V 2 INCH DIAMETER  CAPS CAN BE REPLACED WITH  CORNELL DUBILIER OR UNITED CHEMICON. ALSO REGULATOR CAPS 1900uF 150V CAN BE REPLACED WITH CDE 1900uF THE POWER SUPPLY CAPS ARE THE PROBLEM. ALSO THERE IS AN UPDATE WITH FEW SMALL CAPS AND  IC CHIP . I HAVE THE SERVICE MANUAL FOR 331. HARMAN IS NOT ORDERING ANY NEW PARTS FOR 300 SERIES.

 

webking185's avatar
webking185
195 posts
 

I had the same dilemma passed on getting a ML.  The repair cost exceeds what I would spend.  Get a new and enjoy/embrace modern amps.

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