Mark Levinson / Voltage Conversion US = Europe


Hi folks. Probably this question was already asked once before in these threads, however I could not find anything so far.

My situation: I am living in the US right now and would like to get a 326 / 431 / 390s. At some point of time (one year or so) my contract will end and I might go back to Germany.

I can not afford to get these components new, so I would buy them used in good condition, which is still a good junk of money.

However before I make this relatively big investment I wanted to know following: Is there someone someone who would professionally convert the components from US voltage to European (German) standard. It does not matter if here in the US or in Germany or in Europe.

So, to get an answer to my question I called the customer support at harman/madrigal in the US and they told me technically this would not be an issue, but they do this only for the original owner and only if you have proof of leaving the US. Apparently "just" a power-supply-platine and the back-cover would have to be changed.
For pre-owned components they referred me to the importer in Germany to check with them if they would do it. So, I called them (Sun Audio in Munich) and they told me that they will not do it either because of TUeV and CE reasons, which I think is complete BS.

Sure, I can understand that they are trying to protect their overseas market, but I look at it from this side: Every used model which is sold, creates a demand for a new one. Like I said this would only work for me, because prices are lower here, and there is no way for me to afford these components overseas.

My question now: Does anyone have experience with a conversion from US to European voltage? Who / Where / How long / How much / What to do / What not to do / etc.

Please let me know.
Thank you for your response in advance.
herrlich
I had exactly the same problem with my Levinson ML3 power amp when I moved to France.
I contacted ML (Madrigal at the time) who were very understanding and proposed to re-wire and service the amp at reasonable cost (sorry can't remember as this was 8 years ago!). Just had to ship the amp off to them.
Unfortunately, since than there happened some things with ML. Now, their customer service is declining to give any meaningful help, and advising you to turn the local dealer, who does not help you neither.
HI HERRLICH
TRY THIS ENTRY ON THE ML ITEMS FOR SALE LIST
"Proceed + Mark Levinson amplifiers "
I HAVE THE SAME PROBLEM.
What I would do is looking out for used items offered by US dealers. The rewiring for an electrician or expert is indeed a piece of cake. I asked around how to rewire McIntosh-units (a MC402) and was sent the internal McIntosh-manual how to rewire. Officially, dealers cannot rewire US-units for European customers, in reality they can, an do.
there is a module you can buy from levinson to change someof the units to 240v but after you reboot you need to enter a code for it to work.

the french concessionaire is happy to make the conversion on non new models for a reasonable price