I'm new here and I don't want to do anything inappropriate but awhile back I posted that I have a new Pass Labs X5 power amp that has never been installed (boxed up for over 20 years). I asked for suggestions about powering this unit up after being stored so long. The best suggestion was to contact Pass Labs. I did and they were very helpful and offered to (for a price) test it for me but I think I'll do it myself when I have some time. I was originally planning on using it myself but I think I'll get rid of it. Anybody here have an Idea of what I should list it for here if it works?
Power amplifier longevity… thoughts?
Since I’ve bought a pair of Magnepan LRS+ speakers, I am searching for a used power amp with enough power and current to drive them as they deserve.
Some candidates come to mind and searching the used market (Hifi Shark) some are available for sale, for example:
- Classé CA-201
- Rotel RHB-10
- Acurus A200
- Muse 160
- Parasound HCA-1200 MkII
- Ayre V-1X
The possibility of buying a top quality amp at a friendly price is very appealing, especially comparing with todays new gear prices.
But the majority have way more the 20 years and one never knows the amp history, so there always the probability of a costly repair, and even the impossibility of restoration to the original specs when no parts or the service manual are available.
I wonder, in a general way, if an quality amp (and all parts) maintain the sound quality after all those years, needed only a check and bias adjustment.
Of course, in most hi-fi gear the capacitors and resistors are usually the first to need attention (change) but can those large caps (the size of a can of beer) last longer?
Showing 2 responses by philliprcook
@devinplombier I appreciate the advice. Pass Labs uses a current limiting supply. I don't have one of those and they are pricy. I might try using an ac variac with a series of increased wattage incandescent bulbs in series with the line cord. |