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Power Amplifier Longevity

Hi All, 
I am venturing into the separate component world and was wondering how long a good power amp typically lasts.  I may have access to some older Lexicon CX and LX series amplifiers.  However, since they are discontinued and nearly 20 years old from what I understand, should I be concerned with how much longer they will last?  If they do need servicing, is this something that is available at a reasonable cost?  Or should I invest in newer equipment?

Budget is a concern for me which is why I am interested in these older (higher quality) amps at a reduced price versus spending the same amount on something newer, but lower quality.

At this time, I have a Marantz AV8802A and Vienna Acoustics speakers. 
Main L/R - Mozart Grand
Center - Maestro Grand
4 Surrounds - Waltz Grand

I thank you in advance for any advice provided on this subject.
Brian


brianb339

Showing 1 response by wspohn

wspohn's avatar
wspohn
611 posts
 
I have a fondness for Class A amps and so paid a fair bit when one of them went south on me, but the particular model I have is quite rare so I didn't even think about not having it serviced. It was over 30 years old. I have two other amps of the same model still going strong, as well as an early Jeff Rowland amp (also 1980s) that still serves in my AV system.

On the current inrush issue, I have an early Belles class A amp that welded the contacts on the switch together due to that. After replacing the switch for the third time, I left it welded together and turn it on and off using a heavy duty power bar!
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