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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
brianb339 OP
4 posts
 
Yes, I failed to mention that my Mozart Grands will most likely be powered separately by a Wyred4Sound ST-500 class D that I already have.  So the Lexicon CX or LX will power the Center and Surround Channels.  The LX-7 is attractive as it appears I could bridge channels for the center speaker for more power there and run the 4 surrounds from the remaining.

Yes, the Marantz is a Pre/Processor.  Model AV8802A.

Thank you
hiendmmoe
202 posts
 
Also depends on how well the unit was tacked care of. People tend to confine their equipment to small closed in spaces with very little ventilation. Heat will greatly reduce a component life span.
brianb339 OP
4 posts
 
So it seems the caps are the main concern.  Are these serviceable and if so, does the investment make sense to service or buy new at that point?
itsjustme
681 posts
 
It depends on the quality of the original - how good are the parts? How conservatively are they used/specified?  I have 100s of products out there and the basic answer is "30 years and counting".
The limiting factor in a good product is electrolytic capacitors.  20-30 years, iff they are very good and run well below their rating, is typically life.  But i've pulled 30 year old caps that are leak-free and working well.
You *can* have it re-capped but that is labor intensive and costly. I've recently done or had done for folks, about a dozen.
Or, of course you can play some roulette and let stuff fal and then fix it. The concern with unfused speakers is that you could do some downstream damage.
All my main gear is 25+ years old (of my own design, mostly prototypes that I keep) and works a treat. Of course i have friends in low places.
G
erik_squires
16,056 posts
 
My advice would be to go much much simpler and newer.

Get an Anthem MRX 720. Add a stereo amp if and only if required.

Trade in your Marantz, and avoid the amp jungle.


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