I've sent my Marantz DV8400 off to have the frequency clock upgraded. The problem is that the guy installing the clock can't find the crystal which needs to be replaced (none of this means too much to me, but I know it's a problem). Has anyone modded their DV8400 and can tell me where the crystal is located? Thanks.
Just to finish this off, we did eventually locate the crystal - on a pcb board underneath the transport (no wonder it was hard to see). Anyway, the clock mod has made a significant difference to the sound and picture quality (particularly the sound) of the DV8400 (and it was pretty good before).
The clock used was a Millenium (manufactured in Malaysia but available here in Australia). It was significantly cheaper than other options, such as Superclock etc. But really, I would recommend a clock upgrade very highly. It makes me wonder why middle-to-high-end cd and dvd player manufacturers don't use separate clocks rather than on-board crystals - the improvement is really worth it.
Bailey - the frequency should be written on the SMT clock. It may be a crystal or a clock generator. Crystals typically have two terminals. These clocks are a bit tricky, especially when they are above 24 MHz. If he is wiring something in place of the crystal, such as a Superclock, it is helpful to know a bit about transmission-line effects. If it doesnt work dont be surprised.
Bailey....DUDE.....pay ATTENTION! Slappy, Herman, and Mejames are trying to send you a message here and I concur! Yes...Pull the plug! Now! Get your unit back and find a reputable person to mod your unit. HE ain't it!
I must I am slightly concerned about the installation. But living in Australia my options are seriously limited - I don't think anyone here would have modded this player before.
I've asked the guy to look under the DSP board - hopefully he can find it. One other question - is anyone able to confirm the clock frequency of the DV8400? Audiocom advised me that it was 33.8688, but the installer said dvd players were usually 27 and he'd be surprised if the Marantz was any different. Can anyone confirm which is the case? Should I pull the plug on this madness?
I'm with Slappy on this one (kind of scary actually), have the unit returned to you. If he can't find the part to be replaced then he is definitely not the guy you want working on your unit.
Be sure to let us know the improvement to the unit modded as I have a Marantz I was wanting to mod. Also include the person doing the work, how long it took to get back to you, and craftmanship of the modded unit.Thanks
Baileyincanberra, from what I know, the DV8400 is a Pioneer DV563 in Marantz box. The crystal is located on the DSP board, bottom side. It does not look like a crystal, it looks like a small SOIC case surface mount IC.
You must have a verified phone number and physical address in order to post in the Audiogon Forums. Please return to Audiogon.com and complete this step. If you have any questions please contact Support.