New Variac for Joule Electra Amps


I have a pair of Joule Electra VZN-160 amps and have been using them happily for the last six years. They use a single outboard variac for voltage regulation. I how have a problem where something inside (the core) is glowing and a burning smell starts to manifest.

I'm able to send it in to their out-of-warranty repair facility for a likely core replacement (likely $500ish or more) though it will take ten weeks before it ships back.

Has anyone got other ideas on how to fix this issue? Is there any after-market variac that would work, or could I just somehow get a new one?

Thanks in advance for any suggestions.
128x128outlier
I believe that Jud is no longer handling day-to-day activities for the business, but Simon Thatcher seems to be involved in the business and managing communications in a timely manner when I reached out to the Joule email alias.
Outlier,

Sorry to be the bearer of sad news here, but our friend, Simon Thatcher has recently passed away. Simon, a brilliant, kind and humorous lover of music and audio will be greatly missed. Besides his technical writings, Simon consulted on the development of many great audio products with companies such as Spectron, Joule Electra and Stillpoints. He was also for many years an active participant in his local audio club, the Philadelphia Area Audio Group.

R.I.P. Simon.

Spencer
Spencer,
Am sorry to hear that sad news. My thoughts are with him and his family.

Best,
John