2. amps-preamps
  3. 189307-149900

Loud pop/screech when powering on amp

Hello All,

 

I have an Audio Refinement Multi 5. I just bought her used in pristine condition a couple months ago. I get a loud pop when I turn it on. But the last couple of days there's almost like a weird screeching sound right after the pop . Everything sounds. fine when I play music/movies, but I'm a little concerned if this is a bad sign. I'm also a little concerned if this is harming my speaks. I have had other amps that pop and I know this is normal. I always turn her on last and turn her off first and volume is always low when powering on and off. I only use the power button in the front when done for the night. I have not turned the main power button off since connecting her. I have a Shunyata power cable plugged directly into the wall on the amp. I have an Audioquest Powerquest 303, should I maybe try plugging the amp into that, would that help? I also did turn off the main power switch on the back this morning and will try when I get home to see if this helps when I power her up...

 

Thanks in advance for any advice...

 

Best Regards...

kingbr
noromance's avatar
noromance
9,475 posts
 

@bigkidz 

Any idea how I could contact bigkidz?

immatthewj
1,223 posts
 

I think bigkidz is based in New Jersey, isn't he?  That would almost be in road trip range from New Hampshire.

kingbr OP
269 posts
 

Thanks @noromance and indeed @immatthewj NJ is road trip from NH😊!

@bigkidz if you’re available any chance you’d be interested in a 5 channel amp checkup/repair?

 

 

jsalerno277
111 posts
 

I agree with @erik_squires  that is possibly a leaky cap and it should be looked at ASAP before DC damage to the unit or even speakers occurs. My experience has been progressive deterioration starting with some noticeable distortion to a pop during turning off and on, or intermittent during playing.   You state it is an older unit.  If it has never been recapped that is my best guest.  You can try The Service Department in CT.  They service many out of production high end electronics. However, your brand is not listed, they are pricey, and it may not be cost effective to use them.  In addition, their turnaround time is long since their flight pattern is full. They do excellent work.  I used them for recapping Krells before I traded them in.  They use higher quality parts than Krell and there was some improvement in SQ after they serviced them   

30 Unquowa Hill St.
Bridgeport CT.
06604-2149
203-331-0671
steven@theservicedepartmentCT.com

judsauce
115 posts
 

I used Steve at theservicedepartment to recap and fix a recall issue on an older Krell KAV 250 AMP.  He did a great job and is a super nice guy. The only thing is that he has a long wait list. And you'll probably pay at least what you spent on your amp for a recap/refurbish.

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