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Originally Posted by dvw /img/forum/go_quote.gif
This looks like real old amp. The capacitor might most likely non working. The tubes are probably bad too.
This is indeed a stereo amp. Input 5 and 6 is going to the other channel. Also there are two output transformers at the amplifier.
I am not an expert. IMO, this is not worth working on. This looks like one of those integrated stereo system with speaker, amplifier, radio and turntable furniture. When I was growing up my dad used to have one. I think the only value is the antique value.
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The old can capacitor shown in the photo is likely bad. The old electrolytics don't hold up well and modern ones are much better and not expensive.
The tubes, however, are likely good. I've worked on lots of old radios over the years and, surprisingly, the tubes are almost always good. It's the filter capacitors (electrolytics) that bite the dust first. Then the old wax and paper capacitors open up and the carbon comp resistors drift like the sea.
When you replace all of those, you get surprisingly good sound from even a 60 year old set. My favorite place to find parts is
Antique Electronic Supply, which has been good to me over the years. I strongly suggest replacing all of the resistors. They're cheap, but it ups the labor. However, the old carbon comp ones are never in spec (check them with your DMM as you yank them) so modern ones really stabilize the sound.
I disagree. I do think this is worth fixing up. You can find everything you need at AES. You can even get new grille cloth for the speakers if you want.
I haven't always been impressed with vintage speakers, but you can upgrade. There are good, inexpensive, fullrange units at
Madisound. Be sure to check the specials. If you have a jigsaw, you can cut MDF to modify the internal size of those speakers to get the right size for the drivers you choose. MDF is dead cheap, and you might even be able to accomplish it with offcuts from Home Depot - they give them away.
So, get the amp working again. I think it's cool and would have absolutely picked it up, as well. If you want to take a shot at upgrading the speakers, you can do that, too. I think a pair of good quality fullrangers would sound terrific.