2. amps-preamps
  3. 128610-74485

Recap my ailing Forte 4a?

Any advice on whether I ought to upgrade my Forte rather than identify a newer design as a replacement? The rebuild will run me around $850 with shipping costs. I was considering a used Classe but it would be at least twice the price. My 25yr old Bryston 2B, which has been temporarily pressed into service, just doesn’t cut it.
kebslew
lak's avatar
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lak
4,682 posts
 
The  Forte 4a still is a great little amp, I wish I still had mine.
I'd get it fixed!

dill
2,543 posts
 
I had that amp once and other Pass amps too. I would have it rebuilt. The 4a was made from 1988-1991. It was a great sounding amp back then, still has a following and with a rebuild, a better amp to last another 25+ years.
charles1dad's avatar
charles1dad
10,250 posts
 

Kebslew,

I think the suggestion to listen to some class D amplifiers is a good idea, just listen and see what you think. If you feel the Forte is better sounding (and it could be) change the capacitors and enjoy this amp for many more years. Pure class A done right is still hard to beat (sonically speaking) and has stood the test of time.

Charles

jmcgrogan2's avatar
jmcgrogan2
6,346 posts
 
Oh alright, I'll admit it, your Forte 4a is a classic amp. Getting it recapped, even for $850, would still sound better than anything else you could get for under a couple of grand.
$850 seems a bit steep to recap though. You could probably do it yourself for less than half that price. If I recall, you are just replacing the 4 large power supply caps, right?
kebslew OP
2 posts
 
Firstly, let me say a big "thanks" to all who have responded. 
Secondly, I should add that the 850 is for more than just a recap. It's the price for a Jon Soderberg update that includes IXYS rectifiers and Cardas Binding Posts, plus my estimate for shipping costs both ways from here in Florida.
Admittedly I've yet to hear a class D amp that impresses me beyond the area of improved bass dynamics. Nor have I heard anything for near the current value of the Forte that has me very excited. So I will be going ahead (most likely) with the mod even though I may later decide to part with the amp.


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