2. tech-talk
  3. 126494-73491

I need advice.

Background: I am a devoted music listener for over 50 years.  Most of my knowledge of technology is from the 70's.  
Objective: The best sound quality I can get from my system.
I have numerous amps, turntables and speakers.  The best of these is as follows:
My audio system;  Thorens TD 160 with Stanton 680EEE cartridge, Sansui AU 717, JBL L112
The Sansui (as far as I can tell) is untouched as far as any refurb is concerned. The overall quality of the audio as far as I can tell is good.  But it is what I listen to every day so I have no source for comparison. I have read that an amp that is 30+ years old is due for refurbishment (new caps, etc.).  I have been quoted $350 - 400 for a total refurbishment of the Sansui 717.  I would consider having this work done if it would make a noticeable improvement in the audio quality.  What  can I expect from such an investment?  I welcome any suggestions.
garywest
Ag insider logo xs@2x
islandmandan
1,260 posts
 
Gary,as far as I know, replacing caps can make a difference. The price quoted for the work is very reasonable, but I would inquire as what replacement caps are being used. You'll want make sure they are equivalent in quality to what came in the amp, or better.

Can you open the unit up? If you can inspect the caps, if there is any swelling, leaking, or discoloration, they'll need replacing.

Hopefully, someone with greater knowledge on the subject will chime in.

Best of luck,
Dan  
garywest OP
4 posts
 
I'll take a look inside.
Thanks Dan
don_c55
1,025 posts
 
Cap failures, can cause other components to fail.

30 years is a good, long life, without failure.

Your Sansui is living on borrowed time!

I would get the caps replaced, if you like the Sansui, or want to sell it.
ebm
9,311 posts
 
Time to dump the Sansui i had a receiver 45 yrs ago move on.
erik_squires
16,060 posts
 
Yeah, either sell the Sansui to some one who wants it, or re-cap it for reliability's sake alone.

A bad failure can cascade, even blowing speakers. :)

What about digital? In additin to high rez downloads there are awesome internet stations out there you are not listening to. :) There are a bunch of internet ready receivers out there.

Best,

Erik
More to discover