Duntech repairs?


Hello, I just acquired an early pair of Marquis. The previous owner says they are all original but one driver is clearly different. I contacted Duntech and they said they had NOS Vifa recone kits but did not give me pricing and would only recommended I sell the old Marquis and buy the new Marquis model from them when released. I have asked for information (removal proceedure) to verify drivers and repair/recone pricing three times but they have not responded. Any advice from vintage Duntech or Dunlavy owners?
sugarshed
I would check with Vifa or someone like Madisound. I wouldn't do any business with a company that didn't support their own products. There are several DYI audio forums that might help.
Thanks, do you know if the drivers Duntech used were actually vifa? I read that some early models used dyn drivers. I unscrewed the mounting ring to remove and inspect a driver but it didn't budge and I was afraid to force anything. It is my understanding that the vifas Duntech did use are no longer produced and that vifa is not the same company it once was. I agree, why would I buy new product from a company that does not honor thier legacy? I was floored by thier recommendation as I would never sell speakers with unmatched drivers. I am not familiar with Madisound, do you have any experience with them?

I sold a pair a while back to a buddy who refinished them. You are right the original Marquis (PLC) were fitted with Dynaudio drivers. If I remember right it cost him about $300 a driver and they were very difficult to get.

However if you can fine a new set those speaker rock. They were one of the most revealing life like speaker I've ever heard. They were designed by the late great Mr. Dunlavy…

Good luck.

Tony
Yes, Madisound has been in business for years, I just received a pair of Scanspeak tweeters from them today. Give them a call and see if they can help. I am not an expert on Duntech except to know that they were a respected brand.
Hi Sugarshed. I happily owned a pair of Duntech Princess speakers for 19 years. They remain one of the most musically satisfying speakers I know of.

I had to replace two woofers (yes, Dynaudio) in mine following a DC pulse from a misbehaving amp. That was several years ago and at that time Dynaudio would only sell replacements to manufacturers, not individuals. I tried Madisound since they once sold Dynaudio drivers but they could not help. Eventually I got assistance through a manufacturer friend and found original replacements. Perhaps stories like mine are why you found a Vifa in your Marquis? I understood all woofers in the Duntech Classic line (not for Dunlavy Audio) were Dynaudio but I can't be certain.

As for removing your woofer, they are installed with an adhesive as well as screws to ensure they remain air-tight. After removing all the screws, use a wide blade screwdriver or stiff putty knife blade and gently work your way around the basket rim (use a stiff, thin object underneath to avoid pry marks). Pry just a little at a time and move along a few inches. That should work the speaker loose.

I'm very disappointed to hear of your response from Duntech. I believe they have new owners and that is no way to carry on the original reputation for customer support.