2. amps-preamps
  3. 176752-9088

Original Cary 300B Monos Reliability?

Anyone have long-term experience with the original Cary 300B monos (with the single 6SL7 tube)? I'm looking for feedback regarding reliability. I've read that the engineering choices made in the design should have the amps failing on a regular basis, along with eating tubes. 

Outside of a few DIY complaint/discussions, I haven't really seen this brought up as an issue.

I'm not concerned about the sound qualities or speaker compatibility as I have heard the combination before. Just looking to see if any of you have experiences to share regarding technical issues. I realize that these amps are now 28 years old, but they are point to point with basic parts. If the chosen values have worked for years, replacing defective caps/resistors should be straightforward.

Thanks for sharing!

leahy
charles1dad's avatar
charles1dad
10,250 posts
 

I’d certainly agree that it’s wise to check with the manufacturer regarding approved and compatible tubes for use in their amplifiers. If for Cary the W.E. 300b is the recommended or safer choice then so be it. By many indications it’s an excellent current production 300b.

The EML XLS has been nothing short of truly brilliant in my Coincident SET mono blocks. But surely better safe than sorry.

Charles 

leahy's avatar
leahy OP
80 posts
 

MW - sage advice. I’ll be ordering some WEs!

charles1dad's avatar
charles1dad
10,250 posts
 

@leahy 

I don’t believe that you can go wrong with that purchase. I’m interested in your listening impressions of the Western Electric 300b.

Charles

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