2. amps-preamps
  3. 194404-186297

I think I have an amp problem

In the last day or so I’ve noticed an oddity that I think is an amp issue. I run a Plinius 8200 integrated amp bought in 2001 and every so often the sound loses its edge and clarity and seems to “step back” toward the front wall (behind the speakers). Sometimes it comes back toward the listener within a couple of minutes or even 5-10 seconds. Sometimes it almost seems like an imaginary speaker in the center is slowly turning - so I get the full force of the music only when the “speaker” faces me and the diminished sound as it turns away. When it happen ns I lose the fullness of sound, the life of the music. It happens on LPs and hi-def streaming but haven’t noticed it in CD - and I’ve been unable to make it happen on demand. Sorry if this explanation is clumsy — any insight appreciated. Know what this is? Cause? Anyone else experience it? Any way to fix it? Thanks

aheydorn
aewarren
727 posts
 

Have you made any changes to your system lately that may have an associated effect? If so, check he polarity of your cables, especially your speaker cables. If not, I would borrow another integrated to install and compare. Good luck!

petaluman
195 posts
 

zlone +1

If it's really input-specific and occurring on more than 1 source, start with the source control knob.  Cables are less likely to be the issue, for the same reason, but it's possible that multiple sets are failing.

If that doesn't solve the problem: the phono section takes a different path to the power amp circuit.  However, you could try switching the cables between the CD and streamer and preamp to see if the problem follows the cables or stays on the same source setting.

 

blackbag20's avatar
blackbag20
583 posts
 

I would not play it until I was sure what the issues are ... that is a great amp!

yoyoyaya's avatar
yoyoyaya
945 posts
 

@OP Given the age of the amp it is most likely to be a power supply problem. The effect you describe sounds as if the phase of the signal is being temporarily affected which could possibly be a power drop on the supply rail on one bank of push pull transistors. The nature of the problem and the age of the amp would suggest an immediate trip to a technician. A problem of that nature is only likely to get worse with worse consequences for the amp - and for your speakers if the amp goes DC.

aheydorn OP
23 posts
 

Thanks for all your insights, much appreciated. An FYI update: The same problem finally occurred when playing a CD - so the amp is now disconnected and will be taken to a tech tomorrow. I’m a little leery if invest too much money into a 24-yr-old piece of equipment but let’s see what the tech has to say. I really like the amp (and don’t want to buy a new one unless I have to). I will report back - thanks again, I appreciate this forum.

More to discover