2. amps-preamps
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is buying used Mcintosh equipment online bad idea?

was trying to build system like my college buddies had 35 years ago, and bought a MA-6200 that has static in one channel that the local dealer cannot isolate now. Fixed it once, but one loud listening session, and it started humming loudly, and the speaker overload lights came on. Turned it off and when I tried it again, the static was back in same channel but worse.

Tried to buy a used 2100 and bypass the power amp, but regardless of gain settings, the sound is distorted at anything above talking level volume with this amp. Changed out audio source, preamp, cables, speaker wires, and distortion remains. Returning it for refund. Have I done anything wrong in setting this up?

Live <2 hours from Austin, and may try taking the MA-6200 in to a vintage stereo shop there. I run a pair of Klipsch original Heresy that were late model, but are over 25 years old. Not a lot of heavy use on them, and have not tried swapping them out.

Is all this old McIntosh equipment probably in need of having a full test and update before buying them, or at least a listen to them? Just found this website, so I did not buy this stuff here.
blackwbg
joekapahulu
249 posts
 
I have bought multiple McIntosh online from private buyers on EBay and Agon. I ship them to Terry DeWickfor a going over before shipping to Hawaii I where I live.I have had good luck. I buy from experienced sellers with track records to protect. Otherwise, I avoid sellers who don't have extensive history or knowledge on audio. The good ones are easy to spot.They often have had the piece inspected and fixed to get a good price. If I was in a hurry to buy I would go to Audio Classics or Terry DeWicks used page. Both of these are good sources with grading systems, fair prices and reputations to protect. McIntosh themselves refer people to both sources and they work with each other too. For your device, the closest Mac expert I know to TX is called Audio Dr in Phoenix AZ. He is online and does good work for fair prices. Probably folks in TX too but I don't know them.
Ag insider logo xs@2x
tonykay
1,301 posts
 
Theo,

Thanks for the tip on using softer feet. I suspected the power supply all along but never did anything about it. I'll try the softer feet.
rodman99999
6,132 posts
 
Doesn't matter how one comes across vintage equipment; it should be expected that the electrolytic capacitors will need to be replaced. Even new/unused electrolytics, sitting on a shelf for any length of time, dry out and degrade. Some info: (http://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc3104/m2/1/high_res_d/thesis.pdf) There are a variety of symptoms, caused by bad caps(especially the power supply filter caps), and hum/buzz are usually prevalent.
minorl
1,016 posts
 
Dirt in the volume and/or balance controls, time worn solder joints that are loose, failing capacitors, loose connections, etc. You name it. Older equipment may have these issues. It has nothing at all as to whether it is Mac, or any other brand. Sometimes you can spray electrical cleaner in the volume/balance pots, (with the unit unplugged) and turn the controls many times back and forth while spraying and this may clear up the noise issue. You can tell if this is the problem by turning the volume/balance control and if the noise follows the control adjustment, that is typically it. If not, sometimes a complete resolder of all internal circuit board connections is required, as cold solder joint has presented itself. Nice vintage equipment is definitely worth this effort. Some of the older Mac, JVC, Sansui, Pioneer, etc. equipment many with the solid wood cabinets are worth it definitely.

enjoy
corazon
210 posts
 
Locally, If you haven't sent for repair yet, I found Mike at Austin Stereo on Burnet fair, knowledgeable. Worked a couple Scott 299 amps for me.

Another very good tech is Mike Samra at Audio Asylum. While he works on most any vintage equipment he especially likes Mac and HK Citation 2. He utilizes lot of the McShane upgrades.

Currently working on a Sansui 1000 for me.

Best,

Dave
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