2. amps-preamps
  3. 1289231839

Does my Pass amp dislike my Meridian preamp?

My Meridian G68 (preamp/processor) has been acting up, and my Meridian dealer suggested that the symptoms might be caused by an interaction with my amp, a Pass Labs XA30.5. I have consulted with a trusted Audiogon member, who doubts this theory. So I would like some more input. Here are the symptoms:

1. Meridian G68 freezes up. Neither the remote nor the front panel buttons are responsive. Must be unplugged and plugged back in to work again.

2. After it freezes and I power it down, sometimes a loud “popping” noise is emitted by the speakers.

3. In August, the Meridian G68 stopped working altogether. It was repaired by Meridian America. They replaced the power button and the power supply. But now the symptoms are back.

Thoughts?
bryoncunningham
6550c
393 posts
 
Why? I had a Pass amp and one of the transformers got real buzzy right away. I would expect all more from something that expensive!
lrsky
1,118 posts
 
Parts fail, company reactions SHOULD NOT!

Call Pass Labs immediately and report their reaction to ALL OF US ON A'Gon!
Larry
bryoncunningham OP
890 posts
 
Larry - I have already contacted Pass. Their helpfulness, openness, and expertise has been nothing but exemplary. They are skeptical that the amp is causing the problem.

Short of sending the amp back to Pass to confirm that everything is working properly, does anyone know if there is anything I can do to test the amp myself?
ngjockey
1,042 posts
 
My first guess would be a PLC (programmable logic controller). Could be socket mounted but more likely replacing a board. Can be intermittent and difficult to track down.
lrsky
1,118 posts
 
Of course, something, must be passing through the analog level of the pre to the amp, to create a problem for the amplifier--why hasn't anyone else written this?
I normally just 'hide behind others' on things like this, HOWEVER, this is too easy.
The amp is faulty, or the pre is sending something at the analog output which is creating problems.
It's easy... send the pre and the amp back...see who's honest and helpful.
Larry
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