As a school boy I made my own electric guitar. The “Rod Special”.
After lying unused for several years, it’s come out of the cupboard. A bit of TLC is in order. Continue reading “Renovating the Rod Special Guitar”
Renovating the Rod Special Guitar
Fixing the Rod Special Guitar
Back in the 1970’s I made an electirc guitar which I was very proud of. Truth is, I’ve since acquired many other guitars so it’s been languishing in the back of a wardrobe not getting much love.
I had been treating it with some reverence, not daring to touch it for fear of losing originality but now it’s time for me to get over myself and re-visit my “Rod Special”. I’ll do what’s required to make it hold it’s own against my other guitars.
Technics SL-L1 Linear Tracking Turntable
I’ve always fancied the idea of a linear tracking turntable, but baulked at the cost and complexity.
I got his one in a sorry state. “It needs some attention” he said. It was cheap, and I was up for the challenge. So how did I get on ? Continue reading “Technics SL-L1 Linear Tracking Turntable”
Cyrus Tuner and a spare
I love FM radio, and I love my Cyrus Two amp. When I saw a Cyrus Tuner for sale on Facebook Market Place I had to have a closer look.
The price was right, and it was nearby, so a rendevous was arranged. Continue reading “Cyrus Tuner and a spare”
Twelve string guitar for price of four.
I’ve fancied getting a 12 string acoustic guitar for a while. I know it’s something I won’t use much, so I’m not going to throw money at it. Problem is that one worth having is likely to cost around £300.
Then, last month, I saw this for £55. Worth a punt? How bad can it be?
Rega Tonearm on Thorens TD160
It has been nearly two years now since I installed the stylus on my main turntable, so it’s time to chose a replacement cartridge.
There are also compelling reasons to consider replacing the arm too, as we shall see. Continue reading “Rega Tonearm on Thorens TD160”
Cyrus 8 Amplifier volume control repair
This Cyrus 8 integrated amplifier has developed a fault which renders it useless.
The sound is loud and distorted. Volume control is ineffective. It is bit modern for me, with all those Integrated circuits and suface mounted components. My comfort zone is the all analogue Cyrus Two. However, it belongs to my cousin Nick. He’s gutted! So, let’s see what we can do together to get it up and running. Continue reading “Cyrus 8 Amplifier volume control repair”
Cyrus PSX. Toroidal Transformer buzz.
I was delighted when I got a Cyrus Two amplifier and a PSX power supply to go with it. One of the finest combinations available in the 1980’s.
Sadly, when I set it up I became aware of an occasional mechanical buzz from the PSX transformer. It is located close to my sitting position, so I can’t ignore it. Something must be done. Continue reading “Cyrus PSX. Toroidal Transformer buzz.”
Cyrus PSX. A look inside
Cyrus have a novel approach to providing different power amplifiers in their range.
To upgrade the amp, you connect an external power supply to crank up the specification and performance. Continue reading “Cyrus PSX. A look inside”
Alphason Sonata Turntable won’t turn
This one was acquired by a relative for a very good price. Cosmetically and mechanically it looks to be in excellent condition.
These turntables have a reputation for fantastic performance. It is a 3 point spring suspended design. Those columns house the springs. The arm is made from exotic alloys and is very well engineered.
Unfortunately it does not turn. The motor control is via high voltage circuits and some of the wiring looks propper dodgy. One to take care and precautions with. Continue reading “Alphason Sonata Turntable won’t turn”