Vintage HiFi. Sounds great, looks cool, costs peanuts
Repairs and maintenance of audio equipment
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 money changed hands Continue reading “Cyrus Tuner and a spare”
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?
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”
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”
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.”
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”
My Thorens TD160 turntable came fitted with an Audio Dynamics Corporation ALT-1 Tonearm and a cartridge from the same manufacturer. The latter was toast, so I installed an Ortofon 2M Blue cartridge.
Under the close scrutiny which comes with installing a new cartridge it became clear that all was not well. Continue reading “ADC ALT-1 Tonearm on Thorens TD160”
This charity shop find has been restored to great working condition. Sadly, it ain’t pretty.
A hinge is broken, the lid is scratched, and the plinth has a couple of knocks. Continue reading “Thorens TD160 Turntable. Refurbishment”
This charity shop find is of unknown provenence. The TD160 mkII was current in the late 1970’s. This one looks like it’s been in storage for a while .
I’m assuming the worst and giving it a full service. There is a long list of things which need attention. Continue reading “Thorens TD160 Turntable. Service”
This was a charity shop find. Not cheap at £250. Could be a bargain? Or could be a money pit?
Let’s give it a good looking over. Continue reading “Thorens TD160 Turntable. Initial Impressions”