Weird Akai 1800l (valve) R2R issue

[mckaymckaymckay]

Hey guys,

Ive encountered a strange issue with my R2R last night...

When i first turn it on i get sound from both channels, which sounds great surprisingly. When i record i get sound from both channels too, nice and clear.

However, once i have set it to record, i lose the right channel on playback until i leave the unit switched off for a few hours, then it will come back.

I'm guessing it must have some form of switch to turn the playback section off while recording, and the right channel isnt switching back?

I've swapped the valves around, and changed the pre section for 12ax7, however it still suffers from this strange issue.

Any help appreciated. Its a fantastic unit for its age, so it would be good to get it working properly.

 

[JonSnell Electronic]

If you clean SW1 and SW2 then adjust screw F. That will probably cure your problem. Tarnished contacts are the normal problem. See page 9 of the service manual.

 

[mckaymckaymckay]

Great thanks, ill give that a shot tonight.

 

[mckaymckaymckay]

Thanks Jon, that was indeed the issue.

Unfortunately ive encountered a new one whereby the tension wire has snapped, so it looks like ill need to find a new one or manually switch when i want to record.

 

[JonSnell Electronic]

Go to a cycle shop and get some Bowden Cable. Cut it to size and there you are. Gear lever cable inner is about the right size.

 

[mckaymckaymckay]

Cool, sounds like just the job!