How to fix the Audio Research D-110 modules

[kings]

Hi All,

I have a Audio Research D-110 and confirmed the Left Channel modules are non-function. Does anyone can tell me where I can buy the modules? Or simply how can I fix them?

Thanks
Matthew

[mtubes]

I got the same problem in two amplifiers, I will try to use solvent to remove the resin and see whats inside. maybe its the only way..

[kstagger]

let us know - based on the ARC D-100 schematic, they look like op-amps. But I would like some visual proof.

[mtubes]

yeah, could be, old style amp ops or a big amp op made by transistors (like old mark levinson sealed modules). I got the solvent, tomorrow I will put it into the solvent.

[kstagger]

Due to the size, I'm hoping they're 'discrete' op-amps instead of integrated. Very curious since I have an old ARC SP-7 preamp and D-52B amplifier in my second system right now.

[Nrik]

So... what was inside?

[audiofan]

Can you tell me what solvent you are using ??

I read a few weeks ago that heated prestone should work, but I am afraid it will smell awful, be toxic and be a mess ......

[kevinahcc20]

Be very careful with heating straight ethylene glycol (Prestone) as it is quite flammable and could burn if splashed on a stove burner.

[mtubes]

I used some paint´s thinner, R110 it´s the name. It is like light oil, but very strong and smell hard, but nice in the few seconds, I recommend to use dust mask with smelling filters. INSIDE? an array made by transistors, low noise I guess, maybe two fets, need to be sure, since no label or letters over devices, erased by AR people, looks like an op amp array, very similar to the mark levinson modules, I will work on schematic and the share with all you guys. One of my freinds told me he found an old round octal op amp in one o those modules , but I am not sure if it is a real AR module.
Anyway, I will try to replace the circuit by the LM4562 very very nice quality OP AMP used in many hi end brands as a secret weapon, limited only by supply voltage for this case.

[Nrik]

I really wish you would repair the original circuit.
When I was younger I also felt the desire to improve almost everything. But with time I found out, that when it comes to "classic" and famous stuff, I have found much higher pleasure by rapairing the stuff true to the original circuit.

Yes a technical 'improvement' is definitely possible, both for old stuff like this an also newer stuff, but you loose the charm, the originality, the uniqeness of the gear.
Think of it like having a vintage Mercedes with a broken engine, and then repairing it with an new Opel engine. The new engine might be technically superior...but not as charming and original as the old one.

Just my view - disregard it if you disagree mtubes - but we are still curious to see the geniousness of the original gain module.
:-)