Thule amplifier; Repair or buy a new one ?

[nicewithice]

3 days ago my Thule amplifier gave up, in the morning I wanted to switch it on, but it only worked after 5 or 6 times switching it on and off with the back switch. On the front panel switch there is no more reaction. You can switch it off there but I do not hear the relay clicking anymore.
Now today there is no more possibility at all to hear any sound.
So my question to the forum is should I get the amplifier to the store, or buy a new one ? I was happy so far, but I can understand that after 15 years some new better sounding stuff must be available ?
Thanks !
Greetings
NWI

[excitable]

I would say call the shop and tell them what it is doing, the tech might have an idea of what is causing the problem.
ask him what the cost of a diagnostic would be then get the quote.
go from there .. might be a easy cheap fix.
if its not then source out replacement amps see if its a better idea to replace it or just fix.

[Nanook]

nicewithice: I'd suggest fixing it (or have an estimate done). Hopefully the shop where you take it doesn't sell audio gear, as this is sometimes used as a reason for a new sale.

Based on what you are saying there are most likely 1 or 2 issues:

• the "power inlet" module (the one that has the power button and often a fuse in it) is broken or the fuse is burnt
• the front panel switch is burnt or the relay is burnt

It would seem to me to check the fuse(s) first. I'm sure you can manage that. If burnt, replace with the same type and rating, (for example: "slow blow" type , XXX VAC as indicated on the amplifier). If that doesn't help take it in for an repair estimate. Not trying to suggest you shouldn't buy a new amp if that's what you would like to do, but the Thule amps have always seemed to be regarded quite highly in Europe, and if you like the sound, you may be hard pressed to find it for the cost of a relatively inexpensive repair.

[nicewithice]

Thanks already for the answers. I am living on a small Greek Island, I am not sure yet if I will find someone with knowledge of electronics. I am also worried about the way they will handle it. The amp is 15 years old but looks like new. Not a single scratch or dent on my baby...

[nicewithice]

Originally Posted by Nanook

It would seem to me to check the fuse(s) first. .

Good idea, but sometimes there is still sound for 2 or 3 seconds.... I think if a fuse is gone he should be completely quiet ???

[Tazzz]

Sounds like a protection circuit is kicking in, leave the amp turned off for now . What is the model name of the amp ?

[nicewithice]

Spirit IA150B