Hi
I have an old Arcam Alpha One that has been crackly on one channel for a while when adjusting the volume. I understand this is a common problem. I've seen threads about replacing the potentiometer for other models but is it possible for the Alpha 1? I can't see parts listed for it, but it's old so that's no surprise. I have yet to strip it down, but if no replacement parts are available there does not seem much point in spending time on it.
Thank you for any advice given.
Pete
I have an old Arcam Alpha One that has been crackly on one channel for a while when adjusting the volume. I understand this is a common problem. I've seen threads about replacing the potentiometer for other models but is it possible for the Alpha 1? I can't see parts listed for it, but it's old so that's no surprise. I have yet to strip it down, but if no replacement parts are available there does not seem much point in spending time on it.
Thank you for any advice given.
Pete
The markings would suggest a 20 k (20 kilohm) stereo volume pot. It may be a daunting task for you to source and fit a direct electrical and physical replacement.
i would spray contact cleaner into any accessible gaps in the cylindrical housing of the pot then rotate the control shaft back and forth many times. This may, or may not, provide a long term solution.
i would spray contact cleaner into any accessible gaps in the cylindrical housing of the pot then rotate the control shaft back and forth many times. This may, or may not, provide a long term solution.
hi
These potentiometers are of very poor quality, it would be good to replace them with waterproof models such as sfernice or even ALPS! Because the combination of track wear and exposure to external contaminants can only aggravate the phenomenon! Admittedly, cleaning with contact spray temporarily improved the situation, but it is only a last resort!
These potentiometers are of very poor quality, it would be good to replace them with waterproof models such as sfernice or even ALPS! Because the combination of track wear and exposure to external contaminants can only aggravate the phenomenon! Admittedly, cleaning with contact spray temporarily improved the situation, but it is only a last resort!
I replaced one on an Alpha 2 a little over a year ago. Easy to find. Only cost a few bucks. I don't remember where I bought it, though. Just ask Barney Google to find a 20K Alps BX2 audio taper stereo potentiometer.
Hi Everyone
The only 20k log pot I can see using Google are these https://uk.farnell.com/alps/strk27102/potentiometer-20k/dp/1191722 Not checked whether physically they are compatible, but that seems more expensive than I expected? Are there any other alternatives in the UK?
Thank you again.
The only 20k log pot I can see using Google are these https://uk.farnell.com/alps/strk27102/potentiometer-20k/dp/1191722 Not checked whether physically they are compatible, but that seems more expensive than I expected? Are there any other alternatives in the UK?
Thank you again.
hi
This is unfortunately the price to pay for quality, because indeed you can find much cheaper but the same causes producing the same effects the problems you encountered with poor quality parts will inevitably recur.
This is unfortunately the price to pay for quality, because indeed you can find much cheaper but the same causes producing the same effects the problems you encountered with poor quality parts will inevitably recur.
It will make little difference in your application to use the more common 50k instead of the 20k.
For example: https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/18532170...mg8HToFCYLXku4CtdBvC|ampid:PL_CLK|clp:2047675
However, physical compatability is not assured.
I've used 47K dual logarithmic conductive plastic pots in these amps without issue. Technically this makes the input noise a bit worse but you really wont notice.
Yes, I don't think changing to a 50k would have any audible effect in your application - as is the consensus here:
https://www.diyaudio.com/community/threads/50k-volume-pot-in-place-of-a-20k-volume-pot.225889/
Finding one that fits in all aspects will be the difficulty, or you will have some fettling to do!
I still say start with the contact cleaner, as you've nothing to lose. It has worked 'permanently' on my 1960/70s vintage amplifiers!
https://www.diyaudio.com/community/threads/50k-volume-pot-in-place-of-a-20k-volume-pot.225889/
Finding one that fits in all aspects will be the difficulty, or you will have some fettling to do!
I still say start with the contact cleaner, as you've nothing to lose. It has worked 'permanently' on my 1960/70s vintage amplifiers!
Although I hate to through things away when they can be repaired, if a decent replacement pot is nearly £30 I'm wondering whether the Arcam one is worth it?
I use it mainly with my CD player a Pioneer PD S9004 and until recently some largish speakers that were a DIY kit back in 1987 costing around £150. The speakers are physically a bit battered though so I have picked up some smaller Wharfedale Diamond 9.1s. My amp has lost a channel before I can really assess the sound. I think my original setup was detailed, a little warm and with good bass. I rarely played it loud being in a room roughly 4m x 4m.
I've seen working a Arcam Alpha 5 for £45. An Alpha 8R for £110. I've also seen posts of people who have swapped to other amps like a Marantz PM6004 and have felt it a better amp. I'm on a budget as always, so just wondering what people think?
I use it mainly with my CD player a Pioneer PD S9004 and until recently some largish speakers that were a DIY kit back in 1987 costing around £150. The speakers are physically a bit battered though so I have picked up some smaller Wharfedale Diamond 9.1s. My amp has lost a channel before I can really assess the sound. I think my original setup was detailed, a little warm and with good bass. I rarely played it loud being in a room roughly 4m x 4m.
I've seen working a Arcam Alpha 5 for £45. An Alpha 8R for £110. I've also seen posts of people who have swapped to other amps like a Marantz PM6004 and have felt it a better amp. I'm on a budget as always, so just wondering what people think?
P.S. Buying a "working" second hand amp without first auditioning it can result in one ending up with an amplifier with undeclared faults - like a scratchy volume control for instance!
Buyer beware!
Buyer beware!
Hi and thank you, I did not see your replies earlier as I had not refreshed the page!
Do you mean your Arcam Alpha One has progressed from crackly on one channel to dead on one channel? 😕