I found a pair of these for sale. Dirty, corroded, and untested, the seller wants $4000 for the pair.
In addition to cleaning, it would need re-capping, new sockets(?), new tubes,... All of which I can do myself.
Are transformer failures very common with these? Any other concerns with this model?
It looks like clean, known working units sell for $4k/pr, maybe $5k/pr if they've been rebuilt/serviced.
What would be a reasonable offer given the condition and untested?
In addition to cleaning, it would need re-capping, new sockets(?), new tubes,... All of which I can do myself.
Are transformer failures very common with these? Any other concerns with this model?
It looks like clean, known working units sell for $4k/pr, maybe $5k/pr if they've been rebuilt/serviced.
What would be a reasonable offer given the condition and untested?
They're rough-looking, seen some moisture, but the transformers are pretty robust. Definitely a recap. I would leave the sockets in place with a good cleaning. Given that they're untested, I wouldn't pay more than $2.5K. They'll require some work and if you have a bad transformer, it'll be pricey to rewind.
You can strip the transformers and parts onto a new reproduction chassis sold on eBay from Korea. I did something similar to a pair of MC30s for a friend. So you do have to factor in the cost and time of doing a project like that in order to deduct from your calculated offer. The transformers are potted so they are less likely to be affected by moisture but there's still risk involved. You can pull the rectifiers out and just turn them on with a variac, if it's available, so at least you know the power transformers are fine. Don't worry about the diodes inside as you will replace them anyway.
If you want them, buy them, you'll need to rebuild them but when you're done they will be virtually unbeatable.
They'll be a reference benchmark.
If your DIY stuff makes better power bandwidth and lower distortion and sound better, you'll have built a damn fine amp.
If it doesn't you can still aspire to best the McIntosh while listening to the McIntosh.
These are keepers, check the transformers then pay the man.
They'll be a reference benchmark.
If your DIY stuff makes better power bandwidth and lower distortion and sound better, you'll have built a damn fine amp.
If it doesn't you can still aspire to best the McIntosh while listening to the McIntosh.
These are keepers, check the transformers then pay the man.
