2. amps-preamps
  3. 155376-94383

Power Amplifier Longevity

Hi All, 
I am venturing into the separate component world and was wondering how long a good power amp typically lasts.  I may have access to some older Lexicon CX and LX series amplifiers.  However, since they are discontinued and nearly 20 years old from what I understand, should I be concerned with how much longer they will last?  If they do need servicing, is this something that is available at a reasonable cost?  Or should I invest in newer equipment?

Budget is a concern for me which is why I am interested in these older (higher quality) amps at a reduced price versus spending the same amount on something newer, but lower quality.

At this time, I have a Marantz AV8802A and Vienna Acoustics speakers. 
Main L/R - Mozart Grand
Center - Maestro Grand
4 Surrounds - Waltz Grand

I thank you in advance for any advice provided on this subject.
Brian


brianb339

Showing 4 responses by atmasphere

atmasphere's avatar
atmasphere
11,575 posts
 
@cakyol  , @heaudio123 is correct about the can size of capacitors.


It is also prudent to follow military derating curves when selecting a filter capacitor for a power supply. This puts the voltage at which the power supply is operating to be about 70-80% of the voltage rating of the capacitor. This insures the longest life of the part. Its also worth noting that the capacitor will run longer if it is charged up fairly frequently; putting the device in storage for extended periods isn't good for electrolytic capacitors. 
atmasphere's avatar
atmasphere
11,575 posts
 
As for inrush current limiters, MOST devices sold today do **NOT** have such current limiters.
All of our equipment has had current inrush limiters installed, going back 45 years. We did this to protect the AC power switches and over the years its worked out pretty well.
atmasphere's avatar
atmasphere
11,575 posts
 
The quality of the capacitors used can have a big effect on the longevity. Cheaper caps are maybe 20 years or so (I call it a 'half life' but what I mean by that is half of them that old have failed by that time). Better quality means that your half life is more like 30 years. So it is prudent to consider filter cap replacement in any electronics if they are older than 30 years! 
atmasphere's avatar
atmasphere
11,575 posts
 
The same length of time as stuff that isn't separates!
More to discover