2. amps-preamps
  3. 126737-88770

Tube amp sitting unused for a long time

 I'm considering an estate sale Scott 299 that has sat unused for  long time- possibly several years. The seller claims not to have powered it up so it is 'as-is'. I don't work on electronics myself so perhaps I should pass and pay more for one that is tested and working.But the price is tempting.
1.  Can I power it up or should I take it to a tech who I assume will use a Variac?
2.  Should I expect degraded  sound quality and performance because the amp from lack of use? I heard the capacitors need to 're-form' and this can take several hours or days. True?
3. What  should I budget $$ for labor and expenses- ball-park?

 I have such find memories of the warm sound of tube amps and wan tot get back into them

Thank you!


128x128bombayboy

Showing 1 response by dill

dill
2,422 posts
 
This is a very nice amp and should NOT be turned on without a variac. I had one, enjoyed it very much and is worth having a tech go though it. A parts unit recently sold on eBay for $250.00 and a nice one $995.00. I suggest you buy it and contact Pat @ Classic Tube Audio for a checkup and cap replacement. I think I paid $180.00 or so for his services, well worth it.

http://classictubeaudio.com/
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