I can't say my gear has original parts, but virtually all maintenance I've done is preventive. I have tube amps ranging from 60- 70 years old, a tube preamp (SP3a1) that is 50 years old, and also have CD players that I bought in the 80s that are still working fine without any updates (but probably need them). A solid state power amp from 1974 that, when adjusted for today's dollar value, cost $8500. Also have newer tube gear from the turn of the century that is still original, and when I see/hear signs that it's time for a bit of updating, I'll do it. As for gear purchased new in the past 5-10 years, only one failure, and it was a cheap DAC under warranty. Based on all I've just said, the answer to your question is very clearly no.
How long should components last?
About 7 or 8 years ago I bought two tube components. A cd transport and DAC.
About $4,500 each back then so who knows how much they would cost today.
After 5 years ago they started breaking down. The transformer failed in the DAC and as the european manufacturer had discontinued the component it had to be made from scratch in Italy. Of course it took months to get it made and sent to the US where the component had to be repaired. The Dac had to be repaired twice since then. I finally said enough and bought another brand.
Same with the transport. After 5 years continuous problems.
They sounded great and certainly looked the cost. But I had the impression that they were like German luxury cars with a perfectly timed obsolescence. After which you have to buy another one or they turn into a money pit.
Unfortunate because when they worked they were wonderful.
I can't name the brand because I'm sure the thread will be removed.
Has anybody else had this problem? For such expensive components I thought they would last longer and would not turn into such a problem when they needed to be repaired. Is this normal?
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- 48 posts total
- 48 posts total