Old amplifiers restoration
Early 2001, a friend of mine discover this 2 frames. Knowing my interest for this kind of oldies, he gives to me. It's two Philips amps, 2844 model. Built for sound-systems purposes, with EL51 push-pull, power output 60W.
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No need great analysis to see the disaster! Tubes broken, spoiled transformers, rusty frames...
Despite of this, it's possible to test the two pieces, by using survival tubes.
First check:
Power transformers wear out, due to the moist: leakages problems between primary winding and the metallic cast. By using an insulation transformer, it's possible to supply. No smell, no smoke, no explosion of component!
A piece of chance: output and driving transformers are good, protected by the «under-the-hood» mounting. A few capacitors to replace, and it's OK! The final stages always working!
Schematics were useful, to find «the way» into the wiring... Thanks Henk!
And now?
What will I do with?
A complete restoration in the original state seems to be senseless. Re-use the valuable components is an idea growing into my mind...
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And, here's the idea: Using the output stages in original conception. Adding a new pre-amp section, and designing a new power supply. All will be mounted on a new frame, to built a new stereo block. With visible tubes, of course! It will be a pity to not enjoy the view of this beautiful EL51's! |
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The project begins...
To not create surprise or vain discussion:
This project is NOT and will NEVER be a High-Fidelity system!
Those amplifiers were designed for sound-systems; at the end of the 40's! No importance for me. My intention is to built an unique system, sounding like the first tube amps I heard when I was young...
A problem is to find missing components. By means of Internet and collectors associations, I found the tubes and special parts.
The main problem is the destruction of the power transformers. I'll have to re-wind one new...
The next steps of this construction will be published here, in a few pages... To be continued!
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Power supply |
Output stage |
Pre-amp |
Realization |
Adjustment |
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