General Forum

Re: Questions about the Wisdom of Repairing a B&O System in Manhattan

Peter — Tue, 13 May 2008 07:53:09 GMT

If I wanted the best sounding system, the Beolab 6000 and dare I say it 8000 would not be on the top of my list. The newer speakers - the Beolab 9 and obviously 5 are simply far better. However the older box speakers with a good amplifier are also capable of showing the column speakers a clean pair of heels. The S75s you have have plenty of real bass and paired with either a Beomaster 2200 or 4400 would IMHO be preferable to either of the 6000 and 8000. If you can find a pair in the US ( and I imagine they sold reasonably well there) M100s or MS150s, although large, sound fantastic. I need to set up a comparison of 9s and M100s and a Beomaster 4400 to see which sound better! My money would be on the M100s!

Re: Questions about the Wisdom of Repairing a B&O System in Manhattan

Donald — Mon, 12 May 2008 19:26:34 GMT

Hi Peter: Many thanks for your response to my problem with regard to repairing my old B&O system. I have taken your advice and have decided to let the authorized dealer proceed. I hope to have the system back by weekend or early next week.

I intend to keep this system which I have had for a long time as a back up. But I am actively trying to evaluate other systems that will bring me up to date. Recenly I have listened to Sonus Faber Cremona n's, B&O 5's and 9's, as well as a pair of Wilson speakers. In addition, the B&O repair place here has reconditioned equipment for sale--Beolab 6000 and 8000.

I spend a good deal of time listening to piano recordings and have an extensive lp collection. I feel it would be great to improve my listening pleasure. But it is difficult to evaluate these systems--the hype of the sales people, and the clash of different speakers one after the other compound the decision making. Initially I was quite impressed with the Sonus Faber, but I have not made a firm decision yet. And then there is the possiblity of buying high end reconditioned equipment from the authorized B&O dealer.

In any case, if you (or any other B&O enthusiasts) have any further advice for me with regard to my adventure with evaluating these options, I would be glad to have it. Meanwhile, my thanks again for your earlier comments. Donald

Re: Questions about the Wisdom of Repairing a B&O System in Manhattan

Peter — Sat, 03 May 2008 02:33:39 GMT

The speakers should not be a problem to fix - what is the issue? The Beomaster is not one for the faint hearted - I imagine that you are having problems with volume control or similar. The problem with getting another one is that they all are starting to have similar faults. You have just the same system that I had for years - I still have the 4004. I would get it fixed properly and it should last for years to come. A change of capacitors and bulbs should let it perform for another 25 years. It may cost a bit, but you know the history of yours and it is almost impossible to buy a perfect one. I agree you will pay more than it is 'worth' if you sell it, but you are not selling it! I have many items which have ben restored professionally for far more than they are worth, but they give me much pleasure.

Re: Questions about the Wisdom of Repairing a B&O System in Manhattan

mediabobny — Sat, 03 May 2008 01:25:16 GMT

I've "been there" (metaphorically and literally). You'll find it's often not economical to repair a piece of old B&O gear - it could easily cost more than the piece is worth. When this happens you might consider buying a replacement on eBay or Craigslist and selling yours on eBay as an item in need of repair. Much cheaper that way. Just make sure the seller is reputable so you don't get stuck with another broken item. The alternative would be to ship your item to another repair center. I've never done this tho. Good luck.

Questions about the Wisdom of Repairing a B&O System in Manhattan

Donald — Thu, 01 May 2008 05:08:48 GMT

New Developments: I am now having trouble with my 2400 and possibly the speakers. I am having to make some difficult decisions about repair in the New York city area with only one B&O repair place easily available. I wonder if there is someone in the NY City area who is a B&O afficionado and a lot more technical than I am. My system componenets are Beomaster 2400, Beogram 4004 and Beovox 575. I sure could use some good advice at this point before I spend a lot of money fixing up my system. Any local help or advice in Manhattan would sure be appreciated. Donald