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My Amp is Broken - Not Sure What to Do - Any Recommendations?

I went to turn on my Audio Research SD135 amplifier the other day, but it will not turn on. According to the Audio Research service technician I spoke to, the problem is a broken Thermal Trak module chip. He said that it is a temperature sensing component, and that replacements are no longer being manufactured. He said that it is a known problem, and that Audio Research will give me credit to purchase an Audio Research amplifier from an Audio Research authorized dealer. 

I was wondering if Audio Research makes anything powerful enough to drive Vandersteen 3A Signature speakers (which need between 100 - 200 watts of power)? I am using an Audio Research SP8 Mk II as a pre-amp.

I don't really have much of a budget and am not sure what to do. I would appreciate any advice. Thank you.
distortions
georgehifi's avatar
georgehifi
4,966 posts
 
grannyring4,348 posts10-14-2018 1:28pmA good tech/modifier could fix this amp. You simply need a new way of handling the protection circuit in your amp. No way your amp is now trash. Are you near any good tube amp builders or techs?
+1
This is AR b***s**t, of course this can be repaired by a competent tech in an alternative way. AR just want you to buy a new one. As grannyring said find a competent tech and get it fixed.

Cheers George 
johnchristian's avatar
johnchristian
5 posts
 
Contact Jeff Jackson at lktrnx@gmail.com. He's a great guy and will give you the straight scoop on realistic options. 

Good luck! 
johnsonwu
410 posts
 
Here’s the problem with ThermalTrak devices that supposedly was solve by Ayre but not AR https://www.stereophile.com/solidpoweramps/407ayre/index.html
ON Semi only made 1 set of thermaltraks, and yes I just confirmed that Mouser has them in stock.
By the way the SD135s are only 10 years old.

bigboltz
48 posts
 
Whatever you decide, I recommend you look into a Vandy sub(or two).  Besides sounding awesome with musical bass, they will allow your speakers to be hi- passed which offloads the bass responsibility from your amp. Believe it or not, your Vandies will sound better top to bottom, not just in the bass.   The 2w’s can be found for pretty cheap
kahlenz
168 posts
 
Look in the Yellow Pages and you will find dozens of competent amp techs down the street from you willing to work for $25.00/hr.  Or buy a new amp.
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