Paint Removal?

If its a real anodized alum. finish, shouldn't be damaged--anodizing is a physical change to the actual metal to oxidize it in a controlled manner. So, the finish isn't "applied"--its actually the metal itself, only harder. The problem might be that there is some overcoat on top of the anodization, like a clearcoat or something, that might be dulled. Highly second the "test in an unobtrusive area" suggestions...

I suggest that you call Cary (AES) and ask them about their gold silkscreening / painting process. You will certainly lose value should you ever decide to sell the preamp whether you get the gold lettering off cleanly or make a mess of it.

Maybe this pic doesn't do it justice, but it doesn't seem all that bad to me. You might want to wait a bit and see if you get used to it before your "surgery". Or maybe listen in the dark. :-) Bob

Playing any Holly Cole or Patricia Barber CD should remove any paint. The problem is that the sound is not localized and may remove the paint from your entire listening room.

There are paint remover spray which are absolutely non toxic. I used one by Saratoga to rip paint off a rega arm.

HTH,

Stefano

Don't forget that acetone, MEK, laqueer thinner are all HIGHLY volative/flammable and adsorbed thru the skin. Use w/good ventilation, gloves, and no open flames.