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Manley Chinook

In Dec 2015 I purchased a Manley Chinook SE from Upscale Audio.  The box I received and serial number stated a SE version but it was actually the standard version.  Kevin D. asked if I wanted to return for the SE model and we agreed that he would send me the Philips PCC88 tubes instead.  This weekend when I went to the room for a listening session once I powered up the Chinook a loud hum persisted.  I checked all connections and they were good.  Changed the tubes - still hummed.  Changed the ICs - still hummed.  Moved to another audio setup - still hummed.  But, after being on for about 30 minutes the hum lessened but a scratchy/crackly sound could be heard in the background.  Yesterday I sent it back to Manley for diagnosis.  I estimate there is less than 20 hrs use.  When I bought this unit I did my research and felt that this would be a workhorse with no problems.  Has anyone else experienced this type of phenomena with the Chinook.  I have hooked my VPI TT back up to my onboard phono stage on my McIntosh C2300; as good as the Mc is I miss the Chinook.
miner42
miner42 OP
698 posts
 
Got my Chinook back.  Service tech said noisy Philips PCC88 tubes were part of the issue.  The tubes were an upgrade for the SE version from Upscale.  They will be replaced by quieter tubes.  A PCB was replace along with 2 capacitors.  Put unit back into the system and it sounded like it should BUT now the Manley logo back lights do not work.  Manley will be sending me the light PCB to install myself.  Guys have been pretty forthcoming on what was done yet they did not send me a tracking number when unit was shipped.  I called to check on the unit and was told it was shipped 3 days ago - it showed up in my office that afternoon.  Would I buy from Manley again - yes.  I understand that stuff happends and Manley did back up their product even though it was only 4 mons old.  Now, back to enjoying the sounds of vinyl.
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asp307
158 posts
 
Glad it's resolved @m
tablejockey
743 posts
 
"Put unit back into the system and it sounded like it should BUT now the Manley logo back lights do not work. Manley will be sending me the light PCB to install myself."

Funny you mention the front light not working.
I recently auditioned the Chinook SE to see if it would be an upgrade or lateral move against my tubed phono(Fosgate V.2 now out of production)

The "Manley" billboard on the front panel IMO, is WAY TOO BRIGHT, therefore distracting. It was the first thing to catch my attention as soon as it lit up! If I owned that unit, it would be the first thing I disconnect.

Otherwise, I enjoyed the Chinook. Support AFTER shelling out your hard earned cash is extremely important. It sounds like Manley did the right things for you.

I say this because I sent my 2 year old Foz back to the distributor 2 weeks ago and unfortunately, they have to send it to their repair guys resulting in extended 
down time, AND I may be faced with opening my wallet for the repair bill AND shipping! Meanwhile, I'm listening with a $120 backup. 


miner42 OP
698 posts
 
I admit that Manley has done a stellar job with the service - but these two issues early on in the life of the unit has me perplexed.  Sure, I am covered for five years but what else might I be looking at down the road.  My confidence has waned a bit but I am really enjoying having the stage back in the system.  My backup MC stage is my onboard stage on my McIntosh C2300 preamp.  Not a bad backup piece to have I might add.
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