Hi all, found this forum whilst googling information about some of my gear. I literally spent my life savings in 1980 to by my first equipment in one hit. The only 3 pieces of this original kit still existing is my Sansui AU417 amp, a Denon DP-30L turntable and a pair of KEF 104ab's. The turntable is still as new and performs well. The KEFs suffered early on, as I believe they all did, with failed tweeters which were replaced under warrenty. They have given me no trouble since and are still in mint condition.
I am concerned about the Sansui amp though. Over the past few years I have found myself decreasing the base and ramping up the treble in an effort to make the sound a bit brighter. I have put this down to the fact that I have a measurable amount of industrial deafness, but have had friends recently comment that it sounds dull to them also. My googling has uncovered a number of sites and forums including this one referring to the degeneration of capacitors amongst other components. I also noted that there was an AU417 for sale, with a comprehensive description of its internal upgrade.
So my question is, would the degeneration of components be displayed as a general dullness in the sound? Assuming it is, and its viable/advisable to give it an upgrade, can anyone point me in the direction of a competent tech to do it. I live in rural NSW so would have to freight it wherever it goes. The amp externally as new, and is 'part of my history', and am keen to keep it going if I can restore its performance. Thanks in advance
GH