How to Buy Vintage Audio Equipment

So you’re in the market for a record player or tape player. As a store that specializes in vintage audio repair in PA, we have a few suggestions on what you should consider before you make your purchase.

Select a Source Component

First, figure out what you want. The source component is the part of the vintage audio equipment where you put in the music media (record, tape or CD). Once you have this part narrowed down, you can build your vintage stereo from there.

Inspect the Equipment

Take the time to go over the source component. You don’t want to make a purchase and then have to immediately hand it over to us for vintage audio repair! Take a look at any belts or other parts that can be easily damaged. Ask the current owner about any recent repair work done to the equipment.

Choose an Amplifier

The amplifier is one of the most important parts of your new audio equipment. There are a few different options: a separate preamp and power amp, a stereo receiver or an integrated amp. There are two things you should keep in mind. The first is the amp’s watts per channel. If you are just using the equipment for home use, a lower wattage amp should work just fine. The second thing to keep in mind is the total harmonic distortion (THD). This means how much you can expect the amplifier to decrease the sound quality from the recording. Many consider the 1970s to be the best era for amps, and amps from that time frame will usually have a THD of less than 0.1%.

Pick Speakers

Look at the size of the speaker cones and how many the speakers come with. Three cones are best – a woofer, a mid and a tweeter – will generally produce a better and richer sound than speakers that only have two cones. Again, be sure to inspect the speakers before you buy them and look for any obvious signs of damage so you’re not bringing it to us right after you buy it for vintage audio repair.

Do some research before you make any definite decisions about buying any vintage audio equipment. While we offer some of the best vintage audio repair services in the area, you should be sure the equipment you are buying is in the best shape possible.

But when you do need vintage audio repair in PA, call Mort’s TV & Video at 215-945-8381 or Contact Us.