Marantz 6300 upgrades/modifications
FWIW, to those who are tuning into this thread, I am going to be undertaking and documenting a Marantz 6300 project in finite detail within the next few weeks. I'm waiting on new parts and shipments to arrive, hence the delay.
My overall plan with the project is to post detailed photos, procedures I used, list the parts and provide an updated wiring schematic for the US/Canada models. My apologies to the international folks. To my knowledge, there are currently three different schematics that are in regular circulation on the web. Problem is, all three of them have minor mistakes on them, and the two US versions have different tonearm wiring diagrams, making it even more confusing for the newbies like me. HA!
I will also be including detailed photos of the Auto Mode/Photo Unit (H002) circuit and where to find replacement parts for it etc. FYI - the service manual has a pretty thorough explanation into the circuits operation and provides part numbers, although they're old and outdated, so new component replacements will be helpful for those looking for answers. I've seen many threads on the web asking how to fix and/or adjust this, so thought I'd include it as well.
This is going to be a lengthy project, but hopefully, will benefit those wanting to learn more about the 6300's internals and perhaps give them some ideas on how to approach it and in the end, make it sing! I do hope that lots of folks here will contribute to this project and share their insight as well, with the end-goal of the thread becoming a sticky, so everyone can get the answers they need.
6300 Project Detail:
- Rewire tonearm using Cardas/Litz OFC .33 awg
- Dampen the tonearm internally using cotton sleeve
- Install new custom RCA jack plate on back for removeable IC's
- Install new Sumiko HS-12 Headshell w/litz leads (**)
- Install new strobe light and resistor
- Provide new wiring schematic (USA/Canada model)
- Provide auto mode operation (possibly via video), adjustment and fixes etc.
- Document & photograph all procedures used
(**) HS-12 has adjustable azimuth, is slightly lighter than original headshell, and is also non-resonant. The result: better soundstage, less weight, less wear and tear on your records and more adjustment features = happy record owner and longer lasting records.
By the way...
I'm doing this project because I have micro-switches and tonearm wire that need serious attention due to the previous owner taking liberties where they probably shouldn't of, so that said, a modification is in order.
Also, I'm not suggesting for a nanosecond that current 6300 owners should try or attempt to mod/tweak their equipment in any way. Like most of you, I'm here to learn and understand the science behind the circuits operating parameters and share with you what I find, as well as, learn from all of you too! However, if you're happy with your equipment the way it is, then by all means keep it that way.
Lastly, I'd like to say that the community here @ AK is truly an awesome place to come and hang out and learn about audio. There are a
ton of talented folks here lurking and posting all of the time. No joke. I'm amazed by their knowledge and know-how of electronics. I've learned way more here than I have studying circuits in school, so thankyou for that! :thmbsp:
OK, I've written a novel. Sorry bout that...
Stay tuned...