Theron D
Active Member
I have an opportunity to "possibly" purchase some MC-30s from an individual who has owned since the 60's (though they bought "used" back then I am told). They are downsizing and the opportunity presented itself. I have read there are variations (circuit changes) and am looking for some quick pointers for when on the spot and have to make a decision. Please feel free to correct me/ad your experience. Very much appreciated in advance. I really want to get these (have wanted for many years) but also want to be cautious and dont want to get overzealous....thinking out loud here...
1. Dont turn it on! Unless they have been using routinely with no problems and connected to a proper load. I don't know the answer yet. If they haven’t been turned on in a while, should I at least check the output transformers resistance with a meter? Any other quick checks I can make with a DMM on site? How easy is it to open up (tools needed). Trying to be ready as possible.
2. Check to see if serial numbers are close. I have read possibly there were ten variations in ten years occurred with these amps? How close is "close" when it concerns serial numbers? I'll have to research what the range of numbers are by year (***update** found it http://mcintoshcompendium.com/Compendium Docs/Power Amplifiers/PDFs/MC30.pdf. variation unless someone has a link readily available?
3. Look at the overall cosmetics, any pitting? Do they have the original boxes(?), tubes etc.
Many thanks in advance. Theron D
1. Dont turn it on! Unless they have been using routinely with no problems and connected to a proper load. I don't know the answer yet. If they haven’t been turned on in a while, should I at least check the output transformers resistance with a meter? Any other quick checks I can make with a DMM on site? How easy is it to open up (tools needed). Trying to be ready as possible.
2. Check to see if serial numbers are close. I have read possibly there were ten variations in ten years occurred with these amps? How close is "close" when it concerns serial numbers? I'll have to research what the range of numbers are by year (***update** found it http://mcintoshcompendium.com/Compendium Docs/Power Amplifiers/PDFs/MC30.pdf. variation unless someone has a link readily available?
3. Look at the overall cosmetics, any pitting? Do they have the original boxes(?), tubes etc.
Many thanks in advance. Theron D
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