AR-3a speakers connection

[Walzer]

Hi, I found these vintage AR-3a speakers but when I connect them they give a lot of noise. Like the music is distorted. I tested both speakers and they both have the same issue so I don't think it's the speakers.. can anyone help me out please?

 

[spark1]

Does the amplifier sound fine with different speakers? If yes, problem is with the AR3a's.

Do the AR3a's sound good with a different amplifier? If yes problem is with the first amplifier. If no, problem is with the AR3a's.

 

[bigcaddy64]

Sounds like you will be replacing some dried out capacitors soon. Well worth the effort and the fix isn’t that difficult

 

[r_brumett61]

Please go to classicspeakerpages.com and download the pdf for refurbing The AR 3a. This will help with your speakers!

 

[Ross6860]

The mid and treble adjustment pots (variable resistors, actually) are subject to corrosion on these speakers.

They will need to be cleaned and/or repaired at a minimum. They can be bypassed, also.

Either requires opening the cabinet.

Please see the following link. These speakers are worth saving.

http://www.classicspeakerpages.net/...ing_the_ar-3a/restoring_the_ar-3a_full_pd.pdf

 

[GD70]

Corroded pots are the most common problem with vintage AR speakers. Do a search here. Lots of threads about how to clean them, if the condition of the pot wipers and contact disks warrant replacement etc…
Do the woofers have foam or cloth surrounds? If cloth, they are very heave. To remove from the cabinets to get inside remove as much of the sealing putty around the woofer cab gaps as possible, which will make lifting them out a bit easier. Use a plastic putty knife to protect the wood baffle edges while using a flat blade screw driver to pry the woofer loose. If foam surrounds, the woofer will be a bit lighter, same process to remove the putty sealer first.
Post pics so we see what you’ve got.

Great speakers well worth the effort.

 

[Omegaman]

On AR speakers TERMINAL 1 is ground and TERMINAL 2 is + positive