Fisher Executive X-202

[walyfd]

The X202 came out around late 1959 I think and was in production through 1961. The 500B came out in 1962 and ran through 1964 I think.

Basically, I look at them as two different generations. The X202 was like a transition from early hifi and into stereo. The 500B is integrated. It's all there in one package--FM multiplex receiver, stereo phono, tape and auxiliary ports. It was designed and built at the height of the tube stereo era.

Again, overall I like the 500B over the x202. The sound seems richer and more responsive.

The X202 is a looker.

 

[sberger]

You're going to have quite a bit more head room using the 500B vs any amp that uses 6BQ5 tubes, unless your speakers are very efficient(and even then). I love my 6BQ5, 14 watt Heathkit SA-2 integrated with my Cornwalls. Great overall sound. But no matter how loud it can get, it doesn't offer the grip and muscle of my Fisher 400 or X-101-C, and certainly not my various higher power ss stuff. Which is why it's nice to have options.

 

[walyfd]

If it's in good shape and the price is reasonable, grab it. It'll give you a greater appreciation of what Fisher was all about.

The 202 has so many features, it's like a cockpit. It took into account every early stereo mistake (phase, reversed channels, stereo dimension...) that it's an experience. Fun to play with on newer recordings.

Looks great lit up on the holidays, too. Red, green and amber lamps glowing.

 

[AlTinkster92]

I saw that 202 on Espay, nice looking but asking price is crazy IMHO. Its been there awhile too... You could in theory get a X1000 for what seller is asking.

 

[2string1]

What does the X1000 have to offer other then more RMS which I don't need.

 

[larryderouin]

Comparing the X202 and the X-1000 is like comparing a 6cylinder 170cid '64-1/2 Mustang Fastback, and a 69 (or was it 1970)with a 429 side oiler built to meet the NASCAR Requirement for production vehicles. Both are Mustangs, and both are relatively rare as far as the Mustang goes, but the 69-70 with the 429 side oiler with matching numbers is one of those EXTREMELY RARE and WONDERFUL Hosses! It's one of those once in a lifetime experiences. Same with the X-1000.

Personally I'd take a 57' Corvette GASSER!

 

[2string1]

I'm going to buy this. He wanted 2 grand. I got it for 1500. Am I paying to much? Is it worth it?

 

[walyfd]

All I'm going to say is I'd kill for that faceplate... mine isn't that nice.

 

[2string1]

Where can I get an owners manual for it? I have no clue how to wire up the speakers or bias the tubes. It has the Sovtek 7189's in it. Any recommendation on a better power tube?

 

[larryderouin]

owners manual here...... http://www.fisherconsoles.com/executive v vi owners manual page.html
It has all the hookup info.

The Service Manual is HERE..... http://www.fisherconsoles.com/service owner manual list.html
Scroll down to the X202 and get the one with the SERIAL NUMBER series your's is in. It has the bias instructions and other info you'll need.

I'd leave the Sovtek's in for a while to get a baseline unless they won't bias up correctly. I've had good success with Russian 6P14P-EV's (or 6n14n-eb....depends on who's translating).

 

[2string1]

Having a real hard time trying to decide between the X-202 and the X-202-B. Help me decide please.

 

[vendo81]

Difficult decision. I've always been a EL84/6BQ5 fan but I've sometimes found them under powered. Even with efficient Klipsch and EV speakers. I have 2 Fisher EL-84 based amplifiers but not a X-202. Looks like a beautiful integrated amplifier with SA-100 power, so it may be fine power wise.

I listen to a 7591 based KX-200 daily as (to me) it has the EL84 sound, but also that extra power I'm looking for. I also own a X-202-B but it is unrestored. I recently bought everything I need to restore it and I'm hoping to maybe swap it with the KX-200 sometime soon.

Best of luck with your decision.

 

[2string1]

owners manual here...... http://www.fisherconsoles.com/executive v vi owners manual page.html
It has all the hookup info.

The Service Manual is HERE..... http://www.fisherconsoles.com/service owner manual list.html
Scroll down to the X202 and get the one with the SERIAL NUMBER series your's is in. It has the bias instructions and other info you'll need.

I'd leave the Sovtek's in for a while to get a baseline unless they won't bias up correctly. I've had good success with Russian 6P14P-EV's (or 6n14n-eb....depends on who's translating).

I have gone to the links you provided. The owner say's it's a Executive VI Model 880 with the X-202. I don't see anything in the link about it. When I go to the Executive VI Model 880 it has info on the X-1000 amp not the X-202. Does the X-202 use 12ax7's in the audio path for the AUX?

 

[2string1]

Anyone else want to chime in and help me make a decision?

 

[vendo81]

You need to buy both and keep the one you like best.

 

[2string1]

Well I already have the 500B and it's a keeper. I've had it 5 years and love it. I just bought the X-202. We shall see if it changes my mind about the 500B... I like the gold faceplate,not sure about the 6bq5 based amp though...

 

[2string1]

Anticipation:worried:

 

[2string1]

I have gone to the links you provided. The owner say's it's a Executive VI Model 880 with the X-202. I don't see anything in the link about it. When I go to the Executive VI Model 880 it has info on the X-1000 amp not the X-202. Does the X-202 use 12ax7's in the audio path for the AUX?

Is there another forum for vintage fisher gear out there? I can't seem to find a schematic or owners manual for the Fisher Chassic X-202...

 

[nj pheonix]

Its in digital docs
I think you have to be a subscriber

 

[2string1]

Looks like you have to call them.Is there a fee?