H/K Signature 2.1 amp double stumper question

[psarahtonen]

OK... maybe I'm just foolish but I bought a European 220V H/K Signature 2.1 amp (5-channel x 100W) with a 220 /110 up/down converter.

Question 1) How dumb am I thinking that I might be able to convert this beast to 110V and use it without the converter?

Question 2) Added to the task is the fact that when the toroidal transformer output is connected to channel 3 the the amplifier goes into protection mode (amber/red flashing). Without the power supplied to channel 3 it flashes green. It stays in standby mode when a cable is plugged into the 12V trigger. All fuses are good.

I'd love to save this amp but it may not be worth it.

Thanks from Austin!

-Ps

 

[Binkman]

g'day
most of us don't have the time to look for a schematic of the transformer. It may be able to be changed if also marketed in usa/ canada.

 

[psarahtonen]

Thanks Binkman. Howdy from Austin.

It's hard to see in this photo but next to the screw on the PCB it says "USA 125V Europe 225V" but I don't see any jumpers or switches that would take it from 225 to 125V.

And if I do change the voltage would I need to replace all of the power supply capacitors? They are all rated 12,000 uF 63V so I'm guess I wouldn't since they're downstream from the Xformer.

 

[mbz]

Service manual available on hifiengine.

Above PCB markings for 125V/250V refer to fuse rating.

I did not see anything that would allow "switchable" mains voltage or "rewiring" of secondary.
Transformer appears hard wired, RED/BROWN primary, BLACK, BLUE secondary for all markets.

 

[psarahtonen]

Thanks MBZ. Yeah... that's why I'm a little confused. Would that PCB be able to distinguish between 110V and 220V in and automatically switch to that voltage? Seems improbable for a late 1980s amp.

 

[petehall347]

if there are only 2 wires to transformer it cannot be converted without a suitable replacement transformer .

 

[mbz]

Thanks MBZ. Yeah... that's why I'm a little confused. Would that PCB be able to distinguish between 110V and 220V in and automatically switch to that voltage? Seems improbable for a late 1980s amp.

Would be a nice feature but no, it's more a reminder to the technician to install the correct fuse.
Guess you live with the step down/up?
Should focus on your protection issue.