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Mac 1900

D

Destructor

Super Member
I have been a Mac fan for years, my first was an MA230 and I also often use a restored MX110 and MR67, I want to venture into the Mac world of SS. I've grown to like the looks of the 1900 and prices don't seem to be too steep. What can I expect from a 1900. I also have a recapped Marantz 2250B which I like and a Pioneer SX828 which I also like. BTW I am very impressed wth the pioneer build quality. The one thing I notice is that my SS receivers do have a touch of fatique when played loud for an exteded time. I also use a Fisher 400 and Scott 340B tube receivers, both restored. How does a mac compare soundwise with other descent receivers of that period? I already know the build quality is outstanding and the 55 watts I'm certain will be adequate.
 
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Checkout Tone Audio (they are an AK sponsor) issue number 7. There is a nice article there on a few of the MAC recievers. I have a MAC1900, very nice -- dont find it fatiquing at all
 
I have a fisher 500 c and a sherwood s7700.Both are tubes.I like both but my main system i use is a mac 1900 and klipsch heresy II.I have used the tubes with them but prefer the 1900.It has better base less rolled off highs and plays louder.It gives up a touch on 3d imaging but still is fairly warm sounding for a ss receeiver.In short its my favorite peice of equipment.Its beaten my bottlehead forplay bryston 2blp set up too.Its a real winner with amazing build quality to boot.If i had one negative it would be its phono section its too low of a output.My grado reference platnium run 4.5 mv and it does not have enough gain.The sound is good just too low.If you have a step up transformer or a higher output cart it will sound good.Watch out for a unit with a good volume control they are unobtanium.
 
I see a Christmas present for myself in the future. I'll just have to cut back on gift giving to others. After all it's the thought that counts and I'm thinking ME.
 
I have a 1900 in my guest room, but I unfortunately seem to have a failing volume control switch. The balance is un-even and doesn't seem to get fixed after working all of the knobs back and forth.

When I first purchased it I had it sent to Terry and he aligned it, replaced some parts and cleaned it up really nicely. The failing balance control seems to be a fairly new problem though. It is my understanding that these parts are very tough to come by..
 
Funny you mention the balance problem i have that too.I just turn it to the 3 oclock and enjoy.I have no static though when i move the volume control.
 
Id say high output only.I run 4.5 mv and its just not enough volume.It will play enough to fill a 13 /15 room at moderate levels but not loud.My speakers are 96 db but ive used 92 db ones too.
 
I've heard of the potential volume pot problem. Is it a wide spread problem? I keep the pots on all my gear well lubed with Faderlube. I may just contact Terry D. for a known good working unit.
 
What i don't understand is why no one has adapted another volume switch for use on the 1900.Im sure there are some out there that would be a good match.I got a antique electronics catalog and there were choices.Thats one cataloge too im sure there's many more.If your willing to spend a arm and a leg check out audio classics.Mine works just fine but my balance is at 3 oclock.If spending 3 to 400 bucks more for a 1900 is ok with you go for it.I got mine for 325.It cost me 40 bucks at a certified mac repair centerto get it working great.If i was going to buy one now there's only one thing i would change i would get a wood case.Their so much more hansom with a case.Good luck.
 
I was able to get mine with a nice wooden cased for about $250 and then had it sent directly to Terry for alignment, and a complete going over.

I really like it a lot. My only bitch is the balance issue.

Michael
 
It was a very quick turn around and he shipped it with so much protective foam and tape that I thought he must have eaten up any profit with the shipping materials alone!

I seem to recall that it was somewhere around $100 or so (I think that it was less) but it will depend upon what your unit will need.

He does great work and is a great guy and I strongly suggest that you give him a call!
 
Mr dewickt has a reputation of being very reasonable and fast.If i had to do it over again i would ship it to him.He often offers help to others for free if you ask.Thats enough for me to send it to him.The only way i didnt in the first place is because i live i Can and have a certified center relativly close.
 
Oh I know all that, he's helped me quite bit already,

and I've already sent him my other 1900 (he got it on 11/16). I know it needs more work than your's needed and I'd asked for some kind of estimate but haven't heard from him. I know he probably took time off for Thanksgiving, which is fine, it's not like I'm in a super hurry or dire straits, I was just curious as to what kind of ball park time frame & costs something like you had done was. Anyone that sends you back the repaired unit, with an invoice to be paid after you make sure it works fine is AOK in my book! It says a lot about the type of regular customers that Terry must get, because if he got shafted too many times, he'd want payment in advance before releasing the unit like everyone else. I've never read of ANYONE EVER giving Terry an even remote negative feedback. I trust the regulars here to be fair. I just wouldn't want to spend $500 in repairs on a unit I only paid $200 for. I'd rather dump it to some one for parts and buy a better unit for that kind of money.
 
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