• The move to the new server is done. There are some software and database maintenance updates in process. This has us passing the hat around to help out. We appreciate any donations. Seriously, even a dollar helps. The payment page may be found here - https://www.audiokarma.org/support.html

Marantz 2252b repair questions

gata

Active Member
Soooo . . . I’ve owned and enjoyed my 2252B receiver for over 20 years. Lately, however, it’s apparent that service is in order. I’m not a stranger to minor electronics repairs, solder-slinging, and overhauls of my gear. I’ve tinkered with my tube guitar amps over the years, pedals, and an assortment of gadgets, and I really enjoy it.

Now the thing is, I don’t take this classic Marantz beast lightly. I’m aware it will take patience, time, and care with appropriate space and tools, and I just don’t have the time, especially since I’m in the midst of major home renovations. I’d like to upgrade the lamps with LEDs and do the requisite recaps. Currently, I’m occasionally losing the left channel. I read that this is a common issue with this model, and even simple diagnostics to trace this issue will likely require serious tear down. Also, I’m going to be moving overseas somewhat soon, and I plan on selling this since the voltage differs from where I’m going. I’m trying to downsize, and I’m already currently using two other receivers.

My questions are:
  • Should I just have it repaired, and how much should I expect it to cost?
  • Will it even be worth it, or should I just sell it as is? If so at what price? It’s a super clean example.
Thoughts? Opinions?
 
Register to hide this ad
If one channel goes out then comes back it may only need the controls cleaned. I'd try cleaning them before anything else.

https://audiokarma.org/forums/threads/the-idiots-guide-to-using-deoxit-revisited.207005/
I apologize. I should have included more info. I've tried assessing the usual suspects like cleaning pots, testing cables, checking jack connections/solder joints, etc. The left channel works for a while, and then as the amp warms up, it drops out completely. I have a feeling some caps or resistors are out of spec or maybe a failing transistor breaking down.
 
It could be oxidized/dirty PreOut to Main In internal jumpers. Did you open it up and clean those?
You can test that by using a short RCA stereo patch cable to cross-connect the L PreOut to R Main In and R PreOut to L Main In.

If the intermittent channel changes sides, then it is in the Preamp. If it stays on the same side then it is the Main Amp.
If both channels work fine, then it is dirty RCA jacks. Clean them with spray contact cleaner or 99% Isopropyl Alcohol and Q-tip.

Also, if you haven't already done so, open it up and clean the Main & Remote speaker switches with spray contact cleaner or Deoxit. (You can connect your speakers to the Remote terminals and see if that helps to isolate the problem). Connect a pair of headphones and see if you hear the same drop-outs.

One more possibility for the drop-out is a dirty/bad relay that needs replacement or cleaning.
 
I have cleaned the RCA jacks and all the switches and pots on the front, including the Speaker 1 and 2 button switches. That's not it. The issues persist with the headphones on, which made me think it's something deeper.

Again, I don't really have time to mess with this to the extent I'd like to right now due to major home projects I'm currently wrapped up in. I've tried the basics. and I'm wondering if it will cost me way to much for a professional diagnosis and general overhaul, including the LED upgrade.
 
The 2252B is nice. Plug an RCA cable into the pre main jacks (as suggested), very common way for a signal to fade. Based on what else you have tried I would add tap on the relay, it's another common way for the unit to lose a channel at low volume. If tapping on the realy gets the signal to jump around it will be your problem. The realy in a 2252B can be replaced fairly easy, about 15 minutes if a person is good at solder technique.

The way it sounds you want to sell it, that's fine. Go on ebay and look at completed sales of units that have issues but look nice. Offer it up locally at about 75% of the ebay rate, you should get some interest.

Good luck.
 
I'm wondering if it will cost me way to much for a professional diagnosis and general overhaul, including the LED upgrade.
Here is what AI says (take it with a grain of salt).
My guess would be $100-$150/hr x 8h labor + parts ($150) = $950 to $1,350.
Diagnosis and estimate might cost $100 - $150 + shipping/insurance if not a local tech.
1788745477915.png
 
Appreciate the great troubleshooting tips and pricing suggestions, guys!

I do really love this receiver, and I would like mess with it more if possible. Between work, all my bigger projects, and preparations to move, I might find time to fuss with it, or I may pass it on to someone who will give it the love it deserves.

@Warren-Oates I'll try the relay tapping trick to see it that's the issue.
 
Back
Top Bottom