Peerless 8-Track Receiver Weak Phono Output

[Richard P]

I'm repairing a junk Peerless HSP-25A 8-track reciever so I can learn about these old systems and have run into a strange (to me) problem. The AM and FM sections now work great, as does the 8-track, but the phono inputs on the back produce very low output. Looking through the schematic (attached) the phono inputs run through 100k ohm resistors and directly to the selector switch. From there, the paths run through the volume and balance pots then directly into the amp. So apparently there is no phono preamp.

My questions:

- are the 100k ohm resistors designed for use with a ceramic cartridge or something other than an MC or MM cartridge?
- are the signals from the tuner and tape player both low level and therefore similar to what the phono input would produce
- any thoughts on where to look

I've cleaned all the switches and pots - everything works well, so I don't think they are the issue.

Your input would be appreciated.

Rich

 

[KentTeffeteller]

This phono input was designed to be used with a ceramic cartridge. To use a MM cartridge or MC cartridge, you'd need a suitable phono stage. This set does not have one.

 

[Richard P]

Thanks. That's what I suspected. Rather than converting to MM or MC input, it probably makes more sense to convert to an 'aux' input. I'll give it a try with the 100k resistors currently installed and make changes, if needed.