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Phono stage PSU query?

willboy

willboy

Active Member
Enjoying a bit Joy Division's Substance LP yesterday when my Rothwell Simplex phono stage suddenly stopped working. I've no idea if the fault lies with the supplied walwart PSU or the Simplex itself. So I've decided that the best and cheapest form of action I can take is to email the manufacturer to see if I can buy another walwart PSU off him to try. If the PSU's not at fault I've asked if I can then send the Simplex off to him for repair.
As it's the weekend it will be a few days before I receive a reply to my email, so in the meantime I've had a look online for a new PSU just in case Rothwell can't supply one, and being a right numpty regarding electrics, I'm absolutely confused by the number of different types of voltages, amps, etc, there are with these things. The print on the Rothwell PSU says it has a 24V output, which is straightforward enough, but there's also confusing things that may or may not be important(?) like 50-60hz 0.3A, and 0.25A following the stated 24V output. Hopefully Rothwell can supply me with a new PSU, but if not and I have to purchase one elsewhere, is it vital that the specs match up exactly with the original?
 
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Monoprice carries a large selection of wall-warts and laptop power supplies at very reasonable prices. Make sure the output voltage is correct--actual voltage AND AC vs DC. Make sure the output (mA or A) current is at least as high or a LITTLE higher than the original. Of course, you need to make sure the output plug is compatible.

Before spending any money, I'd test the output of the PSU with a DMM to see if it is actually dead--if you can't, maybe a friend or local AKer can help you out. Also, are there any fuses on the wall-wart or on the phono pre itself? Could just be a blown fuse.
 
Above is good advice. In addition, any power suppy that puts out DC volts must have the correct polarity at the plug. This often is indicated by a little icon with + & - symbols.
 
Cheers chaps.

Unfortunately I don't have a DMM, was considering buying one but will try to avoid the cost if I can. The PSU is a sealed type so I can't open it up to see if the fuse has gone, and I'm not at all keen on messing around in the phono stage, at least until I know which unit is at fault.
Hopefully Rothwell can supply a new PSU and it won't be too expensive, at least I'll then know where the problem lies and it will make things easier for me, and I'm all for a simple life at my age. :)

Thanks again
 
Willboy,
You can buy a pretty good DVM with temp probe, and voltage sensing, for $13 at Walmart!!! E Tek 10790 is the model, they may be out of stock, but they are a great value.
 
Freddymac2 said:
Willboy,
You can buy a pretty good DVM with temp probe, and voltage sensing, for $13 at Walmart!!! E Tek 10790 is the model, they may be out of stock, but they are a great value.
Click to expand...

Thanks Freddymac, but problem sorted as Rothwell has been in touch after seeing this thread and is going to send me a PSU to try. If it's not the PSU at fault then I can send him the Simplex to have a look at.:) :cool:

Watch this space.........
 
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