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Sansui 4000 Issue

Tmark

New Member
I recently acquired a Sansui Series 4000 receiver at a used record shop. For $25, I figured it was worth taking a chance. Brought it home, cleaned it up, and hooked it up to my turntable and Advent loudspeakers. The sound was amazing and I couldn't believe my good luck. The next day, after about 30 minutes of use, there was a lot of static and popping through the speakers. No music, and the noise seemed to be unaffected by changing the volume. I powered it down and gave up on the unit. After a week, I tried it out again and, surprisingly, the receiver worked great. Again, after about two days, I witnessed the same problems. I am new to vintage audio and can handle basic DIY stuff. But, I'm limited on my electronics knowledge/skills.
Does anyone have any ideas of what is causing these issues? Also, does it seem to be a relatively easy fix or is it worth taking it to a good repair shop? Thanks.
 
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Was the sound coming thru both or only one channel? It sounds like a failing transistor if the issue gets worse once the receiver warms up.
 
The first thing to do is to clean all of the switches and controls and see what happens.

Although you receiver may have other issues, what you describe is common in older units and is quite often cured with a good cleaning of the controls and switches.

In older gear it may be beneficial to replace ageing capacitors.
 
Thanks for the replies. The noise seems to come from both channels and is not affected by rotating the volume and balance knobs.
 
When do the Deoxit cleaning, don't forget that there is a volume limit pot on the back of the 4000. Next time you try running it, try giving that pot a good workout before you power up. You will need a screwdriver. If that helps your problem, give that pot a good cleaning too. Cleaning is well worth a try before you start replacing transistors and such.
 
I have one of these. One of my favorite receivers. Make sure the tape switches get the de-oxit treatment. They don't get used much so corrosion can build up.
 
You will have to take the shielding box off to get to the pot. Far right rear corner. A few screws and you are in. Cleaning that pot cleared up a lost channel for me.
 
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