Should I relamp or just leave alone?

[can-man]

My C-26 preamp seems to have one bulb out. The MC-2505 amp seems ok but maybe off color slightly on meters.

I dont want to risk breaking the glass so based on the photos woudl you tackle the C-26 or leave it alone and what about the 2505.

I have read horror stories about knob removal and broken glass.

Thoughts????

 

[SaturationPt]

I would leave the 2505 alone and relamp the C62 with all new either from Bill Wojo or McIntosh Parts (both sell high-quality long-life bulbs IME).

The only risky part on both is removing the knobs (well, and handling mistakes). If the knobs come off and you’re careful, it’s pretty easy IMO for both units.

Even if not opening the 2505, I’d buy bulbs while you’re ordering, plus spares. Run them for a little while after re-lamping to ensure all is okay before replacing the glass.

 

[TSmith8605]

I don't recall needing to remove the front panel or knobs to replace the bulbs on my MC2505. It's been awhile but I think you only remove the top panel that's behind the front panel and maybe the bottom panel. I recall that it was pretty easy to replace the bulbs (with like incandesent bayonet bulbs).

 

[VintageMac]

You might check this out: Link

The bayonet bulbs are easily accessible from the top and this explains how they may be out of place (too low to engage the light transfer piece). This also explains how you can match brightness between the meters if they are out of whack.

Larry