Yamaha CA-1000 Modded Unit

[mozcho]

There is this unit near me for sale: (price ~USD380)
http://www.hifi4sale.net/t72655-yamaha-ca-1000-240v-integrated-amp-used

What caught my eye is the fact that the owner has done some mods as follow, would this affect the value in terms of originality?

Upgraded Note:
1) This is the Japan local set (100V version) made in Japan. However, the internal voltage selectable wired to 240V. So you don't need a step down transformer (save cost!!!). (Note: In my country we use 240V.)
2) Power input upgraded to an IEC socket so that you can utilise your own better power cord.
3) Speaker Terminal upgraded to accept Banana plug.

 

[MonkeyRelish]

Hi,
my CA-1000 is also a Japanese model that has been rewired for 240v. Works fine, as the transformer is rated for 50hz.
The transformer has multiple input windings, that when wired in the right combination, allow 240v at the input.
No problem with the speaker terminals being replaced with banana plugs, I have done this myself.
The IEC socket, well I guess that’s one way to do it. Nothing wrong with the implementation, as it is reversible if required.
Of course, the caveat is that the person doing the mods knew what they were doing.

I would buy it, assuming you are happy with the price, and can audition it.

Mr Relish

P.S. - As it has been rewired for 240v, it needs the main fuse at the back changed to 2.5 A

 

[MonkeyRelish]

To answer your question properly, I don’t think the mods effect the value in terms of originality. If required, everything could be changed back to original. All the mods are a bonus in my opinion, and are what I would do, though I would mount the IEC socket in the chassis. That’s personal preference though, as the way it I has been done is reversible, with no cutting of the chassis required.

Mr Relish

 

[mbz]

Apart from a basic re-plumb of the transformer and spkr posts, suggest you ask what other work has been done.
The fully refurb'd CA-1000 would have the following work done,
- replace all electrolytic caps
- replace polar tantalum, known to go noisy
- replace any out of spec fusible resistors
- replace speaker protection relay
- replace operations (Class A/AB) snap switches
- replace bias/offset... trimmers (desireable)
- clean all switches, including dismantle/clean coupler switch
- Set bias, dc offset etc...

If the guy has done most of the above then it's worth considering as long as you are happy with the price
The CA-1000 is a difficult (=PITA) refurbishment so it would be quite costly. A working normal CA-1000 is
a very good amp.