03-08-2014, 09:47 PM
sbish, the fact that you received parts taken out is positive that some did replace caps. Your problem on the phono certainly sounds like a bad cartridge not a bad stylus. There are many new replacement cartridges that may work just fine. I know I worked with a site VM something to ask their expertise on a cartridge that couldn't be rebuilt and bought a new one for very little money. Not the same ancient model. Crystal cartridges age due to moisture.
A fairly simple test if the aspect of the phono input to the amp is working is to set the radio to phono, set the volume at about mid control and raise the phono arm up. With a small bare wire, hold it and touch the cartridge output wires, one at a time. One should give you a very loud hum. If it does, more that likely it is really the cartridge that is weak. If your radio has a plug on the back for the phone, you could also try the test with the plug removed and trying on the socket for the phono on the radio. If an RCA, just touch the wire to the center of the socket. Should get some great hum. Great hum on either indicates the radio is ready for some good output from the cartridge. The cartridge is most likely on its way out if playing low.
Jerry
A fairly simple test if the aspect of the phono input to the amp is working is to set the radio to phono, set the volume at about mid control and raise the phono arm up. With a small bare wire, hold it and touch the cartridge output wires, one at a time. One should give you a very loud hum. If it does, more that likely it is really the cartridge that is weak. If your radio has a plug on the back for the phone, you could also try the test with the plug removed and trying on the socket for the phono on the radio. If an RCA, just touch the wire to the center of the socket. Should get some great hum. Great hum on either indicates the radio is ready for some good output from the cartridge. The cartridge is most likely on its way out if playing low.
Jerry
A friend in need is a pest! Bill Slee ca 1970.
