Russell Brooker Posted May 9, 2023 Posted May 9, 2023 Further Information: I purchased the ME 14 new in 1999 and its working as it should with no issues, the ME 850 I picked up from Decibel HIFI in 2016. The ME 850 has two issues, 1, it has stopped responding to the front on/off button, I have been switching it on and off at the wall. 2, there is some crackling and noise in the right channel when cold audible with my ear close to the speaker. If the amp is on for 2 or 3 hours to warm up it can't be heard. Some components feeling their age I guess. There are two screws missing from the top cover, this how I received it. I don't get the enjoyment out it much now with my hearing not what it was so someone else can enjoy this amazing amp. With the issues stated I willing to consider all offers near this figure.
sockpuppy Posted May 9, 2023 Posted May 9, 2023 (edited) I am certainly interested, however do you know the provenance of the ME850? Do you have any idea if it has been worked on and repaired previously? Edited May 9, 2023 by sockpuppy 1
Russell Brooker Posted May 9, 2023 Author Posted May 9, 2023 2 hours ago, sockpuppy said: I certainly interested, however do you know the provenance of the ME850? Do you have any idea if it has been worked on and repaired previously? Decibel HiFi told me they had checked it over and it was working well when i purchased it and it did give me some years of good service. Its history before that I can't help you.
VinylChef Posted May 9, 2023 Posted May 9, 2023 The power amp On/off can also be controlled via the 'Remote Power Control' with lamp cord (or any other wire) from the pre to the power. When you flick the pre on the power will automatically come on. 1
Beacon Posted May 11, 2023 Posted May 11, 2023 Looks like the 850 is overdue for an upgrade/cap replacement... Trevor Wilson at Rage Audio in Sydney can easily sort this out for a reasonable price. Phone 02 9589 1001. This amp is the same vintage as mine which has had all the upgrades and sounds absolutely wonderful even after 31 years. This is a great price for this pre/power combination. Make no mistake: these amps once restored can easily better any comparable gear made today. 5
sockpuppy Posted May 11, 2023 Posted May 11, 2023 (edited) Assuming the amp is in good condition, the price seems reasonable and I would have purchased both amp and preamp. The issue could be a minor fix like tweaking the on/off button or could extend to a costly overhaul in which case it becomes costly purchase. probably better for someone who can evaluate the amp personally. Edited May 11, 2023 by sockpuppy
ray4410 Posted May 11, 2023 Posted May 11, 2023 had the same noisy right channel problem on my 850,had the small signal transistors in the input stage on the amplifier module replaced also had a few other things done,small caps,dc servo upgrade it also recently had new internal and filter foam replaced all work carried out by Ron Berger @Winovate here in melbourne recommended ME technician sounding great 1
vinilink Posted May 11, 2023 Posted May 11, 2023 Despite owning 3 ME pre-amps currently, I am keen on the ME 14 and I don't know why? I guess it's an addiction 3
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