restoring a Mesa Quad

[spikenet]

Hi,

Ive got a 1989 model Quad and I was wondering about if its worth replacing any components due to it now being 18 years old to restore it to its new condition.

Any components that would degrade etc? I don't know much about whats in the quads so would like some idea's.

cheers.

 

[disassembled]

If everything works and sounds good then you shouldn't have to replace anything(not counting tubes of course). The caps are probably the only thing you should be worried about replacing as they can leak over time. As long as you use the quad regularly cap problems won't come as quickly as if you were to let it sit in a closet for 10 years and then one day decide to fire it up.



Greg

 

[spikenet]

yeah this quad did go into storage for about 6 years before I bought it (previous owner had died and his sister had all his gear unused)

The unit works ok, just the clean channel isnt as sweet as I'd like.. maybe thats just the way they are tho?

cheers

 

[disassembled]

Like i said tubes are about it for regular maintenance unless you are having serious problems. If the clean is distorted or sounds really really bad with little effect from the controls then I would say you might have a problem. The power amp will also make a big difference in your tone as well.

Greg