Wollensak
1288 Stereo Tape Recorder
Restoration Video Series: Electronics 1
This part
of the video series about the Wollensak 1288 Stereo Tape Recorder Restoration
done by ClydeSight Productions in early 2012 shows the catastrophic damage
done to the amplifier by arcing.
This video
discusses the problems ClydeSight encountered with the tape recorders amplifier.
Fans of Wollensak machines, especially the T-1500 and T-1400 series of tape
recorders will recognize the similarity of the components among these reel
to reel tape recorders, but may find some interesting revelations in how
Wollensak engineered a stereo amplifier with discrete channels based on their
successful monophonic designs.
The video also reveals how what seemed like a simple and solid soldering
system and circuit board design could go horribly wrong and create arcing
and actual destruction of the circuit board itself. In fact, if ClydeSight
had not gotten the tape recorder, it is possible that it could have started
an electrical fire for another owner who did not know much about these machines
and what to do when they start to smell bad and smoke.
Among the
failures in the amplifier of this vintage tape recorder were two “dual can” electrolytic
capacitors. They are no longer made, but ClydeSight came up with an ingenious
replacement solution that viewers may find insightful and fascinating.
The Wollensak 1288 stereo tape recorder was issued in 1965, based on the
well known and extremely stable transport used in the Wollensak T1500 and
1400 series of mono tape recorders. With the 1288, Wollensak introduced a
fine quality stereo component machine that was meant to be used in a full
stereo system. Although it could be used as a tape deck, the machine featured
a high quality dual hybrid amplifier, using the famous 6T9 tubes for power
amplification on top of a 2N3009 transistor preamplifier. When sold, the
machine came with two outboard bookshelf speakers. The speakers shown in
the video series are actually made by Zenith. Ironically, Wollensak made
reel to reel tape decks for installation in Zenith console stereo units.
The video
also features a clip from the beautiful song “Dream on
the Horizon” by Craig Farraway.
http://www.craigfarraway.com
*********
SAFETY DISCLAIMER:
This is an educational and entertainment video documenting the restoration
of a vintage AC powered stereophonic tape recorder. It is being restored
by a qualified person who knows how to work safely with live electrical equipment.
ELECTRICITY
CAN KILL.
ClydeSight Productions is not responsible for anything you do to yourself
or your own tape recorder as a result of watching this video.
*********
COPYRIGHT DISCLAIMER:
This is an educational video, a critique, and report on an historic piece
of vintage audio electronic equipment that is no longer manufactured or sold
in stores. It is covered by the Fair Use Section of U.S. Copyright Law:
"Copyright Disclaimer Under Section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976,
allowance is made for "fair use" for purposes such as criticism,
comment, news reporting, teaching, scholarship, and research. Fair use is
a use permitted by copyright statute that might otherwise be infringing.
Non-profit, educational or personal use tips the balance in favor of fair
use."
The musical
performance in this video is “Dream on the Horizon” by
Craig Farraway. It is used with his permission. Proof is on file at ClydeSight
Productions.
Please
DO NOT ASK US how to sell your old machine or tapes or records. We will
NOT respond to selling or value estimate inquiries.
|
Do
YOU need a tape recorder restored? Contact us TODAY and tell
us YOUR story! We're happy to help! Call: 781 322-4430 or use our Contact
page on this website!
|
|
Visit
www.clydesight.com Master Site