SX-1010 / opinions

[gyusher]

Well as I said I found one that I am going after. Here are some pics the seller sent to me. I did resise them to fit on this forum. Looks to me like it will clean up to mint, described as mint. . . . . Tell me what you guys that have this guy think. . .

[gyusher]

There is more. Hope I dont get caught speeding. . .

[gyusher]

The case looks nice, the face makes a good mirror, reminds me of the nude guy taking pics of his silver tea pot. . .LOL. . .

[gyusher]

Last one, you guys have got me fired up over this 1010. . . Supposed to be little used in perfect working order. I have 5 days left. BTW bid if you guys like but I am prepared to buy this at a very high price if it works out.

[JonTee]

Looks like a keeper to me! The push button switches look very clean (always collect dirt in the lettering) and the knife switches are straight as an arrow. How much is he asking.

Jon:)

[gyusher]

One more rear. Looks like someone is up before breakfast again. . .LOL. . .

[gyusher]

JT,
Can you take the face off these guys like the 850s and 980s? If so I can clean up those push buttons.
Asking price. . . .Its an auction, no reserve but starts at 150.00.. I do intend to buy this guy as long as I get it under 350.00 I want it. Never had a 1010 and by god I will have one before its over.

[JonTee]

Yes, the face plate removes relatively easily. Those buttons are actually attached to the face plate and operate spring loaded swithes underneath.

Jon:)

[gyusher]

So its like the push buttons on a 850 etc. . . .???

[JonTee]

Don;t remember exactly how the 750, 850, etc, are but I would say yes. The buttons are actually covers for the switches which are underneath, and come with the faceplate when it is removed.

Yeah, insomnia again this morning, LOL.

Jon:)

[LARRY PRIESTMAN]

Hi gyusher

I and many members have one of these units..In my opinion there great, But there is one thing to watch for and if possible get the seller to photogragh the regulater board as this will tell more storys than words can ever do...If this unit is indeed a unit with low playing hours the board will not be very badly burned if on the other hand it is very badly burned then is a fairy tail...ALL 1010's
suffer badly from this problem.....over heating of the regulater board.If you intend to keep it, it has sorted as soon as possible.

Sometimes even the photo's don't always pick this up....depends on the light used.

Cleaning the switches is as easy as 850,950,1050,1250.

So my advise is to have the crack with the seller,and see what happens mate.....good luck on your bidding..

[e2e4c7c5]

Looks very NICE!!! :D Good Luck!!!!

[Kamakiri]

My 1010 is currently having its new wood case constructed from cocobolo....ooooh I can't wait! :D Expensive stuff, but with the expert yaksplat at the saw, it's gonna be a beauty!

If I didn't think this receiver is the cat's ass, there's no way I would have invested as much as I have in it. This piece will be with me for life!

[kajguy03]

Originally posted by Kamakiri
My 1010 is currently having its new wood case constructed from cocobolo....ooooh I can't wait! :D Expensive stuff, but with the expert yaksplat at the saw, it's gonna be a beauty!

If I didn't think this receiver is the cat's ass, there's no way I would have invested as much as I have in it. This piece will be with me for life!

I can't wait to see the pics of your new case!!! You must promise to pos them!!!

[kajguy03]

I've owned three 1010 and agree with Larry's comments about the regulator board. The last one I got, and my current unit, looked great cosmetically, but the board was burned and had to be repaired. I paid $100.00 for it on E-Bay and the repairs set me back $200.00. So, a nice 1010 ran me around $300.00.

[LARRY PRIESTMAN]

300.00 buck's for a piece of audio history is in my opinion peanut's

What can you guy's buy in the states new for 300.00.
proberly the same as us ...a plastic piece of sh!t that is useless with out it's remote....not for me matie,I'll take the minty 1010 at $300+ all day long.....and play all day with out that bloody remote and a 500 page instruction book.....

[JonTee]

The regulator board problem has been addressed by our resident tech, Echo Wars, on several members 1010's including mine, to the degree it will not cause any problems for another 30 years or more. I would not hesitate to go high (bid) on a nice 1010.

Jon:)

[LARRY PRIESTMAN]

here here!!!

[gyusher]

In one email the seller stated that he had replaced two output transistors and that he completly went through it whatever that means. The plus of this is that I will drive there to pick it up. I will not pay untill it is right. I told him I would pay for the right upgrades if he was up to the task. I too want this for me not to resell. I love the CocoBolo thing. I have a cabinet maker friend who does very fine veneer work on speakers. I will have to think of another exotic wood to do this with. I am going to South Gorgia on Vacation this weekend. On the way down I will stop and see his handi work and if satisfied I will give him a "To Do" list then pick it up on the way back home. I am prepared to put a grand in this thing including the case. Thats how serious I am about it. If this one doesnt work out I WILL find another. I would love to ship it off to EW and let him work his majic. I owe him anyway. I sent him a dozen emails on a defunct 1250 that I wanted to restore only to back out. I just couldnt get behind the 1250 like this guy. I got the 1010 bug bad.
BTW I have two brand new JBL S312II speakers that this receiver will be pushing in my front room. WOW!!! Am I hyped or what!?

[Mark]

Have you given the S312 a good workout yet? How do you like them compared to the L-112. Thanks:smsex:

[bully]

About 4 years ago I worked out the S312's quite a bit, I was very impressed with their sound. Ended up scoring a fab deal for the big CF150's on epay. Walt from down under (IIRC) got a pair of the 312's and was very happy.
Build quality is probably better than my CF150's.
With vintage electronics, they should be scintillating!

[gyusher]

The S312II is a fine speaker, now broke in, better bottom but not near as forward or sweet sounding as the L-112, close, does have the "JBL Sound" but a good pair of L-112s is tighter and much cleaner with that LE-5 mid range and 044 tweeter the 312 doesnt stand a chance. Although a very nice speaker I would still trade them for a nice pair of L-112s not L-100s. I have the L-150As and I do like the 312s bass better than the 150s, was never a big PR man but done right Passive Radiaters do sound nice. For the money the 312 is hard to beat.They cost (retail) today about what the 112s cost twenty years ago. Who knows what they might be if they were built like the L-112s.
Bully you are right, I cannot wait to hook them to the 1010. Right now they are the mains on my HT setup driven full range by a Pioneer ELITE VSX45TX receiver. Just to get them broke in. I honestly about hated them right out of the box but now with about 100 hours on them and a few good explosions under their belt they are awesome.

[tommyd111]

Well here is my 2 cents: If I had the Pioneer SX 1250, I wouldn't even fool around with a SX 1010.

"I figure the odds be fifty-fifty I just might have some thing to say". Frank Zappa

[dewickt]

You guys haven't made the connection, I'm normally over in the McIntosh group but I do get in some of the good stuff once in a while ....... Have gone over the PS board before I did anything to this one, had a blown fuse so I knew not to bring it up whithout checking outputs, found 2 bad ones, put some in it and brought up on variac, checked offset, and all was OK.
Had another 1010 in for repair a few months ago, soldered the PS board and sent it home, UPS droped it and would you believe the PS board broke in half, added some jumpers and it's now home in Tulse playing away.

[tommyd111]

On second thought, if you are going to clean up the 1010 a tad and sell it like you did the sx 850 my hat is doffed to you again:D

[gyusher]

This one is for me. I see the seller has joind us. . .Busted. . .LOL. . . No I think it is great, In have been trying to talk by email to him about this discussion. One good thing this guy is getting some good exposure here.
I am feeling better by the minute about this SX-1010. Now the hard part, win this auction. I would post the link but I think it will go through the roof as it is, so you will understand if I dont. Small world. AK is a big place. A great resourse.

[Kamakiri]

Originally posted by tommyd111
Well here is my 2 cents: If I had the Pioneer SX 1250, I wouldn't even fool around with a SX 1010.

"I figure the odds be fifty-fifty I just might have some thing to say". Frank Zappa

Totally different units with ddifferent personalities. The 1010 and the 1250 are totally different sonically. I had both receivers at the same time, the 1010 is the one that stayed :)

[tommyd111]

Originally posted by Kamakiri
Totally different units with ddifferent personalities. The 1010 and the 1250 are totally different sonically. I had both receivers at the same time, the 1010 is the one that stayed :)

Well I have no reason to doubt the differing personalities but I thought the 1250 had a much better THD spec than the 1010

[LARRY PRIESTMAN]

I agree with Kamakiri on this...These two are as differant as chulk and cheese but for me and this is a personal THING!!.....The 1010 walks it,...with out breaking into a sweat...I do have both of these units

[gyusher]

Thats the trouble with buying by specs alone. Often the best sounding gear has the worst specs. My ear is better than any numbers. Some types of distortion even make the sound better.

[tommyd111]

LOL does that mean you heard the one that the guy on ebay is selling?

"If it sounds GOOD to YOU, it's bitchen; and if it sounds BAD to YOU, it's shitty".

FRANK ZAPPA

[gyusher]

What I was trying to say is that I have bought many audio items that had great specs but sounded like crap. By the same token I have bought items with crummy specs that sounded great. Numbers alone dont tell you the whole story.

[tommyd111]

I understand as I was only ribbing you. However I am getting leery of stuff off ebay. For instance, I have bought 2 reel to reel tape decks from Sellers with oodles of good feedback. One deck was bunk and the other needs lots of help. Both said they played well. Go figure I bought a Sansui from a guy with marginal feedback and it was nice.

The specs that I read on the SX 1010 was less than 0.1 %THD while The SX 1250 was less than 0.01 %THD.

For my money , (2 cents) in either case I still would like to hear them with the same sets of speakers source etc:dunno:

[gyusher]

I buy and sell a lot of eBay stuff. I get burnt often on the cheap stuff and from sock sellers. Never buy audio gear from anyone who sells socks or items other than electronics unless you have a lot of discussion first. It becomes very clear if you are talking to a junk dealer. STOP and go on to the next thing. If your seller doesnt know what he has and you do not know him STOP. I have never been burnt on items that are priced at fair market value only when its to good to be true. I know there are exceptions but if I do not know the seller or cant get to know the seller before the auction ends I STOP.
Just like this SX-1010. . . I didnt know the seller from Dicks hat band but after several emails, discussion on this forum I now feel comfortable bidding on it. I have got emails with more pictures and this seller knows his stuff. I am so impressed by him that if I dont end up with the 1010 he will be on my favorites for something down the road now that the hard work is done. You cant for the most part trust descriptions. I get so tired of 5 pages of how to pay, what they will and will not take, several more pages that make you think you are an idiot then only to have a 5 word description. I think some of this stuff was picked up along side the road. BUT every now and then you find something special like the 1050 I bought that was owned by the widow of the Perry Mason writer (Earl Stanley Gardner) I mean this guy was a true time capsule piece. Then there are sellers like Retro on this forum who cares and has great stuff. It is not easy doing this right, many hours of research, many hours of eMails etc. But I have meet and continue to correspond with great people all over the world. People I feel like I know well but only online. What a frustrating, wonderful hobby. You know you have to kiss a lot of Frogs before you find a Prince. (or Princess)

[LARRY PRIESTMAN]

Now theres a man after my own heart....fair play!! good luck gyusher :thmbsp:

[LARRY PRIESTMAN]

gyusher
just for instance heres the THD of the Marantz 4400 which Dom (oldmarantz) I Quote ... say's is the Marantz.... unquote

..Here goes 250wpc x 2=125 wpc 200wpc x 4=50 wpc..THD at or below rated power,20Hz to 20Khz less than 0,15%, typically 0.06% including preamplifer ( AUX)...AND THIS UNIT SOUNDS BEAUTIFUL

[tommyd111]

Originally posted by LARRY PRIESTMAN
gyusher
just for instance heres the THD of the Marantz 4400 which Dom (oldmarantz) I Quote ... say's is the Marantz.... unquote

..Here goes 250wpc x 2=125 wpc 200wpc x 4=50 wpc..THD at or below rated power,20Hz to 20Khz less than 0,15%, typically 0.06% including preamplifer ( AUX)...AND THIS UNIT SOUNDS BEAUTIFUL

Well all that could very well be as a lot of units beat their advertised specs........... But a guy like me, I was in artillery and played in some loud rock bands in my youth, who therefore has some hearing damage, has no choice But to use published specs as guidelines. I know what I like when I hear it. I have 3 receivers, two stereo amps, 2 guitar amps and various speaker arrangements. I am pretty much set but am always on the alert for something good.............
So if you like the 1010 over the 1250 or the 1280 more power to you.
Essayons

[SX-980]

Hey tommyd111 l...what gyusher said,
know who you are buying from off of ebay! I bought audio vintage gear for about four years now and * Never * got stuck with junk. Do your homework and you'll be fine, and check out the seller other items he's selling.
SX-980 ( formally SilverDove )




Originally posted by tommyd111
Well all that could very well be as a lot of units beat their advertised specs........... But a guy like me, I was in artillery and played in some loud rock bands in my youth, who therefore has some hearing damage, has no choice But to use published specs as guidelines. I know what I like when I hear it. I have 3 receivers, two stereo amps, 2 guitar amps and various speaker arrangements. I am pretty much set but am always on the alert for something good.............
So if you like the 1010 over the 1250 or the 1280 more power to you.
Essayons

[tommyd111]

LOL I never got stuck. Its just a PITA having to send it back. And for now knock on wood,I don't need anything. Like I said I am set.
and wont be buying any audio gear on epay for a while. But I might be selling some stuff there and it wont be junk.

"Life is like highschool with money".

FZ

[LARRY PRIESTMAN]

I play rock guitar and my choice of amp is a dirty MARSHALL & a old Les Paul
but if I needed a clean sound then I use FENDER.with a old strat/tele...IT'S ALL DOWN TO WHAT ONE LIKES, what plays the music you like....I love classic rock music,heavy
and the 1010 sounds much better and does a better job than the more refined 1250.The 1250 trys hard but sorry it just ain't got it

If I played classical music then it may differant ie: go for a valve setup

Same today with amps in the guitar world older the better,
simple is better still...VOX AC30, MARSHALL BLUESBREAKER,FENDER BLUES DEVILLE the list is endless,All this THD crap, is just crap as most of these units in no way can give these specs today as there well past all that due to age...

also amps age as do Guitars,and sound better

[gyusher]

regardless of the SX1010s specs I am as excited about getting this piece as I have been about any piece of audio gear I have ever bought. I love the blue face look anyway, 100wpc is IMO is optimum for a receiver Cleaned up and detailed wraped inside a new exotic veneer case sitting on a cast pedistal that I have coupled to a pair of new generation floor standing JBL speakers, I will hide the auxillary gear so as not to detract from the 1010s appearance. I cant wait !! I will also be able to switch out receivers very easily as well, much fun ahead. . .

[bolly]

My opinion, Looks like after this thread SX-1010's are gonna skyrocket. Let's hope not as I haven't found mine, YET!

[LARRY PRIESTMAN]

And i'm looking forward to your comment's on this 1010 in a big way...

[tommyd111]

Originally posted by LARRY PRIESTMAN
I play rock guitar and my choice of amp is a dirty MARSHALL & a old Les Paul
but if I needed a clean sound then I use FENDER.with a old strat/tele...IT'S ALL DOWN TO WHAT ONE LIKES, what plays the music you like....I love classic rock music,heavy
and the 1010 sounds much better and does a better job than the more refined 1250.The 1250 trys hard but sorry it just ain't got it

If I played classical music then it may differant ie: go for a valve setup

Same today with amps in the guitar world older the better,
simple is better still...VOX AC30, MARSHALL BLUESBREAKER,FENDER BLUES DEVILLE the list is endless,All this THD crap, is just crap as most of these units in no way can give these specs today as there well past all that due to age...

also amps age as do Guitars,and sound better

I totally agree and BTW my old Fender Twin Reverb has 12" Celestion speakers taken out of an old Marshal and still has that Fender pure sound. When I want it dirty I use a Boss distortion pedal

[LARRY PRIESTMAN]

greenback or blueback G12's??

yeah that's right but you know what mean. Fender clean, Marshall dirty.......I use boss effects as well, but you don't use these on hifi gear you have to find the right gear for the right type of music you like......And the 1010 kicks arse when it comes to rock music
typical old school Pioneer....Evern the humble sx-450 sounds great playing rock music....it's in the blood of these older Pioneers.

But if you don't like rock music you can't beat a refined SX-1250.
these 1250's are great at what there do, and they do what they do very well indeed....

rgds larry

[tommyd111]

Originally posted by LARRY PRIESTMAN
greenback or blueback G12's??

yeah that's right but you know what mean. Fender clean, Marshall dirty.......I use boss effects as well, but you don't use these on hifi gear you have to find the right gear for the right type of music you like......And the 1010 kicks arse when it comes to rock music
typical old school Pioneer....Evern the humble sx-450 sounds great playing rock music....it's in the blood of these older Pioneers.

But if you don't like rock music you can't beat a refined SX-1250.
these 1250's are great at what there do, and they do what they do very well indeed....

rgds larry
Well I love rock and I love all kinds of music. I have 2 Sansui Stereo amps and 1 Receiver. I also have a nice old Technics SA 303 and I do have a Pioneer SA 1290 that believe it or not plays decent sounds with over 100 wpc. So I can listen to anything. Guitar amps are different. I also have a Fender Princeton chorus that plays clean or dirty and is very easy to lug around not like that ballbuster Twin. A few years ago I had a Sunn Stage Lead that I preamped with a Gibson Explorer. Man that was some "Bluesy" and loud sound. Somebody made me an offer that I couldn't refuse on that. I kinda regret it tho cos you don't see to many of em anymore.
Regards, Tommyd

[LARRY PRIESTMAN]

JESUS!
Don't get me started on guitars as this is my first passion.
At this time I own 15 guitars and 4 amps...10 Gibson les pauls and 5 fenders,Marshall,peavey,fender amps....I've invested a lot on these' as one I will not be here and my 4 kids can fight over them....All MY GEAR IS VINTAGE....

Please don't get me started.....I love it!!!

rgds larry

[tommyd111]

Okay Ill start a new thread as I have 5 guitars myself

[Tullman]

Nice looking unit here but the seller looks to be a bit shady.

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=3085742541

Would you buy a reciever from this man.

[gyusher]

Not the cranky old Russian. . . I love reading his feedback. . . What a jerk. . . From time to time he lists some very nice looking gear but I am afraid of that guy. My opinion but no thanks. . . stay away. . . Unless you know this piece and this seller.
BTW all lights dont work as he says the middle light looks out to me. . .

[gyusher]

I told this guy all his lights were not working as he said they were. anyway he sent me this. . . I am only interested in the one I have been ranting about not this guy.

[SX-980]

Hey gyusher, what's up! It's me formally SilverDove now SX-980. :)
Hey, what's the watts pre channel on this SX-1010 little jewel?
SX-980




Originally posted by gyusher
I told this guy all his lights were not working as he said they were. anyway he sent me this. . . I am only interested in the one I have been ranting about not this guy.

[gyusher]

I believe it is 100wpc however I have heard 100 and 110. . . both from reliable sources. The pic above is not the one I want. . . The one I am after started this marathon. . .

[tommyd111]

How does the Pioneer SX 3900 sound?

[kajguy03]

Originally posted by tommyd111
How does the Pioneer SX 3900 sound?

How did the SX-3900 get mixed in with this?? It can't hold a stick to an SX-1010. All you have to do is open 'em up and the difference will be OBVIOUS! Who brought up the SX-3900 in this discussion? I've heard one and it's not much to talk about compare to the BIG BOYS. Sound is very mid-range and lacks that tight bottom-end of the better-built units. The SX-3900 is good only for someone who can't afford 1010, 1250 or 1980.

[Kamakiri]

Sugggestion to you kajguy, relax the attitude a bit. Consider this friendly advice from the founder of this site.

[gyusher]

Only 2 days left untill the auction closes. Seems like this thread has been around for much longer than it has. I want to thank everyone for their input, it has helped a lot even the unrelated posts were interesting, I guess with a long thread it has to be pulled back on topic from time to time. I leave tomorrow for my vacation and if all goes well I will be bringing this bad boy back with me. Funny I am more excited about picking this guy up than the rest of the trip.
Actually I am going after this 1010 stricly because of what I have read about it on this forum. I owned the baby of this series the SX-435 I think. .,. If the 1010 performs near as well as the baby of the series I will love it. The lights went out of the little one for awhile but it was my backup receiver. I pushed JBL L-112s and big Pioneer CS-922As with it to almost wickedly loud levels (no loudness) Finally I fixed the lights and sold it to a buyer who still sends me emails about how much they love it.
I have got many ideas from you guys about how I want to fix this thing up. A great almost Spring project. I am sure I will be talking about it and showing off after I get either this one or another if this one falls through.

[LARRY PRIESTMAN]

Glad to have been involved in this thread.It's been great fun..I thank you for that..... I do hope that the info that I stated was helpfull ...you will enjoy the 1010 belive me there a great unit....

fondest regards larry

[hotgas]

"The SX-3900 is good only for someone who can't afford 1010, 1250 or 1980"

This is the most hilarious statement I've ever seen in this forum! :p:

Kajguy03,


I bet my SX3900 beat all your mentioned receivers in fine tuning and sound. :D Can I say the same thing that only because you either don't like its looks or can't find an SX3900 then you are degrading its performance ? ;) A 1980 only costs a fraction of my tube systems. Why don't I own one? Simple, I think it is too bulky. If I have one cheap enough I'll get it, listen to it for couple weeks, and then EBAY it. So please don't say absurb things like "can't afford" here. Maybe you think the rest of us are not rich like you?

[SX-980]

Yo hotgas, I bet my tuner will beat your cause I'll have it tweak by changing out the IF filters......can yours do that! :twak:
:butt1: :butt2:
SX-980






Originally posted by hotgas
"The SX-3900 is good only for someone who can't afford 1010, 1250 or 1980"

This is the most hilarious statement I've ever seen in this forum! :p:

Kajguy03,


I bet my SX3900 beat all your mentioned receivers in fine tuning and sound. :D Can I say the same thing that only because you either don't like its looks or can't find an SX3900 then you are degrading its performance ? ;) A 1980 only costs a fraction of my tube systems. Why don't I own one? Simple, I think it is too bulky. If I have one cheap enough I'll get it, listen to it for couple weeks, and then EBAY it. So please don't say absurb things like "can't afford" here. Maybe you think the rest of us are not rich like you?

[hotgas]

Hey SX980, in that case I don't want to take the bet because I'd not go that far. You win. :finger:

[SX-980]

Tusk......tusk, Hey, what can I say!
SX-980 :finger: :finger:


Originally posted by hotgas
Hey SX980, in that case I don't want to take the bet because I'd not go that far. You win. :finger:

[gyusher]

BOYS!!! Now you behave!

[kajguy03]

Originally posted by SX-980
Yo hotgas, I bet my tuner will beat your cause I'll have it tweak by changing out the IF filters......can yours do that! :twak:
:butt1: :butt2:
SX-980

hotgas -- I've owned an SX-3900 and SX-3700. They did not impress me and, CERTAINLY, don't compare favorably to the 1010, 1250 and 1280 that I decided to keep. That is not to say that it's a horrible reciver....actually, it's OK. Just not in their league and I'm sure that most collectors would agree.

I'm not interested in competing with anyone, especially over a tuner. And, I'm certainly not going to modify a vintage unit over a very subtle FM issue. I'm just commenting on the 3900 for what it is in my OPINION (as a former owner)....a turn down the wrong path....cheaper build and cheesier looking cosmetics. As I mentioned earlier, the rest of that line was built in Korea....and we all know what that means...COST CUTTING!

Bottom line: I just don't like it. That's why I dumped mine. You certainly are well within your rights to have a different opinion, but I suspect most here are laughing if you SERIOUSLY believe the SX-3900 is a better unit than a 1010, 1250 and/or 1280. IT ISN'T. I'm sure even the engineers that worked on it would agree.

Good luck with your's, though, considering the other equipment you have, I anticipate that you'll end up like I did, dumping it to make room for something more valuable. Good luck!

[kajguy03]

Originally posted by Kamakiri
Sugggestion to you kajguy, relax the attitude a bit. Consider this friendly advice from the founder of this site.

Thanks for the friendly advice. Much appreciated! Someone asked what I thought of the SX-3900 and I expressed my opinion. I hope no one was offended. It's only vintage audio equipment. I think it's a miracle that much of it has survived this long!

[kajguy03]

Originally posted by Tullman
Nice looking unit here but the seller looks to be a bit shady.

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=3085742541

Would you buy a reciever from this man.

Some of the negative feedbach he had was PRETTY HOSTILE. That makes me wary. I bend over backwards to make sure everyone I deal with is 100% satisfied. Frankly, I do not buy from Sellers with negative feedback. For someone to go negative really means a deal was BAD, BAD, BAD, since there are so many options for resolving differences on E-Bay.

[hotgas]

Kajguy,

Just forget about my last post about whether you had a 3900 before since you said you had one in this thread.

"but I suspect most here are laughing if you SERIOUSLY believe the SX-3900 is a better unit than a 1010, 1250 and/or 1280. IT ISN'T. I'm sure even the engineers that worked on it would agree"

I am talking about cooling job and I believe it is better than any beasts you mentioned. The reason is that most home electronics back in the 70's were designed by analog elevtrical engineers who had a very limitted knowledge in cooling. We knew that for a fact as in 1980's we started looking at cooling of mini and mainframe computers here in Silicon Valley. The SX980 is a perfect example and I already showed that it is a poor cooling job. Onece I have the 1250 in my hand I'll do a thorough cooling analysis and prove it again. People with limitted technical knowledge have a wrong impression about quality build. Heavier built doesn't mean better quality. There are many more involved in quality. When saying something remember to back it up with fact or reasoning. Just state somehting with feeling or emotion can't convince anyone.

Cutting cost doesn't neccessarily means bad quality. What you think is completely wrong. When they moved the line to Korea, they maintained the same design and manufacturing techniques and cut cost by using cheap labor/safety requirements/etc. If cheap labor probably means suspicious quality then quality control is used to solve the problem and with time it could be better. You seem you have no clues what quality is. It is not only labor but the way how people originally designed a product . As a thermal/mechanical/quality control engineer and having done auditting of hundreds of companies all over the world, I know what I am talking about. The old Pioneer receivers are way overdesigned in the fact that engineers put too much aluminum in heatsinking without optimizing it. This heavier weight can interfere with quality control because it is harder to handle during manufacturing process. And this is about cooling only. There are other factors involved such as analog, electronics, cabling, EMI, aesthetics and these always improved with time. Of course, there is always a trade-off since people want to drive cost down. But human being are smart and they can do it without sacrificing quality.

You can believe what you want to believe. But you can't convince me by just saying "I suspect" blah blah without having any concrete evidence to back it up. And I care less what others think if they can't tell me scientifically older Pioneers are better than my SX3900.

[kajguy03]

Originally posted by hotgas
Kajguy,

Just forget about my last post about whether you had a 3900 before since you said you had one in this thread.

"but I suspect most here are laughing if you SERIOUSLY believe the SX-3900 is a better unit than a 1010, 1250 and/or 1280. IT ISN'T. I'm sure even the engineers that worked on it would agree"

I am talking about cooling job and I believe it is better than any beasts you mentioned. The reason is that most home electronics back in the 70's were designed by analog elevtrical engineers who had a very limitted knowledge in cooling. We knew that for a fact as in 1980's we started looking at cooling of mini and mainframe computers here in Silicon Valley. The SX980 is a perfect example and I already showed that it is a poor cooling job. Onece I have the 1250 in my hand I'll do a thorough cooling analysis and prove it again. People with limitted technical knowledge have a wrong impression about quality build. Heavier built doesn't mean better quality. There are many more involved in quality. When saying something remember to back it up with fact or reasoning. Just state somehting with feeling or emotion can't convince anyone.

Cutting cost doesn't neccessarily means bad quality. What you think is completely wrong. When they moved the line to Korea, they maintained the same design and manufacturing techniques and cut cost by using cheap labor/safety requirements/etc. If cheap labor probably means suspicious quality then quality control is used to solve the problem and with time it could be better. You seem you have no clues what quality is. It is not only labor but the way how people originally designed a product . As a thermal/mechanical/quality control engineer and having done auditting of hundreds of companies all over the world, I know what I am talking about. The old Pioneer receivers are way overdesigned in the fact that engineers put too much aluminum in heatsinking without optimizing it. This heavier weight can interfere with quality control because it is harder to handle during manufacturing process. And this is about cooling only. There are other factors involved such as analog, electronics, cabling, EMI, aesthetics and these always improved with time. Of course, there is always a trade-off since people want to drive cost down. But human being are smart and they can do it without sacrificing quality.

You can believe what you want to believe. But you can't convince me by just saying "I suspect" blah blah without having any concrete evidence to back it up. And I care less what others think if they can't tell me scientifically older Pioneers are better than my SX3900.

Don -- Take my word for it. Get over your obsession with the SX-3900, spend the extra money and get yourself an SX-1250 and you'll know what I'm talking about. If you haven't owned a 1250, or a 1010 for that matter, you simply don't know what you're talking about. You really need to HEAR FOR YOURSELF and not judge from photos. Since I've owned all these units, including the 3900, I am in a position to judge, Unless ou have, you really can't. You have no basis of comparison.

Let's put it this way, if I were to offer each of the highly informed and experienced collectors here the choice of a free 1010, 1250, 1980 or 3900, all TOTL Pioneer Receivers, which one do you think would be picked most often and which one the least. I know which one would be picked most often (1980) and I'm confident that the 3900 would be picked the least.....probably not at all, except by you, perhaps.

As for the scientific debate cooling design, which I'm sure ranks ahead of SOUND QUALITY on most audiophiles lists, at the levels I listen to music, the cooling of the 1250 is more than sufficient for my needs...the huge external heatsinks are barely warm. You will note that the SX-3900 has the heatsinks mounted internally, creating heat build-up within the cabinet.

As for the quality of Korean made products in the early 1980's, I can say for sure that the Japanese equipment was better quality and built by people who were quality fanatics. A 1980's Korean made piece is not something I would be proud to own because I know that the quality control of the Korean production lines during that era was simply not on par with the Japanese. I never bought a 1986 Hyundai.

[kajguy03]

Originally posted by gyusher
regardless of the SX1010s specs I am as excited about getting this piece as I have been about any piece of audio gear I have ever bought. I love the blue face look anyway, 100wpc is IMO is optimum for a receiver Cleaned up and detailed wraped inside a new exotic veneer case sitting on a cast pedistal that I have coupled to a pair of new generation floor standing JBL speakers, I will hide the auxillary gear so as not to detract from the 1010s appearance. I cant wait !! I will also be able to switch out receivers very easily as well, much fun ahead. . .

I love your sense of IMAGINATION!! What a great concept!!!

[hotgas]

Kajguy,

"Don -- Take my word for it. Get over your obsession with the SX-3900, spend the extra money and get yourself an SX-1250 and you'll know what I'm talking about. If you haven't owned a 1250, or a 1010 for that matter, you simply don't know what you're talking about. You really need to HEAR FOR YOURSELF and not judge from photos. Since I've owned all these units, including the 3900, I am in a position to judge, Unless ou have, you really can't. You have no basis of comparison."


I can't take your words for it as your words are not gospel. I agree that hearing is believing but I doubt if I can rely on your ears only. You are in the position to judge but you can't convince me. I never said I am in the position to judge as I never own the others but I can judge on cooling based on picture.

"the cooling of the 1250 is more than sufficient for my needs...the huge external heatsinks are barely warm. "

That is fine I don't argue that. But the extra weight is useless.

" You will note that the SX-3900 has the heatsinks mounted internally, creating heat build-up within the cabinet."

Heat can't be built up in the cabinet because heat rises from bottom vent to top vent. That is why people built the perf screen or holes for heat release. The heatsinks are critical for output devices and not for others. You don't really know what you are talking about.

"As for the quality of Korean made products in the early 1980's, I can say for sure that the Japanese equipment was better quality and built by people who were quality fanatics. A 1980's Korean made piece is not something I would be proud to own because I know that the quality control of the Korean production lines during that era was simply not on par with the Japanese. I never bought a 1986 Hyundai."

That is not the point. My point is the machine was designed by Japansese and built by Korean labor so quality is maintained and cost is reduced.

[hotgas]

Kajguy,

"Don -- Take my word for it. Get over your obsession with the SX-3900, spend the extra money and get yourself an SX-1250 and you'll know what I'm talking about. If you haven't owned a 1250, or a 1010 for that matter, you simply don't know what you're talking about. You really need to HEAR FOR YOURSELF and not judge from photos. Since I've owned all these units, including the 3900, I am in a position to judge, Unless ou have, you really can't. You have no basis of comparison."


I can't take your words for it as your words are not gospel. I agree that hearing is believing but I doubt if I can rely on your ears only. You are in the position to judge but you can't convince me. I never said I am in the position to judge as I never own the others but I can judge on cooling based on picture.

"the cooling of the 1250 is more than sufficient for my needs...the huge external heatsinks are barely warm. "

That is fine I don't argue that. But the extra weight is useless.

" You will note that the SX-3900 has the heatsinks mounted internally, creating heat build-up within the cabinet."

Heat can't be built up in the cabinet because heat rises from bottom vent to top vent. That is why people built the perf screen or holes for heat release. The heatsinks are critical for output devices and not for others. You don't really know what you are talking about.

"As for the quality of Korean made products in the early 1980's, I can say for sure that the Japanese equipment was better quality and built by people who were quality fanatics. A 1980's Korean made piece is not something I would be proud to own because I know that the quality control of the Korean production lines during that era was simply not on par with the Japanese. I never bought a 1986 Hyundai."

That is not the point. My point is the machine was designed by Japansese and built by Korean labor so quality was maintained and cost was reduced lower.

[LARRY PRIESTMAN]

Look guy's I don't normally get into this type of thing..
But however on this stupid!! argument, lets clear it up.

The sx-3900 is not considered on this forum as better. The 3900,3700,3600 is, what it is, However these units are in no doubt, in any ones mind on this forum, better in build quality,sound quality, and looks than the units made in the goldern decade...We all know how fast the industry went down hill after the 1980. Personally I hate pioneers with those cheezy blue leds, just as much as I hated it in cars like Jags who always had real clocks and dials,and walnut dashes,door caps. And we all know how the world excepted that one. As pioneer for me is real switches,real walnut,and real dials,and real outputs,and for that real heatsinks. Not the micky mouse tin foil that came to be in the post goldern age...That includes the chassis. And not to mention the amount of plastic used.

Quality has gone to sh!t since the introduction of the SX-3xxxx
AND THAT IS FACT..I would not have a unit that has plastic push buttons, led's, and non discrite outputs period, AS THIS FOR ME, MAKES IT MODERN!!!,and not vintage, that is my opinion which no one on this forum or any where else for that matter will change..So can we please shut up about this stupid sx 3xxxx thing and get this thread back to the vintage unit we are talking about, The mighty SX-1010...Thank you!! HAVE A NICE DAY!!

BACK TO YOU gyusher!!.

[tommyd111]

Hey Everyone I am the one that originally posed the question here in this thread about the SX 3900. I was thoroughly being facetious but I didnt intend to start any fires or fan any flames.


Lets give Gyusher credit for starting one hell of a thread and lets hope he gets his 1010 like he wants.

Sorry all :rolleyes:

[LARRY PRIESTMAN]

HERE HERE!!! Tommy

Larry

[SX-980]

I too agree with Tommy and Larry.....!!!
SX-980


Originally posted by LARRY PRIESTMAN
HERE HERE!!! Tommy

Larry

[hotgas]

Personally I don't give a f..ck about all Pioneer receivers as they are not my cup of tea, but this ignorant talk from Larry and others have gotten too far.

When someone asked you what you think about a receiver then expect to have different opinions. I've never bad-mouthed any vintage Pioneer receivers. All I did was to compare the cooling designs between them. Who am I to judge when I never own a SX1010? So you guys better learn how to improve your reading efficiency to understand what people reaaly mean.

I'd stop all the discussions about SX3900 here and to me it has a very nice cooling design, sounds great, aesthetically more pleasant looking with blue LED tuning meters than the old vintage stuffs. Hey, it is my personal opinion too and if it is different from yours then beat it. :rolleyes:

[bully]

Please, guys, cool your jets.
Keep the comments focused on the SX-1010, and here's wishing good luck on scoring the big guy.

[LARRY PRIESTMAN]

Thanx Pete!!

gyusher

how is it going now mate??

[dewickt]

He got it, will have the SX-1010 ready for pick up next Sunday, will be nice not having to box it up.

[LARRY PRIESTMAN]

That is good news
Congrats gyusher + dewickt!!!!




gyusher can't wait to here your opinions on her.


:beer: :rockon:

[kajguy03]

I like the idea of a real hardwood cabinet for the 1010 rather than the veneer. The cosmetics of the 1010 are sensational and a beautiful hardwood case would be just PERFECT! I'd love to know who does this work and how much it would run. If reasonable, I'm very interested.

[msjanket]

Having long realized that one man's food is another's poison, I took delivery of my vintage 1010SX recently and in my opinion, this is one sweet potato. I have a bunch of Marantz's and they are tremendous, but the big Pioneer is really one cojone crunching unit! This thing is astounding and to those who love the separates, well, perhaps an ear wax removal is necessary. The big unit is nimble, deep, rich, sharp, and unfolds the layers of music. It can play on my team anyday. I heartily recommend this big Cat.

[dewickt]

gyusher came by and picked up his SX-1010, we will know in a day or so what he thinks. I compard it to my Kenwood KR9600 and was impressed, sounded smoother then the 9600 not quite the omph but then the 9600 has new design output stages and pops out an easy 200W into 8 ohms and 300 into 4 ohms, about double the power but not quite the sound.

[LARRY PRIESTMAN]

welcome to the sx1010 club msjanket
I have no doubt that you will enjoy this unit for yrs to come
with proper maintaince.....NICE ONE MATE!!!


gyusher WE ARE WAITING!!!

[gyusher]

I just drove into my driveway. Havnt had time yet to get this bad boy out of the car, but I will tell you this; It was much, much better than I thought it would be. Did I get lucky or what!! And to make it sweeter it came from a fellow AKer!! Small world! Stay tuned Nudies etc to follow. . .

[gyusher]

I now understand all the fuss about the SX-1010. . . I hooked her up to my Altec model 3s (10in 2 way) and the weight this guy adds to the sound, is to my mind, great. What a powerful, warm pleasing sound from this old Cadillac. So far I love it. Only complaint is a minor one. Seems to have a slight pop when you engage or disengage the tone controls. I have heard worse with these old Pioneers. There is a great deal of difference between this and the 1050/1250s. . . A few pics before cleaning. This is how I got her.

[gyusher]

I will leave her where she sits for a week or so before hooking it to my big JBLs.

[gyusher]

I cant find a scratch, either on the bright metal or the real walnut veneer case. I am still 10 feet in the air!

[gyusher]

The other side! I think I will get the slight pop out of her. ., . When I take her face off I will relube the switch and see if it helps. Really a very light pop. . .

[gyusher]

I think this SX-1010 is every bit as nice as the 850s I have and sell. This guy really caught me by surprise. I honestly thought when I went to get her I would be sorry as I didnt know the owner. What a nice place he has, great little shop with some real nice Mac Amps. . .Way out of my price but who knows maybe I will get the Mac bug someday. For now though this 1010 has a bright future in my house.

[kajguy03]

Originally posted by gyusher
I now understand all the fuss about the SX-1010. . . I hooked her up to my Altec model 3s (10in 2 way) and the weight this guy adds to the sound, is to my mind, great. What a powerful, warm pleasing sound from this old Cadillac. So far I love it. Only complaint is a minor one. Seems to have a slight pop when you engage or disengage the tone controls. I have heard worse with these old Pioneers. There is a great deal of difference between this and the 1050/1250s. . . A few pics before cleaning. This is how I got her.

What "great deal of difference" did you notice between the SX-1010 and the 1050/1250. Just curious......(I own one of each)

[gyusher]

Actually I can only speak to the differences between the SX-1010 that I just got and the many 850/1050/1250s that I have had over the years. In my mind the 1010 sounds (this one) much warmer and smoother than the 1250. I havnt had the 1010 long enough to really address this but for first impressions.
With the 1250 I have owned several, one that I bought new along with a SX-1050, both of which I kept untill around 1990 before letting them go, pressures of HT. . . I have also owned several seperates systems along the way. With my old 1250 I used her with dozens of different speaker combinations.
The Altec 3s that I have hooked to the 1010 have also been connected to recent 1050/1250s that I have purchased and resold. As time goes by I can tell you more than smoother and warmer but at this point thats it.
I will say that I like the sound of this 1010. It is very pleasing, very noticable that it has more than ample power. Solid strong bottom and a very pleasant midrange and top end, not so clean as to be sterile or hard. Not laid back, not forward just a very smooth "nice" sound almost to the point of drawing you to the amp where the 1250 would just disappear.
BTW I like them both. . . Let me get used to the SX-1010 and I will be more specific, right now I am just havning fun listening, later I will hook her up to better speakers that are placed better in the room.

[LARRY PRIESTMAN]

here here
I couldn't have put it better myself...taking into consideration the age of these old girls,the technology at this time these are very hard to beat...even today they wipe the floor with most.

I only paid £90+ for my 1010... but the 1250 I had imported from the states was not far off a grand GBP...THE 1010 WAS MUCH BETTER VALUE...If I could get the money back for the 1250 I wouldn't miss it....fat chance of that...so it stays....

[gyusher]

These old Altec model 3s are fine little speakers that actually sound decent but they are very ineffecient, only rated at 35 watts max (extended periods) and sensitivity of about 85-87db or so. they are hungry for power yet you cant lean on them too much. They will let you know real quick if your amp has the grunt to make them sound right. The 1050/1250/1010 all have lots of grunt. with these speakers the 1010 does sound better than the 1250 and the 1050. These Altecs are fine for background or low level music. I have noticed with the 1010 even at low levels they move a lot of air, great bass. Even set flat, with no loudness, but with loudness and at low volume you feel the bass along with hearing it. I think the 1010's tuner is better than most, at least this one works very well, even AM. I listen to talk radio on a difficult AM station but this guy grabs it and gives you a strong clear sound from it. Even the 1250s I have had have trouble with this station.
Tomorrow I intend to hook it to my JBL S312IIs. . . Then we will get down to buisness.

[LARRY PRIESTMAN]

told ya

[gyusher]

Larry you were right however I do have a couple minor issues that may be corrected just with use. I have seen these old Pioneers get finikey when not played for extended periods. This guy has a poping sound that is going away whenever you engage the tone controls and the volume comes up slowly when you first turn it on. I thought it had to do with soft start but I am thinking it might be something deeper. Both issues are going away though. Seems the more it plays the better it gets. I will know more when I pull the face off and begin cleaning. I have had several classic Pioneers act up when you first put them in service only to straighten up after a few days of playing.
I intend to keep this guy so whatever it needs it will get. If in fact it needs anything other than to be used a little.
I just got through listening for a couple hours while napping. . . It is very nice indeed.

[LARRY PRIESTMAN]

gyusher
pioneers take ages to warm up but if this unit has been in storage
she may take longer..the poping sounds like a cleaning issue due to lack of use but I could be wrong...but pioneers do take time to settle down and bed in ...well mine do any way..leave her switched on with the volume turned down and the speakers switched off over a couple of nights always seems to work with mine...when I first get them...

hope this helps

[gyusher]

I do let them play steady for a couple days when I first get one, after I watch it for 5 or 6 hours first. I have had many that needed played awhile before settling down.
I will switch the speakers off however otherwise I will listen to her all night. . . Not a bad thing either!

[LARRY PRIESTMAN]

well lets put it this way it's now 01:42 and they still on..mine are on 24/7 265 days a year, yes I do have a tv but that has a mute function which is engaged all the time.....Got a couple of Marantzs today 1 is totally mint,Don't know what I'm going to do with that one, the other is a used unit that needs a bit of work but seems not much though....

[Kamakiri]

Originally posted by gyusher
Larry you were right however I do have a couple minor issues that may be corrected just with use. I have seen these old Pioneers get finikey when not played for extended periods. This guy has a poping sound that is going away whenever you engage the tone controls and the volume comes up slowly when you first turn it on. I thought it had to do with soft start but I am thinking it might be something deeper.

It's going to get deeper, as I had the same problem with my 1010. If I'm rememebring correctly, the popping was coming from a small amount of DC voltage spiking whenever the switch was flipped. This receiver drove Punker nuts with this problem.

If you're going to keep this for any length of time, I would suggest having it gone through. I would doubt the popping is going to get anything but worse.

[Tullman]

I just had a problem like this with my Sansui and it got worse over time. It ended up costing me lots of money to have repaired.

[gyusher]

I owe EW for not getting to fix a 1250 that I drove him nuts about with emails. Then never sent it to him. This guy is different as it is much nicer and just about perfect cosmetically. Besides I am only 150.00 in it so far. I will contact him and see if he can or wants to work on this guy. Sometimes that pop is very slight like a tic but at other times its like a rifle shot. Anyway I am sure after all these years it would be wise to get it brought back.
As long as you do not trip that switch it sounds super. And I do not use Tone controls anyway but if it needs something this old boy will get it. I have sent for a service manual. . . .

[Tullman]

Originally posted by gyusher
Sometimes that pop is very slight like a tic but at other times its like a rifle shot.

A rifle shot! I bet your speakers don't like that very much.

[LARRY PRIESTMAN]

JESUS
If we are talking that loud then you have a problem by the sounds of things...I have mine on now and I have never heard anything like that on this one...this only had a little noise but after she was cleaned it never returned....hope it's not to much.....

[gyusher]

This is why it is still hooked to my old Altecs. . . I wont put her on the good guys untill I feel more comfortable. I just PM'd EW to see if he could or would look her over. I dont think I want anyone else to work on this guy.
I do not mind putting money in this one as it is so nice cosmetically and I am in it right. Besides this will be my wifes daily driver and it does need to be right. Needless to say I leave that switch alone. . . If I need to use it I turn off the speakers first.

[LARRY PRIESTMAN]

That most defernetly sounds like DC to me...Speaker do not like DC in any shape or form....

[gyusher]

DC. . . . I wish I knew more about how to work on this stuff. I can clean, change bulbs, fuses with the best but I cant get how the electricity gets from the wall to the speakers. . .

[LARRY PRIESTMAN]

You will get the same sound if you connect a AA SIZE1.5 volt Battery +- to the speaker wires...this will give you a idea what DC sounds like but please don't use a new fully charged battery use a discharged one and only for a ....nanosecond

If this is the noise you here when you are adjusting the pot then it's DC, END OF STORY.....

[LARRY PRIESTMAN]

but it also may be just a arking switch that needs cleaning big time..have you tryed to run it though it's full travel at least 15/20 times???

[gyusher]

Larry, I have flipped that switch around 1798 times(Off of course). . . It is getting better. . . Now it is just a small tic with a little bigger one every so often. Before it would trip its protection circuit sometimes when you switched it. Now it just makes a slight pop or tic but I am still scared enough to get it out completly. She has been playing now for well over 24 hours continuous, warm but not hot. . . I could listen to this guy all day every day, very pleasant sound even with my old Altecs. . .

[LARRY PRIESTMAN]

gyusher


HAVE YOU CLEANED THIS POT YET??? If you aint clean all pots
AND LUBE THEM

gyusher WHICH POT IS PLAYING UP??

[LARRY PRIESTMAN]

Tell ya what I fell the same about mine but I also now have this fantastic MARANTZ 4400 and that is in a class of it's own.
I do see what all the fuss is about with these Beautiful works of art..I've just replaced all the bulbs and now that display is Beautiful to say the least....I luv this unit as well...this for me is a keeper as is the 1010,and of coarse the Rotel rx 1603..these are my favarites.....by a long long way

[gyusher]

Larry,
The seller did clean and lube all the pots and switches but as we know some take more cleaning.
Only one switch is noisey, the tone control master switch. Much better now like I said but I am going to clean and lube it again tonight or in the morning. If that doesnt fix it then in the shop she goes. Matter of fact I am thinking about a serious look at her by a serious tech. I can live with it like it is now but before I hook it to my new JBLs I want it so I do not worry about it. I have extra drivers for my Altec model 3 speakers so I am not too worried about them, besides after 1 1/2 days they still sound great.
Every time I walk past the 1010 I lay my hands on her and tell myself how happy I am just to have her. . .Thats a true statement!!!

[LARRY PRIESTMAN]

this switch is seldom used it does most of it's life stuck in the same place so with that in mind it's most probaley this switch that needs cleaning big time as it may be arking.. or a total rebuild or renewing....but going buy the condition of the unit I would say a good cleaning should sort this out...Pioneer switches are known for just this problem....rebiulding and repairing these switches is a long job I know done many....
I think you will be alright ....well let's be positive about it..or as I say "you ain't dead till I say so"

[gyusher]

Matter of fact I will do it now and let you know. . .

[gyusher]

I am sending this old girl to EW ASAP so he can do his thing to my new SX-1010. She is nice enough and I have got just a taste of how this thing works. Now for the Full Meal Deal. . . Hell now I am excited all over again. . . .

[Kamakiri]

Now would be a good time to have an exotic wood case made by yaksplat like I am :D

Hell, he's got the templates and the wood since he's doing mine :scratch2:

And shame on you for keeping the tone controls off! Turn them up all the way, hit the loudness, and watch your voice coils be projected forward with frightening force! :D You HAVE to do it at least once!

I was gonna have Echo bust the detents off my tone controls to try for a couple extra dB ;)

[gyusher]

Hey now. . . One thing I do like about old Pioneers is the loudness contour. . . I do use that feature. About the only way to listen at low volume levels. BTW I am having a speaker builder friend start making new cases for 850/1050s in original walnut and I am considering having him use some left over veneer that he uses on his speakers. I would rather have veneer over plywood for stability issues as the plywood is very stable and doesnt move when it changes temperature as these guys do. Besides this guy does do some mighty fine speaker cabs with some very exotic veneers. Of course you grabbed my favorite, the human mouth cannot pronounce some of these veneer names. But I havnt started yet, I might need your guy to build me one. Right now my first step is getting this old girl reliable and up to date. Then we can talk cases. . .

[SX-980]

Ask your speaker builder to use 1/2" MDF board instead of regular plywood.
SX-980





Originally posted by gyusher
Hey now. . . One thing I do like about old Pioneers is the loudness contour. . . I do use that feature. About the only way to listen at low volume levels. BTW I am having a speaker builder friend start making new cases for 850/1050s in original walnut and I am considering having him use some left over veneer that he uses on his speakers. I would rather have veneer over plywood for stability issues as the plywood is very stable and doesnt move when it changes temperature as these guys do. Besides this guy does do some mighty fine speaker cabs with some very exotic veneers. Of course you grabbed my favorite, the human mouth cannot pronounce some of these veneer names. But I havnt started yet, I might need your guy to build me one. Right now my first step is getting this old girl reliable and up to date. Then we can talk cases. . .

[gyusher]

We are going to use 9 ply or 11 ply baltic birch plywood. Although 44 pound MDF (speaker grade) is more stable it is not as tough and goes away from original equipment looks. He has lots of really neat ideas for new custom cases. . . I might get into selling cases for just Pioneer 850/950/980/1050/1080/1250/1280 and of course 1010 cases as a cloned original or as a custom. I think I could sell a bunch of the 850/1050 cases alone. We havnt worked through all the details yet. We would have to get about 150.00 for a cloned original to come out on it. I am not interested in building cheap cases. Takes almost as long to build a cheap case as it does for a premimum one.

[LARRY PRIESTMAN]

you should also think about the big money that these Maratz chip board cases go for on the bay...these shitty cases are in my opinion crap considering the units that there made for.

Although my 4400 has a mint case it's crap in design and made of Veneered bloody chipboard..total crap...a hell of a contrast well you look at a TOTL Poineer at least they did try by useing plywood then Veneered walnut

[gyusher]

My baby gets picked up today and is going straight to EW for a complete restoration. . . The full meal deal as he calls it. I figure since I am only in it a buck fifty right now there is room to go forward. I will start another thread when she returns home. This one has been great, if not for everyones input I would be sitting here wondering what to do with this gorgeous old receiver. Thanks again to all for their input.:cool: