How long do integrated amps last?

basicchannel

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Nov 7, 2024
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Hello

I have a 40 year old QED A230S amp (from my first separates hi fi system, 18th birthday present - the accompanying Dual 505 turntable and Wharfdale Diamond speakers long since gone)

It still works fine (and sounds great), and currently ampifies my home workstation desktop PC and my Digital Audio Workststion

Should I expect many more years out of it?
 
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I would say, no you probably can’t expect many more years, but you might be fortunate that it stays in working order for a while longer.

I believe certain components, especially capacitors, have a finite lifespan, or at least are likely to drift out of spec over time. Then that either causes issues elsewhere, or may change the performance notably from the original design. Any number of other issues might occur, in switches or potentiometers (usual the volume control), or the power supply.

It’s possible that any repairs would be uneconomic unless you have the ability to DIY. Meanwhile, most kit in my experience works more reliably when used frequently rather than being stored, especially in less than ideal places, like lofts or garages.
 
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Hello

I have a 40 year old QED A230S amp (from my first separates hi fi system, 18th birthday present - the accompanying Dual 505 turntable and Wharfdale Diamond speakers long since gone)

It still works fine (and sounds great), and currently ampifies my home workstation desktop PC and my Digital Audio Workststion

Should I expect many more years out of it?

I have a Sony TA-F246A from 1995 in my bedroom. I got it 2nd hand ten years ago. I'm not sure how much use it had in the first 20 years but I have used it three or four times a week for the last ten years.
 
How long is a piece of string? the same applies to everything, the only guide is that better quality (More Expensive) equipment usually lasts longer due to better quality components.
You also have to define what you mean as working, as something can still be working but falls well short of what it was like when it was first manufactured.

Bill
 
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Mine last until I next get the urge to upgrade......
To actually answer your question is difficult as some have pointed out it will depend upon when components start to degrade, and they will. The quality of components used is crucial.
 

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