Uploaded March 2024 | Updated September 2026, 1 week ago
OK, I took last weekend off from audio work due to my sister in law visiting. But back at it tonight.
Pioneer SX-980, 80WPC, 1978-1980. Picked this up for a great price in Arlington Heights, IL about six months ago on Facebook Marketplace.
In my opinion, this receiver always took about a half hour to become brilliant sounding. Just seemed a little bit flat, it could be completely psychological. I’m also somewhat comparing it to my SX-1050 and other shiny silver pieces from the same vintage.
Finally got around to adjusting the bias. And it was no surprise to me that all measurements were off. In fact, they were double digit millivolts lower than spec. And the precise measurement is actually quite difficult with these little potentiometers even when you put some Deoxit on them.
So this is getting a work out tonight and it just wants to please. Sounds excellent and better!
It’s 100% original other than the dial bulbs, and I don’t think it needs any further restoration or work.
OK, I took last weekend off from audio work due to my sister in law visiting. But back at it tonight.
Pioneer SX-980, 80WPC, 1978-1980. Picked this up for a great price in Arlington Heights, IL about six months ago on Facebook Marketplace.
In my opinion, this receiver always took about a half hour to become brilliant sounding. Just seemed a little bit flat, it could be completely psychological. I’m also somewhat comparing it to my SX-1050 and other shiny silver pieces from the same vintage.
Finally got around to adjusting the bias. And it was no surprise to me that all measurements were off. In fact, they were double digit millivolts lower than spec. And the precise measurement is actually quite difficult with these little potentiometers even when you put some Deoxit on them.
So this is getting a work out tonight and it just wants to please. Sounds excellent and better!
It’s 100% original other than the dial bulbs, and I don’t think it needs any further restoration or work.
