So powered up the Pioneer SX-838 last evening slowly on the variac and did a little testing and listening. Before servicing was done amp was putting out 58wpc before clipping at 1khz. Now it is putting out 62. Not a huge difference and honestly will most likely never be noticed as this was a pretty good sounding receiver before work. What is great, now the power section is much more reliable.
The receiver is very punchy. There is just something about how these pioneers replicate lows. The only way I describe it is more accurate almost perfect sounding.
Well it needs to have a good bath for the controls and faceplate. Also, need to replace the lamps as one is out and I usually replace them anyway. Here’s a shot of her playing glamour shots to come soon.
Dave at dgwojo.com would have the lamps you need. Send him an email. The 2SA726 transistors in the unit is a likely culprit for single channel distortion. Preamp if it is volume dependent or amp if it is not. Cheers! -Mike