Question Problem with Rotel RA-04

nangalvivek

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I just got a pre-owned Rotel RA-04, that is around 8 years old but was used for a maximum of 1 year. I connected it to a set of inexpensive satellite speakers and only the right channel was working. Then I was fiddling with the buttons and it seems pressing or turning the volume button makes the left channel work sometimes. There is also a noise in the left channel and it plays (when it plays) quieter than the right channel. I found a thread on this forum where people faced similar issues (with a different amp) and fixed them by replacing fuses. I opened the unit to check for any blown up fuses, but everything looked all right. Another suggestion was to clean the "potentiometer(s)". Can someone please help me on how to find and clean it?
Also, is there any way I can ascertain that the amplifier is working fine before I connect more expensive equipment to it.
 
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Hi
Was both channels working when you got it?
What are the speakers used?
 
I would suggest that the potentiometer is faulty. This is the volume control and realistically the best option is to get it replaced if possible. Cleaning them rarely solves the problem long term
 
Hi
Was both channels working when you got it?
What are the speakers used?
I couldn't verify it when I got it. The amp was last used 3-4 years back (when it worked). I am using satellite speakers from an older HTiB - Sony SS-TS122.
 
I would suggest that the potentiometer is faulty. This is the volume control and realistically the best option is to get it replaced if possible. Cleaning them rarely solves the problem long term
How much would a replacement cost? I hope there is a service centre in my city.
 
How much would a replacement cost? I hope there is a service centre in my city.
Honestly that’s something you would have to google if Rotel have a presence in India they would advise if they can repair it otherwise you would need find a local specialist repair shop
 
I would suggest that the potentiometer is faulty. This is the volume control and realistically the best option is to get it replaced if possible. Cleaning them rarely solves the problem long term
@Leelo Thanks for the suggestion. I got the volume control potentiometer replaced by a local technician. Now there is no noise when I rotate the volume knob, but there is a noticeable difference between the loudness of left and right channel speakers (confirmed this by swapping the speakers). Is this normal (as per the technician it is)?
 
If your technician replaced the potentiometer he should have reset the balance of levels so they sound the same loudness. This should be checked using a mono test tone the amplifier does have a balance control so you can adjust it but ideally it should sit at its centre point. Regrettably there is no circuit diagram available but there should be internal trim pots that can correct any level mismatch between the two channels by a qualified electrician. If your technician says it’s normal for it to be out he’s wrong but if he can’t or won’t sort it out then I would recommend using the balance control assuming there’s enough capability to solve the problem.
 

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