42 replies to this topic

[fran604g]

Hey folks,

I don't get over here very often to post, but I want you to know that the information provided here, and the folks behind the scenes here, are really appreciated by me.

I received a call from an aquaintance of mine a week ago telling about an estate sale he had just gone to. He said there was a pair of AR3a's there that he bought for $10 and he asked, since I am an "audiophile," would I be interested in them, because, "...I see that they are going on eBay for hundreds of dollars."

He is a longtime casual acquaintance that I've done a few favors for in the past and he was just returning the favor.

I immediately told him, "Well, it depends..." and tried to explain to him the problems involved with surrounds, xovers, etc. I asked him if wanted to make money on them, and he told me, "...no, I just thought you might be interested in them." While still on the phone with him, I came here and took a look at the library, discovering this restoration document. Needless to say, I now own a pair of mismatched AR3a's that I will completely restore...my very first attempt at doing a complete restoration to a pair of speakers.

I will post my progress when I start the process, probably when the fall/winter arrives.

This document is invaluable to me, thank you for your hard work and dedication to helping us! d*-*b

[fran604g]

A comment and question for RoyC, and/or another of the authors.

When I used the "white dot" notation on pg.10 Fig 3.5, I purposely checked my mid range pot at center post B and post #1 and set it at 3.25 ohms as specified, however, I discovered that the pot's locating tab would then be 180degrees from the way it came out of the crossover.

I checked and double checked my reading and the location of the tab in relation to the white arrow on the end of the shaft and it's position in regards to the white dot. I checked my pictures and the picture in Fig. 3.4 and determined that the "White Dot" Settings listed in Fig. 3.5 would cause the pot to be rotated 180 degrees contrary to the picture in Fig. 3.4 (right) shown and, indeed, my own crossover network, also.

When I took the reading from center post B to #2 at 3.25 ohms, the arrow pointed to the white dot when the pot was physically oriented the way it came out of the crossover.

Is it possible that the notation for the mid-range pot should be R,B--->2=3-1/4ohms?

Ironically, there is an old indentation on the Masonite board 180 degrees opposite of the actual location of the tab on the pot I removed. Very odd.

Thoughts?

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[pakjoe]

New to this forum 12.2.12.  I have a pair of AR 3a speakers purchased from a good friend back in the 70's.  I used them for years and then put them away when my kids were little and also for lack of room.  Any suggestions for a reputable repair shop in the Atlanta area that could check them out and rebuild if necessary?  What range of costs would I be looking at?  I do not have the time, or the skill/knowledge, to mess with them myself. However, I remember they sounded great and would love to have them hooked up once again.  Thanks for your assistance.