Zenith Allegro stereo - left channel distortion

[zenithfan]

Hi all,

I collect Zenith electronics and just came across a mid 70s vintage Zenith
Allegro tabletop stereo with a left channel distortion problem. The left
channel is clear at very low volume, but turn it up and the left channel
audio gets very choppy and fuzzy. Both speakers work fine on the right
channel, so it's not them. Just wondering if there is a known easy fix for
this model I can try or is it time for a professional A/V tech?

Also, the changer's "Stop/Start/Auto" switch seems to be jammed in the
"Stop" position. Any tips on that one?

Appreciate the help. Thanks very much in advance.

TR

 

[Sofie]

zenithfan:
Since you have done your detective work and have properly determined that
both speakers are good then as you have probably surmised, the LEFT channel
amplifier circuitry has a fault.... most likely leaky, shorted, open, or
otherwise faulty components such as semiconductors, electrolytics, etc.....
and possibly faulty or cracked solder connections..... none of these are
an "easy fix" for the newbie or those who lack repair experience and
electronics knowledge.... and the proper test equipment and tools.
Yes, it is probably time to TAKE it to a service shop for a proper repair or
at the very least a repair cost estimate so you can make an intelligent
repair decision with facts instead of internet guesses.

 

[John Del]

Subject: Zenith Allegro stereo - left channel distortion

From: "zenithfan" [email protected]
Date: 12/21/03 7:02 PM Pacific Standard Time
Message-id: <[email protected]>

Hi all,

I collect Zenith electronics and just came across a mid 70s vintage Zenith
Allegro tabletop stereo with a left channel distortion problem.

What you have there is one of the last Amercian made (at least affordable)
stereo systems sold. I sold these back then, and they were bullet proof. The
original Allegro speakers were an excellent tuned port design and were very
musical.

As Dan pointed out, you have an amplifier problem if the distortion is on all
inputs (tuner, phono, aux). These weren't the easiest things to service,
especially the "Wedge" Allegro. Properly repaired, this thing will probably
last decades longer. The turntable is likely suffering from the lube turning
into bubble gum. It will have to be disassemble, thoroughly cleaned, and
relubed. If you're handy, you can probably do this part yourself.

John Del
Wolcott, CT

"I'm just trying to get into heaven, I'm not running for Jesus!"
Homer Simpson

(remove S for email reply)

 

[zenithfan]

Thanks guys for the info. Been wanting one for a few months for my
collection and couldn't pass this Allegro up for $17 especially since it's
like new cosmetically (even the dust cover), has a cassette deck (not 8
track like most) and a neat LED looking tuning dial. Zenith sure made some
damn good stuff back then.

TR

 

[John Del]

Subject: Re: Zenith Allegro stereo - left channel distortion

From: "zenithfan" [email protected]

.. Zenith sure made some

damn good stuff back then.

TR

At some point however, Zenith started importing these instead of make them
themselves. The later ones were really crummy. I don't recall if they said
"Allegro" on them though.

John Del
Wolcott, CT

"I'm just trying to get into heaven, I'm not running for Jesus!"
Homer Simpson

(remove S for email reply)

 

[Franbo]

Great Sounding System

I purchased this system new in 1979. It was amazing, the sound it put out. I'd love to get my hands on one, just for the nostalga sake.

Fran
Branford, Ct