Rowe CD100 Weak Bass

I was given a Rowe CD100 Jukebox. One bass speaker was missing, The other had a hole in it. They had been playing it this way for quite some time. I replaced the speakers. The problem is it just has poor bass response. No real thump to them. It does not sound to bad at low volume, but as you turn it up the mids and tweeters get a lot stronger and louder than the bass does. I have adjusted the equalizer to boost the bass and retard the upper end and this does not help very much. I am thinking something burned out when they were using it without the one bass speaker. Some help would greatly be appriciated

Proper polarity observed when replacing woofers?
Woofers compatable with unit? (impedence-sensitivity-freq range)

The speakers in these, and most jukes, are tuned to their enclosure. using speakers with a different free-air resonance may compromise bass response --but only a bit.

First check that the speakers are phased the same. That means that the same color wire goes to the same speaker lug on each. A simple test is to disconnect one speaker. If bass improves, reverse the wires on the disconnected one -they were out of phase and cancelling each other.

It is normal for the amp to boost bass at lower volume levels.

If phasing is not the problem try connecting a -good- external speaker and see if the amp is the problem. You will need a manual or speaker connection diagram. This was included in a pouch inside the machine. If not there, try here:
http://arcarc.xmission.com/PDF_Jukebox/Rowe_AMI/

It is a good idea to go over the entire set of speaker connections at the amp and verify them to the manual. Used machines are often monkeyed with by people who don't know what they are doing.

It is remotely possible that the problem lies in the D/A convertor in the mech. Try connecting the plugs from the CD player (RCA) to a regular stereo and see how it sounds.

If none of the above reveal the problem, it may be necessary to have the amp serviced.

Rob/NYC

"Ami/Rowe's" are somewhat confusing when having this problem. They used a unique speaker set-up, and "inverted" the audio.
Speakers MUST match the system--I would seek exact replacements from Rowe, or one of the used supply houses listed above.
Rowe CD phonographs (as well as other some other brands--styles of phonos), also require that the cash box door be closed, for bass response.
I would check the following, if having this problem--
1. Remove the amplifier and check that all four of the fuses are the correct type, and none are "blown". NOTE: if blown, do not replace the fuse ! The amp MUST be repaired correctly, 99% of time, as it will only further damage the amp !
2. While out----be sure that the "jumper" is the correct one for that application. See the schematic for the model phono that you have !
I do repair those amps, PM me if you wish--
Ron Rich

Hi brnt61,

I would take up Ron's offer to have your amplifier tested if not repaired.

I fully agree with Ron's comments regarding the speaker system on Rowe Ami jukeboxes, speakers missing or cones with holes in them or perished foam surrounds will not help the situation.

There are a number of dealers that will be able to sell you some good used correct speakers for your jukebox model.

Regards
Alan

Alan Hood
ami-man
UK