Need some advice on what to buy and what to avoid.

Guys,

I know NOTHING about electronics but am desperate for stereo console. I have been looking at Grundig and Magnavoxes. I would prefer something that looks northern european rather than the Italiniate American look but will consider everything.

So here are my questions. Am I buying trouble by getting one of these units? Will it break my heart? Is there anyone near NYC who fixes vintage stereos to whom you could refer me?

Thanks so much.

A few words to the wise:

1. Items this old are likely to have certain parts which deteriorate with age. They include:

- Rubber phono drive wheels, especially those made before 1964. If the wheel was already replaced, it will last longer, because new compounds were in use after 1964.

- Lubricamts in the record changer.

- Ceramic phono cartridges.

- The Stylus (but they wear out, instead of deteriorating with time).

- Pickup leads might harden with age.

- Electrolytic capacitors (shelf life is 15 to 20 years). They usually last longer if in regular use.

- Speaker cone supports, if made of rubber.

- Tubes.

2. The shipping is likely to be the major expense, rather than the cost of the item.

3. The record changer may need servicing for reasons other than the above.

4. The turntables in the Magnavox consoles made from 1962-1966 are of better quality than other Magnavox or Grundig. They are almost indestructible except through deliberate abuse. The only parts I have known to fail are the two rubber wheels, a spring on the arm raising lever, the power switch, and the pickup.

Thanks so much R-C. That is very helpful. I will print it out and consult as needed, when needed.

Again, if anyone knows of anyone who repairs these units around NYC, I would love to get their contact.

Thanks

One other thing might deteriorate, and should be examined: the power cord.