[Radiator]

Howdy folks-

I have what seems to be an intermittent issue with one of my monoblocks.  Let me preface this by saying that there have been no system changes at all in recent history, so I know that my issue relates to the amp.  Also, I swapped speakers with the other mono, and the issue was carried to the new speaker.

I sent the following email to Klaus a week or so ago (blue text below), but have not heard back. In fact, I am really unsure if I even sent it to the appropriate address (I used the address found on the website for Odyssey).  Anyway, here it is:

I own a pair of Stratos Monoblock Extremes.  I bought them second hand, but I think I registered with you for the warranty coverage.  Regardless of warranty coverage, I have an issue that has only recently shown itself…and I have been using these amps for about 10 years or so. 

I normally leave the amps powered up.  However, I have begun to notice that my left speaker, even with my preamp powered down, was making a scratchy sound, and even an occasional pop….and then, back to silence.  It began to get more frequent, though.  One night, awhile back, the amp made a pop, and seemed to go into protection mode, and then reset…and seemed fine.  This behavior has occurred several times now.  To ensure that there was not a speaker issue, I swapped speakers, and the behavior continued in the new speaker…thereby telling me that this is indeed an amplifier issue.

The other night, I played the stereo for several hours with no issue, and then, the amp went into protection mode a few times, and then continued to play without issue.  This issue is really intermittent, and can disappear for days at a time.  I have read a few other discussions here that stated it is best to call Klaus, as opposed to email, or using this circle...but I figured I'd check with you guys first, and see if anyone else has had any experience with this.  I also read about folks changing out fuses, but am doubtful this would be the fix...although if you guys believe it might be, I'll go for it.

One final statement...that I hesitate to make, but what the heck.  I would swear that one time I saw sparks emit from the lit rocker power switch on the back of the amp.  This happened when I switched it on...but I have not seen it again.

I'd be happy to read any opinions of how to proceed, or what I should try to correct this issue.

Thanks!
Rob

PS.  If you tell me to call Klaus, that's cool...but let me know what the phone number is...or, If I should call the one listed on the Odyssey website...
 

[TJHUB]

Sorry to hear about your troubles.  I'm sure Klaus will get you fixed up.

From my history with Klaus, it is best to call him and in the late evening.  I've been able to reach him nearly every time this way.  I have always called the number listed on the website.

Good luck with your issue.

[Radiator]

...snip...

Thanks for the input TJHUB. 

[soundbitten1]

I had the same problem a while back and thought it was the amp. I had a spare amp and inserted it in my system but the problem continued (not the scratchy speakers but the amp going into protection and resetting). As it turns out it was a bad interconnect that was causing the problem.

[Radiator]

I had the same problem a while back and thought it was the amp. I had a spare amp and inserted it in my system but the problem continued (not the scratchy speakers but the amp going into protection and resetting). As it turns out it was a bad interconnect that was causing the problem.

Interesting idea.  When switching the speakers, I switched the speaker connections too...but not the link between the preamp and the amp.  I could swap those as well, and see what happens....Thanks!

[Radiator]

Interesting idea.  When switching the speakers, I switched the speaker connections too...but not the link between the preamp and the amp.  I could swap those as well, and see what happens....Thanks!

All interconnects have been swapped now...with no change.  I noticed last night that the amp in question is getting pretty darn hot....much hotter than the one that is not giving me problems....might be a thermal shutdown happening here (if thats possible).  I guess my best option might be to swap locations with the other amp, which does probably get better air flow...

[TJHUB]

I have my monos in a pretty tight location, and while they get warm, they are never hot.  I doubt it's a ventilation issue.  Did you get a hold of Klaus?
 

[Radiator]

I have my monos in a pretty tight location, and while they get warm, they are never hot.  I doubt it's a ventilation issue.  Did you get a hold of Klaus?

No, I haven't really had the chance to call him, and I figured I'd change the other connection first and give it a try.  The system played well with no issues for about 3 hours, then began to occasionally shutdown...cycling power always brought it back.  I do plan to call Klaus, but probably not until tomorrow...work is gonna keep me busy until late this evening...

[Radiator]

Well, I was able to speak to Klaus on Friday evening.  We had a great talk about transistor biasing and such, but rather than mess with it myself, I am going to send the units back to Klaus, and let him look them over.  It was a treat to speak with him, and it was very obvious that he is knowledgeable about his products and more than willing to stand behind them.  I can only wish that more companies provided customer service at that level. 

Thanks Klaus.