UK Vintage Radio Repair and Restoration Discussion Forum

UK Vintage Radio Repair and Restoration Discussion Forum (https://www.vintage-radio.net/forum/index.php)
-   Vintage Tape (Audio), Cassette, Wire and Magnetic Disc Recorders and Players (https://www.vintage-radio.net/forum/forumdisplay.php?f=35)
-   -   Grundig TK120 (https://www.vintage-radio.net/forum/showthread.php?t=160465)

mjb2019 11th Oct 2019 2:07 pm

Grundig TK120
 
Hello all,

New to this world as I find myself in possession of an old TK120. I have a few questions as I really don't know how to gauge my expectation of sound quality and also functionality.

Problem one. I have just one original tape reel that has some old recordings. I found the volume has to be played relatively low as it starts to get quite distorted. I'm not sure whether this is down to recording quality or a bigger issue with playback?

Second question. It has a Microphone which I have tried to use. I can see its picking up the from the MIC as the small green tube at the front responds to the MIC when the record is pressed, however it doesn't appear to record anything. Not sure whether this is to do with the tape or there is an issue with the recording functionality.

Any insight would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks, Matt

AndiiT 11th Oct 2019 8:59 pm

Re: Grundig TK120
 
Hi, at a rough guess I would check the output valve screen grid decoupling electrolytic capacitor. It may be prudent to check/change the power supply electrolytics too.

Andrew

Welsh Anorak 13th Oct 2019 11:36 am

Re: Grundig TK120
 
I've had this fault which was due to a resistor (I think 150k) in the biasing of the first valve stage. Easily found with a meter, but obviously that depends on your level of experience with valved electronics - there are a few volts lurking around! Andrew's advice is of course valid, as would be a check on the output valve itself - and the speaker. I've not had any trouble with the power supply electrolytics, but it's possible.
If the 'magic eye' jumps about when you press the record button then I suspect your microphone might be faulty. Turn the volume up, then insert the plug while watching the display. If it moves, then I'd suspect the microphone itself.


All times are GMT +1. The time now is 4:51 pm.

Powered by vBulletin®
Copyright ©2000 - 2024, vBulletin Solutions, Inc.
Copyright ©2002 - 2023, Paul Stenning.