Fisher SA-1000 Legendary Tube Amplifier - All Original

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The Fisher SA-1000 is a legendary tube amplifier - right up there on the “Holy Grail” list of HiFi pieces that every audiophile must own at some point.

This list includes items like the Quad ESL57 and Rogers LS3/5A speakers, Audio Research D79 amp, McIntosh MR78 Tuner, etc.

This piece is all original with no upgrades or modifications. It is currently working, but could use a restoration to increase reliability. We realize some clients want all original units, while others want them electronically or cosmetically restored (or both).

This unit is a great candidate for any of these scenarios.

You can purchase it as-is, or commission us to provide any upgrades or mods. Most tasks can be carried out in under four weeks.

Electrical restoration would include:
• The replacement and upgrading of all capacitors in the signal path.
• Replacement of all tubes.
• Lubrication of all potentiometers (POTS) or replacement as needed.
• Bias of all tubes.
• Installation of a power-on delay board for a softer power-on start. This helps extend the life of all components.
• Testing and replacement of all resistors that measure out of spec, or that show signs of aging.
• Replacement of diode rectifiers in the power supply for reliability and performance.
• Installation of a MegaSurge InRush Current Limiter for softer and safer starting.

Cosmetic restoration would include:
• Full disassembly.
• Prime, prep, and painting of the transformers, chassis, and tube cover with the appropriate period correct paint colors.
• Polish and replace knobs as needed.
• Polish and buff all brass parts.
• Clearcoat all parts to extend life.
• Re-stencil all writing and numbering.

Physical condition is good for the age but far from perfect.

The good:

1. Faceplate is super clean and free from dents or scratches.
2. Writing is very clean.
3. Tube case is intact and free from dents.
4. All knobs are present and original.
5. The door functions and is solid.

The not so good:

1. The brown paint on the side of the chassis is flaking off a bit.
2. The transformer tops have a few scratches.
3. The tube case could benefit from a re-spray.

If you’d like to purchase this piece restored, simply let us know and we'll provide a quote.

Click here for a PDF copy of the original SA-1000 Schematic

Specifications:

Power Output:
58 watts per channel into 8Ω (stereo)

Frequency Response:
7Hz to 30kHz

Total Harmonic Distortion:
0.11%

Damping Factor:
13.3

Input Sensitivity:
0.5V

Signal to Noise Ratio:
85 dB

Speaker Load Impedance:
4Ω to 16Ω

Tube Complement:
ECC808, ECC83, ELL80, 8417

Year:
1963

Price:
1963 - USD $329.50
2019 - USD $8,539.00 (via usinflationcalculator website)

Our Testing Process for Amplifiers (Tube) at SkyFi:

We start with a visual inspection of all internal components to make sure there are no signs of stress or aging. Capacitors are checked for telltale sings of bulging or leaking, resistors are checked for signs of overheating or cracking, and tubes are inspected for signs of stress overheating or cracking.

We then power up the unit carefully and run a simple 1k sine wave while monitoring the output on an oscilloscope for signs of distortion or noise. Finally we run the amplifier to its full rated power into the appropriate resistive load provided by our Sencore amplifier tester. If there is an issue, it will usually be noticeable at this point. If it all looks clean we will often test for THD (Total Harmonic Distortion) measured by our Keithley distortion meter, and compare it against the original manufacturers specifications. The amplifier the remains powered on to "burn in" on our test bench for a few hours to make sure there are no heat related issues. If there are balanced inputs available they will also be tested.

We also test all tubes for output gain and leakage on our calibrated B&K 747 tester against the original manufacturers specifications. If needed, the tubes will be replaced from our vast NOS (New Old Stock) vintage or modern inventory.

Final testing involves pushing actual music thorough the amplifier. We've learned over time that some issues are only noticeable to a trained ear while listening to familiar source material. Our test bench has reference vintage Kef speakers that we're very familiar with which quickly reveal any discrepancies. Some amplifiers will then move into our listening room where they are tested with our in-house reference speakers of choice.

Please click here for detailed specifics regarding our specialized packing process that separates us from the rest.