Q. How much is an average cost for a repair?

A. Probably around $140. Most equipment that comes in needs new capacitors.

Q. Will the first estimate fix everything?

A. We wish, but it’s possible that once we fix what is obvious, there may be more underlying issues that require more parts and labor.

Q. What about solid state equipment

A. There are two man issues with solid state devices. One is many have micro processors, where it’s easier to just change out a board. The other issue is the repairs are usually more costly than buying a new one. We will work on one, but it will still be $50 and no guarantee we will be able to repair it. First thing we will look at is the power supply. They usually go first.

Q. Do you work on other equipment?

A. Yes. We have worked on electronic instruments, radios, mixers (sound and kitchen), and pretty much anything that is worth fixing and plugs into a wall.

Q. Why so adamant about a three-prong plug?

A. Old electronics are “unbalanced”, which means the electricity flows (in the old sense) through the components and back through the ground to collect at the other plug. If plugged in backwards, the ground could be energized (as well as any metal or instrument you plug into it.) You will find out it’s plugged in backwards as soon as you touch your strings or mic. (and the feeling is NOT pleasant)

Q. How did you get started?

A. I was an electronics mechanic then worked in a calibration lab for the Kansas National Guard. We calibrated and repaired pretty much anything that took electricity (coffee pots, radios, monitors, etc.). We used counters, signal generators, oscilloscopes, and a whole slew of specialized test equipment (even those that measured the exhaust from helicopters)

Q. What’s your favorite part about electronics?

A. Probably the math. I like deriving the values of the components. Next would be the computer side of it. We use programs like LTSpice, Freecad, KiCAD, and PSU Designer to look at waveforms and other attributes before soldering anything in place.