Power Plant 600 all but DOA?

Power Components
1

Just recently realized my older Power Plant 600 is all but DOA. Its still working but can only output 104 volts at the standard 117 output setting, and 110± a volt at 120 volt output setting. Repairs are $600 + shipping both ways and thats if its a standard repair, from tech support it could be more… I think. Problem is the unit is only worth about this much give or take a $100. I’ve seen one or two up for sale at around $600-$700 max.

So the question is, should I belly up to the bar and pay for repairs, or should I invest in a newer one, like the PP 3. I only use mine for source gear so the AC requirements are minimum. Are the newer ones really that much better in performance and features to warrant a more substantial investment?

One last thing to consider. I’m in the process of building a tube phono stage that for what ever reason was designed to be run on 120 V + AC, and if it doesn’t get that much current it doesn’t perform correctly. Had I known this before I wouldn’t have started the project. How many people in the US can actually claim a true 120 volts AC in their house? My guess is less than 10%. We do have it here, but unfortunately my old PP will not reproduce it.

Thanks for considering the question. Look forward to any sage advice on the subject.

Rob

2

I traded my PP600 in ages ago. Probably on a PP Premier. I had to get it repaired multiple times. If you get yours repaired PSA will do a great job of reconditioning it (and I believe the repairs will come with some sort of warranty) but it will still be old and prone to fail again at some point. I’d go with a new PP3. The performance should be noticeably better but for me reliability would be the main driver. Just my two cents.

3

Thanks Stevem2 for that info. Oddly I’ve never had a problem with my PP600 until recently. You’re suggestions are what I was intuitively thinking too. Now the big question is what to do the existing unit if I decide to abandon it for one of the new ones. We need rest homes for audio gear senior citizens.

4

If you work directly through PS Audio we give generous trade in allowances for older products, even those not working.

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Thanks for that info Paul. This is on my short list of things to do today, call PSA directly to see whats possible. Very encouraging!!

6

I just wanted to add the following.

I took the offer to upgrade via a trade in with my old PP 600 for a P5 power plant. Thanks Paul for the offer and suggestion. And man was I treated well. Generous trade in would be an understatement.

Thanks again, just got notice it is shipping out today. Looking forward to the new one.

7

Excellent! Let us know what you think of the P5.