so i have this receiver/amp

[Pepsi90919]

it's a ca. 1990 fisher receiver and every once in a while one side will kind of go quieter or start cutting out...can usually be alleviated by turning it off then on, or cranking up the volume really loud, but it only lasts for 5 minutes or so... wtf?

 

[olds]

Fisher = crap.
Upgrade.

 

[mpitts]

It's a Fisher and it's over 15 years old.

There's your problem.

 

[Pepsi90919]

what would be good to replace it with. i really only want 2.1 with an optical/coax input...

 

[Fritzo]

Originally posted by: Pepsi90919
what would be good to replace it with. i really only want 2.1 with an optical/coax input...

Uhh...anything off the shelf? $100 receivers have those features these days and will probably sound 10x better.

 

[nineball9]

Originally posted by: Pepsi90919
it's a ca. 1990 fisher receiver and every once in a while one side will kind of go quieter or start cutting out...can usually be alleviated by turning it off then on, or cranking up the volume really loud, but it only lasts for 5 minutes or so... wtf?

Sounds like dirty/oxidized contacts. Take the cover(s) off and spray contact cleaner in the various pots and switches. This may involve a bit of clever dexterity to reach the openings in hard to reach areas and ganged pots. Alas, this is generally only a temporary solution. If you can determine the failing component, you may be able to dismantle it and manually clean it or replace it.

If the receiver uses a relay at startup (you can hear it click on), it may have worn/oxidized contacts. Most relays are sealed units which makes inspection difficult. Relays in newer receivers (including yours) often have gold plated contacts which generally do not oxidize.

By cleaning and physically dismantling switches and pots, I kept my humongous 1976 Sansui integrated amp going until I finally dumped it in July. In your case, just try some contact cleaner - avalilable at Radio Shack - though I've never actually tried their brand.

Good luck!