Friday, August 22, 2025

Thrifted Hi-Fi

Last time, the Altec 753Cs were driven by my Resto-mod Magnavox 8601 amp. In the spirit of my Vintage Japanese Drivers page from my old website, the same amp will now be used in the context of audio components and speakers I found in flea markets, thrift stores and yard sales + some DIY added to the mix.

Saturday, July 26, 2025

Fulton FMI 80



One evening, I spotted the above pair of speakers on FB marketplace. The description was plain and simple, "a pair of speakers in wooden cabinets for $30." Since the seller was less than an hour's drive away, I immediately sent a message expressing interest. I received a quick reply and set an appointment to pick up the following morning. 

Friday, July 4, 2025

Advent Model 300 FM Receiver

The Advent Model 300 receiver is an example of exquisite industrial design! I see Dieter Rams' influence in the input selector switch and knobs, as used in the Braun CSV60 tube integrated amplifier from the early 60s while the rotary vernier tuning dial echoes FM tuners by H. H. Scott.

Sunday, June 15, 2025

A Tribute to Don Garber of Fi + Robin and Lipman!

Don Garber's Fi 2A3 amp Ad from Sound Practices

My first exposure to Don Garber's Fi 2A3 amp was at a gathering of burgeoning SE-DHT/High Efficiency speaker enthusiasts organized by Mike LaFevre of Magnequest and Peter Breuninger, then president of the Philadelphia Audio Society. This was held in the outskirts of Philly during the latter part of 1994. I attended to assist my friend Steve Melkisethian in exhibiting the Audio Note Kit 1 amplifier since he was the US distributor of Audio Note UK Kits, transformers and parts at that time. Sadly, these guys are no longer with us. 😔