How to improve the reliability of a Phase Linear 400

[sweet212]

I have always loved the sound of Phase Linear's. Many years when using a series 1 400 the output went DC and put 70 volts through the voice coil of a 2202.
So I am somewhat wary of using a series 2 Phase 400 for my 1400 Arrays.
Question is how to make the amp more reliable? New caps and transistors? Or maybe some device on the output that senses DC voltage and disconnects the speakers before it can do damage - is there such a device? Not that concerned about the amp - just the speakers.
There is great depth of knowledge on this site and any help would be appreciated.

[Odd]

I mounted speaker protection on 400 series 1 a while back.
You can find info in the attached file.

Do not know if Don Imlay still reachable.

[bill8888]

You can go to ebay and search for 'speaker protection'. There are lots of diy circuit card kits from China for about ten bucks that should solve your problem.

[martin2395]

I'd also suggest modifying and recapping the amplifier itself, in stock form it is 'not so good' ;)

By the way, i think that Array 1400 deserve a better amp, the PL400 was already a budget amp back in the day but it had plenty of power (and looks to die for ;)).

[BMWCCA]

You might consider sending it to Bob Carver's new shop for an update. :dont-know:

http://www.carveraudiorepair.com/workmod.html


We service the entire line of Carver products which Carver corporation started producing in 1978 to the end of their production line in 1996. We also service the entire original line of Phase Linear products designed and built by Bob Carver. We also have 100% original semi-conductor compliment for these products to ensure the original performance of the audio signature.

[sweet212]

Thanks all

I am too tight to buy another amp. Seems that a relay is the best solution. However Need to know weather one will effect the the very low output impedance.
I will check Bob Carver's site.
Thanks again to all of you.