Hello folks,
I live in Canada and I'm looking for a turntable to go with my 1988 BeoMaster 3500 (120V / 60Hz). I'm finding more EU models (220-240V / 50-60Hz, ~10W) than US ones.
Anyone have recommendations/suggestions for a step down voltage converter that would be suited for my system + e.g. a EU BeoGram 3500 ?
Thanks!
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advice step-down voltage adapter EU » US ?
9 replies
Did you mean to say "step up" converter (i.e. from 110v to 220v)?
I can't help you with a converter recommendation.
However, have you considered doing a voltage conversion of a EU spec machine?
Based on a quick look at the service manual, it may be as simple as changing the lead connections to the main transformer, replacing the plug, and updating the "power label" on the back of the turntable (to indicate that the machine was modified). I haven't done this on a BG3500 myself, but I assume that others have.
Glitch
I'm looking at buying a EU model (220V) and using it in Canada (120V), so step-down it is -- although Escher might disagree ;)
I don't know much about electronics, but your comment is interesting… Are you suggesting that the same transformer can be used for both EU and US models ?
Ha! I've done a lot of foolish things… but that won't be one of them ;) FoundIt is not obvious from the video since the connections are under the black transformer cover. I happen to be working on a Beogram 5500, which has very similar, if not exactly the same, inner workings as the BG3500. Here is a picture of the transformer connections Login to view image Here is the relevant part of the schematic Login to view image Notice the 110v and 220v connection diagrams at the bottom of the schematic. For reference, the transformer in my picture is wired for 110v. GlitchAh… nice, thanks for sharing! After your first reply, I got myself a copy of the service manual and had a good look at the schematic and I did spot how the 220V and 120V were wired differently. But the picture of your BG5500's transformer wiring clearly renders the schematic into something real. Hah… now I truly understand, or do I ? :) Assuming the transformer is correctly re-wired from 220V to 120V, is there anything else that would need to be rewired before the turntable can be plugged in using a simple plug adapter ?Please Log In to Reply
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