Description

See large, detailed photos at the bottom. Produced for only a couple of years in the late 1950s, this amplifier comes from the last years before Lafayette transitioned to the more common, consolidated, single-chassis stereo amps that mimicked the Dynaco Stereo 70 and various Harman Kardon models. This was one of the last truly powerful Lafayette amps, back when they sourced U.S.-made heavy transformers, from Chicago, super-HiFi grade... that power this massive unit. It features an Acrosound-style construction, with neatly consolidated circuitry on a central, high-quality module. The clean point-to-point wiring beneath makes it a breeze to service, offering plenty of room to work. If you need power -- these amps represent an cool alternative to much more expensive US made types of the 1950s. **Condition:** This amplifier is in fair-to-good condition for its age, with many cosmetic flaws. There’s minor surface rust in a few crevices, and minor dirt is hiding in some spots. The gold-fleck metallic paint is overall in gleaming condition and will polish up nicely aside from a few small areas of oxidation. There are also a few notable scuffs and scratches throughout. The Lucite front meter presents very nicely from almost every angle. There might be a hairline craze on one of the top edges, but it is nearly impossible to see and doesn’t affect visibility. The amp comes without tubes, except for what looks to be the original 6AN8 tube in the center module, which remains undisturbed and has not been tested. There’s the typical rear fuse holder issue, which was damaged from years of moving around (still holds fuse, but needs replacement for safety --- I’ve included a vintage American-made fuse holder with a preloaded 3-amp fuse to replace it. The line cord is a bit stiff, but overall, it’s in straight shape for a restoration project. This unit looks unserviced, so like any amp from this era, it’ll likely need some work on the old electrolytic capacitors. This amp was either factory-constructed, which was an option for this particular model at a cost of $94.50 (equivalent to around $1,000 in today’s dollars), or it was incredibly carefully built by hand to a high standard. The wiring is exceptionally neat, and the underside is in ,more, or less -- Time Capsule shape! This one stands out as one of the better-built examples I’ve seen over the years. If you're looking for one of these to match your existing unit, this is a solid opportunity to pick up a well-preserved example, complete with its original cage and included photocopy papers. **Shipping:** This amp will be ultra-safely packed in a heavy-duty, double-lined box with plenty of cushioning for guaranteed safe arrival. I have nearly 40 years of hi-fi / vintage audio packing experience, so rest assured it will arrive in the same condition you see here. Overseas customers are welcome through the eBay Global Shipping Program. Shipping is flat rate for domestic USA, lower 48 only, continental USA. endp