Upgrading an Otherwise Useless Solid State Set - Videokarma.org TV - Video

zenith2134 · #1 11-11-2005, 10:14 PM

Hi guys, I was bored before and was "craving" an electronic project , so I dug out a 1977 RCA Colortrak tv, model FB497W, Chassis CTC 89, CRT# 19VBHP22. It works well after I did the convergence on it (pain in my ass lol) but have always wondered how I can add-on to or modify a simple solid state TV like this and many others which I've got over time.

I was thinking along the lines of fitting in a 40W tube (or SS) amplifier and 2 or 3 speakers, (partly because I love audio so much), but I want something really awesome and cool for this one. Are there any suggestions on what types of mods can be done with TV's ? (does not have to be only an audio mod) thanks I am expecting something intriguing as usual from AK!

Chad Hauris · #2 11-12-2005, 12:08 AM

I would not add on anything to this set, it is probably a hot chassis. Also as a table model it probably would not benefit from added audio power...maybe if you have a console you could upgrade the speakers and add extra amplification and may get better results. I would recommend in any case an isolation transformer on the TV chassis if you make any external connections.

Also I think some of these RCA sets use a voltage controlled amplifier and the volume pot controls a DC voltage rather than having actual audio at the pot.

zenith2134 · #3 11-12-2005, 01:51 AM

Hey you're right about that pot - I can almost hear the increase 'steps' when turning. Its a shame I don't have a console TV only table's but want to do something still. Its like i just want to build a set almost. I guess you're right its a good enought tv without extra mods.

Chad Hauris · #4 11-13-2005, 12:43 AM

I got a Quasar table model late 70's or so that advertises itself as "Dynamic sound quality" or somethng like that...has speakers on both sides of the screen, and really does seem to have better sound quality than most such sets... It is mono though as it precedes TV stereo broadcasts.

You would be better off with a console TV to do modifications. You can often remove the mask from the old cabinet and build a new cabinet if you like; there is more room for additional speakers, etc.