Resurrecting Sub with a Bad Amp?

[technophobe]

Ok... so I have a dead sub from a pretty nice set of computer speakers, the Cambridge Megaworks 510d. Here's the manual for it (it doesn't really have much in it...):

http://www.cambridgesoundworks.com/pdf/manuals/megaworks510d.pdf

And here is the powered sub from cambridge's site that it is pretty much equivalent to, I think:

http://www.cambridgesoundworks.com/store/category.cgi?category=spk_subwoofer&item=c1bc08se

The problem is that though the green light comes on in the back, it doesn't actually power on anymore, and doesn't drive the 5 satellites. Something inside is fried, and other people with the same problem (who are much better at these things are than I) can't figure it out either.

I'd like to know if it's possible to replace the circuitry so that I could use the same enclosure and driver and make it a stand-alone powered sub that I could run off of a normal reciever with a sub out?

If so, what would I need?

I apologize for my ignorance in these matters, I've tried reading some DIY guides, but I think I need a more...basic...explanation first. I'm pretty handy with tools, and have access to wood shop.

Thanks!

 

[annunaki]

The tough problem you will have is finding a driver that will fit the enclosure and yield resonable response in it.

10 times out of 10 it is better to construct an enclosure for a given woofer rather than try to find a woofer for a given enclosure.

If the enclosure is ported you will need to get the internal dimensions of the enclosure, the internal port diameter, external port diameter, and the total port length. At that point you can figure the tuning frequency of the enclosure. Once that is determined you will have A LOT of trial and error on WinIsd or other plotting program with 8" drivers to find one that yields suitable response for a given enclosure size. Once you find a woofer that works, that is your choice. The next step is replacing the amplifier or having it services.

After writing all of this I have just realized that is not your intention.

I would contact Cambridge and see who they recommend for factory service of their amplifiers. If you have no experience with amplifier circuits I would not recommend trying to fix it yourself.

 

[Rickster71]

I agree with annunaki.
Call their help line, it may be something simple like an internal fuse.
Or something a tech can talk you through over the phone.
I've always had go luck with Cambridge.
Their speakers are warranted 10 years, but that's not the case with computer speakers.

 

[technophobe]

Ahhh... too bad. I thought it might be rather simple to just leave the woofer and enclosure and hook it up to some new circuitry.

Oh well, plan B!

 

[tomd51]

One other option as well.

I have this exact sub and don't use it anymore, so if you're handy enough to do a swap-out of your existing amp with it, this might be a worthwhile option to you.

If you think you're interested, PM me and we can work out some details... -TD