AR-3a Repair Project

Replace crossover capacitors and potentiometers on two AR-3a Speakers after over 40 years of service. Music in this slide show video was recorded from the speakers using a compact digital camera.

[@jjcaruso44]

Thanks, Ernie.. one of my best friends. You taught me so much electronically, mechanically, and about life. You're truly missed. - John

[@adnacraigo6590]

Nice work.

[@evertonseymour7050]

I found two AR 3ax on sideway in Manhattan 20 yearago in rainy night. A luxury apartment building garage from there storage room. I saw four speaker two tower and two bookshelf. On the bookshelf both woofer was destroyed. Today have the two bookshelf. I replace both woofer with bumper stuff cone 300 watts pro. I love the sound and the bass is deep with no distraction. I didn't touch the cross-over. I am plan to refinish outside with light sanding.

[@astolatpere11]

Just found this. Really outstanding. I want to restore an older pair of Wharfedales, W60E. I'd like to take them to a knowledgeable tech but I live nowhere near one. So. I guess I'll tackle it. This video is well done. Thanks.

[@paulcaruthers9647]

Thanks for posting this, I referred to it while doing the same procedure on my AR-3a speakers. Like yours, they turned out great.

[@f105ethunderchief]

Glad your project turned out well. I purchased my speakers new and have enjoyed listening to them for many many years. No ear fatigue and plenty of great sound.

[@raydenjax4869]

instablaster

[@f105ethunderchief]

The audio (music) contained in the video was recorded directly from the speakers as they were playing. I used a Panasonic Lumix DMCZS50 digital camera for the video an audio recording. The speaker grill cloth will also be replaced in the near future.

[@krobibero]

Well done! The speakers sounds like new again.

[@playbackvintagehifihunter9669]

Kr how do you know how they sound?

[@danedewaard8215]

Nicely done!

[@giovannipace1114]

How could the same with an old AR MST?Where did you find the old cloth to renew the grill?Thanks

[@fredgien]

The woofer is of a non 3a type.

[@shreddie8827]

Hello I'm trying to also restore a set of 1969 AR-3a. I can't seem to find the values and where I can find the replacement pots and capacitors. Link to where you found parts? Thanks

[@f105ethunderchief]

The link is as follows: stores.ebay.com/VINTAGE-AR-PARTS-AND-SERVICE?_trksid=p2047675.l2563
Good luck with the restoration - great speakers .

[@vintagestereo5491]

can you tell me what size caps I need to recap them, I have the same speakers and I need to recap them

[@f105ethunderchief]

Try the following for parts, etc., stores.ebay.com/VINTAGE-AR-PARTS-AND-SERVICE?_trksid=p2047675.l2563