life expectancy of a SD mixpre?

J

Jema

Well-known member
I just bought a used mixpre, and from a few thing that are different on it from the previous ones I've used, I decluded that it was made before 2002 and the changes they performed at that time. I know it's built like a tank and should work for a very long time, but all things break eventually. This is already 10+ years old, and while it hasn't been used all that much, it shows some signs of age (some LEDs have gone from green to a little blue, and one gain pot is a bit loose). How long can I really expect this to work? What are the experiences of the users here?

Thanks beforehand!
 
I decided to contact sound devices as well, just shortly after this was posted. Still awaiting a reply that should come sometime today. I'll post their response.
 
Sound Devices just responded, within the time they said they would. Following is my inquiry and their response:

Hello!

I just got a used mixpre, and from doing some digging I found out that its the older model from before the changes done in 2002. This means it is 10+ years old. I've used one several times and know that they are built to last, but just how long can you expect it to work properly? (This is assuming regular use of course) It seems to work fine now, but some of the LED-lights are more blue than green, which might be a sign of the age, and one of the gain pots is a bit loose, probably from frequent use. Is it simply a matter of using it until something breaks, and then repair it? Do you have an estimate for how long it should last?

Best regards
Jesper M
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

The MixPre's are very stable and durable devices. Most of the first ones we shipped out are still active and working fine in the field. However, if you would like I can issue a return authorization for inspection and repair. This way we can get you MixPre back here to the factory and run it though all of our bench tests. We will be able to identify any underlying problems and apply any updates that may be available. The flat rate fee for this process is $75.00 + parts. Please let me know how you would like to proceed. Thanks.


Jesse Parker
Sound Devices, LLC
608-524-0625 Ext. 225
 
I bought mine in 2000 maybe? I know I had been using it for awhile in Aug of 2001. Anyway It gets a lot of work and is still solid as a rock. I would send it in though because you can't reliably use NiMH batteries with the old style battery holder. That was a free fix when I asked them back when. Also the external battery connector is better. But it should work for a very long time.

BTW you can pull the knob off and tighten the locking nut, that should fix the looseness, unless the pot or knob is actually broken.
 
Jema. for peace of mind .. money well spent in my opinion.
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Thank you - that's really why I asked them, simply to be assured that the investment was worthwhile.

I would send it in though because you can't reliably use NiMH batteries with the old style battery holder. That was a free fix when I asked them back when. Also the external battery connector is better. But it should work for a very long time.
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Very good to know, as I was thinking about using it with NiMh batteries. I'll look into an external option first, and ask SD about the cost for shipping to the US, parts etc, but that's a good reason to send it in.

BTW you can pull the knob off and tighten the locking nut, that should fix the looseness, unless the pot or knob is actually broken.
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I'll definately try that!
 
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