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Hi guys, I am a new poster to the forum, but I have been reading it for months now and have learned a lot. I had a Canadian modded DR-505 a few years ago, but I stupidly sold it, mostly because I wasn't happy with the sound I was getting from it. I have come to believe now that the Canadian gain mod might've been to blame. So, that said, I am looking to get back into the Hiwatt market. I am looking to get either a 103, or 504, preferably 4 input models, because my understanding is that they have a bit less gain than the 2 inputters? Is that correct? I definitely wouldn't rule out a 2-holer, though.

Anyways, the point of this post, aside from introducing myself, is to get your opinion on the DR-103 that is currently on Ebay. Here's the link:

http://cgi.ebay.com/Hiwatt-DR-103-DR103 ... dZViewItem

Does it look to have any issues I should be aware of? I'd like it to be as close to stock as possible, and I am clueless when it comes to amp repair/maintenance, so I would need to pay a tech to perform any needed repairs. I'd like to spend less than $2000. Does that seem feasible or have 103's surpassed that plateau at this point? Well, we'll see by the time the auction is over anyway.

There's also this 103, but the price seems a bit high, no?

http://cgi.ebay.com/VINTAGE-1974-HIWATT ... .m14.l1318

Thanks for your help guys.

Craig.

Hi Craig - welcome!

Regarding the first link, that amp looks to be intact, with the exception of one fuse holder and the non-original plaque under the fuses. The filter caps have been replaced along the line (a typical maintenance item). I expect the selling price to be well above the current bid. It's a pretty rare day to find a 4 input (Hylight Electronics) Hiwatt for under $2k.

As far as the second link, it's got some wavy wires in there (around the switches & power transformer) that are un-Hiwatt-ish. There's also at least one filter cap needing to be replaced (the bulge is an indication). And...somebody tried to combine feet with the chassis bolts ? Unusual "mod".

I have no connection with either seller nor am I familiar with those particular heads. Trying to be as objective as possible. I may be parting with a couple 100 watters myself shortly (reallocating the portfolio). Let me know if you're interested.

Dave

Thanks for your quick response Dave. Couple questions, I assume the fuse holder and plaque have no undersirable effects on the tone or performance of the amp? Also, do the replacement filter caps look to be good quality replacements?

If you are indeed parting with a 103, I would definitely be interested. But like I said, $2k or so might be my limit at this point, when factoring in shipping and possible customs/duty fees. Please let me know if you are selling any. Thanks again.

Olsvik wrote:Couple questions, I assume the fuse holder and plaque have no undersirable effects on the tone or performance of the amp? Also, do the replacement filter caps look to be good quality replacements?

You are correct, sir! The two items mentioned would only impact the ultra-anal collector (and we know qualifies there ). LCR caps are very good. They're harder to find these days (out of production, I believe) and filter caps don't get better with age. So, ask the seller what the date codes are on those and look to see if any are bulging.

Olsvik wrote:If you are indeed parting with a 103, I would definitely be interested. But like I said, $2k or so might be my limit at this point, when factoring in shipping and possible customs/duty fees.

Never done the International Shipping thing, so I don't know what's involved. I'll send you a PM later tonight with a few details on the amps. Either way, no problem.

Dave

Both of those amps are "ok" but I wouldn't spend $2k on either of them.

period. I will just leave it at that.

Check out Old School Dave's amp before bidding too much on either of those!

Thanks for your input, Dr. Care to elaborate though, in a PM perhaps? What would be a fair price for the '73 then, in your opinion?

the 1973 has had the power transformer replaced with an older partridge. To any collector a BIG red flag. The mains indicator lamp is not original either. I would say $1750 tops. It is probably a good sounding amp, but it is a player with limited or NO collector value, so don't buy it thinking that it is a good investment.

I performed the cap job on Old School Dave's amp. I would buy it over any on ebay presently. It is a good amp!

Ah, this changes things, definitely. Thanks Dr.

Wow, it sold for $2002.00 with a non-original PT.

the buyer must not know anything about HIWATTs. I feel sorry for that fool!

it is kinda hard to miss the electrical tape on the wire splices from the replaced PT. The PT is a partridge, but not even from a DR103. The hardware attaching the PT is new, not the original "cheeseheads". The mains indicator neon is a cheap replacement too.

Maybe the buyer had too many "Sunday Beers"?

The 1974 DR103 is much nicer and has yet to sell for $2050.00 ????? If I wasn't trying to buy my 1971 DR103, I would snatch this up.

Atleast it is original and un-mucked with. It will appreciate, where the screwed up one that went for $2002 was a fluke. The buyer is clueless and GROSSLY overpaid for a "player" with no chance of appreciating in value.

Maybe I should list the 1972 I have with a replaced PT and make a killing????????

What are the issues with that '74 103? There are some wonky looking wires that don't look military-spec, is that a mod or just some loose wiring?

at some point it had the power cord hard wired, then put back to stock. That is it. It is an infinitely better amp than the one that went for $2002.

I keep thinking about snagging it...........I must not keep looking at it!

"Put the HIWATT down!"

I am good on 1973-1974s........I am after a 1971. I must remain disciplined!

Clayton-
I'm surprised your not all over that SA 412, that thing seems pretty rare, heavy, but sweet! , also what is up with the output trannie on this one? http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?Vi ... 0276252022, looks like a replacement to me, it'll be interesting to see how much this one goes for...