SONY CRF-320 Receiver Restoration Repair and Modification

[@MrCarlsonsLab]

Are you interested in learning my thought process in Electronic Repair? If so, click here and join the thousands that are becoming great electronic troubleshooters, designers, and repairmen: www.patreon.com/MrCarlsonsLab

[@jlucasound]

@maciej wrotek I thought Polish people were intelligent. Can you do this? Didn't think so. Stop feeding your Cat Junk Food! That is so inhumane.

[@JerryEricsson]

Thanks, I was a member for quite some time, problem was, my CC went over and I got cancelled. Oh well must mean I can't afford to learn right now, and with the China Virus I guess no sense in making any new or renewing a commitment right now. I did love being a patrion member for the time I was, it was wonderful to check out all the projects. Never did build any but I was tempted to begin with that pre-amp for the AM receiver. I have many radios now from my mother, who went into the nursing home a couple years ago, and my two sisters who passed on last year, they always did every thing together...

[@noiwanttobeanonymous3797]

@Maciej WrOtEk 7&,7,

[@monfrig6959]

when you pulled the front and rear cover off i said ' Beautiful ' !

[@christopherhowe7950]

£raft

[@BigEightiesNewWave]

Back when Sony was made in Japan and was Like no Other.

[@SkigBiggler]

Funnily enough, Sony does still manufacture locally for the domestic market in Japan, and those products tend to be high quality

[@BenSamaChan]

Well hopefully depending on the extent of Japan's pull out of China, we'll start seeing this range of consumer goods being MIJ again. I would absolutely pay a premium for a Japanese made, more conscionable product.

[@9999plato]

@@BenSamaChan You can still get vehicles made in Japan though most are made overseas now. I bought my Toyota 4 runner because its still made in Japan, the Scion XB was a Toyota made for the JDM as well. The scion was new in 2005, now I passed it on to my daughter. When I was a kid my uncle had a Sony radio my other uncle brought back from Okinawa. Great stuff.

[@boulder89984]

I swear the man can see electrons moving about.

[@jlucasound]

THAT is what I wish I could do!!

[@dannyyorri2345]

@@jlucasound I think that he is a genius !

[@doncooper3946]

Angry Pixies.

[@michaelhawthorne8696]

His pseudonym is Neo and he can see the Matrix

[@smartazz61]

I almost hate watching this guy. He's just too smart. It makes me feel, uh, not so smart. Seriously, people like that make me very envious. Of course I'm a genius when it comes to taken things like that apart. it's the putting it back together I have trouble with.

[@arnoldschmidt2753]

Once again you never cease to amaze me with your complete skill and ability to repair equipment. Without having to order parts and sit and wait for weeks for them to arrive only to find out that they sent you the wrong parts . Your education and understanding of how things deteriorate over time is one thing, but the patience yhat you portray is humbling to me. I used to take things apart just to try to figure out what was the problem with it but my lack of education was a downfall and I felt defeated by something that I had no ability to fix .You have taught me to be patient with myself and not to let my emotions rule the roost. Thank you again.

[@gtoger]

Sony made such wonderful stuff back in the day. Like there was really a pride taken in the products. The tactile experience of operating this stuff is difficult to explain to someone who hasn't experienced it. The only way you can get consumer electronics with the same sort of feel, fit & finish now is to spend a BUNCH of money on boutique gear. Sony was mass-market with their stuff.

[@archerpiperii2690]

The world of photography is much the same way. Back in the day, mechanical cameras had a tactile element that like you said is difficult to explain - "mechanical art" is how I like to think of it. Today's digital cameras can produce fantastic images but in the hand they feel disposable rather than a tool a person can take pride in owning. Peace.

[@ThePapa41]

Hi Paul, I am so amazed at your OUTSTANDING level of EXPERTISE in ALL instrument repair, restoration, and complete understanding of operation and application!!! Your accomplishments in developing your lab and restoring vintage electronic test equipment while providing an exclusive video of every detail required to do it is INCREDIBLE. Your videos are an invaluable source of education!! Thank You, Lou

[@robertturner8419]

Mr Carlson: I just wanted to note that here in the U.S.A., those particular Line Cords are quite common - they were used in many brands and types of different "shoebox" tape cassette recorders, various sound systems including equalizers, tuners, pre-amps, amps and a myriad of other 120V, 60Hz pieces equipment. Several of the local thrift shops that I frequent have them on a regular basis (used, tested) for under one U.S. Dollar. It might be pertinent, if in search of such a line cord, to visit various U.S. based Surplus Businesses. In any event, I just noticed that this video is from 2016 and somehow I have managed to have not seen it before. I'm thoroughly enjoying this video. I would also like to thank you for the numerous times that you have mentioned the importance of the "outside foil" end of a capacitor. Although I suppose that it could be my imagination, it seems that when observing the "outside foil" polarity when replacing old caps on old computers, the unwanted RFI emissions seem to be reduced significantly. You, Sir, are a veritable genius and IMHO, one of the greatest KZbinrs out there. Kudos.

[@mr.l6615]

I love that someone fixes this stuff, it's becoming a lost art! You have great patience! Very enjoyable to watch!

[@sonus289]

absolutly.... now , tech and service centers are told to just "slap a new board In It" . And some businesses just say its cheap enough to just replace it! uh .... no...... Many of the good techs like Mr Carlson are moving to the Big shop in the sky or just don't wanna get invloved in it.. techs are a long lost breed especialy the guys like him . I'm a tech but , know nothing compared to him....but old dogs can learn!!

[@joscallinet5462]

Dear Paul - your SONY CRF-320 video is: 1) A labor (labour) of love of the highest order; 2) An illustration of how much you respect what SONY did when they designed and built that receiver, and a demonstration of its worth - because, obviously, you thought enough of it to be willing to tackle this particular example and bring it back to its former glory - and then some; 3) With the attention you focused on the plastic gears, what happens when less-than-superior materials are used, and how that affected the long-term usefulness of this set; and, finally, 4) A remarkable demonstration of your wealth of knowledge as you went deep inside this set as you needed to, to isolate and repair what was preventing it from working properly , as well as showing us viewers WHY you have such a fine set of test equipment on hand to turn to when you need it, AND that you KNOW how to approach solving each mystery as you come across it. A wonderful tale, so well told, one which kept me glued to my screen throughout the entire length of your presentation. Paul, you are, hands-down, the best presenter of technical information on KZbin, or anywhere else, for that matter. I'm SO glad you're willing and able to put each of your programs together so well, and in fine high-resolution video, which is essential for us viewers to be able to REALLY see what you're doing. Thank you, thank you!

[@MrCarlsonsLab]

Thank you for your very kind words Jos, I'm just happy to share what I know. I appreciate you taking the time to write.

[@andyfairman7812]

Very well said! I couldn't agree more!

[@RobertKohut]

Yup!

[@tom474e]

I agree 100% with Jos, very well said.

[@frankpitochelli6786]

....I've always said, when a person has a wealth of knowledge and they are truly a craftsman at their trade, they are doing mankind a wealth of justice when they share it, what's more,when they are able to do so with such eloquence and tact, we are all the better for it. Knowledge is the greatest "gift" to share.!!! Thank you Paul.

[@shaynefitzgerald7928]

Hi, I'm trying to imagine how GREAT it would feel. To have your Pride and Joy Repaired in such a Special way and knowing you are able to watch the video. Wow!! These Videos that I have been watching so far, are of such High Standard and with complete Logic, it's a bit like watching a 1945 on wards "Military Training Video" or "Archives on the Atom Bomb and Radar Systems" ect. So Accurate and Concise, with a tiny bit of humour. Who needs to go to Tafe, when you can go and watch Mr Carlson's Lab. When I go shopping today I'm buying a week's worth of Popcorn and Fantails. A big, Thank you. From one of your newer web Students...

[@MrCarlsonsLab]

Thanks for your kind words Shane!

[@watershed44]

+Mr Carlson's Lab Pride in workmanship! This the most thorough, detailed, and high quality troubleshooting and repair video I have ever seen regarding any electronics product on YT. Thank you! Sony really was the best when it came to general purpose consumer electronics, they were the Apple of their time. It's a bit sad to see how they have fallen in the past several decades.

[@watershed44]

+Mr. Carlson's Lab So did you ever determine if the unit was worked on by repair techs outside the Sony factory, or were the alterations the result of extensive rework at the factory? Maybe this was an early production unit or even a pre-production unit which was reworked for production approval.

[@friedmule5403]

Shayne Fitzgerald I couldn't write it better, exactly my words! It is wary rear privilege to watch a Mozart performing his art! I have about no knowledge about electronic but still I feel that it is easy to follow, I learn a lot and it is just fantastic to watch! :-)

[@markmaleski818]

imickey503 just wondering are you the Mr turbo Incabyoulater man. love your videos on the transfer of the 2 spermulater bearings. Great work. But this gentleman is on a different kind plane of examples of great experience for perfection and a true master of his craft. Great work; and thanks for the experience of watching you bring this great Sony back to better than new reconditioning. And thank you both for your contributions. I'm a Sen. Master Benz Tech 30 years & work on the older green Alpine's for fun, and throughly enjoyed your time and the video! & Thanks again!!

[@w2aew]

I've never seen one of these receivers - very cool looking machine!

[@jeffreycollins7297]

Yeah the people who had these definitely had three cars in the driveway. We had one.

[@nice_sprite5285]

Exactly my thoughts, it looks like its from the future, super stylish

[@moeinsp2027]

exactly. i show that to my grandfather and he say i used that in iran vs iraq war for connection

[@robozstarrr8930]

@@jeffreycollins7297 so did we, but with limited $$ managed to buy a cheap us navy surplus receiver....ya had tubes... bigger in size, ( which kept ya warm dxing those winter nights )... & worked great even connected to the 300 ohm TV antenna... plus . . room inside to hide a few "items" from the siblings

[@henrikkliebhan4874]

Form follows function at it´s best!

[@notionSunday]

Watched the whole video and enjoyed it allot. Very impressive work.

[@MrCarlsonsLab]

+notionSunday Thanks!

[@MrBrightlight66]

+notionSunday So did I. Don't have the set and probably never will but watched it end to end. A great learning experience.Obviously thumbs up.

[@uploadJ]

Yup. Very impressive. Kudos.

[@furlockfurli2719]

You are the most inspiring perfectionist who never becomes boring, who always gets me to go the extra mile. Thank you so much. Kind regards.

[@christophershurety8865]

Wonderful to watch.. I am in my late seventies now and was a radio and TV service engineer back in the day... I doubt I will ever own a CRF-320 but I was fascinated to watch how you went about fixing all the problems on this receiver.. I would have been honored to work alongside someone like you...!

[@ScoutCrafter]

Absolutely amazing skill set you have... Outstanding job! Thanks for sharing...

[@MrCarlsonsLab]

+ScoutCrafter Thanks!

[@martinpescador5642]

Very impressive Sir... and very clear.

[@CH1CK3NNU66375]

I'm in love with this receiver now. That LED mod really brings it back to life. It's quite amazing.

[@terrestrialman]

These videos relax me for some reason

[@namolokaman2393]

Mr. Carlson: "Since that intermittent connection is hiding, I need to re-solder that entire circuit board." ...That made me chuckle for some reason--the systematic "madness" of it, I guess. :)

[@jeffreycollins7297]

Many times it's just easier than spending the time it would take to check every single part. Plus you get to show everyone your soldering abilities and how clean your work is compared to the original people.

[@haskellbob]

I can't get past his pronunciation of "solder" as SAHL-der, even though I know, after researching it, that it is a legitimate way to pronounce it. In the U.S. we generally say SAW-der (as you probably know). It seems weird to me. Very much my problem.

[@bergarteric5713]

Mister : beautiful repair and accuracy mind for the explications !!! and for the LED cirtuit board i have no words ...thanks for all ...perfect job ... I'm learning many things and really perfect job !!! Thanks for the time and the share Eric from France Long life for you Mister ...

[@jlucasound]

"Explanations". Don't feel bad, Bergart Eric, I had to look it up myself and I am in the US. :-)

[@frankpitochelli6786]

You belong in the hall of fame for Electronics..!!! Thank you for sharing your expert knowledge with us and at no cost to we your audience. Your technical skills are far more superior than 99 percent of electronics techs..... You should be working for a major electronics concern/manufacturer and paid hundreds of thousands " if not more "... Best wishes as always. Frank (Retired tv tech)

[@NathanaelNewton]

The auto-play algorithm just brought me here.. I don't know if I'm going to stay for a two-and-a-half hour long video but this channel looks pretty cool!

[@RobertKohut]

That's it!! I've decided you are an alien!! Just amazing your level of knowledge!

[@sharkamov]

_Sooo_ happy I came across your channel here on KZbin! . . . . Nothing, but _nothing_ beats watching someone who really _know_ what they are doing in such a fashion as _you_ do Mr. Carlson! - As one having a _wide_ range of interests (even though, not necessarily the electronic competence to understand the details down to the nitty gritty _component_ level - this for me, was anyhow a _thrilling_ journey right from the outset until the end! - I'll readily admit, that the tour you took me (us) through, was better than _any_ ''box office movie''!!! - It also sparked some thoughts re. the Japanese technicians that 'conjured up' this fine radio back in the day, and the myriad thought processes that lay behind the finished product....! As a former merchant mariner, I distinctly remember leaving Yokohama (Japan) at the time I had purchased my brand new Sony FM/LW/MW/SW PLL Synthesized Receiver *ICF-7600D* - and right after departure, as I unboxed it , and switched it on inside my cabin onboard, dialing in on the receiver's shortwave, tuning in on the 13-meter band, and suddenly was listening to _direct radio reporting_ from my country (Norway), as they were celebrating the national holiday (May 17th!) - _loud & clear_ - sans external antennae 📻! . . . . So, yupp, those 'nerds' at Sony sure knew what they were doing, as so nicely illustrated by yourself Mr. Carlson!⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Thank you for uploading this _gem_ of a technical tour taking us along with you! (Needless to say: I'm obviously a new subscriber...!)😉👍 Thanks again!

[@saremo]

Oh my god. I might be selling my car soon to buy one of these.

[@cosmolittle1395]

Watched the entire video last night, really interesting. The CRF-320 is an amazing design, probably the last SW receiver designed without a micro controller. I was sufficiently interested to download the service manual and study the schematic. No expense has been spared in the design, with all the best techniques such as up conversion to a high first IF, and a synthesiser architecture with potentially quite low phase noise. I expect the IP3 ( third order intercept ) would be quite good especially with the tuned preselector. The frequency plan is cleverly arranged so that drift in the second LO ( 45.6MHz) cancels out, as the same oscillator is used to downconvert the 1st LO. The preselector is unique, where both the capacitance and inductance of a parallel tuned circuit are varied together. This clearly gives a much greater tuning range, and keeps the L to C ratio constant. If you think about the resonant frequency equation, just tuning the C will give a frequency range proportional to 1/sqroot(C), however tuning both the L and C will give 3.3 times the range. I see that Sony had to switch in a different tuned coil halfway through the range using a cam and a microswitch. It is not clear how this works with the capacitor tuning, as one would expect a sudden jump in frequency when the inductor was switched. Perhaps Mr Carson could clarify this. I would have liked to see the response of the preselector on the tracking generator setup. I designed a number of budget marine receivers for the yachting market in the early 80's, culminating in a fully synthesised design using a microcontroller. Unfortunately I was very constrained by cost of manufacture, and had to make many compromises that resulted in rather indifferent performance. Sony seem to have really splashed out on this receiver. It almost has the appearance of a pritotype with all those brass screening cans. I would be surprised if they ever made much money on this design. The original retail price of $1500 was a fortune in 1976.

[@donstor1]

When this man fixes your electronic device, it’s coming back to you fixed. Don’t question the bill, just pay it and be grateful he chose to do the job. This was a joy to watch and yes, I love the old Sony stuff. Thank you!

[@kenneth6731]

In this day and ages, someone who can and will is national treasure.

[@KB5PQL]

Love these videos! I went though 2:30 hours without blinking! :D

[@MrCarlsonsLab]

+Overlin Alaniz (KB5PQL) LOL, Thanks! Glad your enjoying.

[@maccxxster]

Back in the 80's (1981 to 1986 tbe) when I was working as a sales clerk, I used to sell those SONY CRF-type models, together with the ICF-7600A model as well (for those people wanting to listen to their home radio stations when living or traveling abroad, thus needing something a tad smaller) until the fully digital era began with the ICF-7600D or ICF-2001D models… SONY just made THE best stuff, whether it was with their invention of the Walkman or their TRINITRON CRT equipped TV sets among loads of others. So, me too, I'd probably go through all the hassle, just like you did, Mr. Carlson, in order to repair/refurbish such beautiful electronic "relicts"… Thanks for letting us visit your lab and giving as such a detailed insight on how you're approaching a repair service for a device like that... 2:27 hours of both education and entertainment worth while!

[@AnnaVannieuwenhuyse]

Nowadays, we need a permit to even own a certain set of equipment (that's not even touching it. Just owning it)

[@jawrakae]

I only wanted to say that I don't know how I got here, but I stayed and watched the whole thing anyway just because this was a pretty amazing, detailed and concise breakdown. I'm most likely never going to do a repair such as this, but it was a pleasure watching you do it with excellent commentary. Keep doing what you are doing, it seems to be working!

[@nivid01]

I CAN'T BELIEVE THAT IT IS HUMANLY POSSIBLE TO MAKE THOSE CIRCUITS AND KNOW WHAT EVERYTHING WILL DO, LET ALONE TROUBLESHOOT IT AND THEN REPAIR IT. MATE YOU ARE OUTSTANDINGLY SMART!

[@BruceNitroxpro]

Nijel Vidler, AND... he knows his materials and mechanical engineering to a point where he can FIX things which no one else even notice. OMG. Yup... totally awesome! de KQ2E revisiting this gem for about the third time.

[@embeddedusystems]

Epic. Thanks for these long videos a lot of us really enjoy them.

[@MrCarlsonsLab]

+William Reeve Your welcome William!

[@jlucasound]

@1:42:00 and on. If you are seeing a "Carlson" board, you don't need to go any further. If Mr. Carlson was in your device, it is BETTER than new. Oh, you know it. Pay no attention to the wannabee "above" us. Shh!

[@Stuartrusty]

Thoroughly and professionally performed and explained, even for an old hand like me. Your collection of test equipment has me green with envy. The spring loaded layered gears in this equipment I have used and adjusted in one of my previous electronic engineering jobs in the defence industry. These are known as anti-backlash gears, and new sets would come from the supplier with a hooked metal tool (to line up the two sets of teeth to enable meshing of an inserted gear) that looks almost identical to the one you made here. A wealth of experience and knowledge, and a truly professional repair, realignment and modifications of these well made Sonys. Bravo sir!

[@woodhonky3890]

The most amazingly complicated shortwave receiver I have ever seen. You have a remarkable skill set.

[@andyfairman7812]

Love your videos! The care and patience you put into this receiver was incredible. I watched every second and learned quite a bit. Thank you Mr. Carlson!

[@ricke8042]

Paul, I absolutely love your videos,and your knowledge of electronics and troubleshooting is phenomenal! After 30+ years in the same profession I still continue to learn from your videos. Even if I have to set through alot of "sold" "der" and "fair" "rads". Lol J/K but hey I live in the south U.S. and people complain at some of my words. Keep up the great videos!

[@GeorgeTsiros]

aw man these older front panels are gorgeous

[@clif9710]

Very well done, no wasted words and great use of the camera to show exactly what needs to be seen. Having been in electronics repair for a career, I feel obligated to give Sony credit for outstanding documentation such as the block diagram you show for this radio. Sony professional equipment went the extra mile with X-ray views of circuit boards and a complete theory of operation. Unfortunately, less was provided as the years went on, but Sony was tops back in the day. Thanks for all the time and effort you put into this.

[@americanmultigenic]

I really enjoyed this. Thank you. Incidentally, inspired by your videos, I have just sent off for a batch of components to try to make my first simple project (a little circuit someone proposed to keep a powerbank "alive" even when certain devices are drawing only minimal current from it). I would not have even been able to decipher the circuit diagram without having watched your videos. Thanks again! I loved the look of the Sony after your lighting modifications.

[@techno_one]

Mr Carlson is one of a kind , a real radio engineer. With excellent mechanical engineering skill as well as electrical. The CRF 320 is an excellent radio and one of Sony's best when radios were built really well and not down to a price like everything is these days. I like to see things being repaired and not just thrown away. This radio is now better than the day it left the factory , and thats just great. I hope your videos inspire the next generation to study engineering.

[@jeremyclayton-travis1991]

Hi Mr Carlson, I was a Sony main agent in London for over 25 years and in the midd 1970s before internet I sold about 3 of these fantastic radios mainly to overseas clients. I must confess these radios were consider so complex that I would always send them back to Sony for repair. I hate to think how much time you must have spent on this one. I must congratulate you and give you maximum stars for a very well produced video. I would even go to say the best video I have seen on you tube to date. Thank you again for letting me relive my youth. I would buy one but would hate to buy one with a problem because finding an engineer competent enough to fix it would be a nightmare. Thanks again

[@MrCarlsonsLab]

Thanks for taking the time to write Jeremy!

[@jeremyclayton-travis1991]

I was going to add that when the ICF 7600 came out I sold hundreds. I personally ended up with an ICF-SW55 which came in a nice fitted case and all the wire antenna and power potable power supplies. I brought it second hand and it was one of those machines that suffered from the dreaded capacitor problems and had the capacitors replaced. Unfortunately the person who had replaced the caps had stripped the screws poles and had glued the case shut with four small dabs of glue ! Anyway it works and the FM is in stereo. I have never really understood why the world has been plagued with capacitor problems ? I have heard various stories but as I don't know the science behind how electrolytic capacitors are made I don't know the answer. It seems to come to prominence in early 2000 and affected almost all manufactures of electronics from Sony Apple to Dell. I had a number of iMacs that died and whist I did have a go at repairing one I gave up in the end. Saying that I still have a Sony TA88 amp and tuner and a beautiful TA5650 V-Fet amp which is in brilliant condition. I worked mainly in the Hi Fi trade in London as a buyer and manager of a couple of stores in Central London. My main branch was at Marble Arch just off Oxford street. I did try to teach myself electronics and when to an evening class where I built a TRF Valve radio with I think they were called Repanco coils and a Jackson tuning capacitor. It was a brilliant radio but sadly I gave it away along with all my Quad Valve gear. When you work in the Hi Fi trade you get quite dismissive of the quality of stuff you give away. My engineer at the time was not very good and his workshop was a shamble. I would like to know where you got your training in electronics ? I found most people who were any good got their training in the armed forces because they had to be good. I have subscribed to your channel and the only other people I watch are Nick Adams and a Scottish guy called Big Clive. I will watch more of your videos as they are so professional in the way you present them. Thanks again. I won't ask you how much time you spent on the CRF 320 but if I had paid an engineer to fix one the the way you did I recon his labour costs would have exceeded the original cost of the radio which I think was about £400. It's sad that radio bands are vanishing fast. There has been talk of the British government selling off the FM band for other uses which if the do will piss me off end as I have several high ent tuners and radios that work on that frequency. At one time I wanted to get a SW ham licence and talk to people on the other side of the world but perhaps they use the internet now

[@anthonyconte400]

Mr. Carlson: Like the magician, the magic is not in the wand. Your extensive and impressive line of brand new looking equipment means nothing if it wasn't handled with the dexterity, professionalism, and knowledge that you have. I'm simply flabbergasted! Your video is top quality and your voice modulation could not be clearer or pleasanter --Tony Conte/HP1KL (Panama)

[@WaveWarrior98]

HP1KL, I concur. --KV5JMK (Shreveport)

[@NickMoore]

Fantastically in depth work, I don't know any one else who can do both the electrical and mechanical repairs on any equipment.

[@MrCarlsonsLab]

+Nick Moore Thanks Nick!

[@greggaieck4119]

MR CARISON WHAT A KOOL SONY CRF32RECEIVER TEX ME

[@tikabass]

This is an awesome piece of equipment! It was a real pleasure having you walk through most of it, and share your knowledge and experience. Kudos for the engineers at Sony who designed this marvel, they did an incredible job.

[@Partsocaster]

Jesus what a complicated machine! You have the patience of Job, my friend. Hats off to you. Nice work as always.

[@MrCarlsonsLab]

+ShooterReady Thanks!

[@normdoty]

i thought i was the last person who repaired something to keep using it and to extend its lifespan. i keep being told to throw it out and buy another, i keep saying cheaper to fix it. i just hate our disposable society , we used to repair computers to the component or module. i am quite envious of all the test equipment in your work room , what a beautiful work room you have, i have watched several of your repair video's, your trouble shooting technique is the best i have ever seen, your knowledge is just superb. we all stand in awe of you. keep up the magnificent work, in the world of video's 1-10 you rate a 12+.

[@RobertAhrens52]

Paul, your patience and attention to detail are just plain astonishing. Very well done, sir!

[@MrCarlsonsLab]

Thanks Robert!

[@TRXLab]

Hi Paul, excellent video I really enjoyed it very much. Very nice radio and very impressive. Thumps !

[@MrCarlsonsLab]

+TRXBench Thanks Peter!

[@hosikhan7485]

Jesus H. Christ ! You are a genious. You have absolute mastery over electronics and above all .... As the Brits say "You have the patience of a cow". I am a retired ship master and in the earlier years when there was no other entertainment on ships, I had purchased a German Grundig Satellite 21 band radio. It was my companion. It served me well for many long years without repairs. Today you reminded me of those days. Thanks. Capt. Hosi Khan.

[@kg2nc]

What a beautiful receiver I've never seen anything like it. I was glue to the screen watching your work and at the end the radio came to life. Thank You for sharing this video I definitely enjoy it.

[@MrCarlsonsLab]

You're welcome Ruben.

[@mrjohhhnnnyyy5797]

This video is pretty much like a "SONY CRF-320: The Movie". Top notch repair you've done there, you sir are a pro!

[@MrCarlsonsLab]

+MrJohhhnnnyyy Thanks John!

[@Arkadius1984gl]

Yup, just grab yourself some popcorn and enjoy:)

[@gw0ouv1]

Superb i admire anyone whos got the knowledge to do such repairs both electronic & mechanical im a radio amateur and a shortwave listener the sony crf320 is a lovely piece of kit very impressive thanks for this video i truly enjoyed every minute.

[@kendrick736]

There is knowledge then there's experience on the higher plane comes talent along with self confidence + morals =squared away go getter

[@jenniferwhitewolf3784]

Sony must have an issue with gears. I have seen countless Sony optical drives fail due to gears wearing out or breaking teeth.

[@harrystevens3885]

Watched this twice in the last month, one of my favorite Mr Carlson's videos the production values are so good in his videos it must involve a lot of work to make them....Much appreciated by many.:)

[@MrCarlsonsLab]

Thank You for your kind comment Harry!

[@davidsymalla4785]

Superb job!! Your talent and skills are off the charts!!! How long have you been doing this? When did you get started in electronics?

[@surfinmuso37]

I gotta say it's nice to hear solder and not sodder.

[@richkloempken8473]

Also from Canada, the repair is a PROcess,not a process! 😊

[@EI6DP]

WoW That's one complicated & crazy circuitry, but one beautiful receiver.

[@Rick-O-Shay60]

I really should've chosen a career in the electronic industry... Fascinating. Watching you disassemble, diagnose, and repair a piece of yesterday's technology, even upgrade components making them better then when new, Very Cool. It is quite obvious you enjoy your work, and who wouldn't! Thank You for sharing. Your knowledge of electronics is amazing!

[@No-jb6fy]

This is so interesting, thanks for sharing your knowledge of these devices.

[@MrCarlsonsLab]

Evilkittyof doom.....No accent, so nope. I would reply to your post but your settings do not allow replies.

[@wildwest100]

When I was young a long time ago I used to visit the Sony Showroom at the lower end of London's Regent Street and just look open mouthed at these beautiful receivers and dream of owning one. I never did! I got my ham licence in 1979 and have played radio ever since. Your wonderful videos take me back to when I used to look at radios and see beautifully made quality pieces of gear. I have modern stuff now, but just feel it is all made to a price rather than made for quality. Your workmanship and skill amaze me and thanks so much for putting the videos on.

[@PileOfEmptyTapes]

1. Impressive job! Talk about going above and beyond and gilding the lily to boot! 2. VFO temperature compensation is not an awful lot less impressive. Less than 2 Hz (or about 0.5 ppm) of drift in a minute - not bad for a free-running oscillator, not bad at all... Not to mention the good inherent linearity. 3. I'm not surprised that the electrolytics still measure good, they would have put in top-shelf parts and by the late '70s the Japanese knew a thing or two about making these things, plus a set like this wouldn't receive extreme amounts of usage. 4. Realigning the 500 kHz ref osc is not all that essential IMHO. What's the worst that can happen if it's 10 Hz out... a readout offset of 600 Hz by 30 MHz? In a set that only displays to 1 kHz anyway, that's not awfully tragic. You'll stil find your stuff in SSB, a tiny nudge of the VFO will do. Plenty good enough by the standards of the time. No use telling that to a perfectionist, of course :D 5. Just a thought: Maybe they went for plastic gears not just for ease of manufacture, but also reduced capacitive coupling (touch sensitivity on the VFO / tuning knobs)...

[@exposingthedarknesswiththe9190]

Mr. Carlson, we're blown away with how much you know and your unmatched skills at fixing this equipment, incredible!! We're curious, besides the years of experience, may we ask where you got your training...you are a WIZARD are fixing these receivers, etc.! Thanks for sharing!! UNBELIEVABLE!! i should maybe send you my stereo tuner amp & receiver, stopped working years ago and no one in Denver, CO wants to work on it. :-(

[@BruceNitroxpro]

Paul, your skill as a mechanical engineer equals your expertise in electrical engineering. I simply do NOT have the patience to do the level of repair you exhibit here. It drives me WILD seeing what you have put up with just to "get it right." God bless! de KQ2E

[@MrCarlsonsLab]

Thanks for your kind comment Bruce!

[@ah2347]

Man that thing is beautiful. Really love that massive dial. I want one now!

[@UncleFeedle]

That's one awesome-looking piece of gear. It's like something from a 1970's Bond movie. Amazing know-how to restore something like that.

[@w.rustylane5650]

Dang, you do some very nice work. Your troubleshooting is excellence taken to the supreme. Even your mechanical work is par excellence. Those LED's look fantastic in that radio.

[@vrintex]

This is the first of your videos i've ever seen so saying I was surprised at 0:09 would be an understatement.

[@kurtg5645]

Found a great chanel here,subed. Thanks for making these videos,learned a lot. 73

[@MrCarlsonsLab]

+郭牧楠 Thanks! Glad your enjoying.

[@ajmiller7102]

Well done. Great video and explanations. Truly a master technician!

[@K-Riz314]

Holy mother of God that beast is beautiful. Wonderful presentation, as always! You are to electronics as Bob Ross was to painting. You can make even the most mundane of procedures very enjoyable to watch, and most importantly, learn. You're a huge asset to the community. Thank you.

[@MrCarlsonsLab]

Thank you for your kind words Mr Wilson!

[@johnrowing3306]

Thanks for a very informative video. I am tempted to perform the LED upgrade. In the late 70's I purchased a CRF 320 receiver. I still have it, although it to has the problem with the 'sticky' SW tuning dial... at least I now have some idea how to fix it. I used to work on Betamax equipment, and always appreciated the attention to detail that SONY afforded the design of their products. Pride of my 'old' SONY kit is a TC 880-2 reel to reel tape recorder.

[@SquantoTerror]

This was one of my favorite repair videos. Masterfully done, with brilliant instruction and explanation. Very well done and thank you for sharing.

[@MrCarlsonsLab]

+Nicholas Hyer Your welcome Nicholas!

[@buckrogers5331]

I was head of service agent training at TCE (Thomson Consumer Electronics) one time. Man, that is one well produced video. Lovely machine. Thing is, there's one such used 300R for sale in my area. Good to know the problems with this model before putting down the $$$. Many thanks again, and looking forward to more videos. Take care.

[@Travis141123]

Excellent, as usual. I can only imagine the bill for this repair....

[@MrCarlsonsLab]

+scott king Thanks Scott!

[@LiveTUNA]

This video made me feel like an idiot haha. My 4 year old handed me a toy cash register two days ago that has stopped working. I unscrewed the back and It had maybe 4 wires in it and all looked connected I guess. I wiggled them around but it still wouldn't work. I looked at her and said, well, it looks like it's really broke. I put it back together and handed it back to her. Still broken. After watching this video, maybe I'll try a little harder tomorrow lol.

[@MrCarlsonsLab]

Glad to be that inspiration Rev!

[@WallStreet749]

Mr Carlson I never thought I could watch a 2 and a half hour video on electronics repair. When it was over I was saying it that all? You Sir are Awesome the Dr. and Master of electronics. This man is so fortunate to have such a nice Radio especially after Mr. Carlson went through it. Want to take this opportunity to wish you and all of yours a Merry Christmas and a Happy Holidays.

[@MrCarlsonsLab]

Thanks for your very kind words Gary! Merry Christmas to you and yours as well!

[@SonnyKavanagh]

This is an incredibly informative film , you are indeed gifted in the repair procedures of these great quality units

[@TheMissysman]

Genius, i just watched a fraekin genius. Thank you so much for your work. Subscribed.

[@Synthematix]

This is the most beautiful receiver I’ve ever seen in my life, I bet it’s worth a small fortune.

[@Orxenhorf]

That's a beauty of a receiver, even more so with LEDs in it now.

[@scottlarson1548]

I watched the whole thing. I don't have a CRF-320 but I love detective stories. After seeing all the mechanical guts of this thing, I really appreciate my fully digital CommRadio CR-1.

[@Markinpuff]

You got that right

[@cosmoshfa88savant66]

What is with the dislikes????? these vids are amazing,,,,,,

[@GeorgeTsiros]

Mr Carlson: Imma resolder this entire board! me: nope. nope nope. noppity nopenopenope.

[@maccxxster]

…haha… you/he have/had to because that old soldering put too much strain to my/his eyes! …but in reality, I know exactly where you're coming from!

[@GeorgeTsiros]

+Mac2Bee some devices are worth it, in the end, so you grit your teeth, pour some water on the sponge and go to town :)

[@maccxxster]

…ahahah😁 I'm all game!

[@metatechnologist]

Personally it's not a question of "nope" but rather if that corrects the problem. I would have replaced the caps outright and then tested it. Then looked for specific bad solder joints. It's hard to see from the video what the quality of soldering is.

[@chrisnordstrom6652]

Wow, awesome video! I know this comment is really, really late, but I'm glad I found this video. Excellent troubleshooting and repair by someone who really knows what they are doing. I'm guessing that you have somewhere between 70 or 80 hours into the job, at today's technician prices of $80 U.S. (probably low for what an actual repair station would charge) not counting parts, just time, you are well north of $5,000 I bet. But wow, so educational and detailed. Oh, and I didn't count the number of hours added by documenting the whole thing with video. Well done Mr. Carlson.

[@cwb43068]

3 years later and here I am watching this video. I've never seen a reciever like this but good lord sir you are a hero!

[@wbennington017]

Absolutely fascinating video. You're a wizard sir. That Sony!!! A simply beautiful radio!! Liked and Subscribed!!

[@ChipGuy]

2:27 hrs:mins wow and I didn't get bored. Well and thoroughly done!

[@AndyNL]

It looks like a rocket cockpit in your repair room, amazing.

[@QED2008]

One of the best videos I've ever seen on KZbin. Incredible detail, tasteful upgrades, thoughtful explanations, outstanding craftsmanship/troubleshooting , and a sweet receiver. Thank you for bringing us along Mr Carlson.

[@MrCarlsonsLab]

You're Welcome! Glad you enjoyed.

[@johninjersey]

One of these just sold yesterday on eBay in not working condition for 385 +90 shipping. Seems a bit much for not working with no specifics at all. Not working could be a simple fix or a disaster. Looks like a great receiver for it's day

[@MrCarlsonsLab]

Thats extremely cheap for one of these, even if it's not working. The worst is usually the gears, but that's an easy fix.

[@DanHarkless_Halloween_YTPs_etc]

4:40 - "You sure are a pretty looking receiver..." 😦 _"It rubs the grease on its gears; it does this whenever it's told. It rubs the grease on its gears, or else it gets the AC overload again!"_ 😉

[@IdeaBoxful]

Why Sony warns against touching the VFO? Simple, not every tech is an OG like Carlson!

[@packratswhatif.3990]

Hey Mr. C , why are you not teaching (electronics). You would be such a terrific guru and mentor. Hell, I'm 63 and would sign-up for your classes (as long as you don't make me sit in the corner with a dunce hat on). Well done ....

[@MrCarlsonsLab]

Hi Ross, it just so happens.. I'am teaching, go here: www.patreon.com/MrCarlsonsLab

[@tonyrmathis]

The only other time I've seen anti-backlash gear like that used are in Cummins engines. I wonder if they stole the idea from Sony.

[@MrCarlsonsLab]

They have been used in radios for ever.

[@gerryk8781]

Thank you for another Great video, your knowledge and methods are exceptional !.

[@MrCarlsonsLab]

+Gerry K Thanks Gerry!

[@larrybud]

2:25:34 So funny. I used to work at Radioshack in the late 80s and we sold shortwave and ham radios. I used to listen to the HAM guys and all they ever talked about was the equipment they had. lol . Pretty surprised guys are still using it these days.

[@Kallenator1988]

You continue to amaze us Mr.Carlson, I am simply in awe of your thoroughness while repairing and explaining during these videos. Thank you very much for the work you are doing and sharing with us!

[@MrCarlsonsLab]

+Kallenator1988 Your welcome! Always glad to share :^)

[@driftwood9421]

There is no other KZbin video I would rather watch than Mr. Carlson reviving one of these works of electronic art. I've lots of other subs to other people but what is it about Mr. C's vids that I can studiously watch for over 2 hours. My appreciation Mr. Carlson for giving me that injection of excitement to dust off my own repair equipment and to pull out of the loft an old tuner-amp, a Rotel RX-202. One channel failed a while back and after your video I downloaded the schematics and I'm going to put this precious heirloom back into working order. Looked into old buying one of these old Sony machines and they command pretty high prices even now. After seeing the engineering inside these they are worth every penny.