Meridian Unplugged - Powered by MrTechGuy.co.uk Forums Discussion Meridian - Systems 203 DAC parts

When my old 203 DAC started to sound as if performing "underwater" I undertook an overhaul which in the main was to replace all the capacitors.This proved to be a success for a short while and performance was back to normal. However after 3/4 hours playing output just about disappeared and my suspicion was the SAA7274P DAC had packed up. A long search finally resulted in finding a "pulled" (i.e. used) replacement at Quest Components USA.

This was duly fitted and Hey Presto I had the old 203 back in service and in fact sounding better than ever as the new cap's "burned in".

As the replacement DAC was "used" I do feel that I am perhaps on borrowed time and I would ask therefore if anyone has suggestions as to where I may find a new (NOS) SAA7274P. These were originally made by Philips in the USA but maybe there are replacements from other manufacturers (Chinese even !) that could be used.

Any suggestions welcomed as I do want to keep the dear old 203 running!