[NFCB] LPB Blue 5C Console Repair

[al davis]

On Tuesday 13 May 2008, Read, Aaron wrote:
> BTW, I would be VERY hesitant to purchase a used broadcast
> mix console; there aren't too many cases where a radio
> station will be selling a mix board that hasn't already been
> driven into the ground.  Why else would they be buying a new
> one for themselves?

It depends on the resources, culture, and skills of the station 
needing the console.

Remember, the station asking the question is a one watt LPFM.

Maybe they don't think $3000 is cheap, and maybe they need the 
features of the $3000 console or more.

If you have people willing to do the work, a big old console in 
poor condition might be the best choice.  You probably will 
need to replace the coupling caps and clean the switches and 
faders.  If it has P&G faders, it's worth saving.

Analog consoles pretty simple conceptually.  Even if the exact 
model has been discontinued many years ago, everything is 
standard enough that parts availability should not be a 
problem.

Refurbing an old console can be a significant team builder.  
Getting involved with something like this could attract tech 
people who would not come otherwise.  For this, it might be 
worth it even if you can afford a new one.

Considering the trend to convert to digital, I would not spend a 
lot of money on an analog console that might soon be obsolete.  
(or might never be obsolete...)  I would also not jump into 
digital.  It's changing fast.  Look for bargains as other 
stations jump into digital.