The $125 bench fee covers our technician's time to comprehensively diagnose your amplifier, test all components, identify issues, and provide a detailed itemized repair quotation. While the fee is non-refundable (you pay for the diagnostic work regardless), it is fully deducted from your final repair bill if you proceed. For example, if your total repair cost is $350, you pay only $225 additional after the bench fee.

Simple repairs like replacing crackling pots or re-tubing can often be completed within a few days, with same-week service available for many jobs. More complex circuit repairs may take 1-2 weeks depending on parts availability. Vintage restorations requiring specialized components may take longer. We provide an estimated timeframe with your quotation.

Yes. Our technician has 35+ years experience repairing all major brands including Fender, Marshall, Vox, Orange, Mesa/Boogie, Peavey, Roland, Blackstar, Laney, and more. We service tube/valve amps (all class types), solid-state amps, hybrid amps, combo units, and head/cabinet setups. We also specialize in vintage amplifier restoration from the 1950s through 1980s.

Common causes include blown speaker, failed output tubes (in tube amps), broken speaker wire, faulty output transformer, or failed power amp circuit (solid-state). First check your guitar cable is working. If still no sound, bring it to us for diagnosis. Our $125 bench fee includes comprehensive testing to pinpoint the exact cause and provide repair options.

Absolutely. We specialize in vintage amplifier restoration with deep understanding of period-correct components and original circuit design. We source appropriate replacement parts to maintain authentic tone while ensuring reliability. For collectible vintage amps, we can provide full documentation of restoration work performed.

Crackling potentiometers (pots) are usually caused by dirt, dust, oxidation, or wear inside the component. In many cases this can be resolved with professional contact cleaner application and proper cleaning technique. Severely worn pots require replacement. Both are straightforward repairs we handle regularly with same-week turnaround in most cases.

Yes. We perform various modifications including tone circuit changes, gain stage adjustments, master volume additions, effects loop installations, and power scaling mods. We also offer bespoke hardware/software design for specialized applications and custom circuit design to your exact specification. Discuss your requirements with our technician for custom solutions. Note that modifications may affect resale value of vintage amplifiers.

Yes. All repair work carries our warranty covering the workmanship and parts installed. Warranty terms are provided with your completed repair invoice. We stand behind our work and our 35+ years of professional experience ensures repairs are done right the first time.

Yes. We will better any itemized independent quote for equivalent repair work. Bring us a detailed written quote from another repairer and we'll review it. We combine competitive pricing with over 35 years professional experience to deliver the best value in Melbourne amplifier repair.