CLEANING OLD HI FI SPEAKERS
Don’t we all just love old things? Especially those with a slight sense of emotional attachment, particularly when bought from saved college allowance or first salary. One such thing I have is my old Hi Fi speakers. Though I confess that these old Hi Fi speakers where lying in my attic for a long time, untouched, however wanting to revive and reuse them made me realize they are in serious need of repair.
Searching through old manuals, I gathered information to easily clean Hi Fi speakers. So here goes:
The Foam: This is one of the portions of the Hi Fi speakers which get dirty easily and even weather out when not in use. Don’t think it is easy to remove the foam of the Hi Fi speakers. One has to be very careful while removing it because the base of the foam is very firmly glued to the outer rim of the Hi Fi speakers and can damage that area. The new foam will not glue properly.
Try scrapping it with a blunt knife and don’t bother if certain portions are firmly glued to the Hi Fi speaker.
Apply glue on the outer rim surface first and then do the same to the inner edge of the foam. Then apply glue to the outer edge of the foam and stick it down on the Hi Fi speaker cone rim. Hold it for some time and don’t just let go.
The Cardboard: Hi Fi speakers obviously are inserted into a circular cut out on the cardboard or wood. Ensure you remove the Hi Fi speakers and clean the inner area with a dry cloth. Often many people seem to the clean Hi Fi speakers with a wet cloth. Never do so as it can damage some part which then will need replacement and thus a further expense to your pocket.
When removing the screws which hold the Hi Fi speakers, the screw-holes often get loose. In that case the board would obviously need replacement. If not, then before placing back the Hi Fi speakers, make sure the screw holes are all lined up properly.
If you find this complicated, then you can always buy a “Speaker Repair Kit at many electronic stores. The easy to follow instructions can actually help you turn your old Hi Fi speakers to as good as new.
Article from Classic Hi Fi - Sydney Hi Fi