Fisher 500C Tube Receiver ... fully modified ... how is it ?

default -- Thu, 09/18/2008 - 14:35

Hi folks,

I am interested in hearing from people who own or have owned or have seriously listened to a fully modified Fisher 500C tube receiver.

Regardless of the system it was used with, how did it sound ?

bobby taylor (not verified) -- Mon, 12/08/2008 - 22:58

nothing short of incredible. I once owned what was regarded (Excalibur Audio in Alexandria, Va) along with Lyric Hi-Fi the best high end store in the country. I represented all of the major brands of electronics on the high end. I also was a contributing writer for the original Absolute Sound.

you'd have to spend a lot of dollars to get better "natural sound" than a modified Fisher 500c. It has a lot to do with matching the Fisher with speakers. You have to hear this Fisher through a pair of Celestion 600's or the small Rogers LS35A's. Fantastic performance and the phono section can remind the listener how wonderful Vinyl can sound

Jim Switzer (not verified) -- Wed, 09/30/2009 - 19:27

Hey Bobby,

Are you still in Alexandria? Shoot me an email if you are so inclined.

jfswitzer [at] gmail [dot] com

Steven Stone -- Wed, 09/30/2009 - 20:11

As with any low to moderately powered tube output device, matching the 500C with the right speakers and not trying to fill up a large room with high SPLs is a must for optimum sound.

Optimal tube selection and biasing, having all replacement parts in spec, and careful use of new parts will also be necessary for the 500C to perform at its best. Like all vintage gear, if not refurbished by someone who knows the piece well, it can hum...

Steven Stone
Contributor to The Absolute Sound, EnjoytheMusic.com, Vintage Guitar Magazine, and other fine publications