Sparks in my preamp

[pbroido]

Hi,

Hardcore DIY is no quite my game due to a limited knowledge of electronics. I'm more a colour by numbers DIY guy i.e solder this, replace that.
I wonder if someone could advise me on trying to fix a problem I have.

I connected up a pre-amp I bought several years ago that has been sitting in its box for a while (worked fine when I packed it away). It's a Chinese Classic No.9 http://www.yushang-audio.com/english/product/yushang-p90.htm
As I switched it on, it made a crackling noise and fortunately did not blow my amp or speakers.

I removed the cover and powered it up again (not connected to the my system) and noticed some sparks coming from the end of one of the resistors.

Would this more than likely just be a bad solder joint between the resistor and the board? Would I need to replace the resistor?
Or should I seek professional assistance?

Removing the board looks like a bit of work so thought I would ask in advance before I got started.

Peter

[struth]

much depends but yes it sounds like a dry joint. if the track isnt to bad then try and solder it. i'd leave it off for a day before going to it in case any caps are charged.
but without being there its hard to be definite

[Macca]

A dodgy Chinese valve pre-amp - I would not go anywhere near it unless you know exactly what you are doing. You're a long time dead. Get an expert to look at it is my advice.

[STD305M]

A dodgy Chinese valve pre-amp - I would not go anywhere near it unless you know exactly what you are doing. You're a long time dead. Get an expert to look at it is my advice.

Hi Martin
Wise advice indeed !!!

Steve

[struth]

sure, if your not confident or know what your doing then best leave it to someone who does. the origin of it is unlikely to be of much consequence tho.. lekky is lekky death wise :eyebrows:

[karma67]

I had sparks coming out of my speakers!
Beat the clock and the number 1 song in heaven lol

[Edward]

If you want someone to look at it I'd recommend Firebottle of this parish.

Looks like a lovely preamp by the way.

[karma67]

i can also recommend this guy, john.caswell@johncaswell.co.uk not too far from london.

[pbroido]

Update: I'm Alive! and so is the amp :)
I appreciate the input and the safety concern - all good advice. After a week of googling how to safley work on a tube amp, a little solder seems to have done the trick.

Now to do some listening.
Thanks

Peter
Peter

[Macca]

The important thing is you survived. :D