Oliver P500

[Cirk]

Picked up a nice 1968 Oliver P500 head the other day. As is normal with an amp of this age, i will definitely change out the power cord and filter caps. It has Mullard preamp tubes and a pair of RCA 7027 output tubes. It's in good shape overall, can't wait to get it up and fully functional. What can you tell me about this amp?
I know a little bit about the company... The legendary Jess Oliver, RIP, and how these amps were hand made in small batches. Other than that, info seems pretty scarce. Anybody have a scematic? What is this amp supposed to sound like?
Thanks in advance for your input.

 

[jnewmark]

No photo, no amp !

 

[jnewmark]

Oliver Sound, Inc.

 

[Cirk]

Here are a few pics.

 

[agedhorse]

Have you considered leaving well enough alone, maybe test the caps that you think might need replacing?

 

[beans-on-toast]

Here are a few pics.

It looks to be in good shape. It’ll clean up well. Nice set of tubes as well.

 

[Vintage-Blue]

... Anybody have a scematic? ...

Check out the P502 schematic: Schematics

 

[JimmyM]

Have you considered leaving well enough alone, maybe test the caps that you think might need replacing?

Agreed. Making it 3 prong is a good mod. Changing caps that may or may not be shot...not so good. If it ain't broke, don't fix it.

 

[agedhorse]

Agreed. Making it 3 prong is a good mod. Changing caps that may or may not be shot...not so good. If it ain't broke, don't fix it.

Absolutely update the power cord.

 

[Cirk]

As the power cord is damaged, it is being replaced. I'd bet anybody a buck that the cord currently on there is from a vacuum cleaner. After that, we'll give it a try.
One nice thing, the tubes are oddball, but at least not crazy expensive.

 

[beans-on-toast]

As the power cord is damaged, it is being replaced. I'd bet anybody a buck that the cord currently on there is from a vacuum cleaner. After that, we'll give it a try.
One nice thing, the tubes are oddball, but at least not crazy expensive.

It probably was a vacuum cleaner cord. He used a sewing machine type motor to run the elevator mechanism that lifted the amp out of the cabinet in the Powerflex.

Invalid Link Removed is a good source for the oddball tubes. Be careful when cleaning the tubes, dab with a damp cloth. The lettering can come off easily. Look for oxidation behind the jacks. You need a clean, tight contact with the chassis to ensure a good ground.