01
Amplifiers
Electrical restoration, servicing and testing of the original amplifier and associated electronics.
Restoration
Restoration Without Compromise.
Retraphonics specialises in the complete restoration of vintage radiograms, from the amplifier and original turntable through to the cabinetry itself. Every restoration is carried out in-house at our Gold Coast workshop, with a focus on preserving the original engineering, character and sound of each piece.
A vintage radiogram was designed as a complete audio system, with the amplifier, turntable, speakers and cabinetry engineered to work together.
Our approach is to preserve that original system wherever practical. Rather than gutting the cabinet and installing a generic modern record player, we restore the original equipment and retain serviceable original components wherever possible.
Manufacturers we regularly work with
KrieslerHMVAWAPhilipsPYEGrundigGeneral Electric
Retraphonics is an independent restorer and is not affiliated with or endorsed by these manufacturers.
What We Restore
Original equipment, restored in-house.
02
Turntables
Complete mechanical servicing and restoration of original turntables, including automatic mechanisms, drive systems and playback components.
03
Cabinetry
Cleaning, repair and refinishing of original timber cabinetry, individually approached according to its condition.
Every Radiogram Is Different
There is no standard restoration.
Every radiogram that enters our workshop is individually assessed before restoration begins. These pieces are often more than half a century old, and no two arrive with the same history, condition or faults.
Our work can extend far beyond a basic service. Depending on the individual piece, restoration may involve extensive electronic work to the amplifier and power supply, replacement of failed and deteriorated components, repair of wiring and connections, rebuilding and adjustment of the original turntable mechanism, motor and drive-system servicing, replacement of cartridges and styli where required, servicing of controls and switches, speaker and audio testing, and detailed cabinet repair and refinishing.
Wherever practical, we retain and restore the original equipment rather than replacing it with modern generic components. The objective is not simply to make a radiogram operate again, but to properly restore the complete system while preserving what made that particular piece special in the first place.
Before any restoration proceeds, each client receives an individual assessment outlining the condition of their radiogram, the work required and our recommended restoration approach.
The Restoration Process
How restoration works.
01
ENQUIRE
Send us photos and details of your radiogram.
02
ASSESS
We assess the unit and provide a detailed restoration recommendation.
03
RESTORE
Once approved, restoration is carried out in-house at our Gold Coast workshop.
04
COMPLETE
Your radiogram is thoroughly tested and prepared for collection or return delivery.
A Retraphonics Restoration
From forgotten to fully restored.
This Philips Bi-Ampli came to us requiring extensive work throughout. The amplifier, original turntable and cabinetry were carefully restored in-house, bringing the complete radiogram back to the condition it deserved.
Before
After
Original equipment retained. Electronics, turntable and cabinetry restored in-house by Retraphonics.
RESTORATION FAQ
A few things people often ask.
Customer Restorations
Your Radiogram.
Brought Back to Life.
Already own a vintage radiogram?
Tell us a little about your radiogram and send through some photographs. We’ll assess its condition and talk you through what may be required to restore it properly.