Sony STR6060FW
$600
Examples of interior restoration results (click on photos to expand)
Exterior photos
Restoration notes
Beyond the list of standard restoration steps detailed on the main page, here are some added notes for this unit :
I purchased this receiver on ebay with good functionality reported. Exterior condition was very good except for a missing toggle switch knob (which I replaced).
Background :
The STR6060 series (including the F and FW) were sold from 1967 through 1971. They were Sony’s top-of-the-line receiver until 1969 when the STR6120 came out. (note to self to restore one of those someday)
Sony’s early solid state products in this timeframe are extremely well built and this unit is a great example. The STR6060FW is on many “best vintage receivers” lists with a smooth sounding cap-coupled amplifier and an exceptionally fine FM tuner (among the best I have ever heard).
The flip-down front panel provides a clean appearance when “up” and shows of nice control/switches when “down”.
Restoration Notes :
Initial visual inspection showed minor cosmetic issues with small dings on the faceplate, volume knob and metal cabinet (see last photo above). “Volume | Balance” also is slightly rubbed off on the faceplate (see photos). Not pristine, but overall decent exterior condition after 55 years, IMHO.
Power up and initial functional testing confirmed seller description (everything working, all lamps dead). All new lamps were installed. The tuner string was stretched/loose, so I restrung it using high test Muskie fishing line which I found works well.
The tuning meter was struggling a bit due to the background piece coming loose inside the assembly (dried out glue failed). I reglued that and the needle now swings freely.
The recap was uneventful with most boards being easily accessed. Unlike some early solid state tuners, the STR6060FW has a really stable and easy to align design. I will say again that I think this is a fantastic performing tuner. The sensitivity is very good and the sound quality is exceptional.
Bench measurements
Pre-1975 amplifier specs are fun to read as vendors find creative ways to quote impressive figures under very narrow test conditions. I don’t fault Sony here as everyone was doing this until the Feds set standards in 1975. In this case, Sony states 45 watts per channel (driving 8 ohms, 0.2% THD) but that is only with 1 channel driving at a time. Still, that THD level is impressive for 1971.
My results :
32 watts per channel (both channels driving 8 ohms) at 0.5% distortion max (limit I can confidently test down to using my equipment).
That is ~10x the power most users will use at normal listening levels.