It’s not new that vintage items last a lifetime. Unlike other technologies-computers, TV’s, phones, stereo systems-have not really changed much in the past decades. With proper care and experience, you can buy an amp that sounds 100 better than the newly updated ones. With proper care and maintenance, your vintage audio system can stay for another decade. Who knows, your grandkids may even get the same soothing feeling you got from listening to your vinyl records.

Here are some of the vintage audio components to look out for and tips on buying the best parts.

Amps and Receivers

This is the main part of your system. It is what you plug your turntables and CD players into. This component is what powers your speakers. I suggest you go retro-straight to the 1970s and 1980s. The amplifiers during this time were strong and durable. You should also look for good receivers that have an amp and a radio tuner built in.

A good vintage amp is heavy. Look out for its weight and knobs. Old brands like Kenwood, Pioneer, Naim, Sansui, and Audio Lab have good quality amps.

Remember to look out for the weight of the amplifier; make sure it is heavy.

Non-powered speakers.

You plug speaker cables in and it is usually powered by an external amp. Unlike powered speakers, these speakers are more durable and less expensive. You can get a pretty good deal for less than $100. Just like amps, these speakers should weigh in. So you should be on the lookout for wooden cabinets with non-powered speakers with weight. Popular vintage speaker brands to look out for include JBL, Harman Kardon, Boston, Bose, Klipsch, Bowers and Wilkins, and Boston Acoustics.

There is absolutely no reason why vintage speakers can’t compete with modern brands. They may not have the same waveguide as modern speakers, but there is a reason why brands like JBL and Klipsch are still in the hot market today.

Turntables

With the right care and maintenance, a vintage sound system can last for generations. Investing in a quality vintage turntable is a lot better than modern ones. When getting a turntable, you should look for renowned vintage brands like Sony, Pioneer, and Technics. You should often get the vintage turntable properly serviced, especially the middle bearing, which needs annual oiling.

Speaker cables

You don’t have to spend so much on speaker cables or accessories. You should also get a surge protector, to keep your system in shape. A power surge or spike can cause damage to your electronics, and a surge protector will come in handy.

Good thing is surge protectors are cheap.