Fix or part out SDA CRS

TNmtnBoy

I have recently procured a pair of SDA CRS speakers. The main drivers in each (mw6503) have been replaced at some point with some awesome theater research speakers (white van speakers). I didn't get an interconnect wire, and got the distinct feeling they hadn't been used with it for a long time. Add to it the heavy cigarette smoke aroma and I am wondering if this is a project worth taking on? I can replace the missing drivers and refinish the cabinets, but are they worth it? Can I test the functionality of the other components without dropping $150 in the driver's? Can I fabricate an interconnect wire? I love the idea of these and their unique characteristics that I have been told about. I am a noob to this forum and vintage audio equipment, but good with my hands and electronics. Any advice would be most appreciated. Cheers!

pkquat

You can test the functionality of the other components, and you can fabricate an inexpensive interconnect wire to quickly get a feel for things.

First it will help to know if you have a blade / blade interconnect, or a pin blade interconnect. Pictures are helpful.

I am not an expert on the CRS model, but many here are and can help further once the interconnect is known. Pictures of the cabinets will also yield opinions.

If you keep them, you may want to rebuild the crossovers at some point, and replacing the tweeters (factory direct from polk for $50 each) will provide a much sweeter sound.

TNmtnBoy

Here are a couple of pictures. The drivers have been removed. The cabinets seem sound and refinishable. The grills are in good shape. Everything is a bit stinky. The SDA jack seems to be a blade - blade? Would love some more advice on these. Found replacement MW6503's for or about $60 a piece. Is there anywhere cheaper? Thanks in advance!

westmassguy

You can order replacement 6503s directly from Polk Customer Service. Be sure to tell them you're a Club Polk Member, and they're $48.00 plus tax, with free ground shipping. You can also find salvaged 6503s on eBay.

codycatalist

What everyone is trying to say is yes it is worth it. SDA CRS go for a decent penny and your issues seem mechanical as oppose to cosmetic, mechanical usually being the easier to fix. I would say go for it and fix em up.

tat

yes it is worth it to repair them imo. But you might find a pair from a better year that dont need immediate work for similar $ as repairs. I just bought a pair of the same model as yours. I dont think they sound quite as good as the later model with only 1 tweeter. The later tweeter is preferable to ours, but the new replacements are better than both.