While it has a plain-Jane appearance and is perhaps lacking some convenience features like a bandwidth switch or muting, this tuner that came out in 1964–when tweaked like we know how–sounds surprisingly good. It’s slightly warm and provokes no listener fatigue. You can get caught up in the music for hours.

After restoring several FM-3 stereo tuners for ourselves and friends while learning and noting all the tips and tricks, we decided to offer the service to anyone.

There are thousands of units out there, and many would benefit from a basic tuneup, others a complete restoration. While this tuner was designed to be aligned without any special equipment (other than optionally a VTVM), there’s no rule against it. We use a Leader 3236 synthesized AM/FM stereo signal generator and a restored Eico 249 VTVM. The IF alignment is standard (not swept). For parts, we use top-quality audio-grade capacitors and resistors from Nichicon, Panasonic, Wima, TDK, and Vishay.

We offer several options. You can choose any you want or all of them. That said, Option A usually is the best place to start.

Option A $99

Inspection, current draw and voltage checks, tube testing and replacement (if required), complete alignment (IF, discriminator, front end, multiplex board), switch cleaning. Includes one-hour run-in. (We also do a check for bad resistors and replace any found.)

In many cases, unless yours has a bad hum, this option gets your FM-3 running well and sounding good. Tubes replaced, if required, at modest extra cost.

Option B $129

Replacement of electrolytic capacitors and two key film caps (C29, C31), resistor wattage upgrade (5). If your unit has a noticeable hum or you’re a critical listener, you’ll want this option.

Your original four-section electrolytic filter capacitor can is retained for cosmetics and the new capacitors attached at the chassis bottom. The five resistors are at the original values but replaced with higher wattage ratings, as the originals often get hot and scorch the circuit board.

Option C $59

Replacement of all eight stereo multiplex board capacitors with audio-grade polypropylene capacitors. This option results in lower noise in stereo and better stereo separation. C82 and C83 are increased a bit from 0.1uF to 0.47uF for better bass response and impedance matching to modern amplifiers. If you want the original values or an increase to 1 uF, we can do that, too. (We’re purists and don’t consider changing the values of C82 and C83 a modification as much as an adjustment.)

Option D $139

Replacement of PEC-1 and PEC-2 (Dynaco part 555001). This corrects a design error in the de-emphasis circuit that depresses the upper frequencies. With this option, you’ll get a more neutral tonal balance. Again, not a modification; more a correction. We didn’t invent it. It’s been around now for years. The main parts used are expensive, close-tolerance mica capacitors, and building the boards is time-intensive, so this option is somewhat costly.

How to Send Your Unit

The order form is under construction. We’ll post it soon, but until then you can send your unit with a brief note that includes your name, address, email, and specifies what option or options you want and any special instructions. Feel free to email at any time if you have questions.

Some Details to Keep in Mind

While we keep some spare Dynaco FM-3 parts around and can do basic troubleshooting, if your unit is a smoked basket case, we prefer not to work on it. This service is intended for tuners that will power up or were working in the past and put up in the closet or down in the basement. We do have spare knobs, faceplates, covers, tubes, and even some power transformers. If in doubt, please contact us before sending.

Unrestored FM-3s are available commonly in working condition with all the tubes for about $70-$100 on the web, far less at garage sales. Go for a factory-wired unit if possible, which has rivet fasteners on the back panel and normally a silver serial number sticker back there, too.

Packing

No need to remove tubes or tube shields. The best way to pack is to wrap the entire unit in bubble wrap or even a soft cloth and then place the wrapped tuner in a box, filling up any gaps with wadded newspaper or wrapping paper, and tape it shut. Some extra bubble wrap or padding on the front panel is a good idea. Then, place that box into a larger box (minimum 2″ larger on all sides) with wadded newsprint, bubble wrap or other padding all around for cushioning, and tape it shut. Everything should be snug, but not super-tight.

Payment
We accept Zelle (preferred) or PayPal, but we can accept personal checks.

Warranty
Our parts and labor are warranted for 30 days. If something comes up within 30 days, contact us with a description of the probem. If additional work is required, owner is responsible for return shipping. We’ll cover shipping back to you.

Turn-Around Time
We can usually complete your FM-3 in a few days. We keep a good supply of standard parts, but if out-of-stock parts are required, that adds about five days because of parts shipping time to us.