For some time I have been keen to incorporate an audio server into my home hifi setup. Something that allows listening to hi-res audio files, without compromise and integrated with my separates.
I experimented with the Denon N9 lifestyle system, which was a start, but sub optimal speakers, buggy software and poorly designed hardware (overheating standby power circuit) meant I needed something more serious.
After some idle scanning local second hand platforms, I came across the Revox S119 Network Receiver.
You may recall Revox from older reel to reel systems: a real (no pun intended) niche audiophile area. Well, in 2015 they resurfaced and released a series of hifi equipment, including this streaming amp.
Like many systems, it has its own proprietary remote control (as well as a phone app, which is quite good and less buggy than the equivalent Denon app). When new, the remote was not bundled with the system and cost an additional Sfr350, quite expensive.
Thankfully my unit came with it, but was rather crusty, with years of finger juice to clean off. Also, like so many other devices, the soft touch finish was degrading into a sticky mess.
With no guides online on how to disassemble it and clean the unit, I thought I would make one. This guide would also be useful for anyone needing to change the battery. I hope it's useful for you.
Good news, it's quite simple to open, but requires a little bravery due to the strongly glued cover.
First, remove the small philips screw in the rear of the unit. Then separate the front cover with a spudger. I think this is plastic, not glass. It is quite strongly attached, and will bend while releasing: don't snap it!
Then, we get here, and need to release the main board.
To do this, slide a knife into the crack, not too deeply, and lever the cover off. This requires no force, if you feel resistance, stop and withdraw the blade a bit.
When released, you might be surprised that the power button is not attached to the rest. Don't worry, this is normal as you can see from the below image.
That's it, we're in!
For the nerds, here are some shots of the board, battery and chips. Is the Atmel a system on a chip? A mini computer in here, very nice!
Cleaning is a doddle, for the buttons, cover and case just use a toothbrush with a bit of dish soap and water. The screen had some dust and bits inside, which are easily brushed off, but use a soft brush as the screen is soft and will scratch easily.
The biggest improvement we can make to this remote is removing the sticky finish. Which is easily done with some alcohol, a cloth and a bit of patience.
The result is definitely better.
Then, all we need to do is reassemble the dried, clean components.
That's it done!
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