just the same i'm having Vintage Loop do a refurb ... anyone have experience with Bob up there???
Assuming you mean Robert Payne, yes, great guy. Several years ago, I purchased a nice little matched set; an Altec 1566a mic preamp and a 436b compressor. Both were in very nice shape, but filled with 40 year old components. I found Vintage Loop online and sent him both pieces. He went through both units, brought them up to spec, wired up some pigtails, etc. What I receieved back could have passed for "reissues" as they both looked like they had just come off the assembly line.
The 1566a has been in regular use ever since with no problems at all; but be prepared for a butt-load of gain! The 436b went through a period where it was touchy about loading, but for the past two years it has been happy no matter what I connect it to. (explain that, please?!?
I almost sold the pair earlier this year as they are not the lightest gear for location use, and a pretty pair like this can now draw silly money on Ebay. But I made the mistake of plugging a Coles 4038 into these two units and the result was staggering; that combo can make Minnie Mouse sound like Barry White. It's my secret weapon for any future vocal sessions.