Restoration Details

This unit was meticulously restored by Marblehead Audio in May 2023. All electrolytic and tantalum capacitors have been replaced. We used either Wima Film (for 4.7uf or smaller) or Nichicon & Panasonic electrolytic capacitors for anything larger. We exclusively use low ESR, high-quality capacitors. In this restoration, we utilized over 60 Wima film capacitors, replacing the electrolytic capacitors. Film capacitors surpass electrolytic capacitors in terms of sonic characteristics and reliability.

This unit, a 1990s flagship from Onkyo, was already impressive when it arrived at our shop, but now its performance is even more remarkable!

The TX-108 boasts exceptional construction quality. Onkyo certainly didn’t compromise when creating this unit.

All switches, sliders, and potentiometers have been thoroughly cleaned using Caig Faderlube.

All contact points (fuses, interconnect inputs, etc) were treated with Caig ProGold

We’ve made critical internal audio adjustments following the service manual recommendations.

Furthermore, the TX-108 has been detailedly cleaned both inside and out.

We’ve bench tested this unit and have enjoyed its sound quality since the restoration work was completed.

Issues

This particular TX-108 came to us with a couple issues beyond restoration. The biggest being a “dent” in the rear. Fortunately, it is all in the rear and on the side that houses the auxiliary power inputs. The damage is purely cosmetic and 100% not visible from the front or side. The auxiliary power connections do still work

The Simulated Stereo button will only depress with help. It works fine but when it is either engaged or disengaged it requires something to grab a hold of it to pull it out. Again, this is a flaw that is somewhat fortunate as that feature is a bit gimmicky and only “improves” the sound of something recorded in mono. All other buttons, switches and controls work flawlessly.

The overall cosmetics are really nice, but there are some scratches at the top of the faceplate and the glossy finish on one side panel is mildly faded. Neither are overtly visible.

Features

The Integra Series brings together all of ONKYO’S innovative technology and experience to deliver audio excellence, the Integra Series TX-1 08/88 Tuner Amplifiers combine the best features of stand-alone tuners and amplifiers to produce the ultimate in livelike sound reproduction.

The TX-108 features:
• Microcomputer controlled functions
* A logic circuitry controls the APR (Automatic Precision Reception) system, to obtain the best possible sound quality from FM broadcasts. ONKYO’s exclusive APR system automatically selects the optimum combination of RF sensitivity, Hi-blend, mode and noise reduction for superb reception.
* The same processor also controls the random access, random program 16 station memory, and the tuning and input selectors, for true ease of use.
• Control center of your audio visual system
The Real Phase Amp offers a complete range of user-selectable functions to make the TX-1 08/88 the central controlling unit of a complete home entertainment system.
* Sound Processor:
Simulated Stereo Imager (SSI), to broaden the stereo effect and sense of space. Dynamic Bass Expander (DBE), to dynamically boost the bass according to the input signal level.Dynamic Transient Expander (DTE), to enhance the gain for more dramatic sound (TX-108).
* Multiple Inputs:
Seven input terminals for full source versatility, including direct connection for CD player, two video cassette recorders or video disk player to VCR (direct A/V dubbing capability), two tape recorders, tuner and turntable.
* Remote Control:
The remote control allows precise adjustment of the volume level from the listening position. An LED in the control knob gives a visual indication of the volume setting, even from the other side of the room. The remote control is capable of selecting any connected equipment, including all inputs, all pre-set stations, CD player controls, tape controls, and muting and power switches. The ultimate in user-convenience.
• High Power Output with Real Phase
The TX-108 and TX-88 deliver plenty of clean power even into low impedance loads, and have lots to spare for effortless handling of instantaneous signa! peaks, making the amplifier sections truly the equal of even much more expensive integrated amps. Both also Feature Onkyo’s exclusive Real Phase for clear, accurate stereo imaging and extra definition. A special “In-Phase” transformer (in addition to the power transformer) “flattens out” the charging currents in the power supply. Since the currents are no longer modulated by very low frequency input out-of-phase signals that could muddy the sound. As an added convenience, the back panel is equipped with heavy-duty speaker terminals, specially designed to accomodate both single and parallel banana plugs (TX-108).

Specifications

Tuning range: FM, MW

Power output: 100 watts per channel into 8Ω (stereo)

Frequency response: 20Hz to 30kHz

Total harmonic distortion: 0.02%

Damping factor: 50

Input sensitivity: 0.35mV (MC), 2.5mV (MM), 150mV (line)

Signal to noise ratio: 67dB (MC), 76dB (MM), 80dB (line)

Output: 150mV (line)

Video Connections: composite

Remote Control not included

Dimensions: 480 x 147 x 460mm

Weight: 15kg

Receiver

Onkyo TX-108 Integra Tuner Amplifier Receiver – Upgraded, Restored