Polk PSW110 plate amp replacement and upgrade
Designer:
Blackhawk111
Project Category:
Subwoofers
Project Level:
Beginner
Project Time:
1-8 Hours
Project Cost:
$100 – $500
Project Description:
Replacing the amplifier in a Polk PSW110. This will be the 2nd time this amp board has failed, the original and replacement. Seems they only last 18 months. In my case, one of the caps is swollen and the unit just hums. This is a nice size subwoofer, good quality cabinet, good speaker and unfortunately poor quality electronics. I reviewed direct replacement options but the current prices are too high and availability short. I decided to find a replacement and knew Dayton had options. I chose to upgrade in power and capability. To ease in mounting, I also ordered the mounting frame..
Design Goals:
Repair and improvement in performance of a Polk Subwoofer.
Tips & Tricks:
The mounting frame solves several issues with the original opening size. I chose to use some thin MDF to make a cover for the original opening and just cut a simple slot for the speaker leads. I had the leads come out of the top to avoid proximity to the power supply portion of the new amp. I used flat head wood screws and sunk them deep into the MDF to keep the new mounting area relatively flat. `
Conclusion:
This was a great option for a replacement and upgraded amplifier for this subwoofer. I did use some power tools but this could easily be done with limited tools. The results look great and the sounds is excellent. I wish I had done this on the first time replacing the amp.
Total time spent was about 2 hours.
About the Designer:
I’m a DYI person. I have an electronics background and like to do woodwork.
Project Parts List:
|
Part # |
Description |
Qty |
|
300-8011 |
Dayton Audio SPA-F Subwoofer Plate Amplifier Mounting Frame for SPA250DSP and SPA500DSP |
1 |
|
300-8010 |
Dayton Audio SPA250DSP 250W Subwoofer Plate Amplifier with DSP |
1 |
Hey there Blackhawk111. This is exactly the same problem I faced with my PolkAudio PSW 110. I needed to replace or upgrade the plate amp and I liked the Dayton Audio SPA250DSP. Thx for the detailed explanation of how to do it. My only question would be if you kept the original driver? I talked to one of the tech guys at PE and he recommended upgrading the driver also to a Dayton Audio DCS255-4 10″ for better performance… In any case, thx for your input. I will follow your recommendations.
The problem with the original amplifier is the fact that even when it is on standby the power is running continuously. It would therefore be advisable to connect it to a socket with a switch and turn it off when not in use. At the same time all the low impedance electrolytics in the power supply section should be replaced with a long life of good manufacture, especially those on the secondary of the transformer, after the rectifier diodes, finally, it would be wise to add an aluminum L to its miserable dissipator. , an additional heatsink with fins. On the other hand, if you are not able to reparation and you decide to change the ampli, send it to me 😉 , because mine ampli has more serious problems than only the electrolytics and frankly a new good amplifier costs too much for me 🙂
I might try this! I’ve had my PSW110 since 2009 and it just failed in October 2024. I don’t use it very often and usually it was unplugged. That is probably why the amp lasted this long. I have to ask how did you remove the stock amp in the first place? I’ve removed all of the screws but it doesn’t seem to want to come out. I don’t want to damage the enclosure since I want to try to add the newer amp.
I’m going to try to use thin plastic putty knives to see if I can get it loose.