Frequently Asked Questions

We do get a number of questions about what Relic-Tronics is all about and what goes on here. So here we go....

Q: What is it like to deal with Relic-Tronics?
A: Well, no one has actually asked me this question but I'll tell you anyway. In my real job, part of what I do is running a calibration and repair department in a small instrument company. It is very similar to what I do at Relic-Tronics - just working on different equipment. In both positions the key to meeting expectations is good communications. Troubleshooting is like detective work, so the more information that I have, the more efficient I can be in solving problems. Once a problem is found there may be various possible solutions. On your end, I'm sure you want to have a part in the decision making process especially since you are paying for the work. I encourage participation so there are no surprises when the job is completed.

Q: What don't you do?
A: I keep getting phone calls from people that think we do electrical contracting, wiring and all that. I know how to do this kind of work but I don't do it as a business. I think it all came about because there is no category (on any survey I've ever filled out) for companies that restore old electronics. It's a niche, OK? And no, I don't have any "men" so I have no need for a gross of First Aid kits.

Q: Do you fix TVs?
A: Generally no. But if it is an old tube TV then maybe. I do have an old '50s RCA round tube set in my living room that works... but they are really too big for my available working space. Take it to a TV repair shop if you can find one anymore these days or put it out by the side of the road and buy a new one.

Q: If you can't fix it, do I have to pay?
A: Sometimes. It depends on the situation. In the case of multiple problems, we usually have to fix one problem before we discover the next one. Parts expenses and time go into this process. If that next problem happens to be one that we can't fix, say due to parts availability - a part no longer made, for instance - we have to get something out of it to at least cover what we have into it. This has occurred only very rarely but I generally will just charge you the evaluation fee.

Q: I want it yesterday. Can you do it?
A: We do the best we can. I get this all the time in my real job and I say the same thing. Most of the time everything works out OK. Time pressure is usually caused by poor planning or not adhering to the Boy Scout motto. Yeah, I know it's a little harsh.

Q: Can you give my guitar amp a particular sound?
A: There are shops that specialize in custom amp work and finding the ultimate fat tone. I am more into the repairing or restoring it to stock condition. If you already have in mind certain mods that you want done then yes, I can do that.

Q: What's with the trademark symbol?
A: Relic-Tronics^® is a registered trademark. This is signified by the ® symbol after the name, which by law is only permitted if the trademark is legally registered with the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).

I came up with the name Relic-Tronics and spent a lot of time and money to register it with the USPTO. That means I now have exclusive ownership of it. The trademark also extends to similar sounding names if they create a source of confusion. As the owner of the trademark I am obliged to defend it vigorously against trademark infringement.