"Scott Dorsey" wrote in message
...
K3HVG wrote:

Hmmmm. Crystal elements are, as pointed out, subject to failure
arguably far more frequently than dynamic and other types. I continue to
have good success with crystal D-104's, albeit I do take care of them.
Suitable replacement elements are still available at reasonable cost and
D-104's can sound very good on vintage AM gear.

Where are they available? The last I heard, CAD/Astatic was replacing
the crystal elements with dynamic ones if they came in for repair,
claiming
they couldn't make the original crystal any more.

The crystal itself is sealed with a flexible goo... as long as that stays
sealed, it's fine, but as soon as it develops a small crack, atmospheric
moisture gets in.
--scott

Scott -

Mouser carries the Kobitone (Far East) crystal element (see their on-line
catalog)
They are a bit smaller than the original Astatic -- BUT work fine

gb