I'm working on a Pioneer VSX-454 that has a shorted 2SA1302/2SC3281
output pair. I've been reading that there is a big problem with
counterfeits of these transistors. Does anyone who does a lot of
audio repairs have either 1: a reliable source for these transistors,
or 2: good substitute part numbers?

Pioneer has them, but they want $18 for the 2SA and $16 for the 2SC.
This would make the repair too expensive, since these (and the bias
transistor) blew while bench testing after fixing the original fault.

Mike
WB2ME