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Getting on board the fuse train

I've read so many posts here and elsewhere over the years regarding the improvement mains fuses can make to the sound of a system. I was skeptical, even though I learned early that every component matters, right down to resistors and other passive devices, power cords, etc.

With my most recent Mouser order I decided to throw in some Schurter ceramic fuses for my monoblock amps. Total investment was $1.30, and I figured it was worth that piddling amount just to satisfy my curiosity.

While in the throes of building a couple amps for a friend, I almost forgot about the little bubble wrap package until last night. I popped a new ceramic fuse into each amp, same value as the glass cartridges they replaced, and put on some music while I ate dinner. Only later did I plop down in front of the speakers and have a careful listen.

I was taken completely by surprise that the little buggers did offer an improvement in clarity. Hardly transformative, but definitely a step up on the realism ladder, with better defined leading edges of all notes, from bass up through mids and highs, without any additional brightness. In fact, I thought the top end was just a bit smoother while also more open. Tonal definition was also improved, everything from lyrics that were easier to understand to sweeter violins and guitars. Images seemed a bit more 3D and better defined, with more depth to the soundstage. All in all, a definite positive return on the two bucks and two minutes I spent.

I thought that a single inch of wire that transmits nothing more than one leg of the mains voltage could possibly make a difference, but now I have heard that it does, indeed. I'm not ready yet to splurge on $20 or more audiophile fuses, but the door is ajar.

I did not experiment with directionality, as I have never been able to consistently hear that quality in any component or wire. I believe that directionality is not ingrained in any device, but is imprinted on the device after passing signal for an indefinite period. Reversing any part after such an interval merely sets the device back to its initial state until the process repeats in the new direction. However, with so much anecdotal evidence about the benefits of "finding the right direction," I might even venture an experiment there. After all, it's the dead of winter here and there isn't much else to do. Oh yeah, back to building amps. With ceramic fuses installed, of course!

Peace,
Tom E
berate is 8 and benign is 9


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Topic - Getting on board the fuse train - madisonears 17:26:19 02/1/18 (18)

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