Accuphase E-260 Voltage Conversion (100V to 230V)

Hi @imhififan

Sorry for bugging you again.

Since my E-270, which I converted to run on 120v, won’t receive any service support in the US, I’ve been careful to ensure it lasts as long as possible. To achieve this, I always unplug the power cord when it’s not in use. My reasoning is to prevent the primary windings of the internal power supply from being constantly energized with 120v, which could potentially shorten its lifespan by continually converting it to 50v.

Am I correct in thinking this way? If the power switch is responsible for supplying 50v to the internal components, then unplugging the power cord would indeed help preserve the transformer’s lifespan.

On the other hand, if the power switch is responsible for passing 120v directly to the primary windings, and considering there’s a fuse next to the power switch, logic suggests that leaving the power cord unplugged in when not in use might not be necessary.

Thank you

@jgore 

The power switch is responsible for switching the mains voltage, unplugging the power cord when not in use will not help.

If you want to avoid wear and tear on your power switch and minimize stress on  power supply components during the turn-on process, my suggestion is to install an outlet with a built-in switch and a simple resistor soft-start circuit.

https://sound-au.com/articles/soft-start.htm

Hi @imhififan 

Thank you again for your knowledge.

That soft-start thing seems too involved and I'm afraid to venture into it. Is it a DIY or a pre-made kit?

Thank you.