ARC Reference 10 melting polycarbonate cover


Any similar experience? The 6550c tubes are melting the poly cover in the first 7 hours of usage...
128x128leog2015


Yes, It is a poorly designed cover. There should have been a circular opening above the 6550 tube. ARC says that the poly cover sounds better than metal. I have a Ref 5se with both metal and poly covers. I can't hear any difference. ARC has had so many problems with the poly covers that you would think they would do something. The new Ref 6 also has a poly cover.

Complain to your dealer. ARC will send him a replacement metal cover. I would do it soon as I have heard that ARC may not get more metal covers when they run out.

I am a bit concerned about the heat build up inside the case when using either cover. I keep my Ref 5se in a rack and don't a cover. It has much better ventilation this way.
If the cover is warped, you haven't provided enough ventilation for the chassis! Those tubes require that air be able to circulate through the unit.
The top needs about 4 inches to breathe. This is a common complaint if it does not. The last I heard, you could buy a metal top plate, but ARC claims it has a slight negative impact on sound.
Thanks for your answers. I decided to remove the cover and see what happens. Maybe, will make a couple of holes over the 6550's.