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Fuses

I’ve read of views on whether amp fuses impart any sound quality or coloring. I had a recent experience that has made me re-think my views (fuses do not affect sound) and wondered if others had a similar experience. 
I have a Line Magnetic integrated amp. After heavy regular use for over 5 years, one day it just wouldn’t power up. After checking the power supply, I assumed it must be a blown fuse. I recalled that Line Magnetic sent with the amp two replacement fuses of the same type/quality that was pre-installed. I dug out one of them from storage, replaced the fuse and the amp powered up normally. 

What surprised and delighted me was the change in sound with the replacement fuse. Fuller bass, more detail and more warmth. I have rolled the tubes several times in the amp, and am attuned to the subtle changes that can make. Popping in a fresh fuse seems to have had a similar affect. And these appear to be cheap fuses, available for a few dollars at most. I don’t think I understand any of this. 
bmcbrad
yuviarora's avatar
yuviarora
537 posts
 
The ones yelping the loudest are also the quickest to tattle to the moderators.
Delete whatever offends is their motto. . .
Even if they are the ones to start the "Argument"/name calling.

antigrunge2
1,398 posts
 
@juviarora,

’t wasn’t me; someone else must have taken offense. That said, your riposte to my gentle ribbing was kinda gross.
phillyb's avatar
phillyb
400 posts
 
Fuses can make a difference but no way are jaw-dropping. Ceramic fuses work better than glass, the direction of the fuse does matter, so before you go spend a lot on fuses take the time to flip your fuse and see if the sound improves. You may be very surprised at the improvement. 
rsf507
2,309 posts
 
Agree @phillyb fuses can make a difference but it's very small and not worth hundreds of $$$$ IMHO
avitacom
90 posts
 
Mijostyn is correct to the extent that no tests of these things, to my knowledge, are ever undertaken.  However, some people have fun, experience pleasure employing  expensive, unproven tweaks.  To each his own.  An anology:  despite an apparent lack of rigorous listening tests, we all know that there is a meaningful difference in SQ between tube and solid state amplification.  (I know the differences in harmonic distortion can be measured.)
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