Synergistic Red Fuse ...

7.30.16

I wrote: "The pre-amp was built the same way. Left preamp, left power supply, right preamp, right power supply."

This statement is incorrect. The preamp consisted of 2 parts. The preamp and  a single outboard power supply.

I decided to make this correction before someone called 911 to report that there is a crazy man running around naked in the Audiogon fuse thread.

Is everyone testing there fuses before installation? Is it necessary? I don't have a tester and want to upgrade. Any advice would be appreciated.

I have SS organ symphony on an RCA Papillon Cd that is surprisingly good and my current fav.   Ormandy and Philadelphia Symphony Orchestra.  I think it's a different version than the Biggs version but not sure.   I buy most anything done by E Power Biggs when I come across it.  Nothing like a good quality pipe organ recording to test ones system limits.   

SR fuses have a rare and somewhat adorable attribute of not being rated with the accuracy of some, shall we say, "less precious" fuses, and might require you to use ones rated slightly higher than what your gear lists as appropriate…simply buy several (remember: 30 day return policy!), and remain near your gear with a fire extinguisher for day or two just to be safe.

aniwolfe

The chance of getting a bad fuse is so unlikely that there is no need to be concerned about it. If the fuse is defective it it is likely open and unable to conduct. If this is the case no current will flow through it and you hear no sound at all. The chances of getting a shorted fuse that would endanger   your component component s about as great as being hit by lightning.

Of greater concern is the direction of the fuse. The fuse will work as intended only if it inserted in the correct direction. Unfortunately the correct direction is not specified by the manufacturer. To the best of my knowledge and belief, the manufacturer recommends inserting the fuse, turn the equipment on, and play. If the sound is obviously compromised, take out the fuse and insert it in the opposite direction.

Here is what I usually do. I look at the writing on the fuse where the value of the fuse is shown. ( eg.800 ma). Install the fuse in the direction that allows me to read the fuse value. Turn on the instrument and listen to music you are very familiar with. The music should sound at least as good as it did with the standard fuse. If this is the case, leave the instrument on overnight and play the same music again. Your ears will let you  know if the fuse is bad. If it is bad take it out  the fuse, reverse its direction, and reinstall.  

Good luck.