Audio Research Reference 5SE modifications/bypassing output caps

I find bypass caps work better (if at all) only with larger caps (>= 5uF).

That's a rough guideline. Bypass caps are kind of unique in that you can increase the total cap value all you want to without affecting the "response" very much, and indeed, in some preamps with smaller bypass caps (2-4uF) adding significant capacitance may indeed be a good thing.

I do worry sometimes if there is a difference, whether it is an important one or not, or a good one or not. Too many audiophiles get seduced by "different."

So I have not bypassed those in particular, but I have bypassed other 10uF caps with a "budget" copper film cap to good effect. Why don't you try them? I use the Audyn TruCopper 0.1uF caps. If they do nothing for you, then I suggest no other cap will either.

Best,

E

I know the older Ref and LS preamps that used the WonderCaps had multiple value bypass caps stacked on the output coupling cap.

My guess is that they judged whatever they are using now wouldn't benefit from it.

I meant to say "output caps are kind of unique..."

@monoogan Reminds me, a lot of the latest generation caps like Mundorf Supreme use exotic windings to achieve much of the benefit of bypassing.

That's why they are so physically large for the uF.

Thanks to all for your comments.  I agree that only larger coupling caps may benefit from a bypass cap and that some of the newer caps are designed to minimize the need for bypass caps. As I stated, I do not know whether the large output coupling caps in the Ref 5 SE are designed to obviate the need for smaller bypass caps.  I do know that ARC as a matter of general practice  will not usually endorse modifications to their gear.  I started this thread in hopes that someone has experience with bypassing the output coupling caps on the Ref 5 SE and could comment on their value.  I suspect that if I want to find out if bypass caps on these output caps benefits the sound of the Ref 5 SE, then I shall need to do the experiment.