So, two nights ago, I moved the Yellow fuse from the line stage and put it into the phono stage. It seems to be a better match there in my system.
In playing my go-to demo LPs, I’m hearing more inner detail than before. I was concentrating on female vocals and noticed that the ending of words was a lot clearer, enhancing the organic sound of the human voice. The leading edge of guitars, the fading off of notes, and the three-dimensionality of the presentation were enhanced, along with a quieter background. So far, a winner.
The midrange still had that artifact that I didn’t like in the line stage, but not to such a degree. I think what this fuse is doing, is moving the midrange more to a solid-state-like presentation. Don’t get me wrong here, this fuse is really good, but my electronics are already fairly neutral, and I like a touch of tube warmth, so I think it is a matter of taste.
Comparing the QSA Yellow fuse with the SR Orange fuse is a tradeoff. For transparency, lower noise floor, and inner detail, I’d take the QSA Yellow. For midrange warmth and emotional impact, the SR Orange comes out ahead.
A few things to keep in mind here are, first, it is a matter of taste. Second, it is system-dependent. Third, I believe the QSA Yellow fuse still needs more break-in time. At this point, I think it is fair to say that neither fuse will disappoint.
Another QSA Yellow fuse will be arriving any day now. It will go into the amp. Stay tuned.
Frank
