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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
oldhvymec
5,101 posts
 
You took a worn out fuse and replaced it with a new one. The end caps were 5 years old and been turned off and on how many times?

You could have done one better by cleaning the fuse pocket and treating it with contact enhancer then wrap the fuse with a piece of tape or a dab of silicone on the barrel. 

Yes one way will sound different depending on the gear. Some can't hear a difference, some can and some can't make up their mind..:-)

Regards
millercarbon's avatar
millercarbon
12,531 posts
 
Remember, that first fuse did blow. Very likely thermal stress over time had worn the filament, but gradually so you didn’t notice.

In any case it is easy to understand. A great deal of very critical power goes through the thinnest wire in the whole system. A wire deliberately intended to be just barely thick enough to not melt every time you turn it on. Not exactly ideal design parameters for sound quality. No wonder when the design goals shift to improved power transmission aftermarket fuses prove they are worth every penny. In other words, you ain’t heard nothin’ yet.
yuviarora's avatar
yuviarora
537 posts
 
Yes fuses affect sound. Very much at times.
welcome to the dark side, enjoy your stay.
Fuses filled with wax, or mineral oil/silica composites sound the best. Lowest distortion by far.
It has something to do with heat dissipation of the medium that touches the filament. 
rsf507
2,440 posts
 
Very little in my experience. 
lowrider57's avatar
lowrider57
5,418 posts
 
You also cleaned the contacts by removing and then installing a fuse.


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