What is the science behind audiophile fuses?


There were many threads on the topic of "audiophile fuses" on this forum, and I sure don't want to open old wounds and trench warfare. The fuse on my preamp blew suddenly two days ago, which prompted me to search for a replacement. That's when I came across the term "audiophile fuse" and the fact that they demand far-out prices. Deeper curiosity brought me to several other fora, where users posted glowing praises about their Zero fuses and other exotica. Now I am a scientist, but not a physicist or electrical engineer: so please enlighten me! How can a fuse have an audible influence on the signal, when the signal does not even pass through it? How can a fuse be "directional" when it deals with alternate current? I mean, if I recall my university physics, a fuse is basically a safety valve and nothing more. Am I completely missing an important point here? My scientific field is drug discovery, and because of this background I am thoroughly familiar with the power and reality of the placebo effect. I that's what I am seeing here, or is it real physics? I need objective facts and not opinions, please. I really appreciate your help!

 
128x128reimarc
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That's a fair question that I can't answer from experience. I would have been very interested in an actual informed answer if anyone can offer one.  May just have to do some searching and reading if I truly want to know.  

In the history of all fuse threads, and correct me if I am wrong, there has never been a straight answer regarding how the special audiophile fuses work from a manufacturer (spell check roxy54) or retailer.

Among those answers by users, as interpreted by myself:

A billion volts are shot through the fuse wire before assembly.

A thicker fuse wire is used.

A much higher quality (better conductivity) fuse wire is used.

Somehow graphene enters the picture.

A liquid or other dampener is used in the fuse to prevent fuse wire from vibrating.

More conductive fuse end caps.

Can’t remember any others.

 

It is not disputed that they certainly have gained favor by users.

 

Op congrats in that it sounds like you got a good handle on the topic.  Having seen it all here, why  one would come to this site  for science on the topic beyond what is readily available elsewhere is beyond me however.  
 

Nothing more to see here.  May the force be with you!

Where’s millercarbon when you need him? I can already picture him riding in on Shadowfax to defeat the dark enemies and doubters of the audiophile fuse.

the lord of the rings gifs — arwwenn: “Run, Shadowfax. Show ...