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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
dpop's avatar
dpop
292 posts
 

In my case I was replacing the power supply filter caps in a few pieces of equipment (my distribution amps). Since the fuses are internal in these DA's, I thought if I'm going to do it (it being the first time I would try some "audiophile" fuses), then this would be the best time. I tried some HiFi Tuning Silverstar's (I think they were like $15 a piece), and didn't hear *any* difference. I fell for it, but I won't be falling for it again (however, I still left them in the DA's). 

ghdprentice
6,486 posts
 

@dpop,

 

Thanks for sharing your experience. A good data point for sure. 

 

 

kennyc
1,218 posts
 

My guess based on successful reports is that one would have to spend significantly more like for SR or QSA fuses to hear notable differences.

@ghdprentice 

Last time I remembered getting shocked was when adjusting the timing points on my distributor- many moons ago.  I’m thankful for circuit breakers - much safer. 
Which got me thinking, of all the innovations in my lifetime, I’m really glad for word processors - made many typewriter typos so correction take/fluid slowed things to a  crawl.  I wonder if the best innovation for my mom was the washing machine- I spotted an old scrub board when I was young.

ghdprentice
6,486 posts
 

@kennyc 

 

Yes… I got zapped by my distributor cap and coil output more than once.
 

Actually, the one I remember the most was when I was when I was a projectionist in the 1960’s with a 1940’s carbon arc movie projector (two 1/4” thick carbon sticks that you had to bring together to start an electrical arc… then back off. Sustaining the brilliant arc of electricity (think lightning)…somehow I got shocked… it threw me across the room and against the wall… I just became aware of existence as if a dream.  Wow, that was a jolt! Never want that again! Like getting electrocuted I am sure. 

dpop's avatar
dpop
292 posts
 

My guess based on successful reports is that one would have to spend significantly more like for SR or QSA fuses to hear notable differences.

I'll pass on that. Here's a few quotes from past audiogon discussions:

It's unfortunate that Hifituning discontinued the Silver Star fuses.  It was the real champ in their line.  From speaking with others who have experience with the Supremes, they will leave you wanting compared to the discontinued silvers.  I was fortunate to scarf up some Silver Stars from Parts Connexion when they had a close-out sale on them.

Yes, the Silverstar are made from pure silver. They are very fast and bright fuses. So, if you feel they sound nice, they are definitely well broken in.

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