2. amps-preamps
  3. 1170369408

Has anyone upgraded their preamp with V-caps?

I am interested in hearing about anyone's experience with upgrading their preamps with V-caps (in the output circuit). They are very expensive, i.e. 600.00 for two 2.0uF. I have heard that they are amazing caps and make a huge audio improvement, particularly in the bass and midrange.
jppenn
unclejeff
1,313 posts
 
Sherod;

You are getting into the age-old debate of diminishing returns. The first upgrade has better returns than investment, the next might, or might not provide the linear equilivant return from investment.

Now, you are asking, "is twice the price, 'worth it?'"

Yes, and no. You won't get twice the benefits.

Will you pay twice for, maybe....50% improvement?
sherod
1,690 posts
 
I don't know Unclejeff. That is why I'm asking the question. You are answering my question with another question.
dgarretson
2,616 posts
 
Unclejeff,

I've been surprised that the more I upgrade my system, the more audible becomes even very small changes. Small incremental changes can make large perceived differences in a high calibre system. Perhaps the Law of Diminishing Returns needs adjustment.

Another approach is to ask the hard question, does an audio system make the music sound real? However good a system, the answer will always be no. When making an upgrade the question becomes, how much closer does this upgrade take the system toward realism? If the system is already at 9/10s, a movement of .5 (or 50% of the remaining gap) is significant. I see the problem more in terms of Zeno's Paradox than the Law of Diminishing returns. And I bet this psychological need for unobtainium is at the root of most high-end buying. The psyche registers percentage improvement as percentage of remaining gap to be closed.
atmasphere's avatar
atmasphere
12,131 posts
 
Sherod, IMO if you are going thru the trouble and expense of replacing the coupling caps, do yourself a favor and put the good stuff in. Its not that much more!
sherod
1,690 posts
 
I agree Atmasphere. I might as well go for the best. Why take 2nd best for such a critical coupling position, right?
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