Eldartford- Since you asked: I would have to define a quality component as one that doesn't impress it's own signature on the signal it's passing. Resistors are noise generators and bulk foils(like the Vishays) are some of the quietest. Before you scoff, read these:(http://www.ecircuitcenter.com/Circuits/Noise/Noise_Analysis/res_noise.htm)(http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Resistor). You'll note that the encyclopedia mentions how the TCR of the foil resistor is extremely low(the goal of any critical electronic circuit is low noise). I'm truly surprised that I even have to mention these facts, given your experience with military contracts. You should know how tightly the government controls the high quality of it's acquisitions via the mil-spec guidelines, Vishay being one of the approved component suppliers. The capacitors I mentioned in the other post were all designed to pass audio signals specifically, and likewise, are much more transparent than lesser quality caps. I wouldn't presume to tell someone that their preference in sounds is incorrect. What makes them happy in their listening environment is their business. I realize some can't hear the differences that quality components make in the audio chain. The mods(when needed) that I have affected in my own(and others') equipment has, with few exceptions, very obviouly yielded a more faithful reproduction of live musicians, playing real instruments, in the original acoustic(given a well engineered recording). This is the goal of high-end audio and most of it's designers/manufacturers. The musician friends that I like to invite over to audition and judge my system have always commented on the "you are there" presentation. That doesn't make my own listening more enjoyable than it already is, but the stroking still feels good!
