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Rookie; replace my own amplifier caps??

Hi. I am mechanically oriented generally, and I have a knack for fixing things. I am decent with a soldering iron, and I understand the concept of "wicking" away old solder to replace a part. I love DIY projects. I have no, I say again no, training in electronics whatsoever, however. I am told that my 2001 Odyssey Audio Stratus Plus (120,000 uF capacitance) solid-state amp (I love it) likely needs cap replacements. I understand that "preventative" cap replacement is a hotly debated topic within itself; assume for my question the amp needs cap replacement. Is it likely that I could order a bucketload of Blackgate (or higher quality) caps of the correct values from PartsXpress and succesfully complete this project on my own? (Yes, I would unplug the amp) Thanks!
klipschking
jeffreybehr's avatar
jeffreybehr
805 posts
 
1. After only 10 years, main-powersupply caps do NOT need to be replaced. Maybe after 30 years, but not after 10.
2. I've never seen a debate about preventative replacement of main-PS caps, 'hot' or not.
3. There ain't nothin' higher quality than BlackGate 'lytics, but they were discontinued a year or 2 ago, and large values are really tough to find and expensive.

Unless the caps in your amp are leaking or bulging, and if your amp(s) works properly, do NOTHING to the PS caps.
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bifwynne
2,206 posts
 
Klipschking, there is a thread about this issue already running. One of the guys -- was it you?? -- provided a link to a site that described in detail what was involved with "reconditioning" a NAIM amp. This included changing out caps. Notably, comments were posted that stressed the point that if you suspect the caps need replacement, other components may also need replacement as well in oreder to bring an amp back to spec.

I hold where Jeffrey is. But the only other point I add is that why not call the factory and ask their advice. OTOH, as I said in the other thread, maybe after 10 years the amp should be looked over by the factory to ensure everything is up to spec anyway. Just a thought.

Good luck and enjoy. If you decide to be the Maytag repairman, be careful not to get hurt. Electronic gear may store some high voltage charges. Personally, I wouldn't mess with it, but that's me.
bifwynne
2,206 posts
 
Hey Klipschking, you were the guy who started the other thread I mentioned. I suppose this thread is asking a different question as to whether you should be the Maytag repairman, but you ultimately have to answer the threshold question: do the caps NEED to be replaced?? Perhaps you already have answered the question in the affirmative.
jallen
502 posts
 
Jeffrey is spot on. Get the whe amp assessed if there is a need. If no problems, leave it alone unless you want the upgrade.
timrhu
2,779 posts
 
If you want a DIY project then change the large electrolytic caps in the power supply. While it isn't technically challenging, it won't be cheap.
If I were you I would contact Klaus for advice. Maybe he'll make you a deal on the replacement caps.
FWIW, I would think the caps are still fine.
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