Aging of capacitors within crossover networks


Hi folks, I have red that capacitors within loudspeaker's crossover networks show aging with regard to their characteristics (inductance, capacitance, reactance etc.) which has consequences for the crossover itself and finally also for the loudspeaker's sound. Are you familiar with this phenomenon? Does this mean that loudspeakers which are 10 years or older must undergo filter modification (replacement of parts)? What is your opinion?
dazzdax

Showing 1 response by dazzdax

What do you think of this statement by Rod Elliott of Elliott Sound Products:

"Non-polarised electrolytics are a different matter, especially when used in crossover networks. These have a tendency to lose capacitance as they age, shifting the crossover frequency with disasterous results (sonically speaking). Because the loss is gradual, you may possibly not even hear it until the tweeter has almost stopped working, as you get used to the sound over a period of time. Unless all bi-polars age at the same rate (unlikely), you will start to notice a difference between the two speakers. This is your cue to head off to the electronics shop and buy some replacements (non electrolytic, preferably)."

Because of this I started the thread.