Aleph 3 safe to operate?
I've just found a Pass Aleph amplifier (6 of them actually) at an audio hoarder estate sale. It's a new in the box Aleph 3. Would it be safe to turn on without having to purchase a Variac first?
Also, I think I'd like to use it and another Aleph amp to power a pair of B&W 802 S2 with North Creek crossovers in a bi-wire configuration. If I use an Aleph 3 for the mids and highs what would the consensus be for the best amp to use for the bass drivers - I can choose from a pair of Aleph 0, an Aleph 0s, an Aleph 5 or another 3.
Also, I am currently using a Threshold Stasis 3 that was updated a number of years ago by Jon Soderberg and have been happily living with it and my North Creek Borealis' for a long time. Keep the Threshold or sub one of the aforementioned. I can't keep all of them per wife - DOH!
Thanks for your opinions
An Old Noob
I’m wondering how the capacitors age when they have been unused, new in the box, without having been fed electricity since leaving the factory. Is there an explanation I might read as a reference article or book? I have been enjoying an A5 for about three years, both as a musical piece and as a room heater in colder weather. |
This tech note from Würth Elektronik discusses oxide degradation in electrolytic caps over time. It is in no way exhaustive but a good starting point https://www.we-online.com/catalog/media/o467325v410%20SN019_EN_d.pdf Congratulations on your Aleph 5! Beautiful piece |
Caps need to have a little energy to keep them properly formed. I disconnected my Ayre MXR's when I was using my Atma's, when I plugged them back in, a cap blew. Thankfully, Ayre does a great job with repair. Also, charging a very reasonable price. Since then, they have been plugged in, on standby, until I use them. Bob |
