2. amps-preamps
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Amp heat sinks are ringing

I have been working to reduce the slap echo in my room by using quick hand claps, and various foam panels to attenuate the noise. I have discovered that my Classe CAM 200 monoblock heat sinks are actually ringing- they can be excited by handclaps, and heard across the room. There are 10 heat sinks per amp, about 2" deep by 8" high. Running my fingers along the heatsinks makes them ring like a bell!

I am concerned that this ringing might be excited when I am listening to the system, and may add extra treble noise.

Does anyone have any suggestions for damping out the noise? I am concerned about using a material that can withstand the heat, and not impede the airflow?

thanks for your help!
gnobber

Showing 2 responses by labtec

labtec
189 posts
 
Perhaps someone suggested this and I just missed it.

The easiest thing to try first is just apply one continuous strand of electrical tape across edges of the fins connect them via the tape, which changes their ability to vibrate. You may have to run more than one layer, but if your fins are black and you use black tape, the fix is almost invisible to the eye (and cheap too).

I thought this was a fairly common tweak, but maybe not.
labtec
189 posts
 
FYI, most general use electrical tape is UL Listed and certified to 176 degrees. I SERIOUSLY doubt the claims by those who say it will melt and "make a mess" by being attached to the edge of an amplifier heatsink fin.

Anyway, it worked first-hand for me and several others in my neck of the woods. It's not clear whether those who claimed otherwise have actually tried it or not, so perhaps there have been actual bad experiences. I just don't see how it is possible.
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