Audio Research Reference 5SE modifications/bypassing output caps

Well, there’s "need" and there’s desire.

I don’t know of ANY audio film caps that need to be bypassed at all.

Anything you do from this point is really "desire" to change things. There is no absolute, objective best we can point to. If you like the sound of say a Clarity with a splash of Mundorf, then that’s what you like.

I personally don't like the Mundorf house sound (speaking only of the caps) at all, so you won't catch me attempting a mix. That doesn't mean you could not though.

Best,

E

@monoogan Reminds me, a lot of the latest generation caps like Mundorf Supreme use exotic windings to achieve much of the benefit of bypassing.

That's why they are so physically large for the uF.

I meant to say "output caps are kind of unique..."

I find bypass caps work better (if at all) only with larger caps (>= 5uF).

That's a rough guideline. Bypass caps are kind of unique in that you can increase the total cap value all you want to without affecting the "response" very much, and indeed, in some preamps with smaller bypass caps (2-4uF) adding significant capacitance may indeed be a good thing.

I do worry sometimes if there is a difference, whether it is an important one or not, or a good one or not. Too many audiophiles get seduced by "different."

So I have not bypassed those in particular, but I have bypassed other 10uF caps with a "budget" copper film cap to good effect. Why don't you try them? I use the Audyn TruCopper 0.1uF caps. If they do nothing for you, then I suggest no other cap will either.

Best,

E