2. amps-preamps
  3. 133235-79040

Audio Research Reference 5SE modifications/bypassing output caps

The output coupling caps in the ARC Reference 5 SE preamp are 10 microfarad caps which do not appear to have smaller bypass caps.  There has been some discussion of whether these caps are teflon or hybrid caps.  I do not have direct knowledge of the composition of these caps, but my experience with other tube amps/preamps has been that the sound of even high quality coupling caps can be improved with smaller bypass caps.  Has anyone bypassed these 10 microfarad output coupling caps with high quality caps such as VH Audio CuTF caps and if so was it worth the effort?
soundhound

Showing 1 response by monoogan

monoogan
55 posts
 
I know the older Ref and LS preamps that used the WonderCaps had multiple value bypass caps stacked on the output coupling cap.

My guess is that they judged whatever they are using now wouldn't benefit from it.
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