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Electrolytic capacitors

I have learned from this web-site that the life span of the electrolytic cap is within 5 to 10 years. I also heard some testimonials that some SS amps or receivers last over 10 or 20 years without a hick-cup. I am confused and scared since I am looking to buy some discontinued but brand new in factory sealed box amps and a processor ( around 4 to 5 years old). Being few years old and in storage but never been used at all, would the 5 to 10 years rule of thumb of the electrolytic cap still apply?
andrewdoan

Showing 3 responses by shadorne

shadorne's avatar
shadorne
7,491 posts
 
You need to reform the caps before powering up (to reduce the risk of them blowing up when powered up the first time)....after four years of storage this is a significant risk.

These kind of caps tend to dry out after many years - so yes, in theory the fact that they are four years old will reduce the life expectancy of the device - even if it is new in the box unused - the good news is the re-capping is EASY!!
shadorne's avatar
shadorne
7,491 posts
 
Get the seller to power it up for 24 hours. If they want to pay to have it done on a variac, great. If they want to gamble, that's on them too.

Great idea if you can get this done for you....but then it is no longer a factory sealed box - so the seller may not be willing to break the seals on the packaging.
shadorne's avatar
shadorne
7,491 posts
 
You are worrying way too much about this. Just enjoy the music.

This is the normal situation for audiophiles - we worry about everything even what bit of wire is used between items.
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