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Fuses

I’ve read of views on whether amp fuses impart any sound quality or coloring. I had a recent experience that has made me re-think my views (fuses do not affect sound) and wondered if others had a similar experience. 
I have a Line Magnetic integrated amp. After heavy regular use for over 5 years, one day it just wouldn’t power up. After checking the power supply, I assumed it must be a blown fuse. I recalled that Line Magnetic sent with the amp two replacement fuses of the same type/quality that was pre-installed. I dug out one of them from storage, replaced the fuse and the amp powered up normally. 

What surprised and delighted me was the change in sound with the replacement fuse. Fuller bass, more detail and more warmth. I have rolled the tubes several times in the amp, and am attuned to the subtle changes that can make. Popping in a fresh fuse seems to have had a similar affect. And these appear to be cheap fuses, available for a few dollars at most. I don’t think I understand any of this. 
bmcbrad

Showing 5 responses by nonoise

nonoise's avatar
nonoise
10,581 posts
 
The only way to find out is to try one for yourself and then reason it out after you hear a difference. I can't explain it but I hear the differences.
nonoise's avatar
nonoise
10,581 posts
 
@yuviarora,
Honest ociffer, no one was drunk driving,
we were all in the back singing. 😄

All the best,
Nonoise
nonoise's avatar
nonoise
10,581 posts
 
Gotta love the argument (pulled outta where?) that corrosion on the contacts where a fuse is held MAY negatively effect resistance, and therefore, the sound quality, and still hold the position that the fuse has NO effect on the sound quality. If the fuse is getting close to failing, it still wouldn't have any effect on the sound until if fails. Then, no more sound.

There’s another fallacy that doesn’t hold water as well. That being, a cheaply made fuse of lousy conductivity (and corrodes like hell) can’t be bettered by one made with superior conductivity (and less tendency to corrode).

The two arguments tend to contradict each other. That, and why would any make of audio gear go to the trouble of designing a beautiful piece of gear and skimp on the fuse and it’s holder? Did they plan on having all the gear they make find it’s way back to them for repair and/or replacement of the fuse? They don’t want customers digging around inside so they couldn’t see that coming? Please.

All the best,
Nonoise
nonoise's avatar
nonoise
10,581 posts
 
Which circle of Dante's Hell is this? 
How many times does one beat a dead horse?
Why is it all the newcomers think they have the reasoned answers that have been shot to hell long ago?

All the best,
Nonoise
nonoise's avatar
nonoise
10,581 posts
 
Brad, it is very easy to fall for this. I think most of us have at one time or another. Many here obviously still do. You can not evaluate sound quality this way as your own internal biases can affect the outcome even when you are sure they can't. In short, you can remember what you heard but you can't remember what you heard sounded like even if you attempt to characterize it. It is impossible, none of us can because out brains are not wired to do this. People are dead certain there heard a difference which births the mythology and an industry base on psychological deception.

To do this correctly you have to go switch back and forth between the two possibilities. When you do this you will realize you can not hear a difference. Since this is difficult to do under most instances without special equipment it is hardly if ever done. The reviewer's certainly won't. That would be like politicians voting in term limits.

Your initial instinct was correct. Stick with it.
 
I don't believe I've ever read where someone practically commands another to not hear something and to only believe what he tells them.
Amazing.

All the best,
Nonoise

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