Just a stinkin fuse...

In an attempt to get the best from my equipment, I have come to use HiFi Tuning fuses in all my gear, even the 6 @ 6 amp fuses in my Clayton Monoblocks. While I wouldn't say the sonic heavens have open up to validate my use of the fuses, I suspect they have contributed to a touch smoother and richer sound.

I have recently been comparing a MUSE Model 3 Signature (with outboard power supply and display) preamp with my Lamm LL2 Deluxe. I know, this hardly seems fair to the MUSE (even though Kevin Halverson says he cannot improve on the Model 3 Sig), but I am getting the MUSE Erato II source and I would really enjoy the convenience of one remote to control source and preamp (compared to no remote with the Lamm), being able to leave things turned on all the time (compared to turning my tubed gear on and off), and the outstanding feature set of the Model 3 Signature. So far, the Model 3 Sig has been bested sonically by the LL2 D primarily in the areas of clarity, dimensionality and high frequencies, but the differences are not great, and the MUSE has displayed strengths including an equally rich midrange, tight punchy bass response, and the ability to rock out without straining. It has been like comparing a near-outstanding (8+/10) tubed preamp with a good to very good (7+/10) solid state preamp. The main differences have been of the old tubes vs. SS variety, and also in the high frequencies where the MUSE has displayed just a slight touch of SS hash on some (but not all) recordings.

After receiving and installing the proper sized HiFi Tuning fuse in the Model 3 Signature the other day, I was very surprised to encounter the single biggest improvement I have ever heard from a tweek in any of my gear. The presentation from the MUSE preamp became clearer in all respects, any vestige of high frequency tizz or hash disappeared (unless it was on the recording), and high frequencies sounded realistic with excellent decay. Although the basic sonic signature of the MUSE did not change, installing the fuse seemed to significantly improve performance across the board. I would never have considered that level of improvement possible from simply changing a fuse.