If one took the time to view these pics of Klipsch stage monitor crossovers, they’d note that the OEM/factory caps, comprising the LF circuits, are bipolar electrolytics. (https://www.ebay.com/itm/Klipsch-Type-KSM-2-Crossover-/392714043491) (https://picclick.com/3-Three-JBL-S3HC-Klipsch-KSM-15-and-Klipsch-231960707452.html#&gid=1&pi...) (https://picclick.com/3-Three-JBL-S3HC-Klipsch-KSM-15-and-Klipsch-231960707452.html#&gid=1&pi...) This last link contains a crappy pic of the KSM-1 crossover. The silver can at the bottom, should the stock electrolytic, in the LF section, that gave the OP his initial problems. Scroll right and it's third from the last pic: (https://reverb.com/item/13889916-klipsch-ksm-1-vintage-15-2-way-floor-monotors-with-phenolic-diaphra...) If Klipsch provided him with new, replacement crossovers, they’d probably still come with electrolytics, in that position. I've hated electrolytics, in crossovers, from day one of my experience with electronics.
The electrolytes will dry out and the cap will lose it's values. Over-voltage will cause the electrolytes to expand and explode the cans. BUT: they've been used, for the sake of economics and availability, by speaker system manufacturers, since the beginnings of audio.
Replacement capacitors exploding
I replaced the capacitors in the crossovers in my Klipsch KSM-1 stage monitors.
There is a capacitor that runs parallel to the woofer which had blown in a couple of my dozen stage monitors. They are from the 90s, which is not ancient, but I figured maybe that age is a factor so I swapped them all out.
The replacement capacitors have all of the same numbers printed on them but are a fraction of the physical size, and in just one season almost all of them have blown. I don’t think they were being pushed harder.
Is there a way for me to order capacitors with the same specs printed on them that are also heavier duty in some other way?
There is a capacitor that runs parallel to the woofer which had blown in a couple of my dozen stage monitors. They are from the 90s, which is not ancient, but I figured maybe that age is a factor so I swapped them all out.
The replacement capacitors have all of the same numbers printed on them but are a fraction of the physical size, and in just one season almost all of them have blown. I don’t think they were being pushed harder.
Is there a way for me to order capacitors with the same specs printed on them that are also heavier duty in some other way?
- ...
- 58 posts total
These folks have some wonderful product: https://www.partsconnexion.com as do these guys: https://solen.ca As has been said above, electrolytic caps have been used since the dawn of time in crossovers. If they are being used in speakers currently, it’s as a cost cutting measure. High voltage film caps are the way to go as has been stated also. |
To replace any cap, know more about the cap you are replacing... the methods of both manufacturing and usage have changed. Also, many new types are available now. As I don't have the time or space to discuss the above limitations, I will give some advice instead. First, ALWAYS buy your caps from a REPUTABLE DEALER, not the local parts store. Second, ALWAYS use replacements with a higher voltage rating to prevent problems. For example, if a filter cap is rated at 450 volts DC, use a 630 volt cap. If you don't know beans about caps, DON'T TOUCH YOUR PRODUCT and find an expert. The types of cap DO make a difference! |
- 58 posts total