Using solid state rectifiers on Cary SLI80 Amplifier


One might wonder why experimenting with such a high performing amplifier as this SLI80 Signature is but I would like to try this to see if doing so will tighten bass and/or percussive sounds from things like drums and piano. I’ve tried raising the bias above the Cary recommended 75mA and the sonic difference was significant but, because the higher resulting voltages to the tubes would be continuous while operating, Cary recommended against it primarily because of predicted shortened tube life. I’ve taken their advice and adjusted the amperage down to 80 from the 90mA that I was trying. Now, based partly on Cary’s having switched to solid state rectification in their newer amps, I thought it made sense to try it on this older amp and need advice concerning exchanging the tube diodes with solid state replacements. What I’ve learned from several sources is that the resulting instantaneous power to the tubes and power transformer could cause damage or, at least, blown fuses. Without adding circuit protection that delays the impact, does anyone have experience with this modification or insight otherwise. I do have a variac to lessen the initial impact of this experiment if I decide to do so.  Thank you. 
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Showing 3 responses by oldhvymec

Your willing to give stuff a shot, try a super rectifier.

http://www.thebestamp.com/Accessories/Accessories.php

I have a pair of MC60s and I’m doing case swaps to 24k gold and blue anodized cap cans. I’m going to use super rectifiers on them..

I haven’t settled on exactly which ones yet..

Regards
Your willing to give stuff a shot, try a super rectifier


Oldhvymec I was going to suggest that but people on here will think I'm just a fanboy, but it would make a substantial difference in the bass if he ran a super rectifier with 3b22 or 866a tubes in it.

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I'm a fan that's the reason I suggested it... What other people think and 5.00 dollars will get you a cup of coffee, right.. :-)

Me, I just like the weird $hit..:-).

Regards
Thanks fellas, BUT I like stuff that blows up..:-)

Really what do you think of a super rectifier in my MC60s it would take a pair one for each and twin valves in each?

They still have tube rectifiers.

They run 5U4 GEs all Mac factory Valves, they haven’t been powered up in 25 years, a rebuild and super rectifiers?

What about a SR in the OPs unit? It’s Gotta’ be the Cats Meow?

I have a few 866a Pinnacles some where. A WE amp I had used them..

So OP you ever think of using a SR? Do somethin’ weird.. :-)

Regards