2. amps-preamps
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What do you hear with a better/bigger power supply and output capacitors in same amp?

Start by assuming a good stereo power amp with a proper-sized toroidal transformer and a good supply of output storage (good capacitors).  One option might be to merely enlarge both toroidal transformer and cap supply. What do you hear?

Another option is taking that amp and bridging to mono (I’m not knowledgeable; but I have ears) and using two as mono power amps. For all practical purposes each channel has twice the toroidal watt capacity and output cap capacity as before. (Another question, unrelated; what improvements can be claimed from using both L&R sides of the signal path board together?)

Typically more watts claim more headroom on transients and long loud passages. But what else do you get from this? I changed amps and my ‘new to me’ amp (avoiding names) sounds audibly better in at least five distinct ways from my prior (and decent) power amplifier (admittedly on rather good speakers).  I hear more bloom/air, tonal texture, detail, micro-dynamics, and low bass ‘growl’ than before. If I move to mono-blocks will I get something more, or not? How audible?

musicaddict

Showing 1 response by bigkidz

bigkidz
3,327 posts
 

Typically more watts claim more headroom on transients and long loud passages.

No, not really.  Our Class A 40wpc mono blocks outperform large mega watt amps.  In general terms, when you upgrade the parts in the power supply with better parts like Nichicon, Audio Note and Amtrans capacitors, you usually get improvements in bass like deeper, faster, more defined and definition.  You should also hear more openness and separation, more details.  Highs and mids can have better separation and notes can seem to float.  Sound stage can open up wider and deeper.  For starters, replace the large power supply capacitors with Nichicon superthroughs.  You can get them at Parts Connexion now called Audio Connexion.  You can go up a size but just make sure they will fit in the chassis.  They are not that expensive and you can see for yourself if you hear a difference.  Form there if you like what you hear, send it out to a qualified tech to upgrade the other parts.  We typically begin there and achieve excellent results.

Happy Listening.

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