What is the science behind audiophile fuses?


There were many threads on the topic of "audiophile fuses" on this forum, and I sure don't want to open old wounds and trench warfare. The fuse on my preamp blew suddenly two days ago, which prompted me to search for a replacement. That's when I came across the term "audiophile fuse" and the fact that they demand far-out prices. Deeper curiosity brought me to several other fora, where users posted glowing praises about their Zero fuses and other exotica. Now I am a scientist, but not a physicist or electrical engineer: so please enlighten me! How can a fuse have an audible influence on the signal, when the signal does not even pass through it? How can a fuse be "directional" when it deals with alternate current? I mean, if I recall my university physics, a fuse is basically a safety valve and nothing more. Am I completely missing an important point here? My scientific field is drug discovery, and because of this background I am thoroughly familiar with the power and reality of the placebo effect. I that's what I am seeing here, or is it real physics? I need objective facts and not opinions, please. I really appreciate your help!

 
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Showing 1 response by pwerahera

What is an electrical fuse? An electrical fuse is a safety device that operates to provide protection against the overflow of current in an electrical circuit. An important component of an electrical fuse is a metal wire or strip that melts when excess current flows through it.

What is the rating of an electrical fuse? Fuse rating is the maximum current that a fuse can safely carry before it blows or melts. It is usually expressed in amps (A) or milliamps (mA). For example, a 5A fuse can handle up to 5 amps of current, while a 500mA fuse can handle up to 500 milliamps of current.

Advise 1: If you think the manufacturer has installed a fuse or given a power cord that is inferior and no good, then don't buy that piece of equipment, period. Because you deserve for the money you are spending a complete piece of gear with compatible accessories (fuses, power cords, feet, casings, etc) to get the best out of it.

Advise 2: If you really think you need to spend $$ on some expensive "audiophile fuse," whatever that is, then please make sure you stay within the same ratings as recommended by the manufacturer. Do not exceed current/voltage ratings under any circumstance.

There are those who think somehow some way, the fuse type will impact the sound quality and changing fuse will give you different flavors of sound! They also believe in Santa Clause delivering toys during Christmas, Tooth Fairy leaving $ under the pillow when their teeth fell off when they were young as well as when they get older, etc.