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Rookie; replace my own amplifier caps??

Hi. I am mechanically oriented generally, and I have a knack for fixing things. I am decent with a soldering iron, and I understand the concept of "wicking" away old solder to replace a part. I love DIY projects. I have no, I say again no, training in electronics whatsoever, however. I am told that my 2001 Odyssey Audio Stratus Plus (120,000 uF capacitance) solid-state amp (I love it) likely needs cap replacements. I understand that "preventative" cap replacement is a hotly debated topic within itself; assume for my question the amp needs cap replacement. Is it likely that I could order a bucketload of Blackgate (or higher quality) caps of the correct values from PartsXpress and succesfully complete this project on my own? (Yes, I would unplug the amp) Thanks!
klipschking
mofimadness's avatar
mofimadness
4,940 posts
 
The caps that would need to be replaced are the larger ones and would be very easy to do. Go for it dude!
klipschking OP
82 posts
 
That is very helpful! I know some of the better brands are Solencaps, Blackgate; is there a consensus best brand for a solid-state amp?
kenyonbm
141 posts
 
I am sure you could pull it off.

But there is always the possibility of something going wrong.

And the cost will be considerable for quality replacements.

I say, if it ain't broke, don't fix it.

Ken
jameswei
883 posts
 
If we assume that "the amp needs cap replacement" as you say, then you can try doing it yourself. If you screw it up, then you will probably have to send it in to some electronics shop for them to fix it, which might not cost much more than having them replace the caps in the first place.

But you might have to pay more for the caps as a "retail" customer, versus a fixit shop or the manufacturer who could get some kind of discount.

Be sure you look at how the caps are fastened and fitted into the chassis. Often the manufacturer might have some custom version of the caps with a special size/shape or special flanges, screw holes, etc. An off-the-shelf part with the correct electrical values might not work out.

Good luck.
stereo5's avatar
stereo5
6,272 posts
 
Why not just send the amp back to Klaus at Odyssey and have him replace the caps for FREE as the amp comes with a 20 year warranty. You could ask him about the newer and much better Symphonic branded caps he uses in his extreme models. I have them in my Stratos and the sound is incredible. Probably would cost you less than buying caps that may not necessarily sound better and will be done right.

Bob
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