View Full Version : Quantum Science fuses.
Clive197
10-07-2022, 08:30
Has anyone on here bought or tried Quantum Science fuses, or any after-market high end fuses for that matter? If so what’s your opinion.
Not tried them, but interestingly enough, there are no measurements showing how they work.
How can 20mm of wire make a difference, at the input of your device? I am intrigued to see feedback from happy users though.
£3,800 for a fuse??:eek:
https://www.futureshop.co.uk/quantum-science-audio-silver-extreme-level-uk-13a-fuse?gclid=Cj0KCQjw8amWBhCYARIsADqZJoWePdgp1Yx65AM 7fnNl44V8wiIvxudeb003t-GncTogByAMbe-nOmAaAgZDEALw_wcB
Lawrence001
10-07-2022, 10:00
Future shop = future prices [emoji23]
walpurgis
10-07-2022, 10:54
£3,800 for a fuse??:eek:
https://www.futureshop.co.uk/quantum-science-audio-silver-extreme-level-uk-13a-fuse?gclid=Cj0KCQjw8amWBhCYARIsADqZJoWePdgp1Yx65AM 7fnNl44V8wiIvxudeb003t-GncTogByAMbe-nOmAaAgZDEALw_wcB
But they might be quite good :D.
And if it blows it has ZERO value. Not like it can be repaired.
"A fool and his money are easily parted".
Clive197
10-07-2022, 23:52
I must admit that I’ve been totally agnostic about fuses but reading some of the comments just shows that you seem to have closed minds. I asked the question to try to get an intelligent answer. Clearly none of you guys have actually tried an after market fuse.
If someone gave me one, I’d try it, but I certainly wouldn’t pay their obscene prices for it.
Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk
Have some aftermarket fuses.
Synergistic Research and AMR Gold fuses.
With Synergistic Research, have moved from Black to Red to Orange. Each step was worthwhile.
Have since move to Purple with my Dac and amp.
I must admit that I’ve been totally agnostic about fuses but reading some of the comments just shows that you seem to have closed minds. I asked the question to try to get an intelligent answer. Clearly none of you guys have actually tried an after market fuse.
I think you did get quite a few intelligent answers. If something cannot possibly work then there is no point in trying it. Same reason I have never jumped off my roof and flapped my arms to see if I can fly.
Any perceived benefit is entirely psychological. When we do a tweak we listen to judge if it has been effective. That means we listen differently to how we would normally and so we perceive differently too. The output signal of the device with the magic fuse in it does not change, therefore the sound cannot change.
They're a con. Don't waste your time and money.
Clive197
11-07-2022, 07:36
I think you did get quite a few intelligent answers. If something cannot possibly work then there is no point in trying it. Same reason I have never jumped off my roof and flapped my arms to see if I can fly.
Any perceived benefit is entirely psychological. When we do a tweak we listen to judge if it has been effective. That means we listen differently to how we would normally and so we perceive differently too. The output signal of the device with the magic fuse in it does not change, therefore the sound cannot change.
They're a con. Don't waste your time and money.
Martin, I’m not trying to change your opinion but simply you have not tried an aftermarket fuse therefore your opinion is flawed. If you had tried one and were shouting the benefits from the highest rooftops it would be the same, flawed.
I certainly don’t understand the ‘science’ but like to think I’m open minded enough. I have been given the opportunity to try a £170 fuse and only time will tell. I’ll keep the results to myself so as not to offend anybody.
you wont offend anyone.. gazjam for one uses fuses... a few others too, but there will obviously be others who will see it differently. all replies are valid in this case as long as they are not abusive etc..
walpurgis
11-07-2022, 07:57
It is reasonable to have an opinion without being informed by having tried something, that is not flawed thinking.
Martin, I’m not trying to change your opinion but simply you have not tried an aftermarket fuse therefore your opinion is flawed. If you had tried one and were shouting the benefits from the highest rooftops it would be the same, flawed.
I certainly don’t understand the ‘science’ but like to think I’m open minded enough. I have been given the opportunity to try a £170 fuse and only time will tell. I’ll keep the results to myself so as not to offend anybody.
Like I said I have not tried jumping off the roof off my house to see if I can fly, does not mean my opinion on my flying capabilities is flawed.
I'm not at all close minded. Close minded would mean maintaining my position even in the face of insurmountable evidence. If I am presented with evidence that the fuse changes the signal then I will change my opinion.
Trying it for myself is insufficient since I will be subject to the same effect as everyone else - I install the tweak, I listen for a difference, I hear things differently because I am now actively listening for a difference. My psychological state is different. All such products rely on that well-established perceptual error in order to make sales.
Plenty of people here use these fuses, they hear improvements or differences, nobody contradicts that, what they perceived is what they perceived. The only dispute is to whether the effect is real or just in the mind.
You've had the case from both sides now, you can make an informed decision as to whether to spend the money and time, or not. Order remotely and you can send back under the distance selling rags. No-one here is going to knock you if you decide to try it.
Varmartin
11-07-2022, 09:11
I too wonder how a £3800 fuse will sound in a £5.00 mains cable :confused:
Varmartin
11-07-2022, 09:17
And if it blows it has ZERO value. Not like it can be repaired.
how about replacing the fuse in the mains cable to the component with a bar of the finest Pure solid silver and fitting a 10p standard fuse in the extension lead from the wall socket ?:lol:
Clive197
11-07-2022, 10:19
I don’t think you can hate Marmite unless you’ve tasted it. I think to form a valid opinion you need to try with and without. Anything else is hyperbole.
Lawrence001
11-07-2022, 10:21
Has anyone started selling audiophile versions of the trip switches in fuse boxes? If mains fuses can have an impact I imagine these could too
I don’t think you can hate Marmite unless you’ve tasted it. I think to form a valid opinion you need to try with and without. Anything else is hyperbole.
not absolutely clive. in the taste of marmite then probably, but again if you hate beefy flavoured things then you can say pretty assuredly you wont like marmite. as for changing sound by changing a 1 inch bit if metal to another, well that to an extent changes the laws of electricity a bit, so you can see why many will balk at the idea. especially as no proofs are given and no explanations etc.
but if some people hear a difference then good for them.
the other question is are the new fuses legal? they probably dont have a bs no etc so havent been proved to actually blow with right current. this could potentially also affect your home insurance if a fire happened.
just a few musings..
Lawrence001
11-07-2022, 10:44
I think the equivalent argument here would not be do you hate marmite but do you like the taste of water. Some will claim it has no taste while others will have a favourite mineral water.
Having said that you can test that the water contains minerals and, if you think minerals have a taste, then you know it tastes different, whereas the argument here is that there's no difference other than psychoacoustic.
I think the equivalent argument here would not be do you hate marmite but do you like the taste of water. Some will claim it has no taste while others will have a favourite mineral water.
Having said that you can test that the water contains minerals and, if you think minerals have a taste, then you know it tastes different, whereas the argument here is that there's no difference other than psychoacoustic.
most minerals in general have no real taste but they can affect your perceptions on taste re the mouthfeel you get.. ie hard v soft water etc.. its this mouthfeel you like or dislike. but minerals like magnesium can alter the way coffee tastes in a brew so they do have affects on taste too, just not really by themselves.
PS, some can taste acidic but not many your likely to get in water.
I must admit that I’ve been totally agnostic about fuses but reading some of the comments just shows that you seem to have closed minds. I asked the question to try to get an intelligent answer. Clearly none of you guys have actually tried an after market fuse.
I have tried an 'after market' fuse. I think it was an AMR device, given to me at one of the audio shows I attended a few years ago.
I put it in the plug top supplying the preamp, which is on 24/7. To my ears it made no difference to the sound of my system; and I gave it plenty of time to 'burn in'.
I also tried cryo-cooling the fuse with liquid nitrogen; which some think can make a difference. Again no difference.
So don't accuse me of having a closed mind - I would be more interested in your own findings.
Has anyone started selling audiophile versions of the trip switches in fuse boxes? If mains fuses can have an impact I imagine these could too
I believe Russ Andrews sells such. I'm awaiting for an audiophile electricity meter, followed by solid silver cabling back to the substation.
Clive,
Currently use SR fuses in my amps and CD Transport.
Moved up tbe range and noticed differences every time.
Notice I say 'differences' and not improvement?
Never got on with fhe SR Blue fuse in any of the kit I tried them in.
Too hifi sounding imo, all flash and no substance.
This could imply that maybe I DID hear differences (and noticable ones) and wasnt trapped in an improvement loop that only existed in my head.
Well, technically it DOES,
But you know what I mean. :)
Equipment dependant too,
But cleaner power is an improvement, just that (of course) its all relative.
And keep tbe fuse spending kit appropriate as well.
If you have good transparent kit (not neccesarrily expensive) then I would keep recommending them anytime tbe question comes around.
Clive197
11-07-2022, 15:32
Clive,
Currently use SR fuses in my amps and CD Transport.
Moved up tbe range and noticed differences every time.
Notice I say 'differences' and not improvement?
.
Gary, I think I agree with you re diffences against improvements but I have found that the soundstage has widened with the fuse installed.
I have installed on advise a yellow Quantum Science Audio fuse into the main wall plug that powers my IsoTek Orion power strip which has all my HiFi kit connected. I have a month or so to confirm or to give the fuse back.
I also try for good housekeeping in that there are no switch-mode power supplies on the Orion which is plugged into a non-switched wall socket.
As I’ve said before, I’m very agnostic on tweeks in general as I’ve had very mixed results over the years.
Have you tried turning the fuse around? Apparently, they are directional.
What I don’t understand about them is that they have nickel plated brass contacts. So you pay all this money for an audiophile product, that have quantum tunnelling procedures applied to it, with graphene etc. which is all connected to nickel plated brass?
You give with one hand and take away with the other?
Do they also carry the appropriate safety ratings?
The last dealer I asked never answered my question about the relevant safety standards.
And before you tar me the “narrow minded” brush, I had an upgraded fuse in my upgraded Caiman SEG.
I don’t think it made any difference, having swapped backwards and forwards between a standard fuse.
I guess a fuse can make a difference on a straight bit of wire, but what happens when your electrons meet a capacitor?
Are the “flow” characteristics still altered as per the Mexican wave description on the SR website?
Do they also carry the appropriate safety ratings?
The last dealer I asked never answered my question about the relevant safety standards.
Are they even marked as conforming to BS 1362? And do they follow the accepted current /rupture time profile for such fuses?
BS 1362, the British Standard for plug fuses, specifies a maximum power dissipation of one watt when carrying the rated current. The actual current, where a BS 1362 fuse will blow, is about 1.66 times the rated value, so for a 13A fuse this will be 21.6A.
https://www.pat-testing-training.net/articles/images/bs1362-fuse-characteristics.png?
Has anyone started selling audiophile versions of the trip switches in fuse boxes? If mains fuses can have an impact I imagine these could too
Akiko Audio does
https://www.akikoaudio.com/en/products/570-05-akiko-audio-cylindric-fuse-cartridge-english
narabdela
12-07-2022, 14:17
I must admit that I’ve been totally agnostic about fuses but reading some of the comments just shows that you seem to have closed minds.
I like to think that I have an open mind...but not so open that my brain falls out. :rolleyes:
moodybuilder
08-08-2022, 19:13
The biggest upgrade to electrical signal I’ve found is to have a dedicated electrical supply not from the fuse board run this as a radial supply with just the earth retuning to a earth spike in well watered part of the garden
I have a dedicated ring of 16 sockets for my audio system. This dedicated ring is protected by a Hager RCB consumer unit which is independent of the main consumer unit (using ELCBs) protecting the rest of the household electrics. The two consumer units are connected to the meter tails via a Henley block.
The incoming mains cable to my property uses the TN-S arrangement, and has a measured earth impedance of 0.3 Ohm.
Modern installations now use the TN-C-S (also known as Protective Multiple Earthing) arrangement, wherein the neutral and earth are combined, but they are separated out in the installation. Adding a separate earth spike, could under certain fault conditions in a neighbour's property which uses the same mains feed arrangement, be dangerous. Check to see which arrangement your incoming mains cable uses.
https://electrical.theiet.org/media/1063/2005_16_autumn_wiring_matters__complete_no_adverts .pdf?type=pdf
moodybuilder
09-08-2022, 05:30
Was all carried out by a electrician who works for me, all signed of by NAPPIT and part P certificate. Thanks for the advise though.
My mains is a very old system (60s), which does connect -ve to earth, and is still legal. It has only fuses, but I don't think it compromises my Hi-Fi.
My mains is a very old system (60s), which does connect -ve to earth, and is still legal. It has only fuses, but I don't think it compromises my Hi-Fi.
How is the neutral connected to earth?
Was all carried out by a electrician who works for me, all signed of by NAPPIT and part P certificate. Thanks for the advise though.
So was mine. At least our household insurance providers will be happy.
moodybuilder
09-08-2022, 19:23
So was mine. At least our household insurance providers will be happy.
They should be they get enough money off me
Lots of FUD flying around from folks that's never actually tried them...
Seems to be the way, is what it is.
After I had my hardwired balanced mains unit installed years back,
any thoughts pointing to "its just electricity, whats the beef?" rapidly dissolved.
Hence my (as it turns out happy) experimentation with better fuses.
My take?
They work, brilliantly,
but its system (not ear/brain interface) dependent.
Improvement is repeatable and easily demonstrated, its a genuine THING - but again system dependent.
Defo worth a subjective punt in your own system?
Price of entry is 50 quid on a Hifi Tuning Supreme 3 13A fuse.
In my experience, I wouldn't go any lower.
Too spicy?
Stay with the Bussmans and be happy.
Buy more music instead. :)
moodybuilder
10-08-2022, 18:58
Something I want to look into after some advise on where to start with fuses, amp gryphon, Sacd bel canto.
Improvement is repeatable and easily demonstrated, its a genuine THING - but again system dependent.
If it was repeatable and easily demonstrated, would it not work on any system?
What are the reasons why it would not work?
How is the neutral connected to earth?
With a very thick metal block on the consumer unit.
With a very thick metal block on the consumer unit.
Sounds like you have a TN-C-S arrangement.
https://electricalapprentice.co.uk/an-introduction-to-earthing-and-bonding/
Lots of FUD flying around from folks that's never actually tried them...
Seems to be the way, is what it is.
After I had my hardwired balanced mains unit installed years back,
any thoughts pointing to "its just electricity, whats the beef?" rapidly dissolved.
Hence my (as it turns out happy) experimentation with better fuses.
My take?
They work, brilliantly,
but its system (not ear/brain interface) dependent.
Improvement is repeatable and easily demonstrated, its a genuine THING - but again system dependent.
Defo worth a subjective punt in your own system?
Price of entry is 50 quid on a Hifi Tuning Supreme 3 13A fuse.
In my experience, I wouldn't go any lower.
Too spicy?
Stay with the Bussmans and be happy.
Buy more music instead. :)
If you have a balanced mains supply (presumably by using a 1:1 transformer with a centre tapped secondary), you have two 'live' or phase lines feeding your gear. Therefore the balanced secondary need to protected by two fuses, or a ganged RCB.
Therefore the minimum cost of entry is £100. And unless the fuses are marked and conform to BS1362, and a fault occurs which damages your gear, your household contents insurance will be invalid.
If it was repeatable and easily demonstrated, would it not work on any system?
What are the reasons why it would not work?
Off top of my head:
System not transparent enough to show difference?
Bigger issues in system than dirty mains?
My BMU has dual pole RCBO's fitted on Primary and secondaries, so safety and regs wise, all good.
I wouldn't recommend anything else with a balanced setup, especially not "normal" fuses.
Not sure it works that way anyway.
But for a normal 13A mains fuse, on a distribution block for example,
You'd only need 1 fuse.
If you have a balanced mains supply (presumably by using a 1:1 transformer with a centre tapped secondary), you have two 'live' or phase lines feeding your gear. Therefore the balanced secondary need to protected by two fuses, or a ganged RCB.
Therefore the minimum cost of entry is £100. And unless the fuses are marked and conform to BS1362, and a fault occurs which damages your gear, your household contents insurance will be invalid.
Fair enough, but my comments concerning possible household contents insurance still apply. Insurance companies will do anything to limit any claim, and if a fire was caused and any fuse in your system did not conform to BS1362, I wouldn't be surprised if they rejected the claim.
System not transparent enough to show difference?
Oh, that old chestnut. ;)
I think my system is pretty "transparent", but I don't feel the need to try a directional fuse in an AC mains supply. :eyebrows:
The blurb says it is directional, so it is only better 50% of the time?
(The real reason is I can't use mains plugs fuses, as they don't fit).
As for equipment fuses, I am not sure, I am still undecided if I spend the money on fuses, or a Benchmark preamp to drive my Mod 686.
Oh, that old chestnut. ;)
I think my system is pretty "transparent", but I don't feel the need to try a directional fuse in an AC mains supply. :eyebrows:
The blurb says it is directional, so it is only better 50% of the time?
(The real reason is I can't use mains plugs fuses, as they don't fit).
As for equipment fuses, I am not sure, I am still undecided if I spend the money on fuses, or a Benchmark preamp to drive my Mod 686.
The same argument applies to "directional cables", especially speaker cables. (However so-called semi-balanced signal cables are directional.)
walpurgis
11-08-2022, 17:19
What would make a mains fuse directional?
(the ideal question to ask if you want to be booted out of a degree course in electronics perhaps)
And unless the fuses are marked and conform to BS1362, and a fault occurs which damages your gear, your household contents insurance will be invalid.
I get around that problem by not having household contents insurance. :D
Although all my fuses do conform to BS1362 and I don't use any mains-related gubbins anyway. My system's already too transparent.
mine became so transparent it vanished:eek:
What would make a mains fuse directional?
(the ideal question to ask if you want to be booted out of a degree course in electronics perhaps)
If the mains plug is used in a wall socket, the fuse will be vertical so gravity will help the electrons move more easily. :lol:
Clive197
11-08-2022, 18:07
I started this thread a month ago with my tongue firmly in my cheek. My conclusion is that to those who’ve tried a aftermarket fuse seem mainly for them and those who haven’t to a man are against them. That tells me quite a lot about people not high-end fuses but hay…….
from an old thread here by member
YNWaN.
(hypothetical) Furutech marketing department Q&A
Q: Are the pins of your plugs made from copper?
A: Yes
Q: Are they pure copper, like my cables?
A: No, they are a copper alloy
Q: What does that mean exactly?
A: It means copper is mixed with one (or more) metals to produce an alloy
Q: What other metal is the copper mixed with to make this alloy?
A: Zinc
Q: Is this alloy of copper and zinc known by any generic name?
A: Yes
Q: Oh, what is that then?
A: Brass
Q: So the pins are brass, an alloy of copper and zinc......?
A: Yes
Q: But aren't all household plugs made using brass pins?
A: Yes......but ours are rhodium plated
Q: Oh right, does that make them more conductive than copper alone then?
A: No, rhodium is less conductive than copper
Q: Sorry, why do it then?
A: It's shiny
End of Q&A :)
I started this thread a month ago with my tongue firmly in my cheek. My conclusion is that to those who’ve tried a aftermarket fuse seem mainly for them and those who haven’t to a man are against them. That tells me quite a lot about people not high-end fuses but hay…….
I've not tried them but I'm not against them. I just don't try stuff that has no explanation for how it works since it's a slippery slope to get on.
We’re all different. :)
Any fuse discussion can bring about a ‘pile on’ to the OP, nice to see its not the case here.
My take?
If your a bit of a tweaker, and curious enough to try one to see if it improves things…why not?
Fine.
If your set in your ‘how could a fuse possibly’ way…
also fine.
No-one is forcing anything on anyone.
Clive’s original question was a good one,
Think he got the answer he was looking for.
For me?
As a tight Scotsman,
I’m not in the habit of spending money without getting return for it.
Wouldnt have invested in them if I was sitting on the fence wether there was an improvement or not.
Put me down as a ‘believer’ if it helps make it more acceptable. :D
not agin them as such either, but think both sides of the arguement need to be represented so people can make a more educated choice. lots of things come out this way on both sides.
also think adding a touch of humour along way does more good than harm.
Pigmy Pony
12-08-2022, 15:57
I think it's one of those things where some will discern a difference, and some not. I probably fall into the second camp, so I'm reluctant to throw my hard earned (and in short supply) cash at it.
A few years ago, at one of the Cranage shows, there was a guy demonstrating the difference between some digital cable costing a few quid and one going for several hundred. There were blokes to the left and right of me nodding their heads in appreciation of the improvement the dear wire brought. I couldn't tell the bloody difference, but I didn't come away feeling we were being conned, rather that I have cloth ears and don't deserve a nice stereo.
That is why HiFi is a cruel mistress.
When you are young, and can appreciate a good system, you can’t afford one.
When you are old, and you can, you can’t tell any difference between that and a cheaper system.
That is why HiFi is a cruel mistress.
When you are young, and can appreciate a good system, you can’t afford one.
When you are old, and you can, you can’t tell any difference between that and a cheaper system.
There must be some truth in that but my friend a few doors down has a respectable system (Sony CD, Rega Planar 3, Rotel amp and Ruark Templar speakers). I can listen to it happily for hours but when I go back to my system I realise what is missing from his. It does nothing bad though, it's never harsh or hard. That's the key really, it's all sins of omisson rather than sins of commision.
But on the fuse thing and other improbable tweaks - I think we can potentially all hear differences, the question is whether they are real or not.
Example - My system already sounds great, there's no sins of commision. If I put fancy fuses in all the plugs and listen again, well it's still going to sound good, but now I know I have made a change, I'm listening to see if I can hear any difference, so I'm not listeniing in the usual way of just enjoying the sound. So maybe I hear improvements and think 'Yes these fuses work.'
Next day I come to listen again, this time I'm not doing a comparison, I'm just enjoying the sound. It sounds good. I take it for granted that the improvement I heard the previous day when I put the fuses in is still there.
Now if my system did not sound good, say it was harsh and hard, and the fuses fixed that, there's something solid to go on. I listen the next day and there's no harshness or hardness so I know the fuses did something. They banished the problem the first day, and when I come back the next day it is still banished.
But if the system already had no problems then I don't know if they did really do something, or if I was just listening differently, listening for improvements/changes, the day I put them in.
My other problem is that if you accept one thing that cannot explicably make a difference, where do you draw the line? There's a million products like that out there, do I start trying them too? That gets expensive, plus I'd never really be sure if they were actually doing something or it was in my head.
And the other issue is that if I'm tweaking often, my brain goes into that analytic/critical mode and then when I just want to relax to good sounds I can't switch that off - I'm always judging sound quality, That can ruin enjoying music for me.
I probably haven't explained that very well but hopefully you get the gist.
That is why HiFi is a cruel mistress.
When you are young, and can appreciate a good system, you can’t afford one.
When you are old, and you can, you can’t tell any difference between that and a cheaper system.
there is also that when younger your idea of a good system isnt same as when your older.. also your hearing is going to be different as is your musical appreciation.
now for instance im happy with cans and pc.. i wouldnt have been before, although the tech now is much better, but the idea that cans are enough wouldnt have sat well when younger.
Hence me saying (right at the start) try it in your own system. :D
Make your own mind up.
Oh,
(No false equivalence please about sticking your hand in the fire...that's just intellectually lazy)
Us audiophile lot can't decide on a "best" anything, its all down to the individual and their system.
Which in my book is also fine.
not agin them as such either, but think both sides of the arguement need to be represented so people can make a more educated choice. lots of things come out this way on both sides.
also think adding a touch of humour along way does more good than harm.
So, if you were going to try a fuse.
Where in the system would you put it?
And what would you use?
Clive197
13-08-2022, 01:03
So, if you were going to try a fuse.
Where in the system would you put it?
And what would you use?
I put 1 fuse only in the plug from wall socket into a short cable then into my IsoTek Orion power distribution bar. This powers the rest of my system of pre with streamer and DAC/power, disc player, phono pre and TT. The rest of the fuses are all standard bussman fuses. To my ears and system this achieved an improvement in the soundstage depth and width. So I will keep it. It’s a Quantum Science yellow. I don’t see myself using another.
Hey Kevin,
I'm no authority here, but I have played around a bit and here's what I found worked best.
Just my £0.02 worth. :)
Depends on system setup I'd say?
If someone runs their gear from a distribution block, put a 13A in there as any benefit would feed your entire system.
For the price of a half decent pair of trainers or a pub meal and drinks for 2, at a minimum I'd go with one of these.
Not an expensive upgrade in context of the return you get.
Hi-Fi Tuning Supreme3
https://www.analogueseduction.net/fuses/hifi-tuning-supreme-3-copper-uk-mains-plug-audio-grade-fuse.html
(https://www.analogueseduction.net/fuses/hifi-tuning-supreme-3-copper-uk-mains-plug-audio-grade-fuse.html)
(https://www.analogueseduction.net/fuses/hifi-tuning-supreme-3-copper-uk-mains-plug-audio-grade-fuse.html)You can of course get better than this,
Clive's Quantum Yellow would do a better job (hifi sound quality wise)
For myself I've put a halt at the SR Purples, that my cost comfort level cap.
Think though Kev,
in France you guys use the two pin plug?
For yourself you'd be looking at the fuse in the rear IEC socket, or the internal fuse then.
If it has both, replace both.
Think of a fuse as a potential "chokepoint", in my experience its exactly that.
Easy to find your fuse rating of your gear,
just swap out like for like.
For doing this,
there's a better Hifi Tuning fuse (99% Silver 1% gold endcaps and burn wire - not plated, made from the alloy), and available in many different ratings.
https://www.analogueseduction.net/fuses/HFT-SUPF[1].html
Where to replace wise:
If your a digital guy I've found for digital best bang for buck is in upgrading your Dac's fuse first, then digital sources.
Then your amp.
Then any power supplies feeding your gear,
no point though if running a switch mode wall-wart, only do this if you run a decent linear supply.
Only exception is to this is if you run a separate power amp?
Just as much benefit here as from your Dac. was surprised at the jump when I put one in my Meridian.
That said, it kinda makes sense to me.
Like your Dac handling all things digital, power amp feeds your speakers, and if it can drive them better you'll get better sound out them.
Just in my experience clean AC power is everything.
I've swapped out every fuse in my system, one at a time and observed improvement every time.
Especially with the SR blacks and above.
I'm happy knowing I've eliminated any potential electrical choke-points that could hold back the sound.
Works for me, could for you too.
As I said I think its System dependent, setup and "all things being equal" matter too, so YMMV
Gary, you are right, I have no fuses in my plugs, as you can’t fit them in a Schuko socket.
My system consists of my music PC, a digital interface/format converter, DAC, Pre amp, power amp for digital.
I do have a valve based phono stage on the analogue side.
So obvious plaCe would be pre and power?
They get used with everything.
My system as it stands:
Home built music PC
Audio GD DI-2014
RME ADI2 DAC Fs
Topping pre-90
Nuerochrome Modulus 686
All is cabled with OCC signal and power cables, except the DI, which has a Mark Grant power cable.
Analogue adds in my SL1200 and my BB3 phono stage.
Yup,
Agreee.
If it were my kit I'd go Pre and power, then Dac.
:thumbsup:
There must be some truth in that but my friend a few doors down has a respectable system (Sony CD, Rega Planar 3, Rotel amp and Ruark Templar speakers). I can listen to it happily for hours but when I go back to my system I realise what is missing from his. It does nothing bad though, it's never harsh or hard. That's the key really, it's all sins of omisson rather than sins of commision.
But on the fuse thing and other improbable tweaks - I think we can potentially all hear differences, the question is whether they are real or not.
Example - My system already sounds great, there's no sins of commision. If I put fancy fuses in all the plugs and listen again, well it's still going to sound good, but now I know I have made a change, I'm listening to see if I can hear any difference, so I'm not listeniing in the usual way of just enjoying the sound. So maybe I hear improvements and think 'Yes these fuses work.'
Next day I come to listen again, this time I'm not doing a comparison, I'm just enjoying the sound. It sounds good. I take it for granted that the improvement I heard the previous day when I put the fuses in is still there.
Now if my system did not sound good, say it was harsh and hard, and the fuses fixed that, there's something solid to go on. I listen the next day and there's no harshness or hardness so I know the fuses did something. They banished the problem the first day, and when I come back the next day it is still banished.
But if the system already had no problems then I don't know if they did really do something, or if I was just listening differently, listening for improvements/changes, the day I put them in.
My other problem is that if you accept one thing that cannot explicably make a difference, where do you draw the line? There's a million products like that out there, do I start trying them too? That gets expensive, plus I'd never really be sure if they were actually doing something or it was in my head.
And the other issue is that if I'm tweaking often, my brain goes into that analytic/critical mode and then when I just want to relax to good sounds I can't switch that off - I'm always judging sound quality, That can ruin enjoying music for me.
I probably haven't explained that very well but hopefully you get the gist.
I would add that if you do hear an improvement, stay with it for a few days, then revert back to situation before you made the change. If you hear a degradation of sound, then the change was a genuine improvement; if you don't hear any reduction of sound quality, then the change was not a genuine improvement.
I do this for with all changes of cable, and in the one instance: a Hi-Fi Tuning fuse that was given to me.
As to the analytic/critical mode - my modus operandi is to make a change and just play some music. If there is a definite change it will leap out to me whether I want it to or not. If it doesn't and I have to really listen hard for any change, then as far as I'm concerned the change either doesn't exist or is not important enough for me for it to remain in my system.
I would add that if you do hear an improvement, stay with it for a few days, then revert back to situation before you made the change. If you hear a degradation of sound, then the change was a genuine improvement; if you don't hear any reduction of sound quality, then the change was not a genuine improvement.
.
That's not a reliable method since just like when you put the fuse in, you know that you have taken it out and you can't 'forget' that, plus since you just made a change you are listening differently to normal, again the same as when you put the fuse in.
Like I said if it fixes a problem then that's different, but on a system with no problems it's very hard, I think impossible, to accurately verify the effect of tweaks like these fuses.
All said and done if someone is still thinking there is a possibility of a better sound go ahead and try them and report your subjective findings here.
best way is for someone to switch fuse when your out.lol
best way is for someone to switch fuse when your out.lol
Yes :)
Like this approach.
Its what I do as well.
Sanity check everything,
there is a psychological aspect to all this stuff.
I would add that if you do hear an improvement, stay with it for a few days, then revert back to situation before you made the change. If you hear a degradation of sound, then the change was a genuine improvement; if you don't hear any reduction of sound quality, then the change was not a genuine improvement.
I do this for with all changes of cable, and in the one instance: a Hi-Fi Tuning fuse that was given to me.
As to the analytic/critical mode - my modus operandi is to make a change and just play some music. If there is a definite change it will leap out to me whether I want it to or not. If it doesn't and I have to really listen hard for any change, then as far as I'm concerned the change either doesn't exist or is not important enough for me for it to remain in my system.
Pigmy Pony
13-08-2022, 19:56
Just had a cursory "poke round" any of my set up that could possibly benefit, and already it's all too technical for me. Shame really, I was prepared to take a punt with a bargain...
Lawrence001
13-08-2022, 20:49
Just had a cursory "poke round" any of my set up that could possibly benefit, and already it's all too technical for me. Shame really, I was prepared to take a punt with a bargain...Here's an idea for you Steve. Ask Mrs P to randomly switch fuses over a few weeks while you're out (including some no change for the null hypothesis) and keep a record. You keep a diary of listening impressions while you listen. At the end compare notes and see if there's any correlation.
Pigmy Pony
13-08-2022, 23:17
Great idea, which unfortunately falls at the first hurdle. I can't be trusted to tamper with anything electrical. But she's worse!
MF's A5 integrated manual says that there are no internal fuses that can be changed by the user. The only other component (probably) that could be messed with is my Project Tubebox phono, but i can't find any info on that. Nor for the Marantz CD player. And I'm guessing that the power supply for the Monarch turntable wouldn't benefit. Unless anyone here knows different...
You have fuses in the mains plugs though?
Steve,
I swapped out the fuse in my TT power supply, subtle but noticable improvement.
Worth a go Id say,
but dont spend too big on this one, less return than in a dac or amp.
and yeah,
Mains plugs a good shout.
Great idea, which unfortunately falls at the first hurdle. I can't be trusted to tamper with anything electrical. But she's worse!
MF's A5 integrated manual says that there are no internal fuses that can be changed by the user. The only other component (probably) that could be messed with is my Project Tubebox phono, but i can't find any info on that. Nor for the Marantz CD player. And I'm guessing that the power supply for the Monarch turntable wouldn't benefit. Unless anyone here knows different...
That is one point I struggle with. How can a PSU fuse on a turntable improve the sound?
It is not in the audio chain.
That is one point I struggle with. How can a PSU fuse on a turntable improve the sound?
It is not in the audio chain.
neither is the fuse in a mains plug. There is no credible technical explanation for how these fuses can make a difference when used anywhere, so there's not much point asking that question.
Surely, if these 'super-fuses do enhance the SQ, by implication the lesser ordinary ones must introduce some form of signal modulation, which I find hard to believe.
Pigmy Pony
14-08-2022, 09:42
There is a posh fuse for sale for just 25 bones, so I initially thought it might be worth a punt. But... it is only rated 1A. I've no idea where something like that could go in my kit. Everything seems to be 3A and above (and as some have said may be pointless), and God knows what they would be inside the components. Can't find any info.
If I didn't know better I'd swear the manufacturers are trying to dissuade users from dicking around with their products. And these things come in a variety of fuse ratings AND sizes. Minefield.
I was curious, but not so curious that I'd risk throwing away the price of a shiny new piece of vinyl. And probably break my stereo.
Clive197
14-08-2022, 09:53
Silly me, I thought the discussion was about 13amp fuses that go in UK plugs……. So can’t see how that would upset, damage a vinyl record.
Silly me, I thought the discussion was about 13amp fuses that go in UK plugs……. So can’t see how that would upset, damage a vinyl record.
Eh?
Turntable power supply:
Less electrical noise on incoming AC to power supply (which reducing the 'choke point' impact by improving the fuse would do) would benefit the TT motor in terms of speed regulation, as well as less noise injected into the playback chain generally.
Howzat? :D
Thinking of the fuse as part of the electrical system of the equipment:
Who all here uses aftermarket power cables to power their gear?
Assuming it made an improvement in your system?
Why do you think that is?
Ive said this a lot in the past,
Less noise on the AC feeding your kit improves the sound.
Its all about reducing the impact of electrical noise feeding your system.
Many things can affect this, incoming AC supply, cables and yes, fuses.
Its being open to acthally TRYING things in your system, that you can decide for yourself if you can improve your system.
Thats part of the fun of the hobby for me, and who doesnt want their favourite music to sound better?
Thats my take. :thumbsup:
Pigmy Pony
14-08-2022, 10:32
Silly me, I thought the discussion was about 13amp fuses that go in UK plugs……. So can’t see how that would upset, damage a vinyl record.
I don't think the discussion was about 13A fuses, anyway I don't think any of my kit uses ones rated at 13A. Maybe my kettle does :ner:
And I never suggested that I could damage a record by changing fuses - rather that my £25 that fuse would cost could buy me a new album.
Turntable power supply:
Less electrical noise on incoming AC to power supply (which reducing the 'choke point' impact by improving the fuse would do) would benefit the TT motor in terms of speed regulation, as well as less noise injected into the playback chain generally.
Howzat? :D
Thinking of the fuse as part of the electrical system of the equipment:
Who all here uses aftermarket power cables to power their gear?
Assuming it made an improvement in your system?
Why do you think that is?
Ive said this a lot in the past,
Less noise on the AC feeding your kit improves the sound.
Its all about reducing the impact of electrical noise feeding your system.
Many things can affect this, incoming AC supply, cables and yes, fuses.
Its being open to acthally TRYING things in your system, that you can decide for yourself if you can improve your system.
Thats part of the fun of the hobby for me, and who doesnt want their favourite music to sound better?
Thats my take. :thumbsup:
I do, but I make them myself rather than pay the absurd prices charged.
Fuses don't act as "choke points" any more than say switch contacts or the contact points between a plug and socket. All they do is increase the line resistance slightly (which in the case of a BS1362 13A fuse, will be no more than 6 mOhm).
That's not a reliable method since just like when you put the fuse in, you know that you have taken it out and you can't 'forget' that, plus since you just made a change you are listening differently to normal, again the same as when you put the fuse in.
Like I said if it fixes a problem then that's different, but on a system with no problems it's very hard, I think impossible, to accurately verify the effect of tweaks like these fuses.
All said and done if someone is still thinking there is a possibility of a better sound go ahead and try them and report your subjective findings here.
Well it works for me - and in most cases the 'improvement' I heard was imaginary. Only on a very few occasions has changing an item (a power amplifier) lead to an immediate improvement, which was lost upon returning to the status quo.
It is not in the audio chain.
In the '70s some American high power amplifiers had fuses fitted in their speaker outputs for protection against short circuits.
You make fuses yourself?
Eh? :scratch:
So you have an issue with the price being charged.
That's fair, many do.
Need to agree Barry to disagree on fuses not being "choke points" I'm afraid.
Line resistance (and other restrictive properties of the fuse) IS the "choke point" I'm speaking about.
Consider it a concept, a name I've given it.
Having swapped out fuses many times and experienced the improved sound that comes about, I can say that they work.
Not being funny, but have you tried them?
Reduced line resistance is better - right?
(Not that that's all they do, but I'm not going there)
H'Anyway,
People can either try them or not, no big deal either way. :thumbsup:
Clive's original post has been answered I think.
Cool.
I do, but I make them myself rather than pay the absurd prices charged.
Fuses don't act as "choke points" any more than say switch contants or the contact points between a plug and socket. All they do is increase the line resistance slightly (which in the case of a BS1362 13A fuse, will be no more than 6 mOhm).
probably uses fuse wire. i used to when fuses were fuses in main box etc. can do it in a plug i guess although in my days on tvs plugs were mostly the round pin non fused type
You make fuses yourself?
Eh? :scratch:
No, I make up my own mains cables. :lol:
No, I make up my own mains cables. :lol:
Thank Feck for that! :lol:
I was really scratching my head there!
Yeah,
Used to do that m'self back in the day, quite enjoyed it.
Lapp cable was quite good if I remember right.
Yes, Lapp cable has an overall braided screen, which at least in theory, can be beneficial.
Discopants
10-09-2022, 00:16
Im late to this thread , just wanted to say that I believe and my experience is very much like Gazjam.
Ive tried SR black, blue and orange and can hear differences with all of these.I have yet to try purple, I think the price of those is about my limit. The £3,800 one sounds bonkers to me but if you have millions then why not.
Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk
Powered by vBulletin® Version 4.2.3 Copyright © 2026 vBulletin Solutions, Inc. All rights reserved.