Hi guys, very interesting subject. My system uses four Linn Klouts in an active mode (electronic crossover inside the amp), each amp has eight 63DCV/10,000uf capacitors. This amps run very hot, I have always wondered if the heat or age would damage or wear them. Could someone please advise me on how to check them? Can it be done with a digital multimeter? Thanks.
Capacitors: Who is Right? What ages them faster?
Power supply electrolytics - the main thing audiophiles worry about getting old and having to replace.
What's the truth here?
Manufacturers can be quoted as saying the life expectancy of caps is anywhere from 10 - 15 years. Is this true? Why is it that Krell amps seem to need capacitor changes in 8 years, while people have receivers from the 70's that never had caps replaced?
Another controversy, with three viewpoints:
(1) I was told that caps age faster in amps that are left on continuously. The rationale here is that the lack of a discharge cycle is not good for the caps since they are in a constantly charged state.
(2) Others claim that leaving a unit unused in a box for years also shortens the life of the caps, as they never see a charge.
(3) Others say the lifespan is the same whether on the shelf, or in the unit.
Who has the technical background or the knowledge to sort this out?
What's the truth here?
Manufacturers can be quoted as saying the life expectancy of caps is anywhere from 10 - 15 years. Is this true? Why is it that Krell amps seem to need capacitor changes in 8 years, while people have receivers from the 70's that never had caps replaced?
Another controversy, with three viewpoints:
(1) I was told that caps age faster in amps that are left on continuously. The rationale here is that the lack of a discharge cycle is not good for the caps since they are in a constantly charged state.
(2) Others claim that leaving a unit unused in a box for years also shortens the life of the caps, as they never see a charge.
(3) Others say the lifespan is the same whether on the shelf, or in the unit.
Who has the technical background or the knowledge to sort this out?