Determining current flow to install "audiophile" fuses.


There are 4 fuses in my Odyssey Stratos amp. I recently returned some AMR fuses because they rolled off the highs and lows a little too much for me. Mids were excellent though. Anyway, I'm getting ready to try the Hi-Fi Tuning Classic Gold fuses, as they are on clearance now for $10/ea. Are they any good? However, I have read that they are a directional fuse? Can anyone confirm this? If that is the case, does anyone know the current flow for the Odyssey Stratos? Or, does anyone know how figure out current flow by opening up the top and looking at the circuitry? 


jsbach1685

Showing 5 responses by gdnrbob

Hmm, I can't think fuses would be directional, but I could be wrong.
Certainly if they were, there would be markings showing which is way current should flow on the fuse. 
I have a McCormack Amp and they were very strong praising the Hifi Tuning Silver Star (also discontinued), but I think are a step up from the Gold's. There are some on Ebay being sold by Partsconnexion.
Well, I was the first to answer the OP and said I couldn't think of why a fuse could be directional.
Since then, I called McCormack (I own a DNA-1)and spoke at length with Pat, who said that I should try the fuses in both directions and see if there is a difference. (He did think there is a difference)..
I bought the last few Hifi Tuning Star Sapphires still available for the Power Mains.
To me, yes, there was a difference in sound, a significant change, mostly for the better.
So, after a few days, I will try reversing the fuse and will post my observations.
No, it won't be a scientific test, but I consider my audio system a pleasure/hobby.- Though it would be nice if there were a scientific explanation. 
My only gripe is that many of these companies are upgrading their fuses, AND then increasing prices to somewhat unreasonable amounts.-Perhaps that should go on another thread....
Okay, I switched the fuse direction today and am listening. Details at 11...

My bugaboo:
IF fuses are directional, AND manufacturers know this, 
Then, Why can't they tell us which way to orient the fuse for most musical reproduction? As I said earlier, Pat as SMc, said to try them one way and reverse them later and see what sounded better. To my feeble mind, if these things are directional, then you must know which way is best without needing to switch things around.
Thanks Almarg, your recommendations are always appreciated.
Power in NYS is pretty stable, so there is less difference than folks on the West Coast where I have been told line voltage varies considerably during the day (actually, it was told to me by SMc).
I actually listened to the system for 3 days with the fuses oriented in one direction, so I was sure I was hearing the changes of what I thought I heard. I am pretty analytic by nature and have a good memory for sound, if that makes sense. When I was sure of what I noticed, I then moved the fuse to the opposite direction. It was apparent that there was a difference in sound quality and it was very evident.
I will take your advice, though, and try reversing them using the same music, at the same loudness, etc. in order to be as non-judgemental as possible.
Though, I will say that, yes, fuses do change the color of the music. In my case, it was dramatic.
Phew, what a discourse...
I have to say I am on the side of Oregonpapa, I have no electrical engineering experience either, but I have to say switching to the Hifi Tuning fuses made a difference to the sound my stereo produce. I only bought the fuses on the recommendation from SMc, and because the model was being discontinued and was on sale.
Would I have bought an $80-100 dollar fuse? No Way!
Since there are many variables that could have affected the sound (even the contacts of the fuse), I can't say for sure if it did something on its' own.
But, for my old ears, it did change something, mostly for the better.
As for reversing fuses, I would like to do this, but am now working more than playing, so it has to wait. Also, I don't think I can make a scientific/unbiased report when I have to power down the amp, replace the fuse and restart everything-every little change adds another unknown to the equation.