Aleph 3 safe to operate?
I've just found a Pass Aleph amplifier (6 of them actually) at an audio hoarder estate sale. It's a new in the box Aleph 3. Would it be safe to turn on without having to purchase a Variac first?
Also, I think I'd like to use it and another Aleph amp to power a pair of B&W 802 S2 with North Creek crossovers in a bi-wire configuration. If I use an Aleph 3 for the mids and highs what would the consensus be for the best amp to use for the bass drivers - I can choose from a pair of Aleph 0, an Aleph 0s, an Aleph 5 or another 3.
Also, I am currently using a Threshold Stasis 3 that was updated a number of years ago by Jon Soderberg and have been happily living with it and my North Creek Borealis' for a long time. Keep the Threshold or sub one of the aforementioned. I can't keep all of them per wife - DOH!
Thanks for your opinions
An Old Noob
This tech note from Würth Elektronik discusses oxide degradation in electrolytic caps over time. It is in no way exhaustive but a good starting point https://www.we-online.com/catalog/media/o467325v410%20SN019_EN_d.pdf Congratulations on your Aleph 5! Beautiful piece |
Caps need to have a little energy to keep them properly formed. I disconnected my Ayre MXR's when I was using my Atma's, when I plugged them back in, a cap blew. Thankfully, Ayre does a great job with repair. Also, charging a very reasonable price. Since then, they have been plugged in, on standby, until I use them. Bob |
I will likely sell at least a pair of Aleph 0. They both seem to be working fine, both reach temps in the high 120's after 4 to 5 hours of play. One has a ding in the top of the rear cooling fin (it looks like these can be flipped over so it wouldn't show). The serial numbers are 4009 and 4010. I'm leaning toward using an Aleph 0s and a 3 for my 802's. Still debating. That would leave me with an additional pair of Aleph 3. Have not checked out any of the 3's but the other amps are performing admirably as far as my ears can tell. |
