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Well I did It! I managed to damage my phono pre-am (sigh)

So, I managed to damage my SimAudio Moon 110lp v2!

I am embarrassed to even be posting all this but whatever, perhaps someone could learn from my mistakes.

Recently I had made a post asking for feedback on Tube Phono Stages as I have been pondering about upgrading.

But I also wanted to see if I could perhaps squeeze out more performance out of the SimAudio and hence I also inquire about SUT's and what they can do.

One other aspect that I thought may improve the performance was getting a LPS.

So, I purchased the Ifi LPS as I had read good reviews of it (that unit is fine by that way). 

My SimAudio is 24vdc and I bought the Ifi 24v 2.5amp, thinking that would be the correct LPS.

It was delivered and I unplugged everything from the SimAudio.

The Ifi comes with different plug adapters but the default plug, plugged right in and I thought great, I won't have to use the adapters.

Plugged everything in and the SimAudio blue light came on but no sound!

Pugged the SimAudio back to its power adapter and all sounded fine.

Then I though, well maybe I do need to use one of the adapters and tried the correct one and same result, no sound. 

Went back to the default plug and then the blue light was flashing on the Sim and just a few seconds later, a puff of white smoke!

Unplugged everything immediately but knew right away the Sim was done for.

No other damage, the Ifi is fine and I will be returning that.

But my little SimAudio is no more.

Damn! I really liked that unit and was going to keep that around for a 2ndary system.

I feel horrible. At least it's not a terribly expensive unit but I just feel like crap about the situation.

Now for sure, I am going to have to get a new Phono Stage.

I just don't understand what went wrong, power wise, I thought for sure I was getting the correct unit.

Well, I'm just ranting here and getting it out as only you guys will understand.

Thanks for listening.

Jay 

 

jay73
corelli
1,167 posts
 

Based on a quick AI search, I suspect you suffered a polarity reversal.

 

Based on typical iFi power supply specifications, it is highly probable that the polarity was reversed if the iFi LPS (Linear Power Supply) damaged a Simaudio 100LP.

  • iFi Power Supply Polarity: iFi power supplies are often "center-positive" by default.
  • Simaudio 100LP Requirements: Simaudio gear typically requires a center-negative DC barrel connector, which is the standard for most consumer audio electronics.
  • The Damage Mechanism: Using a center-positive supply (iFi) on a center-negative device (Simaudio) forces current to flow in reverse through the protective diodes. If the device lacks sufficient reverse polarity protection, this results in a short circuit, causing rapid overheating, blown components, and damage to the unit. 

    RedditReddit +2

Conclusion: The iFi LPS likely sent positive voltage to the ground plane of the Simaudio 100LP, causing the damage. While iFi provides tip-swapping adapters, using the wrong polarity will destroy electronics. 

Dang it.  Most all of us have been there.

ghdprentice's avatar
ghdprentice
9,398 posts
 

My condolences. Sounds like something I would do. I’m not the best at reading instructions. 

I bought the power supply upgrade to my Sim Moon CD Player 650D. But it was the Sim Moon 820s power supply so, it was made for it, no options. . 

elliottbnewcombjr
7,696 posts
 

Sad, BUT

you said it wasn't that expensive. after you get your new choice, you might/will be glad you fried it!

audphile1's avatar
audphile1
7,826 posts
 

Sorry to hear. I don’t believe in aftermarket power supplies as an improvement. I look at them as risk and a total waste of money for the most part. If you want better power supply, buy a component that includes it. Good news is you can get a better phono stage now

jay73's avatar
jay73 OP
246 posts
 

Thanks Guys for the positive remarks.

@tablejockey 

I did reach out to SimAudio to see if there is an option to have it repaired.

I'll see what they say. Even when I get a new phono stage, if I can have this one repaired, I'd like to do that. 

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