madbeanpedals::forum

General => Open Discussion => Topic started by: shawnee on August 15, 2011, 11:38:02 AM

Title: Electrolytic caps
Post by: shawnee on August 15, 2011, 11:38:02 AM
Just wondering if you guys spend a little extra and buy audio grade electrolytic caps for your builds. Is there a sonic difference?
Title: Re: Electrolytic caps
Post by: gtr2 on August 15, 2011, 11:55:16 AM
I use the nichicon audio grades like this

http://www.mouser.com/ProductDetail/Nichicon/UKW1H100MDD/?qs=sGAEpiMZZMtZ1n0r9vR22e0BBN1kF1oiBKwxcee8ijk%3d

But I only put them where it would make a difference in the circuit.  For example, I don't use them in power supply areas of the circuit or where the cap is going to ground.  They really don't cost a whole lot more either.  Can I hear a difference?  I haven't compared similar circuits, but I like how they look lol.

Josh
Title: Re: Electrolytic caps
Post by: jimmybjj on August 15, 2011, 11:57:56 AM
First, I've never tried them(yet) but keep in mind most of the time electro's are not in the signal path most of the time so it wouldn't make a difference. That being said of of the guys that I respect around claim they can hear a difference when used in the signal path and thats good enough for me to give it a try eventually.

Edit: gtr2 replied while I was typing :) btw who is one of the guys I repect :)
Title: Re: Electrolytic caps
Post by: cjkbug on August 15, 2011, 01:30:13 PM
I've tested identicle circuits. with the nichicons. and noticed improved bass response. not a ton, but it's there. more than enough to justify the cost. I only wish I could find them in axial.
Title: Re: Electrolytic caps
Post by: bigmufffuzzwizz on August 15, 2011, 02:44:48 PM
I gotta stop being such a cheap-o and grab some of these. Honestly, for the extra buck you'd spend on them it's worth a try!
Title: Re: Electrolytic caps
Post by: Haberdasher on August 15, 2011, 03:00:38 PM
I've been using them here and there in pedals.  I'm another one who looks at the schematic to see where I think it might make a difference.  Usually where polarized caps go to ground (especially power filtering) I use cheap lelons, nichicons, etc.  Whatever mouser has a good deal on.

Honestly I haven't done any side by side comparisons to see if it matters.  It matters in my head though, so that means it sounds better.  ;)
Title: Re: Electrolytic caps
Post by: jimmybjj on August 15, 2011, 03:14:02 PM
Quote from: Haberdasher on August 15, 2011, 03:00:38 PMIt matters in my head though, so that means it sounds better.  ;)

I like that :) that may become my signature :)
Title: Re: Electrolytic caps
Post by: bigmufffuzzwizz on August 15, 2011, 05:57:03 PM
Quote from: Haberdasher on August 15, 2011, 03:00:38 PM
Honestly I haven't done any side by side comparisons to see if it matters.  It matters in my head though, so that means it sounds better.  ;)

That is what really matters!  :P
Title: Re: Electrolytic caps
Post by: shawnee on August 15, 2011, 11:54:49 PM
Thanks for the replies. I have to think using the "audio" grade nichicons are worth the extra dime (even if I won't be able to hear it).