is there an easy way to explain the numbers on "caps"

[guf]

From my reading here, in addition to having great solder joints, its likely to hear improvements (or change) if i change the caps. I have a Quickie, Crack, and SEX. I sometimes read people say "i had these laying around so i threw them into my .....  " Now When reading the quickie upgrade thread i could just copy exactly what someone got but i'm trying to understand and hopefully order the right ones. Also if i'm ordering for the quicke i should possible try to get something for the other amps.

these seem like the most important numbers or values (from quickie)

2.2 uf  630vdc  (are replacing the 2.2 uf 250v)

thanks!

 

[Paul Birkeland]

Unfortunately, it's a little more complicated than that (sometimes).

We'll take the SEX as a partial example -
The 0.1uF coupling caps really should stay at 0.1uF, with voltage being at least 400V.
The 1.5uF parafeed caps could be 0.75uF to 5uF if you wanted, with at least a 600V rating.

In the Quickie, the high voltage supply is 36V, so restricting your shopping to 630V caps will make your job tough.  (The stock caps are 250V rated)  Additionally, the impedance loading the output of the Quickie may let you get away with less capacitance.

 

[adamct]

Just to supplement what Paul wrote: going with the same capacitance rating as the stock cap, and a voltage rating that is equal to or greater than the stock cap, will never be wrong. You can always do that safely.

But depending on the amp and the caps, you may be able to use caps that are slightly different from the stock caps as well. This may mean that you can use caps with a capacitance within a certain range, or you may be able to use caps with a lower voltage rating than the stock caps. Don't do this unless you are sure it is OK.

Best regards,
Adam

 

[guf]

this is what i ordered, a couple caps for the quickie, and two sets to try out on the sex. Did i order right?

 

[adamct]

Sure, as long as your wallet can handle it!

I would be VERY interested in your thoughts on the ClarityCap ESAs vs. the Mundorf Supremes...

And let us know what you think of the MR caps...so tempting!

Best regards,
Adam

 

[adamct]

One more thing as long as you are trigger happy...

Consider sticking to just one set of caps for the S.E.X., and go for a set of high capacitance caps for the Quickie. The stock 1,000 uf (or 1,500uf? I forget) caps can be replaced with film caps that are as low as 56uf or so. Madisound is (or was recently) selling 100uf ClarityCap SA (not ESA) 630V caps for $40 each. They usually sell for over $80. That is what I have in my Quickie. But be warned: they are BIG!

 

[earwaxxer]

Another thing to keep in mind when spending large bucks on caps... They can be used in other applications. You may decide to hack your speaker crossover for example. Good caps are multi talented when you learn how to use them. And, the values used in particular applications usually have some leeway. To know what that is, you have to do your homework.