Capacitors

[lduarte1973]

can I replace a polarized capacitor for a Bi-Polarized of the same value ?

 

[wakibaki]

Yes, but this is not a good idea in general terms. Bipolar caps are often back-to-back polar electrolytics in the same can, of all the types commonly used in the audio signal path electrolytics are the most problematic in terms of sound quality, and 2 back-to-back is just multiplying the possibility of problems. You can do it for a temporary fix, but get the right part for the long term.

w

 

[lduarte1973]

thanks !

 

[AndrewT]

why was the bi-polar specified?

They are more expensive and more bulky. There must be a good reason for using the bi-polar.

Simply putting in a polar electrolytic where a bipolar is required is not a safe idea.

 

[wakibaki]

I took the question to mean: can I use a bipolar where the original was a polar.

If the question is: can I use a polar where the original was a bipolar then the answer is no, as AndrewT points out.

Thanks, AndrewT, for clarifying this issue.

Sorry, I should have taken a bit more time over my reply.

w

 

[kevvywevvywoo]

Yes, you can, but most bipolars have a higher esr than the equivalent polarised cap and tend to be bigger physically. If it's used in a power supply it might not last long.
I would really just put the proper one in and save yourself the hassle.