Bypassing Power Tube Cathode Caps On SSE

[Davec113]

While I was putting together a list of parts to replace on my SSE after ~4-5 years of use I decided to order some extra film caps to bypass the power tube cathode caps. I chose the Vishay MKP1837 metalized polypropylene, .1 uF, 160V, $2.25/ea.

The result is a noticeable improvement. It sounds smoother and clearer, there is a harshness or graininess that disappeared allowing you to hear more detail in the music. It is moist noticeable in the high frequencies, there is a "sparkle" or "glare" that has been removed. It makes it sound less exciting on some tracks, but I am sure that what was eliminated was a distortion. It doesn't seem to have any affect on the overall character of the amp, tone and soundstage seem to be unaffected. I think it is a bit easier to listen to overall... I have Omega Super 5 XRS speakers, which are a 5" single drivers that can be very unforgiving if used with poor equipment, these speakers have no xovers and react strongly to changes.

I am thinking I will now have to do the same for the driver tube.

Hopefully within a few days I will get to the Hazen or CCE mod described in my other thread

[GanzerD]

Newbie here....
Am I correct that you are bypassing C12/C22? I am running it with CFB....Does this still apply?
TIA
Dave Ganzer

[Davec113]

Originally Posted by GanzerD

Newbie here....
Am I correct that you are bypassing C12/C22? I am running it with CFB....Does this still apply?
TIA
Dave Ganzer

Yes, it is C12/22. I don't think using CFB will matter.