Is the RK168 essentially the same as the RK163? And is the Alps Blue RK271 series superior in any way to the RK163 or RK168 in your experience as far as sonics, tracking, channel balance, longevity, etc.? The spec sheets indicate all 3 are equivalent but the RK271 is much larger and more expensive.
With identical inputs, the two (unloaded) wiper voltages will differ by some amount (an imbalance),
which can vary, through the range of rotation.
The error for the RK271 depends on the model and the power, it can be as good as <2dB
from 0dB to -60dB, for the 27mm size pot. That is excellent. Also it is sealed from the environment.
which can vary, through the range of rotation.
The error for the RK271 depends on the model and the power, it can be as good as <2dB
from 0dB to -60dB, for the 27mm size pot. That is excellent. Also it is sealed from the environment.
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Got it. Not concerned there. From exterior build, do you expect any worse performance over a long period of time (dust ingress, etc.) with the two cheaper series than the alps blue?
The open frame style pots will get dirt in them and have noise, and need to be sprayed with cleaner.
The sealed RK271 should remain quiet much longer. The price difference is not that much,
for such a critical part. But even the cheap Alps pots are still pretty good.
The sealed RK271 should remain quiet much longer. The price difference is not that much,
for such a critical part. But even the cheap Alps pots are still pretty good.
Hmm I found that my Cheap (20$) Chinese Dact 'clone' stepped attenuator type pot.... Far surpassed My Blue Pots in clarity and detail.. Detents are a nice advantage as well.
No measurements tho.. just ears. And yes I've tried my Blue boxes again, experimentally.. with same conclusions.
No measurements tho.. just ears. And yes I've tried my Blue boxes again, experimentally.. with same conclusions.
Yes, those are good, made with 1% resistors. They are only made with thick film resistors, though.
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