I looked at the filter of the Wharfedale diamond 8.1 speakers and there are three electrolytic capacitors...... they are for the high-frequency filter. It seems to me that electrolytes in the speakers are not a good idea. Do you think it is worth replacing these capacitors with other types?.........Or trust wharfe engineers?
These speakers are only around 20 years old and the electrolytic capacitors will still be within specification.
Consequently, there is no urgent need to change the capacitors. They'll be good for at least another 20 years.
If Wharfedale has done its job right, the crossover will be tuned with the particular characteristics of electrolytic capacitors in mind, and changing them to film types could result in a new sound balance that may, or may not, be to your liking.
I would leave well enough alone.
EDIT: I read the speakers were released in 2001.
Consequently, there is no urgent need to change the capacitors. They'll be good for at least another 20 years.
If Wharfedale has done its job right, the crossover will be tuned with the particular characteristics of electrolytic capacitors in mind, and changing them to film types could result in a new sound balance that may, or may not, be to your liking.
I would leave well enough alone.
EDIT: I read the speakers were released in 2001.
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I have a pair of Diamond 7.2s in a second system. They were modestly-priced speakers. Electrolytic capacitors are consistent with the price point.
Ed
Ed
I have Wharfedale Programme 30D-6, one of the Diamond range. I tried using Welwyn Wirewound resistors and polypropylene caps but was surprised to find the originals sounded better in both cases. Electrolytics were non-polarised. I recommend leaving it exactly as it is. Counter intuitive maybe, but it was clear that the originals sounded better.