Periodic replacement of Audio Grade Fuses?


I just installed 2 Isoclean Power 24k gold fuses in a pair of Quicksilver mono amps. I am very happy with the results.

The card that came with the fuses stated "Fuses always carry high electric current thereby easily causing metal fatigue. This would then adversely alter the conductivity behavior of the fuse element and hence the performance of the equipment. Under normal conditions, Audio Grade Fuses should be replaced from every 6 to 12 months the longest."

I have had regular Buss fuses in my equipment for many years without need for replacement. It would seem that if the fuse element fatigues enough, that the fuse would blow or fail. At $50 a pop, this would add up. Seems that regular replacement is sales hype and would only benefit the fuse manufacturer. I am not electronically tech savvy.

Any thoughts on this?
Thanks.
hiendmuse

Showing 4 responses by mapman

Maybe they will offer a baker's dozen in the interest of providing better value to their customers?

I suppose science has its limits and a really good fuse can only be really good for a short time. Its a darn shame. I suppose if a good bottle of wine must be replaced frequently if partaken of why not fuses?
Its really not far fetched given the delicate structural nature of many fuses to think that any special sonic attributes that might be attributed to the fuse might change or not remain as new

Maybe newness of a fuse is a big factor in how it sounds?

Someone should investigate this. It won't be me though.
We tend to think of fuses in an almost binary sense, ie the circuit is closed or open depending on fuse state.

But fuses are resistive devices designed to essentially "burn out" at the right time. Heat is generated to various extents at all times by design to accomplish that goal as a result of resistance designed into the fuse . I suppose its very possible the heat alters the composition and electrical conductivity characteristics of the fuse element prior to "blowing" in a manner that might effect the sound as a result in changes in electrical properties at some point perhaps compared to "new".

I'd be willing to bet that this is perhaps a reason why some hear a difference when replacing an old fuse with a new one, especially an "audiophile" type fuse where one is perhaps tuned in and listening for a difference by design when making the change. Better electrical contacts at the fuse holder as a result of the replacement operation is likely another at least as significant as anything else. Some report "Better sound" replacing a fuse with even a fresh conventional fuse compared to some fancy fuses.

It's all about as clear as mud but this makes as much sense to me as any other theory or reason why different fuses might sound different.