@erik_squires , the preamp is also a 1W power amp, meant to drive 4ohm loads, thus the large cap value. It is the LTA MZ2. Since it was primarily designed as a smallish power amp or headphone amp, in preamp mode, it still likes to be loaded somewhat (between 50-100ohms). Mine is loaded at 100ohms. Therefore, I can easily get away with 1/10 of the stock cap value without an issue (a bulky film if possible). This is something I can look into if the electrolytic doesn't perk up.. The stock cap is not Panasonic FM. It is bluish-purple with a white negative stripe. It is a Matsushita ("M" logo), but I just assumed this was Panasonic.. maybe its not.