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Audiophile Grade Fuses

99.137.6.87
Posted on July 9, 2014 at 13:41:15
el34eh@yahoo.com
Audiophile

Posts: 1933
Location: Michigan
Joined: September 6, 2003
 Hi fellow music lovers,

As I'm in the process of voicing/finalizing my system, as I've researched all of the other tweaks in which to build upon a systems foundation as preached by Roy Gregory back in 2000 in an article he began in Hi-Fi + and continues to discuss to this very day in his writings on the E-zine called the Audio Beat.

Through the assistance of a few well known tweakers here, namely Duster and Unclestu, I've found my way through the different sonics of metal alloys as used in RCA Plugs - Binding Post - AC and IEC Sockets - Isolation Feet/Devices/Platforms - Audio Rack/Speaker Stands as well as Speaker/Stand Intefacing Devices, and have reached that point in my life's journey - where it has reached its end, as far as components go - I'm the happiest I've been with a system in 34 years at this hobby, and know that in my heart, my system is good enough to not want to change a single item, less it fars apart and I've to start all over again.

I'm looking into fuses for said components - and have narrowed my search down to say 4 brands, like AMR Gold Fuses - Audio Horizon Platinum Reference - Audio Magic Nano - Synergistic Research Quantum Red fuses.

Yet I know that in some ( if not most ) cases said fuses are viewed like our systems, as subjective at best, but I'm also one of those sorts that believe that most things as they relate to audio can be generalized within certain categories like say as we do with the sonic signatures of tubes - cabling looms or cartridges for that matter - I'm trying to avoid wasting funds where I don't have to, hence my asking for your assistance here - I'm looking for a sound that's organic in nature, with a sense of purity/tonality/texture and truer sense of timbre and pitch relationship as they relate to the musical instruments/notes themselves - I'm not into overly etched highs that I see/hear as a fake sense of detail at the expense of beauty or truthfulness - and prefer a more neutral approach which offers shimming highs - open and spacious midrange texture - accurate bass notes that can be heard/felt, but above all naturally balanced top to bottom.

I'm merely trying to get a feel for what you guys have heard?, and can assist me in narrowing this quest to say maybe two of the strongest options listed above, I don't mind spending upwards of $140 for said Audio Horizon Platinum Refernce seeming that my integrated retailed for $3.600, and in my mind deserve a small investment that's well worth it, if it will in fact enhance my listening sessions for the better.

There are a few reviews here and there on each of these fuses, but I tend to trust the opinions of people whom have actually taken the time to purchase and listen to said items for themselves - after all whom should we trust more then fellow music lovers, as well as consumers whom put their funds where their mouths are sort to speak. So, can you guys come together as a collective whole and see me through this?, as I'm so eager to get off the bandwagon as far as chasing components or the illusion of the absolute sound goes, I'd much rather spend whatever time I've left on the planet enjoying my music collection through a system that has taken me five years to figure out how to get the best out off each/every component, and just want to stop the madness and chill.

I'm open-minded enough to hear what each of you've to say, so by all means - shall we proceed!.

Thanks in advance to those of you willing to come to my assistance on what I see as my final phase of this life long journey - that has run it course and ends here.

Regards,
O_o scar

 

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RE: Audiophile Grade Fuses, posted on June 9, 2015 at 17:38:22
rockanroller
Audiophile

Posts: 84
Location: ohio
Joined: March 29, 2015
 Hello .
After reading all those comments and reviews, I think I am going to upgrade the fuse on my CD player which is a Sony CDP 707 ESD ,made in 1988 . If I read correctly, and i use gold fuses versus silver, it will be a warmer sound.
Question: will it make a difference on a vintage cd player?
Thank you .

 

RE: Audiophile Grade Fuses, posted on April 12, 2015 at 06:41:35
aupiho
Audiophile

Posts: 199
Location: south france
Joined: February 28, 2015
 Hi,

Maybe not the best but withour any doubt the best ratio price/quality:

Create audio fuse

 

RE: Audiophile Grade Fuses, posted on April 12, 2015 at 06:44:00
aupiho
Audiophile

Posts: 199
Location: south france
Joined: February 28, 2015
 I've got 1 in my CDP and the other in the tube amp and I'm happy with them:
they bring life to the music wich is more 3D.

Another review

 

RE: Audiophile Grade Fuses, posted on July 23, 2014 at 08:23:27
el34eh@yahoo.com
Audiophile

Posts: 1933
Location: Michigan
Joined: September 6, 2003

Here's an update on the Fuses, as from a letter sent to a bubbly of mine a few minutes ago.

And as the old adage goes - " YMMV ", but I hear what I hear, and trust what I hear.

Here's said letter word per word:


Brotha B,

I've been up since 7:13am and decided to drag my behind out to the living room for a brief listen, that turned into over three hours now, as I wanted to get a feel for the fuses I've in.

Well so far I absolutely love three of them so far, the Audio Horizon Platinum Reference - Audio Magic Super and Synergistic Research Quantum Red, over the Furutech and Hi-Fi Tuning, as each has a more neutral, yet spacious presentation that's hand to describe - but instruments take on a cleaner/quieter backdrop where little subtle clues like how a drummer taps lightly on the snare or cymbals and it's as if you can actually count the number of times he has stuck both, rim shots linger on and on for what appears like a minute afterwards, the highs shimmer as if ascending towards the very heavens with a sense of delicacy that has to be heard/felt to be believed.

There's a greater sense that timbre and tonality are even more truer to the source then what I've grown accustomed to with the fuse each replaced which happens to be an SR sr20 Quantum Fuse, which was extremely musical, but the others are on a totally different level scale wise - the music takes on a life of its own, as if freed from the confines of being held back for to long, and have been released to explore the greater reaches of the unknown - subtle piano shading take on new life, and I can hear more easily into each finger strike/bend with a greater emphasis on pitch and timing if you will.

Bass definition is on another plane all together, as it seems as if my little speakers have grown an 8" woofer overnight - how I'm hearing rumbling below one note that gradually seems to extend to one ever lower ( if that makes any sense? ), more importantly the pitch is spot on, and highlighted as a veil has been removed from the baffle of the speakers themselves, and allows the amp to play much louder at lower volume settings where as before, I had to approach say 9:00 on the knob to find a common threshold where each musician seemed to lock in as far as dynamic range went - now I'm hearing further into what seems like a hold dug about 10' into the ground, yet there's something flowing about the surface at about 3' which scares the shit out of me.

In the end, it seems as if the timing has been released and now each individual note has it's place in time as well as serves a purpose to the very fiber of the artist craft that seemed hidden just below the very surface of the notes, yet disjointed in a manner that one doesn't hear, until one hears what has been missed or glossed over to begin with, everything appears more calm as well as peaceful in a manner that relaxes ones body and mind state all at once, it's hard to explain, yet it's happening right before my eyes/eyes as the musicians are more evenly spread across the soundstage separated by what appears to be layers upon layers of new found drive or better put, a sense of freedom.

At this moment, the Audio Horizon and Audio Magic are maybe 28% more involving in away that comes across as more " natural ", while the SR Quantum Red, strikes me as a great sounding fuse on its own merits, but compared to the slightly more costlier fuses, it's not a grounded/refined in that area that draws one closer to the musical messages hidden directly beneath the very surface of musical bliss.

Weird shit, but the truth, and for those whom don't believe " that everything in audio makes a difference " be damned, I'm relying upon what my mind/body/ears/senses tell me sounds
" right ".

I intend to post this on both AA and AS for those whom might be interested in said findings, Brotha B, all this and more from fuses that cost a mere $90 - $115, shit.........., that can't buy a nice pair of desirable NOS Tubes to my mind, I'm reaching a place where many simply aren't open-minded enough to approach - it's called " Enlightenment ".

Later little Brotha.

 

RE: Audiophile Grade Fuses, posted on March 5, 2017 at 21:51:25
August West
Audiophile

Posts: 59
Location: California
Joined: March 15, 2006
 I've tried HiFi Tuning Supreme, HiFi Tuning Gold, Isoclean, Furutech, AMR, and a couple of other brands. Can't get myself to try Synergistic Research because of a very bad experience with another of their products - there are some companies I just won't patronize.

In my amplifiers, HiFi Tuning Gold sound much better than HiFi Tuning Supreme. The Supreme sounds good at first until I realize that the smoothness comes at the expense of attenuated bass and smearing together of sound in general. Harmony vocals are not as distinct, guitar and piano sound thin, and the bass sounds tight but lacks proper weight. That's with both a pair of tube 120 Watt monoblocks and a lower power (25-30 Watt) stereo tube amps.

I was very pleased to snatch up a supply of the HiFi Tuning Gold for each of my amps on closeout for $12.50 each.
- If you get confused, listen to the music play (Garcia/Hunter)

 

RE: Audiophile Grade Fuses, posted on July 24, 2014 at 20:59:28
ionman
Audiophile

Posts: 61
Location: Arizona
Joined: September 15, 2010
 Hello, I currently use Hifi Tuning Gold fuses in all of my stereo equipment that includes a B&K AVR505 Receiver, Belles 350A Reference Amplifier, Theta Digital Compli Universal Player, and Audio Research DAC7.

A few months ago I had been reading a lot of positive reviews of the Audio Horizons Platinum fuse, so I had one sent to me for an audition. The only fuse rating that Audio Horizons had in stock to audition was a fuse for the Theta Universal Player, so when the AH fuse arrived I removed the Hifi Tuning fuse from the Theta Compli and installed the AH Platinum fuse. After auditioning the fuse for a few days my impression was that the fuse somehow changed the timbre of the music. It was as if there was an artificial sheen that was applied to the music that I did not care for at all. Also, the bass became flabby and a lot less articulate than with the Hifi Tuning fuse. I left the AH fuse in the Theta for a full week thinking that it must need more time to burn in (that was one very long week!), but it never got any better and I just wanted to go back to listening to music again (and enjoying it) so I remove the AH fuse and reinstalled the Hifi Tuning Gold fuse and the music bliss returned. I returned the AH fuse within the audition period.

I didn't really understand all the positive reviews surrounding the AH fuse, but perhaps it just didn't work well in the Theta Player. Maybe it would be better in an amp. Any thoughts?

-Ionman
"An ounce of perception, a pound of obscure." - Neil Peart

 

RE: Audiophile Grade Fuses, posted on July 25, 2014 at 04:18:01
el34eh@yahoo.com
Audiophile

Posts: 1933
Location: Michigan
Joined: September 6, 2003
Good morning ionman,

Thanks for taking the time to share your experience between the Hi-Fi Tuning and AH fuses, as it seems that in a lot of cases, it might come down to a matter of the systems overall sonic flavor if you will, while some components require more air/sparkle added at the very top end to enhance detailing properties, while others might need a warmer hue, while a few otters might yet - be better off with something more neutral.

I more or less see this factor as I hear/feel how tubes or cabling looms address the different needs of our respective systems as well, like many whom tend to migrate towards the use of Telefunken tubes to add a sense of awakening a somewhat reserved or sluggish component that otherwise glosses over the musical information to much to be enjoyed - while the opposite is needed for components that are a tad overly bright and/or slightly on the analytical side of the audio spectrum, and needs to be toned down - here is where certain British designed tubes come into play from the likes of Mullard - Brimar or original versions of Osram/GEC/Genalex offer what I often refer to as a more human effect to the sound, making things appear more pleasant in nature.

I'm primarily using these fuses in a tube based integrated amp, which I've taken the time to understand its sound, then through demos over the last 2 years, found a pure copper based speaker cable brand/line that worked perfectly between it and my chosen Mini-Monitors in regards to a signature that fitted both, and working further upstream at the source end, in adding a hybrid ( CU/AG ) IC from this same line that added more air/sparkle/attacking on notes in the higher frequencies, as a means of highlighting nunances hidden when it came to piano notes lingering in time as well as properly extended cymbal decay that can be both heard/felt as if they are floating towards the ceiling of the listening area, yet with every little strike put into its proper position across the sound stage/field in such a realistic manner, it draws me deeper into its void.

I guess in hindsight, like most things audio related, this is system dependant as well, so as I view/hear it, there aren't any right or wrongs, in so much as what our system and ears wish to hear that fits both of the requirements down to a " T ".

But as mentioned earlier on, someone else spoke of their fondness towards the HI-Fi Tuning Supreme, and how with both of your endorsements - I shall take both seriously enough to add it to my list of next two purchase, as one never knows what works best in any given system?, unless one is willing to listen more in-depth to said devices to begin with!, but in my mind it's enough to cause me a reason to continue the quest, because at these low prices
( to me, compared to what's invested into ones system that is ) makes it all the more worthwhile from a musical standpoint to investigate even further.

Thanks again for chiming in ionman, and now for something on a different matter.

I'd like to apologize for allowing several posters here get under my skin, and somewhat over reacted with some rather bitter words, which are part of who I am ( raw but real ) but shouldn't been written/spoken out loud if you will, but in the world/neighborhood I grew up in, it was always better to bite ones tongue if they weren't capable of saying anything nice, so I'd rather put that out there to the guys whom seem as if they're always on a negative vibe, trying to rain on someone's parade, once again, I see life as it should be - live and let live, but don't for one second think out the box thinkers should follow your lead, as some ( hopefully most of us? ) can more or less find our own paths with a little bite of assistances here and there, from those whom are willing to share their " truths " instead of misguided anger.

" As I see it dogs and wolves are followers, while men are more then capable of standing alone, if need be, in other words, a follower I am not ".

The quest continues............

Regards,
O_o scar

 

RE: Audiophile Grade Fuses, posted on July 25, 2014 at 09:47:33
Ubiquitous Biscuit
Audiophile

Posts: 141
Joined: November 2, 2013
 How can a fuse ADD more air/ sparkle?

 

RE: Audiophile Grade Fuses, posted on July 26, 2014 at 14:50:13
ionman
Audiophile

Posts: 61
Location: Arizona
Joined: September 15, 2010
 Hi Ubiquitous Biscuit,

I believe that a audiophile grade fuse can act in a couple ways in order to alter the sound of a stereo component/system or impart a particular sonic signature. The first way a fuse can alter the sound is by "Addition by subtraction". Think of the fuse as a type of filter or choke. If the fuse allows the component to perform better by reducing the filter or opening up the choke then the component can perform at a higher level. This is realized by a reduction of noise in the component or a lowering of the noise floor (i.e. blacker background), so to speak. If there is less noise in the compoenent then you will notice more air/space between instruments and there will be more resolution to the sound. The sound may even become more relaxed and natural.

The other way a fuse can impart a sonic signature to the sound would be from the materials that it is made from. I tend to lean toward copper mainly for my interconnects as I find it to offer a more natural/organic sound compared to silver, which adds speed and detail to the sound but may sound a little lean and sterile. I believe the Hifi Tuning Fuses use a silver wire, which should impart a very detailed but leaner sound. I do not find this to be the case, since the endcaps are coated with gold which tends to impart a warmer sound; therefore, you get the best of both.

These audiophile grade fuses are indeed expensive, but after having them in my system for the past few years there is no way I could be able to enjoy my system,at the level that I currently am, without them.

-Ionman
"An ounce of perception, a pound of obscure." - Neil Peart

 

RE: Audiophile Grade Fuses, posted on July 25, 2014 at 09:52:34
el34eh@yahoo.com
Audiophile

Posts: 1933
Location: Michigan
Joined: September 6, 2003
The same way your mouth can obviously!, instead of asking weird questions, why not try listening for yourself, and then you tell us, how about it genius.

 

RE: Audiophile Grade Fuses, posted on July 25, 2014 at 13:01:23
Ubiquitous Biscuit
Audiophile

Posts: 141
Joined: November 2, 2013
 You had mentioned that some components require more air/sparkle while referencing ion man's use of two different fuses. Are you implying that if your amp does not have the requisite air/sparkle, then the addition of one of the fuses will address this need? Does that mean that the current fuse is somehow inhibiting the inherent air/sparkle lying within, or does that mean that the component is neutral (and doesn't exhibit air/sparkle in the first place) and that the fuse will add air/sparkle?

I think this is a relevant question to the topic.

 

RE: Audiophile Grade Fuses, posted on July 25, 2014 at 13:26:36
el34eh@yahoo.com
Audiophile

Posts: 1933
Location: Michigan
Joined: September 6, 2003
 Okay, relevant point, so it deserves a response.

I was more or less referring to one system not so much as the fuses themselves that add a sense of air/sparkle per SE, but things like the metal plating in/on items like ones cabling - AC cord and even fuses to my mind alter the sound, as some would except the theory that gold plating general emphasizes the warmer side of the audio spectrum and is generally heard through the midband area, where as copper is more geared towards bringing a more neutral sound into the mix - by adding warmth, yet with a fuller/richer more pronounced weight that are concentrated between the upper midrange and lower bass extremes, metal plating like say Rhodium have a nice sense of adding extension at the top end with a little bit of refinement added, yet lacks drive/snap if you will.

While lastly silver plating/plated in one form are another tends to emphasize a greater sense of resolution and/or air/sparkle into the mix as far as upper frequencies go, but as always we hear differently, but I'm one that can hear the different frequencies affected by these alloys as presented by their sonic signatures on a whole, as someone mentioned earlier on about the caps being finished in either Silver - Rhodium or Gold, do in fact have an adverse effect on the outcome of what said fuses signature more or less hints at, based purely upon ones perspective of their known sounds as used in plating materials for said connectors or even the wiring harness within any given component - is altered by one selection of silver or copper wiring, but I'm not one for measurements or jargon and tend to voice things accordingly by ear, as they are capable of telling me if something sounds correct!, or if something's off/unnatural?.

It's merely a matter of what each of us then wants to hear?, it's all subjective at best, but where does safety guidelines or ratings have any effect on the outcome if one is merely seeking to gain a higher sense of fidelity or musicality through the use of said devices?, as cabling looms - power cords - isolation devices - tubes and cartridges have a sound of their own, and once introduced to one system, changes the sound/tonality/timbre/texture/pitch of the shading of the instruments themselves - in my mind everything that entered ones system changes the sound from dull/lifeless - neutral/transparent or finally aggressive/analytical as those are in fact the only three flavors/shadings of sound as rendered through our systems, it's merely a matter of which one, each of us then prefers and voice our systems accordingly.

Endgame.

 

RE: Audiophile Grade Fuses, posted on July 13, 2014 at 08:33:26
Ric
Audiophile

Posts: 364
Joined: October 14, 2001
 A few months back I was able to get a synergistic sr20 quantum fuse on ebay really cheap. It was less than the 500ma value for my Rega Apollo, but I used it anyway. As I was changing pc's it blew, probably because it was not the right value (200ma vs 500ma).
With it's absence I noticed the soundstage was not as open, the sense of space seemed more condensed, the highs and upper detail was not as present, and the bass was not as tuneful--all the things you would want in a tweak of this type. Now I am faced with shelling out $90 bucks for the upgraded version and that will be my next expenditure.
I had used some hi-fi tuning fuses in the past, but the SR fuse is so good I don't want to do without. Apparently there is a 30 day trial and shipping for a fuse is minimal so what have you got to lose?
I am a bit wary of getting fuses for my tube int. amp as if I lose a tube, the fuse goes with it, but if I had the money I'd replace all my fuses. I'm sold on the Synergistic. YMMV, Good luck!

 

RE: Audiophile Grade Fuses, posted on July 13, 2014 at 08:43:08
el34eh@yahoo.com
Audiophile

Posts: 1933
Location: Michigan
Joined: September 6, 2003
Good morning Ric,

Thanks for sharing your tale, as things stand I'm about to order the newer SR Quantum Red and Audio Magic Nano Fuses tomorrow - yet mine will in fact be tried out on an integrated amp, with said amps, it's best to gauge just how long your tubes have been used in them, and replace accordingly, you've tell tale signs they're weakening by the fact you've to incease the volume setting more.

I'm aware that it's vital to us the correct rating, or at least the next level up at best without causing to much stress on the item said fuses are going into, but I'm convinced that upgrading the fuses on any given component is in fact one of the cheapest enhancements that can be made to one system, so I'm all in.

Once again, thanks for caring enough to chime in.

Regards,
O_o scar

 

RE: Audiophile Grade Fuses, posted on July 13, 2014 at 10:16:53
Ric
Audiophile

Posts: 364
Joined: October 14, 2001
 Yes, let us know what your findings are. I'd be curious in a comparison between the older and newer SR fuses. Recently I'd read somewhere a person putting down SR for bumping up outrageous prices as "upgrades". The bottom line is that their products are innovative and they seem to work and work well. Thanks!

 

RE: Audiophile Grade Fuses, posted on July 13, 2014 at 10:22:14
el34eh@yahoo.com
Audiophile

Posts: 1933
Location: Michigan
Joined: September 6, 2003
Ric,

I most certainly shall report back, and as I've mentioned earlier, I don't see how people can pay thousands on a system, yet not want to invest in more important things like cabling loom that match their components, now isolation devices/platforms and the likes, but continue to cry about spending $90 - $400 on said devices/components.

Which to my mind being cheap on items that enhance, does not a system make.

Cheers,
O_oh

 

RE: Audiophile Grade Fuses, posted on July 13, 2014 at 10:41:25
Ric
Audiophile

Posts: 364
Joined: October 14, 2001
 Yes, I suppose for many audiophiles, their desire for tweaks, including cables, has the buck stopping there. The other end is a seemingly never ending process of tweaks and upgrades and/or getting the newest ala TAS. It is an expensive hobby, but for me I offset that by making my own Hallographs and SR Acoustic ART system. They may not work as well (or they may) but saving a few thousand dollars with audible benefits is a good thing!

 

RE: Audiophile Grade Fuses, posted on July 13, 2014 at 11:26:39
el34eh@yahoo.com
Audiophile

Posts: 1933
Location: Michigan
Joined: September 6, 2003
Ric,

Once again, I feel ya, it just seems to me that these same guys that aren't willing to be open-minded to tweaks are generally older guys whom own vintage gear and are content with using zip cord!, but you know what, I'd care less about their constant rants about snake oil or the likes, I hear what I hear.

Much like you, I use little room treatment devices like SR HFTs and have used/owned Acoustic System International Sugar Cubes, as well as products from Shun Mook, and know they work - like you, I've done the Oyaide Electric AC Outlet and Covers, and know tgey enhanced the cleaning properties of the power as heard from the outlets themselves - but as I've done enough tweaking for a lite time, having just gotten around to trying out little Noise Filters like Audioprism Quiet Lines - PS Audio Noise Harvesters - Isotek Systems Neoplug and finally adding what I hear as tge most effective one with the K Work Audio Silencers, I know that in my heart/mind, said end of my tweaks at approaching an end with these fuses, hence my interest to begin with, as one size doesn't fit all, I merely wanted to get a general ideal about their various flavors/tones.

But as they olde adage goes - hearing is believing, provided one can hear to begin with?, I should add.

Thanks again,
O_oh

 

RE: Audiophile Grade Fuses, posted on July 10, 2014 at 14:46:53
Mike B.
Audiophile

Posts: 26352
Location: OR
Joined: September 27, 1999
Contributor
  Since: September 1, 1999
 Mr. Smith gave you a great description of the sounds I associate with the plating. The warm and a bit attenuated sound comes from copper and gold. The more detailed and a bit colder is associate with silver and rhodium plate. I find this true with other connectors as well.


 

RE: Audiophile Grade Fuses, posted on July 10, 2014 at 15:02:34
el34eh@yahoo.com
Audiophile

Posts: 1933
Location: Michigan
Joined: September 6, 2003
Mike B,

Yes, he certainly did answer a lot of the questions I had about their differences in sound, that's for sure, another member here whom goes by Duster began teaching me the importance of the different characteristics of metal plating as far back as 2004, which I've used to this very day as far as exchanging RCA plugs/jacks on ICs as well as on my integrated and sources - the AC/IEC connectors on AC Cords or Inlet on the rear of said components as well, even matching banana plugs to the wires used inside of my chosen CRL Speaker Cables.

Yet, I'm still trying to get a feel for the sonics of those other 2 - 3 fuses, namely the Audio Magic ( which offers 2 versions ) as does Synergistic Research, as well as the Audio Horizon Platinum Reference which popped up several days ago here:

http://www.positive-feedback.com/Issue74/fuses.htm

And earlier here:

http://www.10audio.com/audio-horizons_platinum-ref-fuses.htm

I for one see this as a final phase in system building, as everything else has been optimized to function as a collective whole over the last 3 years, and as mentioned elsewhere - system wise, I'm very content with what's in place, but am seeking a means of just finalizing that last bit of attention to sonic detailing and be done with it.

Thanks for adding to the topic Mike, as there aren't any limits to knowledge, except when we ourselves have limited mind sets - so I'm always willing pick up on a new concepts as they relate to our shared passion that's audio, as well as in life itself.

Regards,
O_o scar

 

RE: Audiophile Grade Fuses, posted on July 10, 2014 at 08:40:31
el34eh@yahoo.com
Audiophile

Posts: 1933
Location: Michigan
Joined: September 6, 2003
Hi DrN,

I found it:

http://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?topic=105425.0

But in my mind, I've tried plenty of tweaks since 2004, and once again, am able to hear what each has done or didn't do?, in most cases it was an improvement to be made to the system whereas I don't need to second guess what I'm hearing, nor a second set of ears in doing so. I view some of these devices as means of tailoring the sound of ones system much like an EQ - in that if said person knows which direction they wish to change the fidelity of said systems!, can be easily done.

Case in point, someone own a rather aggressive/analytical sounding Source or Amp, yet would like to alter its presentation would in fact be better served by investing in a higher purity of copper cabling or by using some sort of tone wood to lessen this coloration and bring about a more refined/delicate balance.

All to often many users simply except what they own as is, and go about listening to it over the course of let's a few months, then find themselves placing it for sale and pursuing something different ( not always better, just different ) without taking into account first and foremost what's their sound!, as opposed to their buddies or neighbors whom don't have a clue what you like, and in the end whom are we trying to please with the presentation of our systems more so then ourselves - I've made the mistakes of selling off gear only to hear it later sounding much much much better then what it did when I owned it, and had to ask the question we should all be asking

" why? ".

We what I discovered as far back as 1996 was all to often most of us don't understand tweaks, and here I'm talking about tubes - cables - isolation feet that alter the sound of these components just enough to enhance what's already there - I for one tend to live with certain components that show promise more then others, as I tend to listen to its strengths, and build upon them versus focusing on their few weaknesses and then try to find ways of making those less obvious - it's just a matter of once again voicing something in a matter that suits ones taste/preferences instead of always pursuing the latest - greatest more expensive component merely for the sake of change, or a little bit more air/presence at the very top end, or a more liquid midrange or the ability to hear inside of a double bass cabinet - those in themselves are Hi-Fi attributes/effects and have very little if anything to do with musicality - as with the Americans fascination with bass response - to my logical way of thinking true bass much like tube power ratings cost a great deal of money, so when I hear speakers like YG Acoustics or Magico Technology Speakers, I'm very impressed with the bass range, as well as how the entire blending of top to bottom come across as well worth their asking prices, so when someone tells me their little cheap arse $3.000 - $6.700 floor standers are producing bass down to say 20Hz flat, I laugh my arse off, because I know these sort of cats don't understand the importance of timbre or pitch definition as they relate to said passages, to pressurize a room with wall to wall sound is one thing.

But to cover ones entire space with musicality that's accurately done is another - one mans bass is another's boom. I even starting to understand why some cats were pursuing items like super tweeters, it wasn't because they added a sense of air or upper treble purity or detail, no........., these guys were simply losing their hearing and were trying to compensate for said hearing lose by using these devices as well as silver cables or MC Cartridges with tipped up highs, yet it's all subjective at best, is it not?.

To me everything matters when it comes to getting the best from our systems, snake oil or not?, I'm a believer, and that's mostly because I can hear - and more importantly - trust what I do hear.

Just food for thought.

Regards,
O_o scar

 

Funny you should ask......., posted on July 9, 2014 at 16:48:59
Winston Smith
Audiophile

Posts: 1014
Location: PNW (summers) and Southern AZ (winters)
Joined: December 2, 2006
 ........ as I was just going to post on this very subject!

I recently compared the AMR Gold fuses (large 15A/250V Slo-Blo) to the HiFi Tuning Silver Star, the Furutech rhodium plated fuses, and the HiFi Tuning Supreme silver/gold fuses. The fuses were used in my modified Spectron Musician III, Mk 2 amplifiers.

Let's see if we can make this short and sweet, and if you need more info, e-mail and I'll be happy to help in any way I can.

AMR: VERY lush sounding, with wonderful mids. Highs are clearly rolled off in comparison to the other three fuses, but if your system is bright or HF tipped, these might be just the ticket. Again, mids to die for, but a tad fat and a little slow in the bass, and reduced highs. These fuses have gold plated ends, and gold (in my experience, at least) has the sonic signature just described. But what a great price compared to the others!

Furutech: Bright and VERY dynamic, fast and detailed. If your system is rolled off, these may be just right for you. A touch aggressive in my system (although, as always, YMMV), the detail and speed these fuses offer were simply fabulous on my subwoofers (which thankfully used the same value fuse for an easy swap.) On my subs the Furutech fuses really delivered the low frequency goods, with depth, speed, and punch, punch, punch. Highly recommended in that context, and where a brighter sonic character (along with speed and micro/macro details) is desirable. Not as cheap as the AMRs, but much less than the HiFi Tuning Supreme.

HiFi Tuning Silver Star: Very nicely balanced, but when compared to the HiFi Tuning Supreme will appear to be tending just a tad to the thinner side of things. These Silver Star fuses have superb detail, speed and openness, along with a beautiful midrange and very nice and accurate bass. Being 100% silver, these are simply wonderful for the highs (but again, that's my system), and for over a decade have been my fuse of choice. Not cheap, but basically right there, price-wise, with the Furutechs and many other high-end fuses.

HiFi Tuning Supreme Silver/Gold fuse: The best of the bunch IMHO, these fuses have the sweetest yet most accurate tonal balance, top-to-bottom that I have heard so far. Same for details and dynamics. Just a very nice fuse but pricey compared to the others listed. All in all, worth the price (again, IMHO.)

I have no experience with Synergistic Research fuses, but they get lots of good comments, so I suspect they are a superb fuse to consider as well. Not the most expensive, but not the cheapest, either.

Audio Magic makes very fine stuff (I own around 10 Pulse Gen Zx units and find them quite helpful), and I have been meaning to get some Nanos from Jerry (who's simply a great guy to work with), and the press I am reading says these may be the best of the bunch, while not exactly breaking the bank. Still, some folks balk at paying more than $60 for a 'simple' fuse, and who can blame them? These are definitely worth a look, no doubt. (If you try them, write a post with your findings, please.)

Not familiar with the Audio Horizons fuses, but hopefully others will be, and that they can offer you (and the rest of us) some guidance and opinions based on their experiences.

Whatever you decide on, let us know how they turn out for you, please.

Best of luck!

Cheers,

WS

 

RE: Funny you should ask......., posted on April 12, 2015 at 06:50:08
aupiho
Audiophile

Posts: 199
Location: south france
Joined: February 28, 2015
 Hi,

Furutech are Padis fuse which are cryo some people tested Padis and are very happy with them! And they are less costly!
I think I'll try them in my subwoofers as you said for the furus!

 

RE: Funny you should ask......., posted on July 9, 2014 at 17:52:33
el34eh@yahoo.com
Audiophile

Posts: 1933
Location: Michigan
Joined: September 6, 2003
Hi WS,

Now, there's the sort of response I was praying for, and a very insightful one at that. It seems you've touched bases upon many of the important factors I was looking to learn, yet I'll be saying your listing, and study it further later on this evening. But if I need to get more in-depth information on said topic?, you can best believe I'll be sending you an email.

Thanks Winston, this is very very very useful to say the least.

Cheers,
Oscar

 

RE: Audiophile Grade Fuses, posted on July 9, 2014 at 16:44:37
DrN
Audiophile

Posts: 366
Joined: January 31, 2014
 First and foremost do these expensive fuses protect your equipment?
That would be my consideration. I have no desire or have experience with these fuses. There is a discussion going on right now by designer Roger Majeski on another board. He states they are inadaquate to do the job especially on tube equipment. He has tested some samples and inspected the construction. So I would say caution is on order.

So let the opinions fly.

 

Roger generally knows what he's talking about, posted on July 10, 2014 at 09:32:14
Jay Buridan
Audiophile

Posts: 10273
Location: Michigan
Joined: January 21, 2004
 I wouldn't fool around with fuses that don't meet spec.

"Horse sense is the thing a horse has which keeps it from betting on people. "
― W.C. Fields

 

RE: Audiophile Grade Fuses, posted on July 9, 2014 at 17:47:31
el34eh@yahoo.com
Audiophile

Posts: 1933
Location: Michigan
Joined: September 6, 2003
DrN,

Thanks for taking the time to respond to this topic, and you've bought up a great question - I shall look up the post on the Music Reference forum and see what it's getting at?, yet I think that the designers of tube gear put them there for some sort of safety issues, but I think when one has gone through the trouble to get dedicated lines followed by better AC Outlets - Power Conditioner - Noise Surpressors and the likes, it's merely a matter of using the correct fuse rating for said amp ( or gear ) as well as what's intended to be used in any given country.

But we shall see where this leads.

Thanks again,
O_oh

 

Interesting......, posted on July 9, 2014 at 16:59:04
Winston Smith
Audiophile

Posts: 1014
Location: PNW (summers) and Southern AZ (winters)
Joined: December 2, 2006
 I have been using these audiophile fuses for more than a decade in all my gear with great results. They have uniformly protected my system without fail, including huge ARC tube amps. Sadly (or rather, thankfully) I have a collection of incredibly expensive dead fuses as mute testament to their effectiveness for their intended purpose.

They have never failed me yet.

Not aware of anyone else experiencing any problems with them, either.

But thanks for the post. It is something I will keep in mind and do some research on.

Caution is always advisable.

Cheers,

WS

 

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