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Post by ztwang on Jan 30, 2022 10:30:08 GMT -7
Hey there everybody, I'am new to the forums and don't know a lot about how tube amps work. I own a bunch and PLAY them (I'am a full-time musician) but I don't know a lot about how they work in general. A topic that I've been wondering about for quite a bit: Apart from protecting the amp, does a fuse (especially from different manufacturers) actually make a difference in sound? How do I know a fuse is faulty as I never had that happen to me? Is it possible for the fuse cap to not be completely latched and therefore causing the amp to malfunction? If so, how do I know? I know all of these questions sound stupid and are probably obsolete at the end of the day when the amp is working fine but I'am still curious as I want to learn more about tube amps. All answers are much appreciated!
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Post by Don A on Jan 30, 2022 10:44:25 GMT -7
Fuses do not affect sound.
If the fuse passes current (the amp comes on), it is not faulty. You'll know if if the fuse blows, and it's seldom because the fuse was faulty or there was a power issue. Sometimes a fuse can blow due to a momentary issue with the amp and you can simply replace the fuse and continue playing (though the amp should be looked at by a tech), but it's usually a power tube, filter cap, or other component that causes a fuse to blow.
If the fuse cap is not completely latched, it is likely that the fuse and cap will fall out and the amp won't come on.
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Post by LT on Jan 31, 2022 7:32:58 GMT -7
Also.....don't buy just any fuse(s). In addition to the correct value (2A, 2.5A, etc) our amps use Slow Blow fuses. These are generally not the ones you can buy at Home Depot. Electronics outlets are where I buy fuses (Mouser is a good one)
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Post by KeithA on Jan 31, 2022 7:57:59 GMT -7
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Post by Chilly Gibbons (Todd T.) on Jan 31, 2022 8:53:31 GMT -7
Oh my God, just wow. And they even suggest a break-in period 😂😂
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Post by dcarver on Jan 31, 2022 12:36:23 GMT -7
Holy Cow ! They are directional too. Great, I've probably been putting my fuses in bassackwards for years. Hi Ztwang. Welcome to the forum. I don't believe fuses affect sound quality in any way that my old ears could tell. Up at the top of the page in the header you will see a link to Z Tube. This is Doc's youtube channel where he has compiled a vast storehouse of tube amp info. One of the best ones to start with is Doc's Troubleshooting video. He talks about fuses at the beginning. Yearly Amp Maintenance is another must see video.
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