HIFI TUNING – Ultimate ² – High-performance fuse – Gold Ceramic Silver

HE MISSING LINK OR THE FINAL TOUCH

As mentioned in the introduction to the brand (see bottom of page), we have finally found a manufacturer who has realized the importance of the fuse in the overall performance of high-fidelity components.

Indeed, what’s the point of investing a fortune in sublime devices, and then spending large sums of money on wiring and mains filtering, if it’s only to let the current pass through the most common and, more often than not, the most mediocre fuses?

Using a quality mains cable, or even the original one, only to let the supply current pass through a fuse, a simple tin wire inserted in an uninsulated capsule with average-quality contacts! A heresy for those who, like everyone else, want to get the best out of their audio investment!
Indeed, a standard fuse (costing €0.75 on average) is the weak link in the power supply chain, and limits, not dramatically but perceptibly, the potential of the product to which it is attached. The poor quality of its conductor, its lack of electrical and vibratory insulation, and its nickel ends have no impact on household appliances, tools or even computers. In audio we know that everything counts, the smallest component has an impact on what you hear, and the quest for neutrality requires components with the slightest impact, affixing the slightest signature and imposing the slightest limitation.

So now there’s a top-of-the-range alternative to this forgotten element, which is nevertheless present in every high-fidelity component except sometimes loudspeakers. The range of fuses we offer doesn’t feature any particular technological advances, but relies on common sense and first-rate components:

– First of all, the main conductor is made of pure silver, whose electrical qualities are well known. In this case, it’s not the audio signal it carries, but the supply current, so there’s no need to worry about any coloring, which wouldn’t be noticeable anyway.

– Then the fuse body is made of ceramic, which is more electrically insulating than the glass usually used in a fuse, but also more rigid and less sensitive to vibration.

– Finally, the end caps are made of pure silver, plated with copper and then 24K gold to ensure better contact and high electrical transfer.

– The entire fuse is subjected to a cryogenic process at -200°C.

It’s not much, we agree, but only audiophiles would want to start production of a component so useless to anyone else. The consequence of producing such a small quantity by hand is felt in the price, which is literally multiplied by 12! However, if you’re willing to trust us, we’re totally convinced that it’s worth it, and that many of you won’t regret spending that small sum on a fuse. In fact, it’s highly likely that you’ll want to equip all your components with one once you’ve appreciated the subtle but very real gain.

First, check the value of the fuse you wish to replace, which is engraved in small letters on one end of the fuse. The fuse can be found either in an external case accessible from the rear of the device, or inside, near the mains socket, by opening the device. Alternatively, you can consult the instruction manual or contact the distributor or manufacturer.

Size: 5 x 20mm. Please note that some fuses are larger and cannot be replaced by this model. If your fuse is larger (6.3 x 32mm) then you’ll find a version available on this site.

Tests and comments on the positive-feedback.com website => http://www.positive-feedback.com/Issue51/hifi_tuning.htm