Chris
pfm Member
When I was advised to change my Sugden A21SE output caps due to swollen tops, I was pointed towards some 10,000uF Panasonics 105º to replace the 65v 10,000 uF Eurocaps that my A21SE had fitted from new. I had to order the Panasonics so while I was waiting I fitted some 10,000uF Samwha caps that I picked up from a "corner" shop just down the street from me, here in the Canaries. I was suitably ridiculed on here for fitting such cheapo 2-3 euro mediocre stuff but as they were a stopgap and I never really expected wonderful results I never even gave them a chance using them for a few listening hours until the Panasonics arrived and were fitted.
End of Story.
Until the A21SE Signature came out with tales of improved sound due to certain low impedance components having been fitted from factory, amid great secrecy. I have never been able to ascertain what else was done to improve on the original A21SE, neither have I ever come across a back to back comparison review.
The other day I came across photos of the "Signature" insides and although I am technically incapable of recognising any possible changes between its PCbs and mine, I can read - you guessed it, it uses Samwha 10,000 uF caps. On investigating a bit, I see that both Naim and Rega are supposed to use them, too.
This is not meant as any sort of criticism of any of the aforementioned firms, but rather a criticism of fools like myself for believing that "boutique" parts will make for a better sound. Not that the Panasonics can be considered as such ( they probably cost twice what the Samwhas) but I remember considering buying much more expensive makes at the time and only the sensible advice I was given stopped me from going OTT
End of Story.
Until the A21SE Signature came out with tales of improved sound due to certain low impedance components having been fitted from factory, amid great secrecy. I have never been able to ascertain what else was done to improve on the original A21SE, neither have I ever come across a back to back comparison review.
The other day I came across photos of the "Signature" insides and although I am technically incapable of recognising any possible changes between its PCbs and mine, I can read - you guessed it, it uses Samwha 10,000 uF caps. On investigating a bit, I see that both Naim and Rega are supposed to use them, too.
This is not meant as any sort of criticism of any of the aforementioned firms, but rather a criticism of fools like myself for believing that "boutique" parts will make for a better sound. Not that the Panasonics can be considered as such ( they probably cost twice what the Samwhas) but I remember considering buying much more expensive makes at the time and only the sensible advice I was given stopped me from going OTT
