Tweakers' Asylum: REVIEW: IXYS DSEP 9-06CR Rectifier Other by Todd Krieger

Model:	DSEP 9-06CR Rectifier
Category:	Other
Suggested Retail Price:	$7.00
Description:	9A 600V Solid State Rectifier
Manufacturer URL:	IXYS
Manufacturer URL:	IXYS

Review by Todd Krieger on November 06, 2001 at 20:30:11
IP Address: 208.176.169.186

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This solid state rectifier is a step ahead of IR/IXYS HEXFREDs and Harris UltraFast FRED rectifiers. They emit less RFI, largely responsible for the "solid state" character in solid state (and even some tube) equipment. The IXYS HiPerFRED chokes off less current than other solid-state rectifiers, which allows a more linear response and improved loud-end dynamics. The low RFI generation improves one's ability to pick out ambience cues and inner textures in the music. The end result is improved musicality, and another barrier removed from the tube vs. solid-state musicality gap.
The only drawbacks of these rectifiers are availability and size. The large ISOPLUS 247 case may pose a problem in tight installations, and the thick pins will have to be whittled down if it is to replace smaller devices.
Also note that the HiPerFRED models to look for have "Silicon chip on Direct-Copper-Bond substrate" mentioned on the .PDF data sheets. Otherwise the rectifier is a re-badged HEXFRED, which has a slower recovery time and higher internal impedance/capacitance than the newer HiPerFRED. The package I picked is the smallest available with the newer technology, at this time, that can be soldered into existing circuits. Even though the diodes themselves may require physical modification.
I've modified a G&D UTP-1 CD transport and BRB 10 preamp (phono stage) with these HiPerFRED rectifiers. Replacing HEXFREDS in the UTP-1, replacing Harris UltraFast in the BRB. Both devices were cleaner at the top end, and the dynamics are near state-of-the-art.
The IXYS HiPerFRED may breathe new life into older solid-state equipment, and could be a low-cost alternative to all-out component replacement. A product that is capable of improving a plethora of solid-state-rectified equipment.

Product Weakness: Size. The ISOPLUS 247 package will require paring the pins for some PCB applications. They do require 48 hours of break-in. Some other HiPerFRED models are re-badged HEXFREDs.
Product Strengths: A breakthrough solid-state rectifier which emits less RFI than HEXFREDS, and imparts a less "solid-state" sonic character on the components installed in. The 600V 9A rectifier is suitable for just about any application, except for ultra-high B+ tube circuits.

Associated Equipment for this Review:
Amplifier:	Symfonia Opus 10
Preamplifier (or None if Integrated):	Supratek Syrah, BRB 10
Sources (CDP/Turntable):	AR TT/MMT/Accuphase AC-2 analog - G&D UTP-1/Prism DA-1 digital
Speakers:	Von Schweikert Audio VR4.5 Mod 5
Cables/Interconnects:	Silverline Audio, Belden 88281
Music Used (Genre/Selections):	Everything
Room Size (LxWxH):	19' x 16' x Vaulted
Room Comments/Treatments:	None
Time Period/Length of Audition:	1 Week
Other (Power Conditioner etc.):	TrippLite, BrickWall, Bybee
Type of Audition/Review:	Product Owner

Product Weakness:	Size. The ISOPLUS 247 package will require paring the pins for some PCB applications. They do require 48 hours of break-in. Some other HiPerFRED models are re-badged HEXFREDs.
Product Strengths:	A breakthrough solid-state rectifier which emits less RFI than HEXFREDS, and imparts a less "solid-state" sonic character on the components installed in. The 600V 9A rectifier is suitable for just about any application, except for ultra-high B+ tube circuits.