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MP3 for AC noise suppression?

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In Reply to: RE: Avoid using, and replace all, Wima caps (wherever I find them). posted by spindrifter on May 01, 2010 at 21:05:44

I've experimented with several types of AC-rated (both X and Y) capacitors for noise suppression. The Wima MP3 (metallized paper) give far superior results to any other type or manufacturer I've tested. Rifa makes metallized paper suppression caps, but these give a harsh sonic result. Synthetic dielectric films all have strong sonic flavors that are obvious when removed.

While there may be better caps for sonic results, it is absolutely necessary in my view to use only caps rated for AC line exposure. The risk of fire is too great to do otherwise.

What caps do you find superior for AC noise suppression, and how do you load them with resistors?

Follow Ups:

RE: MP3 for AC noise suppression? - spindrifter 18:00:38 05/02/10 (2)
If that works best for you, stick with 'em, Al.

I haven't bothered going to great lengths regarding AC noise suppression options. Maybe I should, given your findings?

spindrifter
- Easy enough to find out. - Al Sekela 10:18:31 05/03/10 (1)
  It only takes some time to see if you have non-audio appliances that affect your audio system through RF noise. My revelation on this whole business came when a power surge killed our satellite receiver/DVR. The sound was much improved as long as we did not have one.
  
  The method is to listen carefully, turn off and unplug a candidate appliance, and listen again. Use a good recording, obviously, that will reveal treble and midrange problems.
  - If domestic appliance use necessitates or........ - spindrifter 02:44:27 05/04/10 (0)
    one lives in medium-high density housing. It helps that we live way out in the country (tranquil village of about 40 homes.)
    After using a few AC filter devices over many years, I decided to experiment by going back to basics. That is, no active/passive filtering between mains wall socket(s) and AC cable entry into audio components. I assembled an ultra-thick-copper-rail mains distribution board and invested in Cardas and Zu Audio mains cables.
    Inside some components I installed small-medium AC line chokes and improved RC networks on outputs. Also I modded components with optimal power rail and other filtering, but with minimal device count, plus shortest signal and DC path, allied to premium internal cabling. One theory is that RF/inductance is best squashed/quarantined nearest active devices.
    Also I've found that chassis-lined internal shielding can be most beneficial, having tried ERS and adhesive pure copper tape.
    What I've found where we live is that music dynamics, in particular, seem to have an unrestrained dimension which was not as pronounced with previous external active/passive mains filtering. I'll be sticking to this "unfettered" method now.
    Nonetheless, Al, I certainly agree that mains and other forms of unwelcome electrical/telecomms/wireless/extra-terrestrial interference are best avoided. They can affect audio performance drastically. Enjoy the music!
    spindrifter
    
    Edits: 05/04/10

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