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Propeller Head Plaza Technical and scientific discussion of amps, cables and other topics. |
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Propeller Head Plaza Technical and scientific discussion of amps, cables and other topics. |
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In Reply to: How to put this... posted by real_jj on June 19, 2006 at 12:56:58:
I placed a 3M tube dampener on my volume control of my preamp. I did so only because they are a bitch to stretch out, and will return to the normal shape in a minute or so, so I figured placing it on my knob would allow me the time to assess the sound with and without the the dampener.
To my surprise, the sound was markedly improved with the dampener on the volume control (a blue alps pot). Further dissection and inquiry into this phenomena revealed an explanation. The pot has 5 tiny fingers on the wiper which are made of a spring like material in order to maintain tension against the conductive plastic. Microphonics, particularly on the large knob, can cause these fingers to vibrate and thus 'smear' the sound. As a test, I moved the 3M ring close to the back of the knob so that it barely made contact with the faceplate (Other wise it would have been too difficult to turn). The sound improved even more noticeably.
Now considering that many pieces of gear have relatively heavy knobs attached to a shaft which can be quite long with usually nothing more than a brass bushing to hold the shaft, vibration can be a a noticeable issue. Placing further rings on the selector switch and balance control also netted a sonic improvement.
While I certainly wouldn't purchase a $500 knob, I would not discount the phenomena of a knob making a sonic difference. The science behind it points to other much more inexpensive means of affecting similar changes, however.
StuPS I said earlier that I would not comment on anything JJ posted, but this post is clearly articulate and in a vein which does not promote hostility. It is extremely gracious and it shows a side of JJ which will undoubtedly promote better understanding of things audio. Thank you, JJ.
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Follow Ups
- Once by coincidence... - unclestu52 11:34:17 06/21/06 (1)
- Well, ... - real_jj 13:47:34 06/21/06 (0)
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