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Hoffman Amps Forum image Author Topic: Can I use a polarized cap in a non polar posistion  (Read 2136 times)

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Offline shortfuse

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Can I use a polarized cap in a non polar posistion
« on: August 17, 2015, 11:01:27 pm »
Specifically in position C43 & C44 in the Marshall Schematic attached.  They are to the right of the OT on the schematic.
I am re capping the amp and purchased Polarized caps as all others are polarized, the old ones @ C43 & C44 the say non polar on them do I need to get and install non polar caps in these positions?  Or can I utilize the polarize caps?

Offline John

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Re: Can I use a polarized cap in a non polar posistion
« Reply #1 on: August 18, 2015, 09:47:14 am »
If it were me, I'd stick with the non polarized. I'm am *guessing* it's got something to do with the signal flow from the OT? But anyway, if they spent the money on 22uf N-P, it must be important.
Tapping into the inner tube.

Offline shortfuse

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Re: Can I use a polarized cap in a non polar posistion
« Reply #2 on: August 18, 2015, 11:23:59 am »
10-4 that's what i was thinking as well.  Thank you for the reply
« Last Edit: August 18, 2015, 11:33:01 am by shortfuse »

Offline sluckey

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Re: Can I use a polarized cap in a non polar posistion
« Reply #3 on: August 18, 2015, 11:54:23 am »
Those caps are part of a voltage doubler circuit that provides a negative vdc to be used for output tube bias. They don't have anything to do with the OT. I would replace them with non polarized electrolytics. You can make a non-polarized 20µF cap by connecting two 40µF polarized caps in series with either positive or negative leads of each cap connected together.
A schematic, layout, and hi-rez pics are very useful for troubleshooting your amp. Don't wait to be asked. JUST DO IT!

Offline shortfuse

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Re: Can I use a polarized cap in a non polar posistion
« Reply #4 on: August 18, 2015, 12:19:39 pm »
Thanks Steve
I found and ordered the size and value in need from Mouser

Offline John

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Re: Can I use a polarized cap in a non polar posistion
« Reply #5 on: August 18, 2015, 08:01:23 pm »
Those caps are part of a voltage doubler circuit that provides a negative vdc to be used for output tube bias. They don't have anything to do with the OT. I would replace them with non polarized electrolytics. You can make a non-polarized 20µF cap by connecting two 40µF polarized caps in series with either positive or negative leads of each cap connected together.


Well, at least I had the "it must be important" part right!
Tapping into the inner tube.

 


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