1uf Nonpolar cap in tubescreamer?

[Zben3129]

Can I fake a 1uf nonpolar cap in the ts808 by using 2 electros? They are in the signal path, which makes me wonder...

Zach

[asfastasdark]

I believe you can put two electrolytics like this:

|+||||-|   |-||||+|

To fake it. But I'm not exactly sure.

[zyxwyvu]

Can I fake a 1uf nonpolar cap in the ts808 by using 2 electros? They are in the signal path, which makes me wonder...

Zach

I believe you can put two electrolytics like this:

|+||||-|   |-||||+|

To fake it. But I'm not exactly sure.

Yes, you can do that.

See the DIY FAQ here: http://www.diystompboxes.com/wiki/index.php?title=DIY_FAQ#CAPACITORS

Connect the negative ends of two 1uF electrolytic capacitors, and you'll end up with a ~1uF non-polarized capacitor. (Electrolytics don't necessarily combine in series like other capacitors)

[slideman82]

Yup, that would work, but... it won't sound the same as a 1uF fil or polyester cap!

[dschwartz]

try putting poly  470nF + 680nF in parallel

[Zben3129]

Thanks for the suggestions everyone.

I know it can be done and will sound different, but will it be horrid or just a minute difference?

Thanks

Zach

[slideman82]

Make it simple: use a pair of DPDT toggle, one for each 1uF cap. Then solder 1uF film or multilayer film (smaller!) to each side, and the 1uF electrolitic/1uF combination of 2 to the other side, and a couple of wires from center lugs to each hole in PCB. Then turn on your overdrvie, and switch caps, and listen to any diffrence. You'll have to tune up your ears! Turn it loud, full treble, and try combinations with different amounts of gain. you'll have to be very focused! then choose what you like most.

[MikeH]

Honestly, you could probably just any "large" film cap you have in there without any major, noticeable difference.  Say 0.33uf or bigger?

[dschwartz]

Honestly, you could probably just any "large" film cap you have in there without any major, noticeable difference.  Say 0.33uf or bigger?

+1 with that..although i´d try .68uF or .82 uF film..
i think they should sound even better than the 1uF non polar...

[Zben3129]

I'll make a post in the for sale/trade, but does anyone have a couple 1uf np film caps they could send me (I will pay of course). I found a couple today but they are 100v and EXTREMELY big  . Also ( but less important) a couple .22 film caps would be cool aswell.

Thanks

Zach