"pcX was just informed by RIKEN's Japanese export agent that RIKEN will permanently "cease" production of it's very popular "audio grade" line of precision Carbon Film resistors. Factory production will stop entirely by February 2006....and final wholesale customer/OEM orders are required to be submitted to the factory asap....most certainly before year end 2005.

pcX already had good stocks accumulated of all 1/2, 1 and 2-watt values....but we are placing one "final" large stocking order (within the next few weeks), to help ensure on-going supply for the next couple of years...at least.

First Blackgate...now Riken...what a shame!"

Thermionic

I for one was not all that happy with the gold plating. Best results from tinned Cu. The solder is Tin and Copper, what do I want this Gold getting in the way for, no?

cheers,
Douglas

I've used tons of the (now discontinued) Shinkoh tants. I haven't found anything I like as well for grid stoppers, although Rikens are definitely #2.

Thermionic

They are nice, but how much is my wallet pocket influencing my ears? As long as it is influencing my ears, I think I'll stick with them.

I like them well enough I'll probably buy them again just to keep the next design like the first. Too bad they're not less expensive. At least I only need two per amp.
cheers,
Douglas

BTW, it does appear that AC motor caps can take on a polarization when DC is applied in the surge excursion level. More on that as I get it...and yes, I was suprised to hear it.
cheers,
Douglas

Do tell, I use those things in almost every piece of gear I build. Inquiring minds want to know.

Thermionic

I think that the fact that the small ones are 2 watters, might be part of it...John