Non-Magnetic Connections
In audio power supplies, it is not only the capacitor coil that is decisive, but the entire current path — from the connection through the internal contacts to the film structure. Especially with high pulse currents and dynamic load changes, any non-ideal proportion in the conductor is visible. Non-magnetic connections are therefore a targeted measure to make the current path as “neutral” as possible. The focus is on micro-microphones: on the finest, current-synchronous modulations that can occur in the conductor itself when the material reacts magnetically. In addition, there is a clear additional electrical benefit due to more stable and often lower transition resistances.
Electrotechnical properties (additional benefits)
Even if the main focus is micro-microphone, the measure provides measurable electrotechnical advantages:
More stable contact conditions
Non-magnetic, highly conductive connection materials support reproducible transitions between connection, flag and coil.
Lower transition resistances
In many designs, the proportion of contact resistance in the overall system decreases, which can positively influence the effective ESR.
More consistent behavior under temperature cycles
When contact and conductor materials “work” less, the current path remains more stable over time.
Micro-microphonic effects (main benefits)
The decisive difference lies in the behavior of the conductor under alternating current:
No magnetization/no hysteresis in the current path
Ferromagnetic materials can magnetize and demagnetize depending on current. This results in very subtle, current-synchronous changes in conductor behavior. Non-magnetic connections prevent this material reaction.
Less current-synchronous impedance modulation
The connection is closer to the ideal conductor, without “playing along” due to magnetic factors.
Clean current flow for transients
Especially with rapid changes in current, the energy flow remains more uniform, which can reduce subtle interference.
Sound character
In playback, this manifests itself as peace and clarity: less fine grain , more stable contours and a more consistent sound under dynamic load. The display looks cleaner, especially with complex music and higher levels, because the current path is less prone to the smallest, load-dependent modulations.
Typical uses
- Audio power supply capacitors in high-quality amplifiers and signal processing devices
- High current and pulse applications where transients and load jumps make the behavior of the current path visible
- Top capacitors, for which, in addition to capacitance and ESR/ESL, the “fine-tuning” in the conductor and contact paths also counts
