Re: Solid state rectifiers in

[FGRABNER@eldec.com (FGRABNER)]

To: WHEELHEADS

I wholeheartedly agree with this response of suggesting that the 6X4 remain
and not replace it with solid state diodes for the reasons given.  Though
I've not made this mod to my own rig, I've seen it done on others.  The 6X4
voltage drop is considerable and accounts for the lower operating DC level.
A single (solid state) diode only drops 0.7 Volts so you end up at a
higher DC level that stresses your capacitors.  The way around it I've seen
is to employ a high voltage rectifier stack similar to what's used in a TV
picture tube 2nd anode.  In TV you're typically looking at 25KV so it takes
a number of diodes stacked in series to achieve the inverse voltage
ratings.  The forward voltage drop also accumulates with the number of
diodes in the stack.  I've seen such rigged up in a tube socket all
shrunk-wrap, etc. but this was something that was homemade.   With previous
disclaimer in mind (Re: "Fusing a Hammond" series) I'd recommend leaving it
stock.