Hi All, I haven't visited this thread for a while, but I was still shocked to see what the view counter was up to. Maybe there's a few more people ready to take the plunge....

While discussing fitting linear power supplies with other Hitchhikers, it seemed that certain practical considerations were important. We all want good sound quality, but there�s a limit to the size of the barriers we�re prepared to cross to get there. Modifying one�s own equipment is a barrier for many. Another barrier is the need to send a large, heavy, fragile and valuable of piece of equipment to a stranger, across the country, by a carrier that doesn�t care. Some prefer a side-by-side comparison before committing to a purchase. Perhaps the lack of reversibility or maintainability is another � there are several reasons for keeping the option to reinstate the original build. However, several HH�ers have replaced a failed SMPS with new one. This is a matter of a few screws and a couple of connectors � in other words, a drop-in replacement with minimal modifications.

So I wondered if something close to a drop-in linear PSU might be feasible. The electrical interfaces would be the same as the SMPS � AC input and DC output, plus a ground lead. Selection and fitting are tricky, but I now reckon the generic CP-498A is the ideal supply for both the G68 and 861. It�s cheap, powerful, cool, quiet, readily available, and fits easily. It�s probably the closest thing to a one-size-fits-all linear PSU, and I have a good option on a batch of new supplies.

So I�m considering offering CP-498�s adapted as far as possible to be drop-in replacements for the stock switch-mode supplies. These would have installation instructions, mounting brackets, and the same electrical connections as the stock supplies. I think this might overcome some of the barriers described above, and help a few more people to hear what I�ve been hearing.

I wanted to get some feedback from more Hitchhikers first.

Cheers, Nick