Power supply modding for amplifier

[greenhorn]

I've acquired an SMSL SA 98E amp, based on a TDA 7498E chip, and it seems rather bass light.

I've read that adding more capacitors improves the low end, and the unit I have has a 4700uF decoupling cap, and a 5.7A, 36V PSU

1. Does 4700uF seem enough? Do most switching power supplies have enough regulation and transient response to suit audio amplifier applications?

2. If I decide to add, say a 10000uF capacitor or two, does it really need to be right next to the chip physically, or is it okay if i add it as an outboard power supply

 

[saheb11123]

generally people tend to add higher capacity ones along the psu and smaller bypassing ones close to chips, so adding one 10farad in the psu unit can be a starting point

 

[kanwar]

If the supply which you have is general purpose SMPS, then don't add extra capacitance. It might damage it. Regarding transient response, SMPS are way faster than conventional linear supplies.

If the bass feels lighter, then check the value of input coupling capacitor, increase its value.

Another thing you can do is to add 100uF/50V caps 2-3 pairs on the voltage rails around the chip directly if the space permits, it will help in fast transient attack.

Adding bulk only helps in linear supplies.