Polarized cap in crossover? Is this possible?

[Gnesen]

Last March I picked up a set of Elbau/Bogen speakers that I detailed here. Since the highs seemed to be a bit bright, I decided to replace the single high pass capacitor on each speaker. Halfway into the job, I noticed the 5uF caps had markings that appeared to denote polarity. Some photos and a schematic of the wiring are provided below.

A few questions, if you don't mind. First, are these polarized caps? Second, if yes, why would these be used in this application (and how would that even work)? Third, would replacing the polarized caps with non-polarized ones cause any problems? I *think* the answer to the last question is no, because I finished the job and they sound just fine. Thanks in advance for any information.

 

[Lavane]

It is probably just marking the foil end. I've run across these in speakers and they have all been non polar. Some manufacturers still do this. Just replace them with a film cap of your choice.

 

[bowtie427ss]

It is probably just marking the foil end. I've run across these in speakers and they have all been non polar. Some manufacturers still do this. Just replace them with a film cap of your choice.

^This.^

 

[EarlK]

A few questions, if you don't mind. First, are these polarized caps? Second, if yes, why would these be used in this application (and how would that even work)? Third, would replacing the polarized caps with non-polarized ones cause any problems? I *think* the answer to the last question is no, because I finished the job and they sound just fine. Thanks in advance for any information.

The caps could well indeed be polarized electrolytics ( they will pass audio signal ).

Polarized E-caps won't actually breakdown & self destruct ( due to the lack of polarizing voltage ) until a long-term continuous AC voltage passes through them ( that voltage is about the same amount needed to send people fleeing from the listening room > frat-house parties excepted ) .

 

[Gnesen]

Thanks to all for the input. Very interesting to learn that a polarized cap will work in a passive crossover.