Overview
The Sprague 118PS2 is a vintage metallized paper film capacitor manufactured by Sprague Electric, a legendary name in capacitor technology. This unit features a 200V DC voltage rating and 3.0 µF capacitance, making it a preferred choice for restoration of tube-era audio equipment, vintage receivers, guitar amplifiers, and classic electronic instruments. The 118PS2 series represents Sprague’s commitment to precision film capacitor design, utilizing metallized paper construction for stable performance and audio-grade frequency response.
Key Features
- Metallized paper film construction for superior audio characteristics
- 200V DC voltage rating suitable for tube audio circuits
- 3.0 µF nominal capacitance value
- Axial lead configuration for through-hole PCB mounting
- Low dissipation factor ideal for signal coupling and filtering applications
- Original Sprague manufacture—no longer in production, increasingly collectible
Technical Specifications
The Sprague 118PS2 delivers robust electrical characteristics for mid-frequency filtering and coupling in audio and instrumentation circuits:
- Capacitance: 3.0 µF ±10%
- Voltage Rating: 200V DC
- Dielectric Material: Metallized Paper Film
- Lead Configuration: Axial
- Mounting Style: Through-hole
- Operating Temperature Range: Typical film capacitor range (consult original datasheet for exact limits)
- Application: Audio coupling, signal filtering, tone shaping circuits
Typical Applications
- Tube Audio Amplifiers: Coupling and output filtering in preamps, power amps, and integrated amplifiers
- Vintage Receivers: Restoration and bias stabilization in AM/FM tuner and audio stages
- Guitar Amplifiers: Tone shaping, cathode bypass, and signal path filtering for classic tube circuits
- Vintage Instruments: Synthesizers, organs, and electronic keyboards requiring period-correct component replacement
- Radio & Communication Equipment: Legacy radio receivers and low-power transmitter circuits
- Test Equipment: Vintage oscilloscopes, function generators, and measurement instruments
Compatibility & Replacements
Compatible With
- Vintage tube amplifier and receiver circuits rated 200V DC or lower
- Audio signal path applications requiring low-distortion film capacitor technology
- Legacy radio and communication receiver designs from the 1960s–1980s era
- Guitar amplifier and effects pedal restoration projects
- Any circuit designed for the 118PS2 or equivalent 3.0 µF / 200V metallized paper film capacitor
Replaces / Drop-In Replacement For
The Sprague 118PS2 is an original discontinued part. While direct modern replacements may be limited, equivalent metallized polyester or polypropylene film capacitors in 3.0 µF / 200V rating from modern manufacturers (e.g., Vishay, Wima, Kemet) can provide functional substitution. Verify compatibility with your system integrator or audio technician before ordering to ensure the replacement maintains original circuit performance and sonic characteristics.
Works With
- Vacuum tube audio amplifier and preamp designs
- Analog signal conditioning and audio filtering circuits
- Vintage test and measurement equipment
- Custom restoration projects requiring form-fit-function part matching
- Audio enthusiast and professional restoration workflows
