As I've mentioned before in several similar threads:
Tantalum capacitors should generally not be used on DC power supply rails for AC decoupling. The reason is that the low equivalent series resistance of the tantalum capacitor results in a very high momentary inrush current when the power supply is turned on. The high current flow causes the capacitor to heat up internally, which can result in it going short circuit and sometimes exploding. Google 'explode' and 'tantalum' to find out more.
Thanks a lot for this clear explanation: low ESR on power on explains short-circuit behaviour in some occasions.
It's possible you might get away with it forever, but it's entirely possible that one of the capacitors will fail in the future. I've seen sudden failures happen in poorly designed equipment that has been in use for over 10 years.
Replace the original electrolytic capacitors with modern versions of a quality brand such as Panasonic or Rubycon. If you select high temperature versions ( >100°C) they'll provide an even longer working life at room temperatures, though even standard good quality capacitors should be fine.
See this thread and this thread for more discussion on the subject.
And for the record, I've written an Amiga audio repair guide here and SMD capacitor replacement guide here.
Online price list here if you need to buy parts.
Thanks once more fore references and hints (and sorry for late reply).
Ciao!
Luca "OgniX" \8^)
