2. amps-preamps
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Atma Sphere deserves praise

In the last 6 months Atma Sphere released a revision to their MK III designation to MK III.1. It amounted to a small part change and I think the resulting cost was less than $500. In my system, and in other's judging by recent posts, it was a very worthwhile improvement. Not only was an upgrade path available, but the cost was very reasonable.

Do you think other manufacturers that release "new" product updates every 12-18 months, or worse new products because there is no upgrade path are simply offering design breakthroughs? Or is this just running a successful business?

I think they hurt their current customers by devaluing their "old" equipment on the used market, and causing them to scurry like ants for the latest new stuff.
mmike84
pubul57
3,712 posts
 
I agree. Which is one reason I own Atma-sphere and Merlin, and Joule. There is something to be said for 15-20 year old designs that were so well executed the first time, that it is not necessary to reinvent the product every 3 years with no upgrade possible. I don't mean to be cynical, but those wholesale changes seem to be the result of bad design, or driven by marketing decisions about obsolesence.
chopss
26 posts
 
I am lucky to live next door to Shelbyville in the 612. Ralph and his crew of workers are about as good as it gets with service, quality of manufacture, and overall good dudes. I have upgraded my system with M-60 amps and P2 preamp and that will be my refrence for years to come. With carefull timing, I am hoping to be out for a short period of time when I send the P2 in for upgrades due to my close proximty and ability to bribe with food.
acresverde
381 posts
 
You might take note, Mr SJ, that when you send the unit back to Atma-sphere for the upgrade, once completed, the original factory warranty is reinstated.
mmike84 OP
309 posts
 
Thanks Acresverde! I forgot to mention that!!

Samujohn- Most of us can't or don't want to pull that off. Maybe you're best suited for DIY but I'm not. The value of having it done inexpensively at the factory, while resetting the warranty is really something special. For that they deserve praise.
samujohn's avatar
samujohn
291 posts
 
I suppose part of my lack of enthusiasm for shipping Atmas-phere products stems from helping a friend pack up his top of the line OTL's. Three people (and considerable beer) were required to set those monsters in their wooden coffins. I resolved on the spot to never own another piece of equipment that I could not pick up.
By comparison with that experience, learning how to solder was a piece of cake.
Seriously, it amazes me how many people accept all the inconvenience, chance of shipping damage, and costs associated with returning equipment, and then do without their systems for weeks rather than learn to do simple procedures.
Just one old fools opinion.
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