Audible Illusions Preamp


I would appreciate if someone can enlighten in chronological order which preamp in the Audible Illusions line that came out first and which is the current model from the L1, L2, 3A, 2C, (or any others I've missed). It would also be useful if someone can advise whether the sonic character is consistent throughout the range or there is a particular model that stands out from the rest in sound quality.

Thanks in advance.
ryder

Yeah, I’ve heard a lot of the stories about horrendous repair turnaround , and have no reason to doubt them. Maybe I’ve been lucky in that my units have never required repair. Ive had excellent results in both sound and longevity with the Russian tubes recommended, as well as Tungsram and Siemans NOS ones. And yes, Art can be either a bit cranky or pretty fun to talk to.:)

The horror stories about art and his delays are real-

His units are fairly simple proven no feedback circuits that run the tubes hard.

So if you are a tube roller look elsewhere. Really

Read absolute sounds review of a new L3A. These are good preamps.

Ive worked my way up the line for 20+ years never had a single issue with any of them.

I once owned the original Modulus..... a model prior to the Modulus 1.   WAAY back a long time ago (circa 1981-ish).

So, has anyone compared on how these vintage designs compare to more modern designs in the $1000 to $1500 price range?   It seems like tube design hasn't moved THAT much forward.... unless you go and spend $20,000 to $50,000 on an amplifier, which is quite a frequent option today.  (Anything is good if built to that price LOL.)

@hiend2 I’m not doubting anyone’s horror stories about the delays, I’m just adding that my own personal experiences were different. Maybe he just likes me because I’m and old codger and I told him in no uncertain terms I wanted to be certain that his dates were reliable because if I died before the new preamp arrived, my kids and grandkids wouldn’t know what to do with it (which made him laugh out loud).

wink

He builds a good Product and Id buy another unit.

Be careful with the promised shipping times