Why don't you try a few different tubes(brands) if you haven't already. They make a bigger difference in sound quality than most tube preamps. I have used two of these preamps and never have felt they were lacking in detail and certainly not in resolution. I have compared these to some pricey preamps and went back to the Modulus. Are you using the tape in or aux for your cd source (not the cd in?)
I also will say this (and I'm not trying to knock your CD player) but the Arcam can be beat in exactly the areas you suggest. Have you tried different CD players just to see if you hear a difference?
I just don't think you will come close to bettering the Modulus in this price category. You will get some tube coloration(if you want to call it that) with any tube preamp. I have always found the CJ's to be more "Colored." (and somewhat darker) for example. I don't think the BAT lower end stuff is all that good in comparison.
Might try a passive preamp. I feel they give the best resolution,etc. for the lowest costs if it will work with your system. However, I don't feel the dynamic contrasts are as good as an active line stage.
You might take a peak at the Aleph P preamp or (ha) the Adcom GTP 750 which is a Pass design. Both pre's are musical and have high levels of resolution but you lose some of that real sweetness(musicality.)
I'm sure, as usual, you will get more suggestions. These are units I have personally lived with so I know their performance.
I also will say this (and I'm not trying to knock your CD player) but the Arcam can be beat in exactly the areas you suggest. Have you tried different CD players just to see if you hear a difference?
I just don't think you will come close to bettering the Modulus in this price category. You will get some tube coloration(if you want to call it that) with any tube preamp. I have always found the CJ's to be more "Colored." (and somewhat darker) for example. I don't think the BAT lower end stuff is all that good in comparison.
Might try a passive preamp. I feel they give the best resolution,etc. for the lowest costs if it will work with your system. However, I don't feel the dynamic contrasts are as good as an active line stage.
You might take a peak at the Aleph P preamp or (ha) the Adcom GTP 750 which is a Pass design. Both pre's are musical and have high levels of resolution but you lose some of that real sweetness(musicality.)
I'm sure, as usual, you will get more suggestions. These are units I have personally lived with so I know their performance.