2. amps-preamps
  3. 1059676326

Solid State replacement for AI Modulus 3A.

Fellow Audiogoners,

At $1500 used price, are there any solid state or tube preamps that sound better than the Audible Illusions Modulus 3A (1999 model)? I am looking for more resolution and detail less the tube coloration, while not sacrificing musicality and soundstaging.

I found the M3A to be a great value, but I like a more detailed and neutral sound. Rest of system is:

Arcam FMJ CD23T
Mark Levinson No. 331 power amp
Wilson Watt 3 Puppy 2 speakers
Tranparent Super XL interconnects and speaker cables

Thank you.

Aaron
auaarons
kkursula
95 posts
 
Read in HiFi + that Sugden Masterclass pre-amp, sound as good as any at any price. New was $3000, you might find one used for less than $2k?
auaarons OP
94 posts
 
Bigtee,

I am using the CD in and not the tape inputs. Can you recommend brands of the tubes you tried that you find to be excellent? Thanks.

Aaron
karls
332 posts
 
I recently sold an ARC LS12 that I thought was an amazing preamp for the money, not because I didn't like it but because I had to sell a whole system to make room for our new daughter. Definitely try to listen to one; they didn't get much press but are definitely a product to be reckoned with in this price range. Based on what you are looking for, I would say you would probably be ecstatic with this unit.

www.audioresearch.com/LS12.htm
bigtee
803 posts
 
Aaron, You need to switch inputs to either the tape in or aux input. The CD input has a pair of resistors in the signal path that roll the highs somewhat and are not as transparent. I personally use the tape in which appears to be a direct path. There is an appreciable difference in sound quality.
As for tubes, give Art Ferris a call. He sent me a pair of very nice sounding Sovtec's that are quiet and extremely transparent. Also, a pair of 6H23 Russian tubes from Kevin at Upscale Audio sounded extremely nice. Look on the Audible Illusions site under technical questions. Art discusses tube brands and their effect on the Modulus's sound. You also need to replace the tubes about every year if you use the pre a good bit. The usual first signs are a roll off in highs with a perceived lack in resolution and transparency with, usually, an increase in tube rush.
Lastly, if you haven't, flip the four dip switches inside the preamp to take the capacitors out of the circuit. This firms up the bass and adds to the resolution.
I'm currently uses a 01 model and have ordered a new L-2 linestage with remote. It is reported to be the best yet---we'll see. Hope this helps. Feel free to e-mail me if you have any other questions you feel I might can help you with. Phil
sean
6,231 posts
 
Lot of good and helpful information there Bigtee. Nice contribution. Sean
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